how to backwash an intex above ground pool filter

Author: Poolking - Swimming Pool Equipment Manufacturer

How to Backwash an Intex Above Ground Pool Filter

A clean pool goes beyond just looking good – it’s also essential for the health and safety of those who swim in it. To ensure a crystal clear pool, you must maintain your pool’s equipment, including the filter. Backwashing your Intex above ground pool filter is a vital part of its maintenance routine. With this guide, you’ll learn how to backwash your Intex above ground pool filter, including what it is, why it’s important, and how to do it.

What is Backwashing?

Backwashing is the process of reversing the water flow through your Intex above ground pool filter, causing built-up dirt and debris to be removed from the filter’s sand or cartridge. Backwashing is a necessary step in maintaining a pool since it removes particles that are too small for you to see with the naked eye.

Why is Backwashing Important?

A pool filter works by removing contaminants from the water in your pool by trapping them in the filter. Over time, the filter becomes clogged, and the water flow decreases, leading to dirty water. Not backwashing your pool filter will eventually lead to a dirty pool, which is not only unsightly but can also be harmful to swimmers. Backwashing removes the dirt and debris that have accumulated in the filter and restores the water flow, thereby keeping your pool crystal clear.

When should You Backwash?

Most experts recommend backwashing your Intex above ground pool filter after every 1-2 weeks, depending on how often you use your pool, and the size of your filter. However, if you have an unusually high number of swimmers or your pool has been exposed to a lot of debris, you may need to backwash more frequently.

How to Backwash an Intex Above Ground Pool Filter

To backwash your Intex above ground pool filter, follow these simple steps:

Step 1 – Turn off the pool pump

Before you can begin the backwashing process, you must turn off the pool pump. This is to avoid damaging the filter elements, which can be caused by the pressure of water trying to exit the filter.

Step 2 – Identify the pool filter

Determine the location of your pool filter, usually near the pump. The pool filter could be a sand filter or a cartridge filter.

Step 3 – Turn the valve to the backwash setting

If you have a sand filter, turn the valve controlling the water flow to the backwash setting. For the cartridge filter, detach the filter from the pump and turn it over.

Step 4 – Clean the filter

Turn on the pump and let it run for about two minutes, or until the water coming out of the waste port is clear. This will indicate that the filter is clean.

Step 5 – Return the valve to its initial setting

Turn off the pump, and return the valve to its initial setting. For sand filters, this is usually the filter setting, while for cartridge filters, you'll need to reattach it to the pump.

Step 6 – Turn on the pump

Finally, turn on the pump and let it run for a few minutes until regular water flow is restored. Test water clarity and check for leaks.

Conclusion

Backwashing your Intex above ground pool filter is a crucial process in maintaining your pool's water clarity and hygiene. With this guide, we hope you now have a better understanding of what backwashing is, why it’s important, and how to backwash your pool filter effectively. Don’t skip this essential step in maintaining a clean and healthy pool.