DE Matter Returning Back To Swimming Pool Water

by James Nightengale
(Virginia Beach, Virginia)

I recently replaced the DE sand in my swimming pool filter and it seems that a large amount of the sand filter media has ejected back into the pool through the jet valves.

Is this a serious problem?

Thanks for your question James

I believe what you're talking about is a normal swimming pool sand filter. I'm not quite sure why you're referring to it as a DE sand filter but if you're mixing DE (Diatomaceous Earth) with your pool sand, you might be getting the wrong information.

Swimming Pool Sand Filters..Inground Maintenance..Above Ground..Care

Swimming Pool DE Pool Filters..Care..Maintenance

You never want to mix the two together.

When you empty your sand filter be sure to check the laterals and diffusers, if the filters are equipped with them. Many times a broken lateral or tube is the cause of sand going back into the pool.

If the laterals are fine and you've just put new sand in the filter, then you will expect some residual sand, dirt, and debris to come back out through the returns. This is normal and should not be a concern.

Check your owner's manual on the amount of sand to put in the filter. The manual should also tell you how many inches of sand is needed so keep an eye out for that as well.

The sand that's returning back into the pool should lessen over time as the pool filter media has a chance to settle in the sand filter.

Swimming Pool Sand Filter Problems..Troubleshooting..Maintenance..

Allow your swimming pool sand filter to do its job and have enough pressure to filter properly.

If after a week or two and maybe a couple of bachwashes you still are having this it obviously is something within the sand filter.

Thanks again

All the best

Robert