Overview

📌 Key Specs (SD60)

• Model: Sand Dollar SD60
• Filter area: ~2.3 sq. ft.
• Tank size: ~22″ diameter thermoplastic tank
• Sand requirement: ~250 lbs of filter sand
• Flow/turnover capacity:
  • ~22,800 gallons (8 hrs)
  • ~36,000 gallons (10 hrs)
  • ~43,200 gallons (12 hrs)
• Valve: 6-function 1.5” top-mount multiport
• Pump: Typically paired with OptiFlo or equivalent above-ground pump
• Material: One-piece corrosion-resistant thermoplastic tank

⚙️ What it does

The SD60 is a sand filtration system, meaning:

1. Pool water is pushed through a sand bed
2. Dirt, algae, and debris get trapped in sand
3. Clean water returns to the pool
4. You periodically backwash the system to clean the sand

👉 No cartridges, no media replacement every few weeks.

🧱 Build quality

• Heavy-duty one-piece molded tank (no seams)
• UV + corrosion resistant plastic
• Large internal sand bed for better filtration efficiency
• Designed for continuous seasonal use (hot climates included)

👍 Key advantages

✔ Handles large pools (up to ~43k gallons turnover range)
✔ Very simple maintenance (backwash instead of replacing filters)
✔ Strong Pentair reliability (commercial-grade design philosophy)
✔ Good match for 24’ round / 24×12 rectangular pools
✔ Works well with salt systems (like AquaRite / PLC1400 setups)

⚠️ Real-world limitations

• ❌ Requires correct pump sizing (undersized pump = poor clarity)
• ❌ Needs proper backwashing every 1–3 weeks in heavy use
• ❌ 1.5” plumbing limits flow upgrades unless valve is changed
• ❌ Sand needs replacement every ~3–5 years for best performance
• ❌ Takes significant space on equipment pad