5 Things to Know About Replacing Pool Filter Sand

Replace sand every 5 to 7 years, not every season. With proper maintenance, sand lasts much longer than a cartridge filter.

Sand doesn’t wear out like a cartridge. It gets clogged with oils and minerals over time, but backwashing clears most buildup.

Replace sand when filtration drops noticeably. Signs include high pressure after backwashing, cloudy water despite running the filter, or sand in the pool.

Sand in the pool usually means cracked laterals, not old sand. Check the filter’s internal parts before assuming the sand itself is the problem.

Annual replacement is a waste of money. You’ll know when the sand is done—don’t swap it out on a fixed schedule.