How Do Sand Pumps for Pools Work?
Sand pumps, more accurately described as sand filter pumps, are the heart of a pool's filtration system. They don't just pump water; they actively clean it. Here's how they work:
- Suction: The pump draws pool water through the skimmer and main drain lines.
- Filtration: The water is then forced through a tank filled with specially graded sand. This sand acts as a filter, trapping dirt, debris, algae, and other contaminants. As stated by HyClor, "A pool sand filter pushes pool water through a tank of sand. The sand naturally captures and removes unwanted contaminants."
- Cleaning: The cleaned water, now free of many impurities, passes through the sand and exits the filter.
- Return: Finally, the filtered water is pumped back into the pool through return jets.
According to MrPoolman, "This setting will be where your pool sand filter will be at 99.99% of the time. This setting will spray the water from the multiport all over the sand inside." This refers to the "filter" setting on a multiport valve, which controls the flow of water through the system.
Key Components
- Pump: The motor-driven heart of the system, providing the necessary pressure to push water through the sand.
- Sand Filter Tank: A pressure vessel containing the sand filter media. As described by River Pools and Spas, "A sand filter is essentially a tank full of sand that's connected to your pool's filtration network."
- Sand: Specifically graded silica sand, chosen for its size and ability to effectively filter water.
- Multiport Valve (Optional): A control valve allowing for different functions, including filtering, backwashing, rinsing, and draining.
Backwashing: Essential Maintenance
The sand filter eventually becomes clogged with debris. Regular backwashing is crucial. This process reverses the flow of water, flushing out trapped contaminants from the sand. This ensures continued efficient filtration.
Choosing the Right Pump
The size of the pump needed depends on the pool's size and volume. A larger pool requires a more powerful pump to effectively filter the water. As noted in a Facebook group discussion, the appropriate pump size is crucial; "I googled it you hold about 11,000 gallons so the smaller pump would work but if there not too much of a price difference I would go with" a larger one if the price difference isn't substantial.
