UniWest Looking to improve your pool’s water quality and reduce maintenance? Upgrading to glass filtration media for pool systems is a smart and sustainable choice. At UniWest Denver, we supply HARSCO’s BrightLine glass media—made from 100% recycled bottle glass—that delivers cleaner water, lasts longer, and helps reduce your environmental footprint.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to make the switch.
Why Switch to Glass Filtration Media for Pool Systems?
Glass filtration media for pool use offers major advantages over traditional silica sand. HARSCO’s BrightLine media filters particles as small as 5 microns, compared to sand, which typically stops at 20–30 microns. This means noticeably clearer water and fewer chemicals required.
Benefits of BrightLine glass filtration media:
- Made from 100% recycled bottle glass
- Filters finer particles for clearer water
- Resists bacteria buildup
- Requires less backwashing
- Lasts 5 to 8 years, compared to 3 to 5 years for sand
In addition to BrightLine, UniWest also stocks a wide variety of abrasive glass bead media, ideal for blasting and finishing applications.
Step 1: Calculate the Right Amount of Glass Media
Since glass is lighter than sand, you’ll need less media by weight. Use this simple rule:
- 100 lbs of sand = 80 lbs of BrightLine
- 300 lbs of sand = 240 lbs of BrightLine
Check your filter’s manual or label to see how much sand it holds, then multiply by 0.8 to figure out how much glass filter media you’ll need. At UniWest, we can help you find the right amount based on your system.
Step 2: Remove Old Media and Prepare Your Filter
Start by shutting off your pool system and draining the filter. Then:
- Remove the old sand using a scoop or vacuum.
- Rinse the tank with clean water.
- Add 2 inches of pea gravel to the bottom—this protects internal components and helps with even water flow.
- Slowly pour in the BrightLine glass filtration media.
We recommend wearing gloves and a dust mask during installation, as glass particles can cause irritation.
Step 3: Backwash and Rinse the Pool Filter
Before running your system normally, you’ll need to flush out the fine glass dust:
- Set the valve to backwash and run the system until the water runs clear (usually 2–3 minutes).
- Set it to rinse for another minute.
- Then switch to filter mode and you’re good to go.
You’ll notice improved water clarity right away, thanks to the fine filtering power of glass filtration media.
Step 4: Maintain with Less Hassle
One of the best parts of using glass filtration media for pool maintenance is how little upkeep it requires.
- Fewer backwashes: save water, time, and chemicals.
- Resists clumping and channeling, so pressure stays steady.
- Longer lifespan: BrightLine lasts 5–8 years, while sand often needs replacing in just 3–5.
Less time spent on maintenance means more time enjoying your swimming pool.
It’s Better for the Environment
BrightLine is made from post-consumer recycled glass, turning waste bottles into a high-performance filter material. Choosing glass filtration media helps reduce landfill waste and promotes eco-friendly practices.
For other eco-conscious options, UniWest also carries crushed recycled glass abrasives for blasting applications, providing sustainable alternatives across industries.
Where to Get BrightLine Glass Media
UniWest is the Mountain West’s trusted distributor of industrial & metal finishing products. We stock HARSCO BrightLine media in multiple sizes and offer expert support to help you make the switch smoothly.
Upgrade Your System Today
Switching to glass filtration media for pool use is a simple upgrade with long-lasting benefits. HARSCO BrightLine offers better water quality, easier maintenance, and supports environmental sustainability.
When you’re ready to make the change, UniWest Denver has the products, service, and support to help. Reach out to us today to get started!