Your sand filter is likely spitting sand into the pool because the sand you are using is too small and is passing through the filter's laterals.
Here's a breakdown of why this is happening and what you can do:
Understanding Sand Filter Function
A sand filter works by trapping debris as water passes through a bed of sand. The water flows through laterals at the bottom of the filter, which are designed to allow water to pass while keeping sand in the tank.
Common Reasons for Sand Spitting
The most common reason for sand escaping your filter is using the wrong type of sand:
- Incorrect Sand Size: According to our reference, if you are using sand that is too small, the sand can pass through the laterals in your filter and back into the pool. Specifically, #20 silica sand is recommended and sand that is too small may be causing your issue.
Solutions
Here are the steps you should take to resolve the sand spitting issue:
- Check the Sand: Verify that you are using the correct sand type, which should be #20 silica sand.
- Replace the Sand: If the sand is too small, completely replace the sand in your filter with the correct type of sand.
- Inspect Laterals: When replacing the sand, carefully inspect the laterals for any cracks or damage. Damaged laterals can allow sand to pass, even if the sand is the correct size.
- Proper Sand Loading: Make sure the sand is loaded to the correct fill line to ensure proper filtration.
Table of Sand Issues and Solutions
| Issue | Description | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Sand too small | Sand passes through the laterals | Replace sand with the correct type (#20) |
| Damaged Laterals | Cracks allow sand to pass | Inspect and replace damaged laterals |
| Overfilled Filter | Sand not contained properly | Remove excess sand, make sure sand fills to proper fill line |
By addressing these points, you should be able to resolve the issue of sand being spat back into your pool and ensure a properly functioning filter.
