What to expect from sand filter for small pool?

[LennPrice]

I have a small 15' AG pool that killed me for two years using the small crappy pump/paper filter that came with it.

I bought a used Hayward super pump and filter this year and so far everything has been crystal clear. I also followed the advice of the 3 b's so I think that may be just as much the reason for the clear water as the pump.

My question is how clean should I expect the pool to be? I ran the pump for 4 hours the other day and went in with my children. I went in with goggles on and was suprised when I still saw a good ammount of particles floating around in the water.I made the assumption that the pump and sand filter would have very little trouble cleaning a 5500 gallon pool.

From above the pool appears crystal clear so am I expecting too much from the filter?

There are no leaks in the hoses and the pump seems to be working fine. Is there a test to see if it actually is doing the job?

[duraleigh]

How long did you run the pump before you expected it to clear?

What are the parameters of your water? (FC, CC, pH, Alk, CYA)

Those two things are quite influential on water clarity. Despite that it looks clear, you may have organics in your pool contributing to the particles. Post some test results and keep running your pump. It should be easy to see clearly thru 50' of water when everything is balanced.

[LennPrice]

I will post my results but here is a quick image of my pump in "filter Mode"

The unit was used when purchased so I had no labelling on top. I looked at a few images online and made this assumption.

[duraleigh]

If the pump is on, the guage shows pressure, and water is returning to the pool, I believe you are in "filter" mode.

Have you ever backwashed?

What psi is on the guage (pump running)?

[LennPrice]

Pump shows a little under 15 when running.
Yes there is great suction into the pump and pressure out but just wanted to make sure the valve wasn't set to straight thru.


I have never backwashed since it's only been in use 1 month with new sand.

Update: Turned pump off and now shows 8... Guess a new guage may be needed.