how to backwash system 3 pool filter

Author: Poolking - Swimming Pool Equipment Manufacturer

How to Backwash System 3 Pool Filter

If you’re a pool owner, maintaining your pool’s filtration system is one of the most important tasks to ensure clean and safe water for swimming. The System 3 pool filter is a popular choice for many pool owners due to its efficiency and reliability. However, like any other pool filter, it can become clogged with debris and dirt over time, reducing its effectiveness. This is where backwashing comes in. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to backwash a System 3 pool filter to ensure that your pool stays clean and sparkling.

1. Understand the Basics of How a System 3 Pool Filter Works

Before you begin the backwashing process, it’s important to have a basic understanding of how the System 3 pool filter works. The filter consists of a series of grids or cartridges that trap debris and dirt as the water passes through. Over time, the particles build up on the grids, reducing the filter’s effectiveness. Backwashing is the process of reversing the flow of water through the filter, dislodging and flushing out the trapped particles.

2. Determine When Your System 3 Pool Filter Needs Backwashing

Knowing when to backwash your pool filter is crucial to maintaining its efficiency. Most experts recommend backwashing the filter when the pressure gauge reads 8-10 psi above the normal range. You can also check the water flow to see if it’s weaker than normal. If you notice that the water pressure in the return jets is weaker than usual, it’s probably time to backwash the filter.

3. Turn Off the Pool Pump

Before starting the backwash process, it’s essential to turn off the pool pump. This ensures that no new debris or dirt enters the filter while you’re backwashing it. It’s also a good idea to turn off any automatic pool cleaners or other pool equipment that may interfere with the process.

4. Adjust the Multiport Valve

The multiport valve is the valve that controls the flow of water through the pool filter. You’ll need to adjust it to put the filter in the backwash mode. First, turn off the pump, then adjust the valve lever to the backwash position. This changes the flow of water through the filter, forcing water backward through the grids to flush out the trapped debris.

5. Turn on the Pool Pump

Once you’ve adjusted the valve, it’s time to turn on the pool pump. The pump will force water backward through the filter, flushing out the trapped debris. Depending on the size of your pool and the amount of debris in the filter, the backwashing process can take anywhere from a few minutes to half an hour.

6. Rinse the Filter

After the backwashing process is complete, it’s time to rinse the filter. This is where the multiport valve comes in handy again. Turn off the pump and move the valve lever to the rinse position. This reverses the flow of water through the filter, rinsing away any remaining debris or dirt.

7. Restart the Pool Pump

Finally, after rinsing the filter, it’s time to restart the pool pump. Move the valve lever back to the filter position and turn on the pump. The filter is now clean and ready to continue its job of providing clean and safe water for swimming.

In conclusion, backwashing your System 3 pool filter is an essential part of pool maintenance. It helps to keep the pool water clean and sparkling, ensuring a healthy swimming environment. Remember to backwash your filter when the pressure gauge reads 8-10 psi above the normal range, and always turn off the pump before beginning the process. With these simple steps, you can keep your System 3 pool filter in top condition and enjoy a clean and healthy swimming pool all season long.