how to backwash a pool filter above ground

Author: Poolking - Swimming Pool Equipment Manufacturer

How to Backwash a Pool Filter Above Ground

Having a swimming pool in your backyard is an excellent way to beat the summer heat. However, to ensure that the water is safe to swim in, you must properly maintain the pool filter. Over time, the filter can become clogged with dirt and debris, causing it to work less efficiently. Backwashing the filter is an essential part of pool maintenance that helps remove built-up debris and prolong the lifespan of your filter. In this article, we will discuss how to backwash a pool filter above ground.

What is Backwashing?

Backwashing is the process of reversing the flow of water through the pool filter, flushing out dirt and debris from the filter media. When the pool filter is backwashed, the water flows in the reverse direction, which loosens and removes the accumulated debris from the filter. This process is critical in maintaining pool water quality and keeping the filter running efficiently.

Subheading 1: Understand Your Filter System

Before backwashing your pool filter, it's essential to understand the type of filter system you have. Above ground pools typically have three types of filter systems: sand, cartridge, and DE (Diatomaceous Earth). Sand filters use graded layers of sand to filter the water, while cartridge filters use pleated mesh to filter the water. DE filters use a powder that coats a series of grids to filter the water.

Subheading 2: Determine When to Backwash

Knowing when to backwash your pool filter is crucial for maintaining water quality and keeping the filter running efficiently. As a general rule, backwashing should be performed every two weeks or when the filter pressure rises by 10 psi above the average pressure. If the water appears cloudy or the flow is slow, it may be time to backwash the filter.

Subheading 3: The Backwashing Process

Now that you understand your pool filter system and when to backwash, it's time to start the process. Turn off the pool pump and set the valve to the backwash position. Next, turn on the pool pump and let it run until the water in the sight glass appears clear – anywhere from 2-5 minutes. Depending on your filter system, there may be a rinse cycle after the backwash cycle. After rinsing, the filter valve can be set to filter or back to its original starting position.

Subheading 4: Tips for Backwashing Your Pool Filter

Backwashing a pool filter isn't complicated, but there are some best practices and tips to consider. Always turn off the pool pump before adjusting the valve position, and keep the backwash hose far away from the pool's water source. It's helpful to run through the backwash process twice to ensure that all dirt and debris are removed from the filter. Remember to also clean the hair and lint pot on the pump during the backwash process.

Subheading 5: Other Pool Maintenance Tips

Backwashing your pool filter is an essential part of pool maintenance, but it's not the only task you should perform. Regularly clean the skimmer and pump baskets, balance pool chemistry, and brush the tiles and sides of the pool. Keeping your pool clean and balanced will prolong its lifespan and ensure that it's safe for swimming.

In summary, backwashing your pool filter above ground is an essential part of pool maintenance that helps remove built-up debris and prolong the lifespan of your filter. With a little bit of know-how and practice, you'll become a pro at backwashing your pool filter in no time.