What’s a Media Change and Why Does Your Pool Filter Need One?
If you’ve been told your pool is due for a media change but you’re not quite sure what that means — you’re not alone. Many Kiwi pool owners are familiar with cleaning, vacuuming, and water testing, but the stuff inside the filter? Not so much.
This guide breaks down what filter media is, why it matters, and how often it needs to be replaced to keep your pool water healthy and clear.
What Is Filter Media?
Inside your pool’s main filter (usually a large barrel-like tank), there’s a special material called filter media. This media is what actually traps dirt, debris, body oils, and fine particles as water flows through it — sort of like a sieve or sponge.
The most common types of media used in New Zealand pools are:
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Silica Sand – the traditional, affordable option
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Glass Media – made from recycled glass, filters more finely than sand
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AFM® (Activated Filter Media) – a premium media offering superior filtration, longer life, and fewer bacteria
Why Does Filter Media Need to Be Replaced?
Over time, filter media becomes clogged with grime, compacted, or even chemically worn out. When that happens, your filtration becomes less effective — leading to cloudy water, algae, and a heavier chemical load.
Signs you might need a media change include:
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Water not staying clear, despite proper chemicals
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Filter pressure rising quickly
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Frequent backwashing with minimal improvement
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It’s been 5 years or more since your last change (for sand or glass)
What’s Involved in a Media Change?
A media change is a professional service where we:
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Drain the filter tank
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Remove the old, saturated media
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Inspect the internal filter components
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Fill the filter with fresh, clean media suited to your pool
The process usually takes a couple of hours, and we dispose of the old media responsibly.
Which Media Should You Choose?
It depends on your pool size, filtration system, and water conditions. Here’s a quick guide:
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Silica Sand – good value, filters to ~30 microns, typically lasts 5 years
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Glass Media – filters finer (~15 microns), lasts longer, requires less backwashing
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AFM® – filters as fine as 4–5 microns, self-sterilising, excellent for pools with heavy use or sensitive swimmers
Not sure what you’re running now? Bring in a photo of your filter or give us a call — we can help identify it.
Book a Media Change with Poolcare
If your pool isn’t performing like it used to — it might be what’s inside the filter, not what you’re putting in the water. A media change can be one of the best maintenance moves you make.
📍 Visit us at 54A Hewletts Road, Mt Maunganui
📞 Call (07) 575 8471
🌐 www.poolcareltd.nz
