Sand filters are a popular option for keeping swimming pools clean. These filters use natural sand as a filtering agent, trapping debris as it passes through so that only clean water is pumped into your pool.  Because sand filters don't have paper or fiber parts to clog or tear, they can often go for years with only minimal maintenance being required to keep them in good running condition.  If you are looking for a pool filtration solution, take the time to consider the benefits of sand filters to see if one is right for you and your swimming pool.

 

How Sand Filters Work

Sand filters work by allowing water to cycle through a canister that contains sand.  The water flows through the sand with ease, but larger particles are unable to pass through.  Oncethe debris and other particles have been filtered out by the sand, a pump moves the clean water back into the pool.  As more debris becomes collected by the filter, the efficiency of the filter will start to increase as well; the debris will actually help to keep smaller particles from passing through the sand.
In order to ensure consistency and make sure that most if not all of the debris that might be in your pool water is filtered out, sand of a specific makeup and grain size is used.  Sand filters use #20 silica sand with grains that fall within the 45 to 55 millimeter range.  Any sand that you buy as "pool sand" or "filter sand" will meet this standard, since it is sold specifically for use in sand pool filters.