how to clean pool filter backwash and rinse

Author: PoolKing - Pool Sand Filter Manufacturers

Keeping your pool water clear and safe to swim in requires proper filter maintenance. One of the most important aspects of pool filter maintenance is regularly cleaning and backwashing the filter. In this article, we’ll discuss the proper steps to clean pool filter backwash and rinse.

Why is Pool Filter Backwashing Important?

The filter in your swimming pool removes impurities and debris from your pool water. Over time, the filter gets clogged with debris, which can slow down the filtration process or even prevent it altogether. Backwashing the filter is necessary to dislodge and remove this debris from the filter and restore proper filtration.

What You’ll Need to Clean Your Pool Filter

Before we dive into the steps for cleaning a pool filter, let’s first go over what supplies you’ll need:

- A pool filter cleaning solution or a simple solution of water and muriatic acid

- A pool filter cleaner, such as a cartridge cleaner, DE filter cleaner, or sand filter cleaner

- A garden hose

- A pool brush

- Safety goggles and gloves

Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Your Pool Filter

Now that you know what supplies you’ll need, let’s go through the steps of cleaning a pool filter.

Step 1: Turn off Your Pool Pump

Before you begin to clean your pool filter, turn off the pool pump. This will prevent any water from flowing through the filter and causing damage while you clean it.

Step 2: Backwash the Filter

Backwashing your pool filter is the first step in cleaning it. Here’s how to do it:

- Locate the backwash valve, which is usually located on the filter.

- Turn the valve handle 90 degrees to the “backwash” position.

- Turn on the pump, and let it run until the water in the sight glass is clear.

- Turn off the pump and turn the valve handle back to the “filter” position.

Step 3: Add the Cleaning Solution

Next, add the pool filter cleaning solution according to the directions on the label. If you don’t have a pool filter cleaning solution on hand, you can create your own solution by mixing water and muriatic acid in a 1:10 ratio.

Step 4: Soak the Filter

Let the filter soak in the cleaning solution for the recommended amount of time. Most pool filter cleaners will require a soak time of 8-12 hours, while muriatic acid usually only requires 30 minutes.

Step 5: Rinse the Filter

After the filter has soaked for the recommended amount of time, rinse it thoroughly with a garden hose. Be sure to rinse from the top to the bottom of the filter to remove all debris.

Step 6: Clean the Filter

If your pool filter is a DE filter or cartridge filter, you’ll need to clean it further. Use a filter cleaning solution and a pool brush to remove any remaining debris from the filter. Once you’ve cleaned the filter, rinse it off again.

Step 7: Reassemble and Turn On the Pump

Once the filter is clean, reassemble it and turn on the pump. Check the pressure gauge to ensure that the filter is working properly. If the pressure is still high, repeat the backwashing process.

Conclusion

Cleaning your pool filter backwash and rinse is a crucial part of maintaining a healthy and safe swimming environment. By following these steps, you can ensure that your filter is working efficiently and keeping your pool water clean and clear. With the proper maintenance, you’ll be able to enjoy your pool all season long!