Master the Technique of Backwashing Your filter with our comprehensive guide. Ensure your pool stays sparkling clean and well-maintained year-round.
Backwash your filter, or clean your cartridge(s) when the pressure reaches 10 psi over the “clean reading”. If your pool is dirty, green or cloudy, this may be a frequent task as the filter removes the problem causing contaminants.
Overview for Backwashing a DE Filter with a Multiport Valve:
- Turn off the pump and turn the filter handle to BACKWASH.
- Turn the pump back on, and the water will start to come out the backwash line.
- Backwash for at least 3 to 5 minutes.
- When the water runs clear in the sight glass, turn the pump off and turn the filter handle to RINSE. Then, turn the pump on again for 15-30 seconds.
- Turn the pump off and turn the filter handle to FILTER.
- Turn the pump back on and bleed any remaining air from the tank.
- Once water begins circulating through the system, add a full charge of DE to the skimmer to recoat the filter grids.
Overview for Backwashing a DE Filter with a Push / Pull Valve:
- Turn the pump off, twist the valve handle and PULL UP on the valve to move it into backwash position.
- Turn the pump back on and the water will start to come out the backwash line.
- Backwash for at least 3 minutes.
- When the water runs clear out the backwash line, turn the pump off.
- PUSH the valve handle to the filter position and twist it to lock it.
- Turn the pump back on and bleed any remaining air from the filter tank.
- Once water begins circulation through the system, slowly add a full charge of DE to the skimmer to recoat the filter grids.
How much DE should I add after backwashing?
This depends on the size of your filter. In general, after backwashing, we recommend that you add approximately “one scoop” of DE per 5 square feet of filter area. “One scoop” is approximately one small coffee can or one EZ-scoop (available from Watercrafters). A 6-pound bag of DE should treat a 40-60 square foot filter. These amounts are general recommendations, and may vary based on the features of your particular system.
Overview for Backwashing a Sand Filter with a Multiport Valve:
- Turn off the pump and turn the filter handle to BACKWASH.
- Turn the pump back on. Water will start to come out the backwash line.
- Backwash for at least 3 minutes.
- When the water runs clear in the sight glass, turn the pump off and turn the handle to RINSE.
- Turn the pump back on for 15 seconds.
- Turn the pump off and turn the filter handle to FILTER.
- Turn the pump back on and bleed any remaining air from the filter tank.