Proper installation and startup procedures help maximize water clarity, filter performance, and dirt-loading capacity.
ZeoSand Installation Guide
Installation Overview
Proper installation and startup procedures help maximize the performance of ZeoSand natural zeolite filter media. When properly installed, ZeoSand provides improved fine-particle removal, higher dirt-loading capacity, and lower operating pressure than conventional silica sand.
ZeoSand has been successfully used in residential and commercial filtration systems for more than 20 years. Its lower bulk density allows equivalent filter-bed depth at approximately half the weight of silica sand while maintaining excellent hydraulic performance.
For best results, follow proper media loading and startup procedures, including wet filling, initial backwashing, and verification of circulation and sanitizer levels. Detailed installation, startup, troubleshooting, and operational guidance are available in the downloadable ZeoSand Technical Manual.
Critical Installation Notes
- Never dry-fill ZeoSand media.
- Fill the filter tank approximately halfway with water before adding media.
- Cover the standpipe during media loading.
- Backwash until the discharge water runs clear before placing the filter into service.
- Pre-rinsing the media is recommended for smaller filters to reduce backwashing.
Watch a ZeoSand Installation on Youtube
Watch a pool owner’s step-by-step ZeoSand installation and startup demonstration, including proper wet filling, media loading, and backwash procedures.
“Just a week after replacing my sand with ZeoSand, my pool water is clearer than it has been in years.”
Basic Installation Procedure
Step 1 — Preparation
Adjust sanitizer and algaecide levels to the upper-normal operating range. Drain the filter and inspect laterals, standpipes, and internal components before installation.
Step 2 — Fill with Water
Fill the filter tank approximately halfway with water before adding ZeoSand. This critical step helps protect laterals and minimizes dust during startup.
Step 3 — Add ZeoSand Media
Slowly add ZeoSand so the media becomes wetted during loading. Avoid rapid filling or dry loading procedures.
Step 4 — Backwash and Startup
Backwash until the discharge water is clear. Allow the media bed to settle, then perform a final backwash and rinse cycle before returning the filter to normal operation.
ZeoSand Use Rate
ZeoSand replaces silica sand by weight while maintaining the same bed depth because of its lower bulk density.
- Filters under 500 lb sand capacity:
Use 1 lb ZeoSand for every 2 lb silica sand. - Filters over 500 lb sand capacity:
Use approximately 60 lb ZeoSand per 100 lb silica sand.
Download Technical Manual
Download the complete ZeoSand® Use, Installation, and Troubleshooting Manual for:
- detailed startup procedures
- troubleshooting guidance
- operational best practices
- use-rate charts
- certification information
- maintenance recommendations