Your sand pump is likely putting sand in your pool because of a broken or cracked lateral within the sand filter.
Understanding the Problem
The sand filter's laterals are tubes at the bottom of the filter that collect filtered water. If these laterals are damaged, sand can escape and enter the pool's water circulation system, eventually ending up in your pool. [Source: PoolSuppliesCanada, TroubleFreePool]
This is a common issue reported by pool owners using sand filters. [Source: Reddit, Quora] Sometimes, the problem arises from improperly installed laterals or even damage occurring during sand installation. [Source: TroubleFreePool] Poorly graded sand can also contribute, though it's less likely to be the sole cause of significant sand infiltration. [Source: TroubleFreePool]
Other Contributing Factors
While cracked laterals are the most frequent cause, other possibilities include:
- High flow rate: A higher than normal flow rate, such as when a vacuum is detached, can stir up sand and force it through any existing small cracks or weaknesses. [Source: TroubleFreePool]
- Filter media issues: While less common, inferior quality or improperly sized sand can lead to increased shedding and passage through the filter. [Source: Reddit, TroubleFreePool]
It's important to note that what initially appears to be "sand" in your pool after backwashing might actually be dead algae, other debris, or sediment that was loosened during the cleaning process. [Source: Reddit]
Troubleshooting and Solutions
- Inspect the Laterals: The first step is to inspect the laterals within your sand filter. This may require removing the sand. Look for cracks or other damage.
- Replace Damaged Laterals: If you find cracked or broken laterals, you'll need to replace them. This is often best left to a professional pool service technician.
- Check Sand Quality: Assess the quality of your filter sand. If it's old, degraded, or improperly graded, consider replacing it with new, appropriately sized sand.
- Adjust Flow Rate (if applicable): If the high flow rate theory applies, try to reduce it to see if that lessens the amount of sand being expelled.
Conclusion
Addressing a sand filter with cracked laterals is crucial for maintaining a clean and safe pool environment. Promptly diagnosing and fixing this problem ensures the longevity and efficient operation of your pool's filtration system.
