Tackling filter media migration: Common issues and how to resolve them
Looking for sand in pool prevention tips? Or maybe you're finding fine AFM® (Activated Filter Media) particles on the pool floor.
Unfortunately, any granular or loose pool filter media like sand and glass can migrate into areas it's not supposed to be – often due to issues caused by operator error or system damage.
The expert water treatment and pool maintenance engineers at Chemsol explain the most common causes of filter media migration in pools and how you can resolve them.
Why does filter media migration happen in pools?
1. Damaged laterals
The issue: The primary function of laterals (small plastic arms at the bottom of a filter) is to allow clean water to pass through and return to the pool, while safely retaining the pool filter media. As a result, cracked or broken laterals can cause sand grains to be released into the pool.
The solution: To resolve this issue, simply replace the broken lateral parts after turning off the pump and removing the filter media from the tank.
2. Wrong media size
The issue: Using pool filter media – whether that's sand or AFM® - that is too fine for the standard lateral slots can also lead to media migration as it often naturally escapes during the filtration process through the filter laterals.
The solution: Using proper multi-layering and selecting coarser support grades is the most effective way to help prevent filter media migration in this instance. For example, using fine Grade 1 AFM® with a coarse Grade 2 support layer rather than using Grade 1 directly above the filter laterals.
3. Overfilled tank
The issue: Operator error can also be the cause of filter media migration through overfilling the tank as any excess media is likely to be forced out through the multi-port valve.
The solution: This can be easily rectified by turning off the pump, draining the tank, and then gently removing extra filter media until it meets the manufacturer's weight specifications.
4. Torn cartridges
The issue: For pools that filter water using Diatomaceous Earth (DE), filter media migration can often be caused by tears in the DE filter cartridge pleats which allows the media (along with any captured dirt and debris) to be pulled back into the pool.
The solution: Just like resolving lateral damage, rectifying this issue permanently requires replacement of the damaged cartridge. This can only be done safely by first turning off the pump and draining the tank.
Request a quote or survey
If you've tried to resolve filter media migration in your residential or commercial pool and are still struggling to find an effective solution, talk to the experienced engineers at Chemsol today.
We can carry out an initial survey, run the relevant tests to check the water quality, and provide expert guidance on what we believe is the most suitable way to resolve filter media migration in your swimming pool.
To learn more about our various pool services and water treatment solutions, please feel free to contact our friendly and knowledgeable team today!