Short answer
Intex specifies #20 silica sand. Published amounts: SX2100 (12 in tank) 50 lb sand or 35 lb glass; SX2800 (14 in tank) 77 lb sand or 55 lb glass; the 16 in model about 120 lb sand per retailer listings. Intex says to replace the sand every 5 years. Check the label on your pump for your exact model.
Intex sand and glass amounts
| Model | Tank | #20 sand | Glass | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SX2100 (26645EG) | 12 in | 50 lb | 35 lb | Intex |
| SX2800 (26647EG) | 14 in | 77 lb | 55 lb | Intex |
| 16 in Krystal Clear (26651EG) | 16 in | 120 lb | check manual | Leslie’s listing |
Model numbers vary by region and year. Read the label on your pump and match the tank size. For other brands, see the full sand chart.
Guidance, not a spec
Changing the sand in an Intex pump
The job follows the same pattern as any sand filter, on a smaller scale. The Intex manual for your model has the exact steps; in outline:
- Unplug the pump and close the hose plungers or valves to the pool.
- Release pressure and drain the tank through its drain cap.
- Remove the valve clamp and the valve.
- Scoop out the old sand, gently around the laterals at the bottom.
- Rinse, check the laterals, half fill with water.
- Pour the sand with a mask on, keeping the center pipe centered and covered.
- Reassemble, backwash, rinse, then filter.
Detailed steps with pictures of the inside of the tank: how to change pool filter sand.
Sand or glass for an Intex pump?
Intex lists both, so either is supported. Glass takes about 70 percent of the sand weight in Intex’s own figures. Sellers claim glass lasts longer and filters finer; we have not verified that. More in pool filter glass and sand vs glass vs zeolite.
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01Default
#20 silica sand for Intex pumps
Best for: the lowest-cost refill
- 12 in
- 50 lb (1 bag)
- 14 in
- 77 lb (2 bags)
- 16 in
- 120 lb (3 bags)
- What Intex specifies
- Keep the leftover bag sealed for top-ups after repairs
- Pool filter sand only, never play sand
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02Supported
Filter glass for Intex pumps
Best for: owners who want the lighter fill Intex lists
- 12 in
- 35 lb
- 14 in
- 55 lb
- Ratio
- About 70% of sand
- Intex publishes glass capacities for these pumps
- Run a thorough first backwash to clear glass dust
- Longer life is a seller claim
Comparing pool types? See above-ground vs inground sand filters.
Questions people ask
What kind of sand does an Intex sand filter use?
Intex lists #20 silica sand for its Krystal Clear sand filter pumps. Any bag labeled pool filter sand in #20 grade fits. Intex also lists glass media capacities.
How much sand does an Intex SX2800 take?
Intex lists 77 lb of #20 silica sand or 55 lb of glass media for the SX2800 (model 26647EG), which has a 14 inch tank.
How much sand does an Intex SX2100 take?
Intex lists 50 lb of #20 silica sand or 35 lb of glass media for the SX2100 (model 26645EG), with a 12 inch tank. That is one 50 lb bag.
How often should I change the sand in an Intex filter?
Intex says the pump needs virtually no maintenance except replacing the sand every 5 years. Change it sooner if the water will not clear or backwashes come more often.
Can I use zeolite in an Intex sand filter?
Intex lists sand and glass on its spec pages. We did not find zeolite listed, so check your manual or ask Intex before using it.
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.