subject: How To Backwash A Pool Filter [print this page] Alright so the idea of having a pool in the back yard hasn't turned out all roses. Between shocking, sweeping, picking out leaves, covering and uncovering, the chores are many. And the irony is that it takes quite a bit of work to maintain our little bit of relaxation.
Certainly one of the trickiest things to figure out is how to backwash a pool filter. This one seems to give pool owners headaches more than anything. Hope is not lost though, as we'll be covering this one from A to Z. But first it's a good idea to know why we backwash the filter.
Over time grease, and dirt, and oils can build up and begin blocking circulation. This will be a problem because the water will start to turn bad and cannot be replaced and filtered with the cleaner water. So it's best to backwash once every week. But if you're unsure, refer to your psi gauge and if it's reading around 8 or 10 psi above normal pool readings, you'll know it's starting to get dirty and needs to be back-washed.
But no worries, it's an easy task and only takes a few minutes. Obviously, there will be some variations between pool and pump manufacturers. But the routine is relatively similar across the board.
1. First thing we want to do is turn the pump off to prevent damage to the pump or valves. We don't ever want to move the multiport handle with the pump running.
2. Next thing we need to do is turn the multiport handle in to the Backwash position. And then turn the pump back on.
3. Run the pump for roughly two minutes. You'll notice the water in the sight glass will go from dirty looking water to clear water.
4. After that we want to shut the pump back off. Then slide the multiport handle in to the Rinse position. Now turn the pump back on again.
5. Run the pump in this position for roughly a minute to get the back-washed water out of the system. Turn the pump back off and reset the multiport to the Filtration setting.
6. It is a good idea at this point to make sure the psi has dropped back to normal operating levels. If it hasn't yet, just repeat the steps above until it has.
This is how to backwash a pool filter. Just remember to watch the psi levels and to turn the pump off before moving the handle. And it should be clear blue water from here on out. Well, except for those leaves.
