Sand Filter
A sand filter is a pool filter type that passes water through a bed of specially graded silica sand to capture particles.
Definition
A sand filter is a pool filter type that passes water through a bed of specially graded silica sand to capture particles.
Typical Values: Filtration fineness: 20–40 microns; Backwash when pressure is 8–10 psi over baseline
In Plain Language
Sand filters capture particles 20–40 microns and larger. Cleaning is done by backwashing — reversing water flow to flush debris to waste. Sand needs replacement every 5–7 years as the grains wear smooth and lose filtration effectiveness. Sand filters are durable, widely used, and require less frequent maintenance than cartridge filters, though they use water for backwashing.
Why It Matters
Sand filters are the most common pool filter type. Understanding their maintenance needs (backwash threshold, sand replacement schedule) is essential for maintaining water quality.
Typical Values
Filtration fineness: 20–40 microns; Backwash when pressure is 8–10 psi over baseline
Last reviewed: 2026-06-01