For people who have a swimming pool, it’s very important to maintain it so it’s free from any contaminants, especially if it’s installed outdoor. Some maintenance processes need to be done by a professional but there is also a step that you can do by yourself. One of the steps that you can do by yourself is backwashing.
It’s basically cleaning the filter from contaminants that may cause a clog by flowing the water backward through the pool filter and out the draining port. This will also remove the trapped debris inside the filter.
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Check out three simple steps on how to backwash a swimming pool down below!
How to Backwash Swimming Pool
In general, there are two types of pool filters which are sand and D.E (Diatomaceous Earth) filters. On this page, we’re going to share a simple way to backwash a sand filter.
Check the Pressure Gauge
Usually, you need to backwash a sand filter once a month, but you can check the pressure gauge first to know the best time to perform this step.
When the pressure gauge shows a rise of 8 to 10 psi (pounds per square inch), it means that you have to perform this treatment because this indicates that your filter is clogged.
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Start Backwashing
Once you’re sure that it’s time to backwash, get everything ready to start the job. You’re going to use the multiport valve which is a very easy process to finish in no time.
- Prepare a pool backwash hose and attach the hose to the waste port.
- Turn off the filtration system and place the valve in backwash mode.
- Turn on the filtration system and let the water get backwashed for some minutes.
- Then turn off the filtration system again and position the valve to the rinse mode.
- Turn on the filtration system.
- Run the rinse mode for about a half minute.
- Turn the filter off.
- Position the valve to the filter mode.
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Remove the Water
This last step needs to be considered even before you start backwashing. You have to know where the dirty water from the backwash process is going to go.
- Due to the chemical that can contaminate the environment, you can’t just directly flow the pool water into the street or your backyard.
- Please make sure to check the local water authority in your area on how to dispose of the pool water.
- Some other options include storm drains, plumbing cleanouts, and dry wells.
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This kind of maintenance is a simple method to clean your swimming pool’s filter that you can do at least once a month or when the gauge shows a high level of psi. By doing this job, you can make the filters last longer and save more money from buying new filters.
However, you still need to deeply clean your filter at least twice a year to thoroughly remove the debris and check the condition of the equipment.