how to backwash pool filter cartridge

Author: Poolking - Swimming Pool Equipment Manufacturer

How to Backwash Pool Filter Cartridge

If you have a pool, it's necessary to keep the water clean and healthy for swimmers. A pool filter is the best way to keep your pool water clean by removing contaminants such as dirt, oil, and debris. However, if you don't keep your pool filter clean, it will hinder its ability to clean the pool water. Backwashing the pool filter cartridge helps to remove the build-up of contaminants and maintains the filter's efficiency. In this article, we'll explain how to backwash a pool filter cartridge.

Subtitles:

- Why is backwashing necessary?

- When to backwash your pool filter cartridge?

- Steps to follow when backwashing a pool filter cartridge

- The care of pool filter cartridge after backwashing

- Other methods of cleaning a dirty pool filter cartridge

Why is backwashing necessary?

Backwashing is necessary to remove the build-up of contaminants in your pool filter cartridge. Your pool filter cartridge filters the water by passing it through the filter media. As the water passes through the filter media, dirt, oil, and debris get trapped in the filter. Over time, the filter becomes clogged, and the filter's efficiency decreases. By backwashing your pool filter cartridge, you reverse the water flow, which dislodges the particles from the filter media and removes them from the pool.

When to backwash your pool filter cartridge?

Knowing when to backwash your pool filter cartridge is crucial. When the filter pressure gauge reading rises by about 8-10 PSI higher than the normal operating pressure, it's time to backwash your pool filter cartridge. Additionally, if you notice your pool water becoming cloudy, it's a sign that your filter is struggling to keep your pool water clean, and it's time to backwash.

Steps to follow when backwashing a pool filter cartridge

Step 1: Turn off the pool pump

Before starting to backwash, turn off the pool pump. This is important to avoid any accidents or injuries.

Step 2: Switch on the backwash valve

The backwash valve is usually located near the pool filter. Depending on the make and model of your pool, the process may differ. However, in most cases, you should turn the backwash valve 90-degrees.

Step 3: Turn on the pool pump

After turning on the backwash valve, turn on the pool pump. The pool pump will reverse the water flow and flush the contaminants out of the filter media. Water will come out of the waste pipe or the hose connected to the filter's backwash port.

Step 4: Backwash for 3-5 minutes

Backwash the pool filter cartridge for 3-5 minutes or until you see clear water coming out of the waste pipe.

Step 5: Rinse the filter cartridge

Once you finish backwashing, rinse the pool filter cartridge by switching the backwash valve to the rinse position. The rinse mode helps to flush out any remaining contaminants from the filter media. Run the pool pump for 1-2 minutes.

Step 6: Turn off the pool pump

After rinsing, turn off the pool pump, and switch the backwash valve to its original position.

The care of pool filter cartridge after backwashing

After finishing backwashing, the pool filter cartridge needs special care. Here are some tips to keep your pool filter cartridge running smoothly after backwashing.

- Check the pool filter cartridge for any visible cracks or damages.

- Take out the filter cartridge and clean it thoroughly with a hose or a pool filter cartridge cleaner.

- Only reinsert the filter cartridge when it's completely dry.

- Keep a record of the cleaning and maintenance to know when to replace the filter cartridge.

Other methods of cleaning a dirty pool filter cartridge

In addition to backwashing, there are other ways to clean a dirty pool filter cartridge. One of them is soaking the filter cartridge in a pool filter cartridge cleaner solution. This solution removes any stubborn or greasy contaminants such as sunblock, lotion, and oils from the filter media. Another method is using a pool filter cartridge cleaning machine, which can help clean the filter media more efficiently.

Conclusion

Backwashing your pool filter cartridge is vital to keep your pool water clean and healthy. By following the steps mentioned above, you can backwash your pool filter cartridge with ease. After backwashing, take special care of the pool filter cartridge to avoid any damage or future clogs. Remember to keep your pool filter cartridge clean to ensure that your pool water stays crystal clear.