CALL US!

(480) 625-8794

5 Most Common Pool Sand Filter Problems

5 Most Common Pool Sand Filter Problems

A sand filter is the most popular type of filter today. Many pool owners convert their filters and choose to install a sand filter instead. Additionally, you will also experience a lot of benefits from using a sand filter like: 

  • Don’t easily gets clogged
  • Easy to Maintain
  • Ease of operation
  • Less expensive

However, despite having great benefits, sand filters can also experience some problems. Here are the top 5 common pool sand filter problems you might encounter when using a sand filter for your pool filtration system. 

Leakage From the Filter 

The first issue you will notice when you are using a sand filter for your pool is leakage. This can be considered normal when you notice water leaking from your backwash line after performing a backwash.

However, when the leaking continues, even if it has been a while since you backwash, this can indicate a problem. You might want to check your spider gasket seals, o-rings, and valves for issues. Recalibrating these parts can help you remedy the problem. But if not, you will need to replace them with new ones. 

Water leaking from the backwash line is just one of the leaking problems you will encounter. Another leakage that can happen is from the filter tank itself. The reason behind a leaking filter tank is that it may have cracks on it. 

Unfortunately, if you come across a cracked filter tank, the only way to remedy it is to replace the tank component. However, buying a replacement tank for your filter is more expensive than purchasing an entire filter. Thus, it is advised to replace your entire filter when you encounter a cracked filter tank. 

Some Dirt Returns to the Pool 

Pool Sand Filter Problems

When using a sand filter on your pool, it is normal that you will notice small dirt and debris that goes back into your swimming pool. This happens most especially when you are vacuuming tiny dirt. As you vacuum or do backwash, you will notice a stream coming out from the return lines. 

To address this issue, you should vacuum to waste every time you vacuum your swimming pool. Additionally, you must also need to use the rinse setting after you perform a backwash. 

You can also ensure that your pool sand filter is in good condition by using a pool clarifier to improve the water clarity. Using a sand filter cleaner will also help you maintain your sand filter and remove the grease and scale from the sand. 

Furthermore, installing a slime bag on your return line can also help you ensure that no dirt and debris returns to your swimming pool. 

Sand in Your Swimming Pool

If you have been using a sand filter for quite some time, you might already experience having sand in your pool. Aside from this being common pool sand filter problems, it is also one of the downsides of using a sand pool filter. 

Seeing a small amount of sand in your swimming pool is normal, especially if you just replaced the sand in the filter or performed a backwash. These instances should not be alarming. 

However, if you notice a handful of sand at the bottom of your pool or the sand entering your pool during normal use, this is a problem.

This issue is commonly caused by broken, misaligned, or worn-out filter parts. You should conduct a thorough inspection of your pool filter to figure out the main problem. 

For instance, if you notice too much sand in your swimming pool, check your laterals and standpipe immediately. Too much sand entering your pool can indicate that either the sand filter laterals or the standpipe are broken. 

Moreover, if you notice only a small amount of sand entering your pool even without conducting a backwash or haven’t replaced the sand on the filter, then you might want to check your backwash valve. 

Broken Multiport Handle

A broken multiport valve handle is also considered a common problem in using a sand filter. The multiport handle can be broken by applying too much force to it. A large tree branch that falls on your filtration system can be another cause. 

The good news is, a broken multiport handle can be easily replaced. When you notice that the handle is floppy or has a lot of movement, replacing the spring from the key assembly can solve it. You might also want to consider replacing the entire key assembly for a more convenient fix. 

You can also replace the handle itself and reuse the key assembly if the problem is only isolated on the handle. This is why it is important to inspect the filter first to know what the problem is. You can then fix it accordingly. 

Irregular Filter Pressure

Pool Sand Filter Problems

Irregular filter pressure means that your pool sand filter experiences either a low or a high filter pressure. This issue often results from improper sand levels or a clog. 

When you notice that your pool filter has low pressure, check the filter for obstruction. It is also best to clean the skimmer and inspect the pump impeller and strainer. Additionally, a low water level can also cause a low pressure on your pool filter. 

Furthermore, a high filter pressure often indicates that the sand on your sand filter needs to be cleaned. An increase in filter pressure is one of the signs that you need to replace the sand on the filter. Most especially if the backwash time gets shorter. 

Another thing you might want to consider when your filter is experiencing high pressure is because the pool pump might be too strong for your filter. Or, if there is an obstruction inside or on the filter, and if too much sand is added into the filter tank. 

Be Observant 

Always be observant when it comes to your pool sand filter. Sometimes, what you might think is a problem turns out to be a normal occurrence for a sand filter. While at times, what you think is normal turns out to be real pool sand filter problems that need to be addressed. Thus, being observant is important in maintaining a pool sand filter

Search Your Keywords