Sand filters are just brilliant, low maintenance ways to keep your swimming pool sharp and shiny. And when you think about it, it’s actually nature’s way of filtering water and getting rid of all the lurgies. Most groundwater has passed through layers of sand and stone and ends up clean, clear, and drinkable. 

But you may ask, if it’s such a great natural filter, then why should I change my swimming pool sand? That’s a great question!

Why change swimming pool sand?

The answer to this question lies in the way sand works to filter your pool water. You will know that there are several options available when it comes to pool sand, those being silica, glass, and zeolite sand, each with their individual properties. 

Silica sand is derived from ground quartz and has sharp edges which work well to capture the debris that passes through. Glass sand does not have rough edges, but because the tiny granules come in various sizes the water is forced through uneven spaces, catching even the smallest particles. Zeolite sand comes from volcanic rock and has rough, honeycomb-like edges which are exceptionally talented debris-catchers. 

However, over time the sand becomes smoother and more uniform as the water erodes is rough edges. When this happens, the sand becomes less efficient at catching debris and you’ll find that your water gets cloudy faster, and you may need to shock more often.

Depending on your pool size and how long you run your pump for, your swimming pool sand can last up to five years before it needs to be changed. You can extend the life of your pool sand by regularly backwashing your pool which will flush out dead bugs and other small particles, but eventually attrition will win out. 

Do you need to change your swimming pool sand? Come and chat to the Pool Spa team and let us offer up our professional advice and awesome products.