how to properly backwash a pool filter

How to Properly Backwash Your Pool Filter: A Comprehensive Guide

Swimming pools are the perfect place to relax and cool down in the hot summer months. However, to keep your pool crystal clear and healthy, it is crucial to maintain the pool filter. The pool filter keeps the water free from debris, but over time, it can become clogged, which reduces its efficiency. That's where backwashing comes in. Backwashing your pool filter is a necessary task that every pool owner must know how to do. In this comprehensive guide, we will look at how to properly backwash a pool filter.

What Is Backwashing?

Backwashing is the process of cleaning the pool filter by reversing the flow of water, sending it back through the filter and out the waste port. This process dislodges trapped debris to be flushed out, restoring the filter's efficiency.

When Should You Backwash Your Pool Filter?

It's recommended to backwash the pool filter at least once a month, more often during heavy usage periods or when the filter pressure gauge reads 8-10 psi above the normal operating level. The frequency of backwashing depends on the filter type, pool size, and usage.

Step-by-Step Guide on How to Backwash Your Pool Filter

1. Turn off the pump: Before beginning the backwashing process, turn off the pool pump to insulate the water pressure.

2. Locate the multiport valve: The multiport valve is typically found on top of the filter and has several positions, including filter, backwash, rinse, waste, recirculation, and closed.

3. Set the valve to backwash: Rotate the valve handle to the backwash position. In this position, the water will be directed back through the filter and out of the waste port.

4. Turn on the pump: Turn on the pool pump to start the backwash process. The water will flow out of the waste port, removing debris from the filter.

5. Observe the sight glass: As the backwash progresses, take note of the sight glass on the valve, which indicates what is passing through the system and the flow of water. Keep backwashing until the sight glass runs clear, indicating that the filter is thoroughly cleaned.

6. Stop the pump: Turn off the pump once the sight glass runs clear. Now that the filter is clean, it is time to rinse.

7. Rinse the filter: Rotate the valve handle to the rinse position and turn on the pump. Rinsing helps clear debris and get rid of any residual waste that might remain. Keep rinsing until the water in the sight glass runs clear.

8. Turn off the pump: Once you have finished rinsing, turn off the pump, and return the multiport valve to the filter position.

9. Restart the pump: Turn on the pump, and your filter is now clean and ready for use.

Conclusion

Backwashing your pool filter is a necessary process if you want to keep your pool healthy and sparkling clean. Regular cleaning helps maintain your filter and prevent clogging, which can lead to high electricity bills and poor water quality. Remember, maintaining your pool takes time and effort, but following these simple steps will make that process manageable.