Topping off a large sand filter

[kwong]

I'd use some kind of funnel mechanism .. that way you don't get any sand in the middle pipe area ... just my 2 cents.

[newbie2715]

I'd use some kind of funnel mechanism .. that way you don't get any sand in the middle pipe area ... just my 2 cents.

I used duct tape over the middle pipe... then cleaned it off. Fairly simple.

I am sure you know this but make sure the filter has water in it when you add the sand as to not put undue stresses on filter components.

[framcus]

Added 200 lbs of sand (good guess by the poolman) without mishap, although without the benefit of the last couple of useful tips, which were posted after the deed was done. Probably need another 50-100 lbs of sand to get to recommended headspace, but filter worked really well during the pool opening regardless.

Thought I would add some DE to enhance filtering (the well water used to top up the pool is full of iron). The cacluated amount of DE for this size of filter is 2-3 cups. This sent the pressure up from 15 to 30 PSI. I backwashed and it returned to normal. I assume this is too much of an increment. Any suggestions on optimal pressure increase to aim for?

Thx

[Watermom]

Aim for a 1 to 2 psi increase. It won't happen immediately - maybe a half hour or so. So, don't add too much DE too quickly or you will overshoot your target again.