How to Backwash a Pool

Hello there again fellow ePoolSupply supporters! Today I wanted to talk about how to backwash your pool filter. Your filter is one of the many parts of your pool’s circulation system that keeps your pool clean. So your pool will be only as clean as your filter. Backwashing your pool filter is easy and should be done regularly. I will give you a step-by-step guide on how to backwash your filter. Keep on reading to learn how! 

What is Backwashing

The purpose of a pool filter is to trap debris and prevent them from re-entering your pool. Backwashing only works for sand filters and D.E filters. Cartridge filters are not meant for backwashing because they are removed for cleaning and are not equipped with backwash valves.  Backwashing a pool reverses the flow of water in your filter to remove the buildup of contaminants. As pool water passes through your filter, it leaves behind dirt, oils, and other debris. When you backwash your filter, you flush all of those contaminants out and this will improve the efficiency and lifespan of your filter. 

When to Backwash 

Backwashing your pool filter is an easy and inexpensive way to extend the cleaning use. You will know it is time to backwash when the pressure gauge is 10 PSI above normal. If your water flow seems to be slow is another way to tell your filter needs to be back washed. You will be able to feel the difference in circulation from the water jets that push the water back into your pool. If your pool is starting to look cloudy it could be due to chemical imbalances and/or your filter is backed up. You should also backwash after a major storm. 

How to Backwash 

There are two different types of valves, it is either a push-pull or a multiport. The only thing you will need for both is a backwash hose. I will talk about how to backwash both valves. Keep on reading to learn how!

Push/Pull Valve 

The first step is to turn off the filter system, this will prevent any new water from entering while you are working on it. The second step is to open the backwash gate and then connect the backwash hose to the filter's backwash port. You can secure it with a metal hose clamp or anything you can find to secure it tightly to the filter. Then position the hose where you would like the water to discharge. The next step is to turn the filter system back on and let it run for about three minutes. This will allow pool water to flow out of the backwash port. You will now turn the filter system off and close the valve. You will know the filter is clean when your water is crystal clear. 

Multiport Valve

The first step is to turn off the filter system, this will prevent any new water from entering while you are working on it. The second step is to turn the valve to backwash and then connect the backwash hose to the filter's backwash port. You can secure it with a metal hose clamp or anything you can find to secure it tightly to the filter. Then position the hose where you would like the water to discharge. The next step is to turn the filter system back on and let it run for about two minutes. This will allow pool water to flow out of the backwash port. Now you will turn the filter system off and turn the multiport valve to rinse and turn the system back on and let it run for another minute. Then turn the filter system back off and turn the valve to filter. After the filter has rinsed out, turn the pump off and return it to the original filter setting. 

If you are backwashing your D.E filter, you will have to add more D.E powder. It is always best to refer to your filter owner's manual to determine how much you will need to add. You will want to mix the recommended amount of D.E with water to form a slurry and pour the solution directly into the skimmer. Make sure the pump is running properly so it circulates through the system. It will take time for the mixture to properly disperse across the filter, so you will want to wait at least an hour or two to swim again. 

Dispose of the Backwash Water 

Disposing of the backwash water properly is essential to keep your community and the environment safe from illness and damage. It is always best to check your state and city's laws to avoid any fines. Most local authorities are going to recommend that the backwash water is collected, contained, and discharged to a sanitary sewer or an area contained within your property. It is recommended to contact your local authorities and they should be able to let you know. 

In conclusion, backwashing your sand or D.E filter can be so easy you can do it on your own. All pool filters follow the same general steps but there may be some small variations depending on the model you own. The owner's manual should also have detailed intrusions for backwashing your filter. 

If you are thinking about getting a new filter or replacing your old one, check out the filters we sell!