Basic Backwashing Steps
Swimming pool owners know all that it takes to keep the pool clean and functional. From skimming and vacuuming to testing the pool water for proper chemistry, they have to perform a wide variety of tasks for pool maintenance. Backwashing the filter is considered to be one of the essential elements of the weekly pool maintenance regime. Filters use different mediums like sand or diatomaceous earth to screen out dirt, debris, oil, and other particles when water passes through them to keep the pool water clean. Over time with regular pool use, the filters get clogged, reducing their effectiveness to trap such particles. Backwashing involves a thorough cleaning of the filter to dislodge or flush out all the materials trapped inside it by pushing the water backward or reversing the flow of water through the filter. Regular backwashing a sand or D.E. filter is a quick and simple process to increase its effectiveness and reduce the need for manual cleaning.
When to backwash
When to backwash depends on several factors, including the filtering material used and pool usage. A simple way to know that the filter needs backwashing is to check the pressure gauge. If it is about 8 to 10 psi (per square inch) above the usual level, the filter needs to be backwashed. While a sand filter needs backwashing every 2 to 4 weeks, a D.E. filter needs it every 4 to 6 weeks. Consider backwashing when the pool water gets cloudy, after a rainstorm, or while treating the pool for algae.
Few necessary steps to backwash a filter
You can find multiple settings in a pool filter. Backwashing requires shifting the handles to different positions to carry on a particular procedure. Some of the common ones on a filter include rinse, filter, circulate or recirculate, drain or waste, backwash, and closed. Follow these steps for quick and effective backwashing:
The first step to backwashing involves turning off the pool’s pump and the filtration system.
Attach the backwash hose to the pool’s filter. You can direct the other end of the hose to the area you want the excess water to go (garden or yard).
Change the position of the multiport valve to backwash.
Turn the power on to allow the flow of water through the backwash hose. Keep it running for a few minutes or till the water becomes clear.
Put off the power supply to carry on with the next step.
Now change the multiport valve position to rinse the sand or D.E. and turn on the pool filter system again.
Let it run for about 30 seconds to a minute and then turn off the pump.
Return the valve or handle back to the filter position and turn the pump power back on.
Empty the strainer basket if it has debris.
Check the pressure gauge to ensure that the levels have gone down and backwashing was effective.
Backwashing is a process that should be carried on routinely to ensure that the filter is clean and works as efficiently as possible. Contact a professional pool cleaning and maintenance service for any query or tips on backwashing.
If you need pool maintenance for your Phoenix, Arizona pool or spa, call us here at Serenity Pools. Our services include new installation set-up, professional maintenance of pools and spas, water features, and fountains. Call today! 480-370-0579.
