Sand Filter - Increase preasure level

[MrDavid]

I have a Sta-Rite sand filter. It is about a 1 1/2 old. It is running about 10 psi high. I've backwashed it several times, following the backwash instructions to to the letter but it does not seem to lower it back to it's normal level. Pool water looks/tests great and there is no sign that pump is not working correctly.

Any ideas?

MrDavid
Winter Haven, FL

[Guest]

Hello,

Have you tried cleaning out your pump basket? Not the skimmer basket , but the one down by the pump? This makes my pressure jump sometimes. Just a thought. Good luck!

[MrDavid]

Thanks for suggestion.

It turned out to be a faulty preasure gauge. I bought a replacement from the Home Depot and everything works great. Here are some troubleshooting ideas. Pool supply centers stock the gaugues but will often charge more.

1. Check pressure coming out of jets. If flow is strong and water is clear; the problem is not likely an issue with the pump or filter.
2. Sand filters are workhourses and don't typically break. Sand may need to be replaced every 4 to 5 years.
3. I'm told because the gauges are often made of plastic they break more often. Repleacement cost is about $7-$8.
4. Don't panic if you see a little sand in your pool. It could come from just about anywhere and doesn't always mean you need to replace your sand filter. On one occassion we called a service man only find out what we thought was sand was actually an algae.