Turn the multi-port (MP) valve to the "drain" position. Allow the water to drain below the skimmer to avoid flooding. Once the water is below the skimmer, disconnect the filter from its hoses.
Pull the ring clamp outwards from the joint and remove the ring. The ring is located on the top of the filter and locks the assembly in place. In some models the ring snaps off, while in others it must be unscrewed.
Remove the MP valve assembly that sits on the opening of the filter. There is no need to disassemble the MP valve attachments. For filter owners whose MP valve assembly is on the side of the filter, twist the filter cover off from the filter base to open the filter.
Remove the plastic locator from the filter to access the interior of the filter tank. From here, the internal workings of the filter can be accessed and the sand can be replaced.