Thanks for the reply. I'm going to open the filter and see if stirring by hand will get me to closing. I'm not using baquacil, softswim, etc., but I guess I need to plan to replace the sand when I open next season. Do you think it is unusual to only get three seasons out of sand? I have heard 5-7 is common. Could there be something I am doing or not doing that would cause this problem in only the 3rd year?
As far as the vacuuming to waste guy, I was certain the guy had no idea what he was talking about. I just had to ask on here because he was so adamant about it. I'll be sure to never listen to anything he says again. I just wonder what kind of other terrible advice this guy is giving people.