How to Remove Sand From Your Pool (and Prevent It For Good)
If you’re not anywhere near a beach, finding sand in your pool can be confusing. Don’t worry—it’s a common issue, particularly for pool owners using sand filters. Let’s break down why this happens and how to resolve it permanently.
Why Does Sand End Up in Your Pool?
Sand in your pool is usually a sign of an issue within your sand filter. Here’s a closer look at some possible reasons:
- Damaged filter components: Cracked laterals or old internal filter parts can allow sand to escape into the water.
- Improper filter handling: Relocating or handling the filter roughly may damage its internal structure.
- Incorrect sand type: Your filter requires specific, high-grade sand of the correct size. Using the wrong type could lead to problems like sand escape.
- Overloading the filter with sand: Adding too much sand can make it overflow when backwashing.
- Skipping the rinse after backwashing: If the rinse cycle is skipped, a small amount of sand can be flushed back into the pool.
How to Remove Sand From Your Pool
Follow these straightforward steps to clear your pool of sand quickly:
1. Gather the Sand Together
Use a soft pool brush (avoid stiff bristles if you have a vinyl liner!) to gently sweep the sand into a single pile at one spot.
2. Vacuum the Pile
With a manual pool vacuum, carefully suck up the sand. Move at a steady, slow pace to minimize stirring it around your pool and creating more work.
3. Set the Filter to “Drain”
For those bits of sand the vacuum may miss, set the filter’s multiport valve to the “Drain” position (make sure the pump is turned off beforehand). This bypasses the filter and directs all water and debris out through the waste line instead.
4. Test Your Pool’s Water Balances
After clearing the pool, test the water’s chemical balances—check for appropriate levels of pH, alkalinity, and chlorine. Make any necessary adjustments to keep your water crystal-clear and safe for swimming.
Preventing Sand From Returning
Once the sand is out, staying proactive can help ensure your pool remains sand-free. Here are effective preventive measures to implement:
- Repair or replace faulty filters: Cracked components, outdated laterals, or worn pipes can lead to leaks—replace them early.
- Use the right sand: Follow your filter’s manual for recommended grain size and type to prevent compatibility issues.
- Avoid overloading the filter: Add sand only to the required level; go over the line and you risk having an overflow down the road.
- Always rinse properly after backwashing: Consistently follow backwashing with the recommended rinse step to avoid discharging sand into your pool.
- Handle the filter with care: When cleaning, installing, or relocating your sand filter, do so meticulously to avoid damaging any delicate parts internally.
Enjoy Your Pool, Without the Sand!
With the sand cleaned up and its source addressed, you’re free to enjoy your pool to the fullest without worrying about this pesky issue coming back. All it takes to maintain that picture-perfect state is a bit of regular care and attention moving forward. Slip into your swim gear, kick back, and savor your pristine water—now free of sand!