Is This Normal For A Sand Filter?

[Wes8398]

I gave it a good 5 minute backwash and 2 minute rinse today and then took the head off to inspect the sand. It appears that there is some type of sediment in the sand that's not backwashing out. It's really hard to describe (hence the pictures) but when I take some out it felt like wet paper or wet cotton balls ... Not sure if this is from a product I've used or what, but like I said, it doesn't backwash out. Any ideas?

[ps558]

I gave it a good 5 minute backwash and 2 minute rinse today and then took the head off to inspect the sand. It appears that there is some type of sediment in the sand that's not backwashing out. It's really hard to describe (hence the pictures) but when I take some out it felt like wet paper or wet cotton balls ... Not sure if this is from a product I've used or what, but like I said, it doesn't backwash out. Any ideas?

How old is the sand? I see alot of crap in the tanks when I change sand. If it more then 5 years old then its time to change the sand

[Pathfinder]

Change the sand. That looks pretty dark since most sand is either white or close to it. I took out sand that was the consistency of mud this year. As mentioned 5 yrs is usually the limit.

[Wes8398]

Thanks guys. I think I'll replace the sand in the spring, when I re-open the pool. Hopefully going to be closing it down for the winter this weekend.

[jkusmier]

Agreed, only thing I have to add is do it this fall before closing if you have the time, so you don't have to deal w/ it in the spring! You'll need a shop vac, some heavy duty garbage bags or other containers, and about 90 mins. of time.

[Wes8398]

Thanks! I'll see what I can do!

[mickey4paws]

You don't use Baquacil, do you? I know with Baquacil, you can get algae that is like wet toilet paper.

[Dave@AquaSta-Clean]

Agreed, only thing I have to add is do it this fall before closing if you have the time, so you don't have to deal w/ it in the spring! You'll need a shop vac, some heavy duty garbage bags or other containers, and about 90 mins. of time.

I would recommend waiting until spring to change the sand, for the simple reason the sand will be dry and it will be less messy to do a sand change.

[Wes8398]

That's the plan of action I think I'm takin'