how much de filter powder to add after backwash

Author: Poolking - Swimming Pool Equipment Manufacturer

How Much DE Filter Powder to Add After Backwash

When it comes to maintaining a swimming pool or spa, one of the most important tasks is to keep the water clean and clear. A common way to achieve this is by using a DE (diatomaceous earth) filter, which uses DE filter powder to capture and remove dirt, debris, and other contaminants from the water.

However, after backwashing the DE filter, you'll need to add more DE filter powder to ensure it continues to function effectively. But how much DE filter powder should you add? In this article, we'll answer that question and more.

What Is DE Filter Powder?

DE filter powder is made from fossilized diatoms, which are tiny, single-celled organisms that used to inhabit the Earth's oceans millions of years ago. The diatoms' skeletal remains are finely ground into a powder that is used to coat the DE filter grids (or fingers) inside a DE filter.

As water flows through the DE filter, the DE filter powder captures and removes tiny particles (down to five microns in size) from the water. Over time, the DE filter powder becomes coated with trapped debris, and it's time for a backwash (more on that later).

Why Use DE Filter Powder?

DE filter powder is highly effective at removing contaminants from water, especially when compared to other types of filters like sand or cartridge filters. DE filters can also handle a higher volume of water than other filters, making them ideal for larger pools and spas.

Another benefit of DE filter powder is that it's all-natural and environmentally friendly. Plus, it's easy to find and relatively inexpensive.

How Much DE Filter Powder to Add After Backwash?

Now, the question at hand: how much DE filter powder to add after backwashing the DE filter? The answer depends on the size of your filter and the manufacturer's recommendations. Generally, you'll need to add one pound of DE filter powder for every six square feet of filter area.

To figure out how much DE filter powder to add to your filter, you'll need to know the filter's square footage. This information should be available in your filter's manual or by contacting the manufacturer.

Once you know the filter's square footage, simply divide that number by six to determine how many pounds of DE filter powder to add. For example, a filter with 60 square feet of surface area would require 10 pounds of DE filter powder (60/6=10).

How to Add DE Filter Powder After Backwash?

Adding DE filter powder to a DE filter is a relatively simple process. Here's how to do it:

1. Turn off the pool or spa pump.

2. Open the filter's air relief valve to release any air pressure.

3. Remove the filter's lid or top, exposing the filter grids (fingers).

4. Pour the recommended amount of DE filter powder into the skimmer, slowly and steadily.

5. Turn the pool or spa pump back on and run it for several minutes to distribute the DE filter powder evenly throughout the filter.

6. Close the air relief valve.

7. Replace the lid or top of the filter.

8. Run the pool or spa pump for several hours to ensure the DE filter powder circulates properly and the filter is functioning as it should.

Conclusion

Keeping your pool or spa water clear and clean is essential for a healthy swimming experience. Using a DE filter with DE filter powder is an effective way to achieve this. Just remember to add the correct amount of DE filter powder after backwashing, following the manufacturer's recommendations.

By following these simple steps, you'll ensure that your DE filter is functioning effectively, and your pool or spa water is crystal clear.