What Happens When Pool Filter Laterals Go Bad?
A clean, crystal-clear swimming pool relies on a properly functioning filtration system. At the heart of many sand filters are components that often go unnoticed—the laterals. These small but essential components are responsible for retaining sand within the filter tank while allowing clean water to flow back into your pool. When the laterals fail, you will quickly notice some significant problems.
What Are Pool Laterals?
Pool laterals are slotted plastic arms located at the bottom of a sand filter. They extend outward from a central hub (manifold) and function as strainers. As water passes through the filter media (usually sand or glass), the laterals prevent the media from entering the return lines while allowing clean, filtered water to exit the tank and return to the pool.
Signs of Bad Laterals
When one or more laterals are cracked, broken, or otherwise compromised, you may observe the following signs:
Sand in the Pool: The most common symptom of broken laterals is sand returning to the pool through the return jets. Even a small crack in a lateral can allow sand to escape during normal filtration or backwashing.
Cloudy Water: Poor filtration leads to water that doesn’t look or feel clean. If your water remains cloudy despite having balanced chemistry and routine cleaning, the issue may be with the internal components of your filter.
Low Filter Pressure or Poor Circulation: Damaged laterals can impact water flow, resulting in reduced circulation and higher strain on your pump.
Frequent Need to Vacuum: If you find sand deposits on the pool floor shortly after cleaning—especially near the return fittings—bad laterals could be the cause.
What Causes Laterals to Fail?
Laterals are durable, but they are not indestructible. Common causes of failure include:
Age and Wear: Over time, exposure to UV light, pressure cycles, and chemicals can degrade plastic.
Improper Backwashing: Aggressive or overly frequent backwashing can weaken or damage lateral connections.
Incorrect Media Use: Using filter media that is too fine, or the wrong kind altogether, can clog or crack the laterals.
Overtightening During Installation: This can stress the plastic and create cracks that worsen over time.
What to Do If Your Laterals Are Bad
If you suspect that your laterals are failing, it’s important to address the issue promptly:
1. Turn off the system and release the pressure from the filter.
2. Remove the sand or media to access the laterals. This usually involves disconnecting plumbing and carefully scooping out the media.
3. Inspect all laterals and the manifold for visible cracks or broken slots.
4. Replace any damaged laterals; it’s often a good idea to replace all of them at once, especially if your filter is several years old.
5. Refill the filter with the correct media and reassemble it.
If you're unsure about attempting the repair yourself, a pool professional can quickly diagnose and address the issue.
Preventing Future Problems
To extend the life of your filter laterals:
- Use only approved filter media.
- Follow proper backwashing procedures and intervals.
- Monitor filter pressure and water clarity regularly.
- Inspect the internals during major cleanings or media changes.
Conclusion
Pool filter laterals may be out of sight, but when they fail, the impact is immediate and visible. Understanding the signs of lateral failure and how to address them can help you maintain a clean and healthy pool. If you're noticing sand in your pool or experiencing poor water quality, don’t ignore it—it might be time to check what’s happening below the surface.
For more pool maintenance tips and troubleshooting guides, visit ePoolSupply.com or reach out to our knowledgeable team!