Sand Filters

Shop High-Quality Pool Sand Filters for In-Ground Pools

Pool sand filters are the most widely installed filtration system for in-ground pools—durable, self-cleaning, and built for decades of reliable use. A sand filter for pool systems pushes water through a bed of #20 silica sand, trapping debris down to 20–40 microns before returning clean water to the pool.

Unlike cartridge filters, swimming pool sand filters clean themselves through backwashing, a 2–3 minute process that reverses water flow and flushes debris to waste. The sand bed lasts 5–7 years before replacement is needed, keeping long-term maintenance costs low and predictable.

At Fresh Pool Supply, we stock trusted brands like Pentair and Hayward sand filters, covering pools from 30,000 to 40,000+ gallons across 3 tank sizes. Free shipping on all orders over $49.99, nationwide.

Hayward ProSeries Sand Filters: The Industry Standard

Every Hayward ProSeries sand filter is built with a corrosion-proof, all-weather polymeric tank, a 7-position VariFlo XL control valve, an integral sight glass, 360° self-cleaning slotted laterals, and a flange clamp design that allows 360° valve rotation for flexible installation. Here's how the 3 models break down:

The Hayward sand filter 21" is the entry point, compact and practical for smaller in-ground and above-ground pools. The 22" steps up for mid-size in-ground pools. The pool sand filter 24-inch comes fitted with a 2" VariFlo valve for higher flow rates, making it the right call for larger pools with higher-demand plumbing configurations.

All 3 models share the same ProSeries core: an integral top diffuser for even water distribution, umbrella-fold self-cleaning laterals, and a large sand and water drain for rapid winterizing.

What Size Pool Sand Filter Do You Need?

Tank diameter determines how much water your filter can handle. Use this guide:

When in doubt, size up. A larger pool sand filter tank means fewer backwash cycles, lower pump strain, and longer filtration runs between maintenance sessions. For pools above 40,000 gallons, larger Hayward ProSeries sand filter models (27", 30") may be available in-store—contact our Henderson, NV team for availability.

What's Happening Inside Your Pool Sand Filter

How pool sand filters work is simple. Water enters through the top diffuser, passes down through #20 silica sand trapping debris down to 20–40 microns, and returns clean to the pool through the slotted lateral assembly.

When pressure rises 8–10 PSI above the clean starting pressure, it's time for a pool sand filter backwash. Switch the VariFlo valve to Backwash: flow reverses, flushing debris to waste. Run 2–3 minutes until the sight glass clears, then switch to Rinse for 15–30 seconds to re-settle the sand before returning to Filter mode.

The 7 VariFlo valve positions: Filter, Backwash, Rinse, Recirculate, Waste, Closed, and Winterize, give complete system control from a single lever.

Sand Filter Media: What to Use in Your Hayward ProSeries

The best pool sand filter performance starts with the right media. 3 options are compatible with every ProSeries tank:

• #20 Silica Sand: The standard option, lowest cost, widely available, filters to 20–40 microns.

• ZeoSand: Zeolite-based alternative media filtering down to ~5 microns, a meaningful upgrade over standard silica sand for sharper water clarity, with no tank modifications required.

• Aqualoon: Synthetic media filtering down to ~3 microns, lighter than sand and requiring less volume by weight. The finest filtration of the 3 options and the easiest media to handle during replacement.

Filter sand and alternative media are available in-store at Fresh Pool Supply Henderson. Browse our Filter Aids for compatible media options.

Set It Up Right, Keep It Running Right: Expert Support From People Who Know Pools

Fresh Pool Supply has been serving residential and commercial pool owners for over 20 years. Operating out of our retail hub in Henderson, NV, our team knows the top sand filter systems from the tank down to the laterals.

• Premium Brand Quality: We only stock high-caliber, factory-warranted equipment from premier manufacturers like Hayward and Pentair, alongside top-tier, field-tested brands. You get reliable long-term performance and full warranty protection without having to worry about subpar alternatives.

• Free Nationwide Shipping: All domestic orders over $49.99 ship absolutely free to both residential addresses and commercial service routes across the country (Note: due to weight constraints, bulk filter sand media is limited to local storefront pickup).

• Your Local Filter Experts: For pool owners in the Vegas Valley, visit our storefront at 2550 E Windmill Lane for expert, one-on-one consultations. We can assist you with model sizing, pool sand filter backwash frequency, correct sand media selection, and VariFlo valve servicing.

• Complimentary Retail Services: Stop by our physical shop anytime for free in-store equipment repair services and complimentary computerized water analysis.

• Complete System Support: Looking for maintenance gear? Replacement laterals, multiport valves, and essential filter parts for all major configurations are readily available in our dedicated Filter Parts category.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How does a pool sand filter work?

Water enters through the top diffuser, passes down through #20 silica sand trapping debris down to 20–40 microns, and returns clean to the pool. When pressure rises, a pool sand filter backwash reverses flow to flush debris to waste, followed by a short Rinse cycle before returning to Filter mode.

2. What size sand filter do I need for my pool?

21" suits pools up to ~30,000 gallons; 22" covers 25,000–35,000 gallons; pool sand filter 24-inch W3S244T2 handles up to ~40,000 gallons. Always size up. A bigger pool sand filter means fewer backwashes and lower pump strain. For pools over 40,000 gallons, contact us for larger Hayward ProSeries sand filter availability in-store.

3. How often does a pool sand filter need to be backwashed?

Every 1–4 weeks, triggered by a pressure reading 8–10 PSI above the clean starting pressure. Nevada's dusty climate may demand more frequent pool sand filter backwash cycles. Each backwash uses approximately 200–300 gallons.

4. What sand do I use in a Hayward ProSeries filter, and how much do I need?

Only use #20 silica sand, ZeoSand, or Aqualoon—all are compatible with the Hayward sand filter ProSeries tank. Never use play, beach, or construction sand. The 21" tank takes 200 lbs of sand, the 22" tank takes 250 lbs, and the 24" tank takes 300 lbs. Sand media is available in-store at Fresh Pool Supply Henderson.

5. What does the 7-position VariFlo valve do?

The VariFlo XL valve on every Hayward ProSeries sand filter controls Filter, Backwash, Rinse, Recirculate, Waste, Closed, and Winterize from a single lever. Always run Rinse for 15–30 seconds after every pool sand filter backwash before returning to Filter mode. Remember to turn off your pump before moving the handle.

6. Does Fresh Pool Supply carry replacement parts and sand for ProSeries filters?

Yes, laterals, multiport valves, O-rings, and filter parts for all Hayward sand filter ProSeries models are in our Filter Parts category. Sand and alternative media are available in-store at Henderson, NV. Bring your model number for fastest matching.