Sta-Rite System 3 Cartridge Filter - Can I convert to sand using the same housing?

Our pool is going on 6 years old. It is about 15000 gallons and we use a Sta-Rite System 3 cartridge filter. Last year we started having pressure issues so I replaced the cartridges which helped for the remainder of the summer. This year, it is worse than last year. I clean the filters with a high pressure nozzle on my garden hose and the pressure drops to a normal 17 psi. But within an hour, the pressure is up to 30 psi. I'm guessing I have some calcium issues going on so I think I will be draining the pool and starting fresh.

I have a question concerning filters though. I don't want to shell out $450+ for cartridges annually if this problem continues. I'm thinking about going to sand. Does anyone know if there is a conversion kit for my current housing? I've browsed the internet for an answer but can't seem to find one. It would be nice to keep the expense down by using the existing housing.


Thanks-

As I've noted before, the System 3 cartridge filter is a really, really crappy filter.

You can convert -- I converted the ones I was working with to DE -- but you essentially have to get the DE or sand filter manual, and buy everything shown EXCEPT the case.

You might try this company:

http://www.a1poolparts.com/
Lonnie 888-841-5050 x714
ljunghans AT a1poolparts DOT com

I'm ordering some stuff from them (for my local work) and was told they would be happy to sell parts to folks from here. The prices on the items I checked were lower than my 'wholesale' cost here.

Let me know how it goes.

PoolDoc

PS. You are MUCH closer to them than I -- you might want to check their physical address, and buy over the counter.