Keeping a pool clean might feel like a full-time job at times, and we often have no idea what is going on inside the filter. The sand in there does the most of the work, but after a few years, it simply stops working correctly. And then you start thinking about how to change sand in pool filter or even just how to figure out what went wrong.
So if you are here trying to learn how to change pool filter sand in the simplest way, this guide is just meant to help you out without making things too technical. It’s honestly not as scary as it sounds once you go step by step..
Why Does Pool Filter Sand Need Changing?
Water pressure and the friction of debris make sand grains smooth over time. The filter stops working when the sharp edges of the sand wear down.
This means:
- Cloudy water
- Reduced water flow
- Higher pressure readings
- More frequent Weekly Pool Maintenance
Most sand filters use graded layers, coarse sand at the bottom, followed by medium, fine, and very fine silica sand on top. This layered structure helps achieve efficient filtration, but as sand ages, those layers stop performing optimally.
How Often to Change Sand in Pool Filter?
In general, you should change the sand every 5–7 years. However, heavy pool usage, frequent algae blooms, or poor maintenance can require earlier replacement.
A little debris actually helps filtration, but too much aged sand can lead to clogs and inefficient water flow. If your pressure gauge constantly shows higher numbers despite backwashing, that’s another sign it’s time to replace the sand.
13 Steps on How to Change Sand in Pool Filter
Changing sand in pool filter systems is a moderate DIY task. While it’s not something you do frequently, you must perform each step carefully to avoid damaging the filter laterals or causing leaks.
Step 1: Get the Right Equipment
Before beginning, gather:
- Manufacturer-approved pool filter sand
- Replacement O-ring
- Teflon tape
- Lubricant
- Shop vacuum or scoop
- Unions (optional but helpful)
This is essential whether you’re learning how to change sand in a pool sand filter or specifically how to change sand in a Hayward pool filter.
Step 2: Turn the Power Off
Switch off the pool pump and turn off power at the breaker to avoid electric shock or accidental activation.
Step 3: Drain the Tank
Remove the drain cap at the bottom to release pressure and water. You may attach a hose if you don’t want water pooling around the filter area.
Step 4: Remove the Multiport Valve
Detach pump, return, and waste hoses.
Remove the clamp, unbolt it, and gently lift the valve off.
If your filter doesn’t have unions, you may need to cut pipes, this is the perfect time to add unions for easier future maintenance.
Step 5: Remove the Old Sand
- Cover the pipe opening with a tape to avoid entry of sand into the laterals.
- Keep on scooping or vacuuming out the sand till you can see the bottom laterals.
Step 6: Take off and Check the Lateral Assembly.
- Turn the lateral pipes upwards and pull out the assembly.
- Replace those that have been damaged, and clean the clogged ones with the cleaning solution then reattach.
Step 7: Wash the Tank
- Wash away all using a garden hose.
- Add new sand To prevent sand from settling on the laterals, empty half of the tank with water and fill it half again. This helps to avoid breakage or clogging.
Step 8: Re-fit the Lateral Assembly.
Install the assembly again, and position the laterals down to working position.
Step 9: Add Fresh Sand
Cautionarily cover the central pipe opening and pour in the approved swimming pool filtration sand into the tank.
Make sure:
- The sand is level
- The laterals remain fully submerged
- You don’t lift the assembly accidentally
This is the heart of changing sand in pool filter systems, so take your time.
Step 10: Check and Replace the O-Ring
A worn O-ring can cause leaks later. Since you only replace sand every few years, it’s smart to refresh this inexpensive component now.
Step 11: Reattach the Multiport Valve
Remove tape from the pipe. Place the valve back on, secure clamps, and reconnect unions or pipes.
Step 12: Backwash the Filter
Set the multiport to Backwash and run the pump for about 2 minutes.
This removes fine particles and ensures proper flow.
Switch to Rinse and run again for 1 minute.
Step 13: Enjoy Your Pool!
Turn the valve to Filter, start the pump, and enjoy clean, beautifully circulated water.
How to Clean a Pool Filter (Between Sand Replacements)
Even though sand only needs replacing every few years, regular maintenance is essential.
Here’s how to keep your filter healthy:
- Backwash weekly during peak swimming months
- Check pressure gauge (clean when pressure rises 8–10 PSI above normal)
- Rinse debris around the filter area
- Use clarifier or flocculant when water turns cloudy
Remember, Weekly Pool Maintenance doesn’t just improve water clarity, it extends the life of your sand, equipment, and pool heater.
FAQ: Everything You Need to Know About Changing Filter Sand
1. How do you remove old sand from a pool filter?
You can scoop it out manually with a cup or use a shop vacuum. Continue until laterals are exposed. Always tape the standpipe to prevent clogging
2. How many bags of sand go in a pool filter?
Most medium filters require 100–300 lbs of sand, typically 2–6 bags.
Always check your filter label or manual for exact volume.
3. What happens if I put too much sand in my pool filter?
Overfilling causes:
- Poor water circulation
- Higher pressure
- Damaged laterals
- Inefficient filtration
Always leave space between the sand bed and the overdrain, usually about half the filter bed depth.
Bonus Insight: Cost to Replace Pool Heater
While you’re already planning heavy pool maintenance, many homeowners wonder about the cost to replace pool heater. Depending on size, type (gas, heat pump, or solar), and installation complexity, expect anywhere from $1,500–$5,000 globally.
Replacing sand doesn’t directly affect heater life, but clean, well-filtered water helps all other equipment perform better.
Final Thoughts
Changing sand in pool filter systems feels complicated when you first hear about it, but once you actually start doing it, it’s just a bunch of small steps. And if you ever searched for how to change the sand in a pool sand filter or how to change sand in a Hayward pool filter, you’ll realise most of it is the same process anyway.
It might feel messy or confusing in the middle, but that is actually very normal. Once you turn the filter back on with the fresh sand, the water clears up and you feel good that you handled it yourself. Pool stuff gets annoying sometimes, but this one is totally doable.
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