Easy Steps to Backwash Your Pool Filter Properly

A clean pool filter is a key component of a clear, unpolluted swimming pool. Backwashing is one of these pool maintenance aspects. It helps dispose of the dirt and debris collected within the filter, therefore enhancing its functions and making sure the pool’s water remains uncontaminated. Let’s start with the backwashing procedures one by one. This way, you can help the filter work optimally for the whole season.

In this article:

• What is Backwashing in Pool Filters?
• How to Backwash a Pool Filter Step-by-Step
• How Often Should You Backwash Your Pool Filter?
• Common Mistakes to Avoid When Backwashing

What is Backwashing in Pool Filters?

In backwashing, water is pumped in the reverse direction through the pool filter, dislodging any debris trapped inside and flushing it out, usually to a waste or drainage pipe. It can be included in the list of normal practices for keeping pools serviceable, as it eliminates potential clogs and helps conserve water and the operational currents otherwise flowing through the filter. It’s advisable to backwash the filter once the pressure on the gauge rises 8 to 10 PSI above the pressure indicated on the filter during the clean or starting stage. Generally, back washing applies to all types of pool filters, whether built-in, above-ground, or any kind of pool, making it convenient to make the pool water safe.

Benefits of Backwashing:

• ► Improved Filtration Efficiency: Eliminates particles and contaminants from the filter to enable it to work efficiently.
• ► Longer Lifespan of the Filter: Eliminates the chances of having deposits that can erode the filter system over time.
• ► Helps Maintain Water Purity: It minimizes the buildup of particles within a soiled filter, thereby ensuring clean and clear water in the pool.

How to Backwash a Pool Filter Step-by-Step

If you wonder how to backwash a pool filter, begin by contemplating these vital tips on safely and effectively backwashing your pool filter.

1. Switch Off The Pool Pump: As an initial step, always ensure the pool pump has been switched off before reattaching the backwash to the filter system so that the system is not damaged during backwashing. Also, de-clog the skimmer basket if it is full of dirt. In addition, connect a backwash hose to the waste of your filter.
2. Set The Filter Valve To “Backwash”: When a filter has a multiport valve, the handle will be turned to the backwash position. If it has a push-pull valve, it can be backwashed by pulling or pushing the valve as directed.
3. Turn On The Pump: Next, turn on the pump and run it for approximately 30 seconds to one minute until the water in the backwash sight glass, if there is any, turns clear. This shows that the filter media is clear. Turn Off The Pump For Another Time: Once the water runs clear, turn off the pump before changing the position of the valve.
4. Set The Valve To “Rinse” If Present: Adjust the control to ‘Rinse’ and pump for 30 seconds. This procedure helps resettle the filter media in the core so that dirt does not return to the pool.
5. Turn Off The Pump For The Last Time: Once again, turn the pump off before rotating the valve to allow movement without damage to the system.
6. Replace The Valve To The “Filter” Position: Replace the valve to its previous position in the “Filter” settings, which is the normal filtration mode. At this point, the system is ready to continue with normal operations.
7. Filter Pressure Check: After the backwash process has been performed, a back pressure gauge of the filter is taken. High pressure, however, can denote that more dirt is still present or that the filter has not been cleaned for a long time or serviced.

How Often Should You Backwash Your Pool Filter?

Several factors impact the frequency of pool backwashing, including the volume of use, geographical location, and the type of filtration system installed. Below are a few general recommendations:

• ► Remember to Monitor PSI Readings: Make sure that you know how to read and use your filter’s pressure gauge. Backwashing should commence when the gauge reads a pressure increase of more than 8-10 PSI. If your gauge, for instance, reads normally 15 PSI and jumps to 25 PSI, then backwashing should be done.
• ► Heavy Pool Use: Highly active events or those that may cause debris, such as storms, may also need further backwashing than regular. If you have trees, such as hardy deciduous ones, close to your pool, then also book a backwashing session after they drop their leaves.
• ► Filter Class: The cleaning schedule varies depending on the type of filter. A Diatomaceous Earth (DE) Filter system should be serviced at least twice a year. Sand Filters are less complicated and can be backwashed every couple of months; however, they still require disassembling for cleaning about once every six months.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Backwashing

To help ensure effective operation and long-term use of your pool filter, do not make the following mistakes when backwashing:

• ► Skipping the Rinse Step: Not performing a rinse after the backwash removes the purpose of the backwash since the dirt will go back into the pool.
• ► Not Controlling Pressure: The pressure index values are ignored, and the next thing that happens is excessive deposit formation in the filter, which becomes inefficient. Backwash only after increasing pressure over 8-10 psi from the normal operating range and turning the indicator light.
• ► Repeated Backwashing: Too much backwashing reduces a filter’s efficiency as it washes off the filter aids necessary to improve filtration. Backwash is only based on the pressure gauge instruction.

There are some critical reasons why you should backwash your pool filter regularly. This workable method and keen avoidance of common errors will go a long way in the functioning of your filter and the purity of your water. Proper care and regular backwashing of the pool filter will make work easier and cheaper in the future. Hence, be vigilant about the filter’s performance and do backwashing for the pool’s efficiency.