How often do you need to change the sand in a pool filter?

Question

arizona pool filled all year

Answer 1

If your water is balanced all the time, and the filter properly maintained, a sand change out doesn't need to happen for 8 years. If you need to change it before that, you are definitely doing something wrong or you've managed to blow out one of the lateral tubes in the tank bottom. (sand will be in pool under returns)
The most common issue to cause a sand change out is having a high calcium hardness, followed by improper or not enough backwashing.
The first causes the sand bed to calcify ( turn to rock) and the second allows the sand bed to become saturated to the bottom of the tank, with fine debris.
If you do need a sand change, use #20 silica sand, nothing else and have the lateral assembly inspected thoroughly before reassembly and if this is 8 years, then replace the lateral tubes at the very least. They will have worn somewhat and may be brittle.

Answer 2

You should have a gauge on the filter, when it's above 30 you need to backwash the filter, if water runs clear after about 10-15 mins and your gauge lowers your sands fine, if not you need to replace it. Our pool is not open year round, so I don't know how often you realistically need to change the sand.

Answer 3

Open the filter and feel the sand, A Time limit is hard to put on it, the sand should feel gritty and sharp if its still good, It will feel real soft and rounded if it needs replaced

Answer 4

With our pool they told me every two years ,i would say yours once a year.Ohio used 5 months
Also can help your sand by using Pool Perfect in your water.
Helps break down body oils and hair naturally.

Answer 5

I change it once per year. Backwashing blows some out so I add some sand every month or so through the top cap. I have a winter off-season.

Answer 6

you shouldnt have sand in your pool lol

Answer 7

we change ours every 3 yrs.