Hayward Lateral Assembly

The most common sign is seeing sand returning to your pool through the return jets. If you notice sand accumulation on the pool floor shortly after vacuuming or backwashing, it usually indicates that the lateral slots have cracked, broken, or become clogged, allowing media to escape.

No, this is not a universal part. Hayward manufactures several different sand filter models, and lateral assemblies vary in size, shape, and connection type depending on the specific tank model. You must verify your filter's model number against the compatibility list before purchasing.

It is highly recommended to replace the entire assembly rather than individual laterals. If one lateral has failed due to age or stress, the others are likely brittle and near the end of their lifespan, meaning they will likely fail soon after.

Generally, you will need basic hand tools like a screwdriver or a socket wrench to remove the filter head or multiport valve. The lateral assembly itself usually snaps or screws into the center pipe, but the process requires careful handling to avoid damaging the new plastic components.

Yes, this is the perfect time to replace your filter sand. Since you have to remove the old sand to access the lateral assembly at the bottom of the tank, it is much more efficient to install fresh media rather than trying to reuse the old, potentially contaminated sand.