No, you should not use play sand in a pool filter.
Why Play Sand is Unsuitable for Pool Filters
Play sand and pool filter sand differ significantly in grain size and composition. Pool filter sand is specifically graded to ensure optimal water filtration. Using play sand will likely damage your filter. Several sources confirm this:
- HyClor: Explicitly states that play sand is not designed for pool filters and that its improper size will cause damage, potentially requiring filter replacement. https://hyclor.com.au/best-sand-for-pool-filter/
- Trouble Free Pool: Warns that play sand's small particles will pass through the filter laterals, ending up in your pool water. https://www.troublefreepool.com/threads/is-this-sand-ok.148658/
- Multiple Forum Discussions: Various online forums (e.g., The Planted Tank Forum, Cichlid Fish Forum, Reddit's r/Goldfish) reiterate the incompatibility of play sand with pool filters, citing issues like clogging and ineffective filtration. https://www.plantedtank.net/threads/play-sand-and-pool-filter-sand.1330934/ https://www.cichlid-forum.com/threads/pool-filter-sand-vs-play-sand.236326/ https://www.reddit.com/r/Goldfish/comments/kzzwjh/play_sand_or_pool_filter_sand_from_home_depot/
While some sources mention using play sand in other contexts (aquariums, etc.) after extensive washing, this is not recommended for pool filters. The risk of damage and ineffective filtration far outweighs any potential cost savings.
In short: Use only appropriately graded pool filter sand in your pool filter.
