how do you backwash a cartridge pool filter

Author: Poolking - Swimming Pool Equipment Manufacturer

Backwashing a Cartridge Pool Filter: A Comprehensive Guide

Maintaining a clean and healthy swimming pool is essential for any pool owner. One of the essential components of pool maintenance is ensuring that the pool filter is functioning correctly. When it comes to cartridge pool filters, regular backwashing is necessary to keep them in good working order. In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about backwashing a cartridge pool filter.

What is Backwashing?

Backwashing is the process of reversing the flow of water through the pool filter to remove any built-up debris, dirt, or particles that may be clogging the filter. When a cartridge pool filter is backwashed, water is circulated through the filter in the opposite direction, which dislodges any debris that has accumulated on the filter's surface.

Why is Backwashing Important?

Backwashing your cartridge pool filter is essential to its longevity and performance. Over time, debris and dirt can build up on the filter's surface, which can cause the filter to become clogged and less effective in capturing and removing contaminants from the pool water.

How Often Should You Backwash Your Cartridge Pool Filter?

The frequency of backwashing your cartridge pool filter depends on the specific filter model, the pool size, and how frequently the pool is used. As a general rule of thumb, pool experts recommend backwashing the filter once a month or when the filter's pressure gauge shows an increase of 8-10 psi above its initial reading.

Steps to Backwash a Cartridge Pool Filter

Backwashing a cartridge pool filter is a simple process that involves the following steps:

1. Turn off the pump - First, turn off the pool pump to ensure safe handling of the filter cartridge.

2. Close the skimmer valve - Close the skimmer valve to prevent water from entering the filter system through the skimmer.

3. Open the air valve - Open the air valve on top of the filter to allow air to escape from the filter system.

4. Remove the filter cartridge - Open the filter housing and remove the cartridge from the housing.

5. Hose down the cartridge - Rinse the cartridge with a hose until water runs clear. Ensure that all debris and dirt are removed from the filter surface.

6. Reinsert the cartridge - Place the filter cartridge back into the housing and secure the housing lid.

7. Open the skimmer valve - Open the skimmer valve to allow water to flow through the filter system.

8. Turn on the pump - Turn on the pool pump to begin circulating water through the filter system.

9. Backwash the filter - Turn the pool pump's multiport valve to the "backwash" position and run the pump for about 2-3 minutes or until the water in the sight glass runs clear.

10. Rinse the filter - Turn the multiport valve to the "rinse" position and run the pump for about 30 seconds to rinse the system.

Final Thoughts

Regularly backwashing your cartridge pool filter is crucial to keep your pool water clean and healthy. By following the above steps, you can ensure that your filter cartridge is functioning correctly and prolong its lifespan. Remember to always follow the manufacturer's instructions for maintenance and cleaning of your pool filter.