Need New Filter and may be Pump

[waterbear]

Al,

I have been seriously considering doing the sand/DE setup, just a little nervous since all the pool store people are "(gasp) anything but sand!"

Of course they say that, it cuts into their replacement cartridge and DE substitute sales!

[Poconos]

Joe,
Nothing wrong with sand filters. Waste is right about the $$$ bottom line. Not home now and can't remember the model numbers but mine is a 300# top mount with a 1 HP Superpump and 1.5" plumbing. Been doing a good job since 97 and can't complain. The only reason to go to a cartridge or DE is if you have a phobia about water and dirt. Sand is plenty good enough for the majority of people and the DE trick, as I stated before, gives you the advantages of DE level filtration without the hassle. Nice thing is you can try just the sand alone and if you still want finer filtration, add the DE. I find when I have pollen and extremely fine dirt are the only times I add DE.
As for Honesdale, still there. Looks like the outside temp is 55 now and the trees are in the blooming and pollen phase.
Al

[joepa300]

One last question. THis weekend I replaced the cartridge filter with a new Hayward sand filter. Everything is running fine. However the instructions say that the sand should reach ~6" from the top. After putting in the correct amount (I counted the empty bags like 10X) the sand is no where close to the top, say 15". SHould I add more or let sleeping dogs lie? Thanks.

[Poconos]

I'd throw in a little more if it is easy to do. I just put my valve back on yesterday and didn't look but the sand is definitely more than 6" down but not 15. Since 97 I've never added any sand and be aware you'll lose a very little bit every time you backwash. I don't think it's a big deal.
Al