Filter Problems?

[LFRoberts5]

Here is what is happening. Whenever we vacuum the pool the return line (the one going back to the pool) almost stops flowing after about 3 minutes of vacuuming. We then backwash and rinse and the flow returns to normal.

We have had the pool for about 5-7 yrs. Do we need to change the sand? If so, can I take off the valve assembly while the hoses are still attached and water in the pool?

Please help!

THANKS!
Lloyd

[Poconos]

Sounds exactly like what I have seen on both my system and a friends when trying to vacuum a dirty pool. In my cases dust and probably pollen that settled on the bottom. There was another similar thread recently and what I recommended there was to use skimmer socks to catch most of the crud before it gets to the filter. You will be surprised what they can catch, I was. A pain swapping and washing them so often but beats wasting water on a backwash. Your sand is probably perfectly good and doing it's job.
Al