Short answer
Pentair says to use standard #20 silica sand. Triton II amounts from Pentair’s brochure: TR40 (19 in) 175 lb, TR50 (21 in) 225 lb, TR60 (24 in) 325 lb, TR100 (30 in) 600 lb, TR140 (36 in) 925 lb. A retailer chart lists the Sand Dollar SD40 at 150 lb. Confirm on your tank label.
Pentair sand amounts
| Model | Tank | Filter area | #20 sand | 50 lb bags |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Triton II TR40 | 19 in | 1.92 sq ft | 175 lb | 4 (stop at 175) |
| Triton II TR50 | 21 in | 2.46 sq ft | 225 lb | 5 (stop at 225) |
| Triton II TR60 | 24 in | 3.14 sq ft | 325 lb | 7 (stop at 325) |
| Triton II TR100 | 30 in | 4.91 sq ft | 600 lb | 12 |
| Triton II TR140 | 36 in | 7.06 sq ft | 925 lb | 19 (stop at 925) |
| Sand Dollar SD40 | not listed | not listed | 150 lb | 3 |
Triton II figures, tank sizes and filter areas come from Pentair’s Triton II brochure, which says “use standard #20 silica sand.” The Sand Dollar figure is from a retailer chart; check your label.
Guidance, not a spec
Changing the sand in a Triton II
Inyo Pools’ Triton II guide walks through the job. The main points:
- Pump off at the breaker; open the relief valve on top until the gauge reads 0 psi.
- Remove the drain plug to drain the tank, then remove the closure with the lid wrench.
- Swing the diffuser aside, check the air relief screen, and remove the old sand down to the laterals.
- Rinse and inspect the laterals; replace any that are cracked. Inyo’s staff warn against chipping hardened sand with a hammer and chisel: try a 50/50 vinegar soak.
- Refit the drain plug, fill the tank about half with water, and pour the sand through a cut corner of the bag.
- Center the diffuser, clean the threads, lube the lid o-ring and tighten the closure.
- Backwash 2 to 3 minutes, rinse 30 seconds, then filter. Inyo says to backwash again when pressure rises about 10 psi.
Full steps with diagrams: how to change pool filter sand.
Parts and supplies
Other brands: Hayward, Intex. Every model: the sand chart.
Questions people ask
How much sand does a Pentair TR60 take?
Pentair’s Triton II brochure lists 325 lb of #20 silica sand for the 24 inch TR60. That is seven 50 lb bags (350 lb), so you will have some left over; do not pour more than 325 lb.
How much sand does a Pentair TR100 take?
600 lb, per Pentair’s brochure. It is a 30 inch tank. That is twelve 50 lb bags.
How much sand does a Pentair TR40 take?
175 lb for the 19 inch TR40, per Pentair. Four 50 lb bags gives you 200 lb, so stop at the label amount.
Do I need gravel in a Pentair Triton II?
Pentair’s brochure calls only for standard #20 silica sand. Inyo Pools staff also say pea gravel is not necessary in the Triton II.
How do I open a Triton II to change the sand?
Turn off the pump, open the relief valve on the closure to release pressure, drain the tank through the combined sand and water drain, then remove the closure. Pentair’s swing-away diffuser moves aside for access to the sand.
Sources
Last reviewed October 12, 2026. Sand amounts and listings change; check your filter’s label or manual before you buy, and follow the maker’s instructions.