New to pool care and need help understanding

[ahale30]

My filter is actually a cartridge filter. Yes the test kit has color matching so I did just match the color.
Yes the test kit is from Leslies. I had already bought it when I found this website.

[waterbear]

My filter is actually a cartridge filter.
If sand is blowing back in the pool first make sure the cart is the correct one for your filter, if it is inspect it for any rips or tears or broken bands and if needed replace it. My guess is a damaged cart.


Yes the test kit has color matching so I did just match the color.
Yes the test kit is from Leslies. I had already bought it when I found this website.

Is this the kit you have?


IF not please post the kit mumber on the box so we know exactly what you can test and how. IF it is you have a rebranded K-2005 and all you really need to do to have the same kit as the recommended K-2006 is add the Taylor K-1515 so you have the FAS-DPD chlorine test.
Taylor K-1515 FAS-DPD -- ~$19 delivered



This Taylor kit provides ONLY the FAS-DPD test method, and can be used to supplement a Taylor K-2005. It's usually sold by Amato.

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[ahale30]

Yes that is the kit I have. I will get the Taylor kit. I will check the cartridge. I know that even when I vacuum with a hose and a bag instead of using the pump and filter the sand blows out of the bag. It doesn't blow out of holes or seams it just kind of melts out. You can see the dingy brown cloud when I vacuum over the really fine concrete sand. I have to Emphasize
"REALLY FINE" concrete sand. It seems like it is just so fine that nothing wants to catch it. I have to say I love having the pool but this sand is kicking my butt. I have cleaned the cartridge 3 - 4 times just to make sure that it isnt full of sand. The first time I cleaned the cartridge there was a ton of sand in the bottom of the tank. I had to scoop it out. But since that first time it just seems to send it back into the pool. You can see the light brown shoot back into the water.
Thank you for all of the help and future advice.
Amy

[aylad]

It's possible that your pump is overdriving your filter--what size pump do you have?

also--when you try vac'ing with a hose and bag, try putting a handful of cottonballs in the bag--sometimes that will help trap some of the smaller stuff.