Pentair’s Triton sand filters take 175 lb to 925 lb of sand, depending on the model: the TR40 takes the least and the TR140 the most, with 325 lb and 600 lb for the two sizes in between. Hayward’s ProSeries S244S takes 300 lb and the S310S takes 500 lb. There is no universal amount, because the tank size decides. Use the weight on your filter’s nameplate or in its manual, and use No. 20 silica pool sand.
| Filter (maker) | Sand required | Freeboard |
|---|---|---|
| Pentair Triton TR40 | 175 lb | 8.25 in |
| Pentair Triton TR60 / TR60 ClearPro | 325 lb | 10.5 in |
| Pentair Triton TR100 / TR100C-3 | 600 lb | 11.25 in |
| Pentair Triton TR140 / TR140C-3 | 925 lb | 13.5 in |
| Pentair System 3 S7S50 | 200 lb | 11 in |
| Pentair System 3 S8S70 | 300 lb | 11 in |
| Hayward ProSeries S244S | 300 lb (135 kg) | sand about 6 in below tank top |
| Hayward ProSeries S310S | 500 lb (227 kg) | sand about 6 in below tank top |
These are manufacturer-specific figures for those models. Other filters differ. Pentair’s Sand Dollar manual says to be certain to install the precise amount of sand listed on the filter nameplate.
Freeboard matters as much as the weight
Freeboard is the open space between the top of the sand bed and the top of the tank or the backwash outlet. Pentair’s Triton guide calls it the most important variable and says sand density varies, so the pound figures are for reference. If the weight and the depth disagree, follow the depth your manual specifies, and do not overfill: Hayward says to use no more than the recommended amount.
Which sand
- No. 20 silica sand is what all four manuals call for.
- Particle size: 0.44–0.55 mm for Triton, 0.45–0.55 mm for Sand Dollar, 0.40–0.55 mm for System 3. Uniformity coefficient 1.75 or less.
- System 3’s manual says not to use a finer grade, and that other sands reduce performance and void the warranty.
Example: how many bags
A Triton TR60 needs 325 lb. If the sand you buy comes in 50 lb bags, that is 6.5 bags, so buy 7. Bag sizes vary by seller, so divide the required pounds by the bag weight and round up. System 3’s manual puts the weight of one cubic foot of sand at about 100 lb, so a full tank is a heavy load.
Loading the sand safely
- Open the air release valve and release all pressure from the system before you open the filter.
- Look inside for broken or loose laterals; Pentair’s Sand Dollar guide says to check before pouring. Fill the tank about half full of water first to protect them; Pentair’s Triton guide says the same.
- Cap the internal diffuser pipe with the sand shield (Hayward), then pour slowly until you reach the specified depth.
For the other half of the job, see when to backwash a sand filter and multiport valve positions. If sand ends up in the pool, read why sand comes back into the pool. Not sure which filter type you own? Start with sand vs cartridge vs DE filters, or browse the pool equipment and circulation guide.
Sources
- Pentair: Triton Side Mount Sand Filter Installation and User’s Guide
- Pentair: Sand Dollar and Cristal-Flo II Top Mount Sand Filter Installation and User’s Guide
- Pentair: System 3 High Rate Sand Filter Owner’s Manual
- Hayward: ProSeries High Rate Sand Filters Owner’s Manual (IS210S1S)
Research checked 2026-10-08.
