How much does it cost to replace the sand in a pool filter that has not been changed in 10 years in Ottawa?

Replacing 10-year-old sand in a pool filter will cost $150 to $400 in Ottawa depending on your filter size and whether you hire a professional or do it yourself. A typical residential sand filter holds 150 to 300 pounds of filter sand, which costs $0.80 to $1.20 per pound at Ottawa pool supply stores, plus $100 to $200 in labour if you hire a pool service company.

After 10 years, your filter sand is definitely overdue for replacement. Pool filter sand should be changed every 5 to 7 years under normal conditions, but Ottawa's short swimming season and proper winterization can sometimes extend that timeline slightly. However, 10-year-old sand has likely become calcified, channeled, and contaminated with oils, lotions, and organic matter that regular backwashing cannot remove. This creates poor filtration, cloudy water, and higher chemical demand as your pool struggles to stay clean.

For a DIY replacement, you'll need 150 to 300 pounds of #20 silica sand (never use construction sand or play sand), which runs $120 to $360 at Ottawa pool retailers like Poolarama, Poolscape, or local dealers. The process involves draining the filter tank, removing the old sand carefully to avoid damaging the laterals at the bottom, and refilling with fresh sand to the proper level. Many Ottawa pool owners tackle this project themselves in spring during pool opening season.

Professional sand replacement typically costs $250 to $400 total in Ottawa, including sand and labour. Pool service companies often recommend this during spring opening when they can inspect the laterals and multiport valve simultaneously. Given that you're already 3 to 5 years past the recommended replacement interval, professional service might be worth considering to ensure the laterals haven't been damaged by the degraded sand.

Important consideration: If your filter has been struggling with cloudy water or requiring frequent backwashing, the 10-year-old sand is likely the culprit. Replacing it should dramatically improve your water clarity and reduce your chemical costs this season. Schedule the replacement during your spring opening for best results.