Backwashing a D.E. filter, or a Diatomaceous Earth filter, can be somewhat confusing for most people. Nevertheless, we are here to help.

The proper backwashing procedure is as follows:

1. Filter is ready to backwash when pressure on filter tank gauge goes up 10 psi above the normal setting.
2. Turn off time clocks on all pumps.
3. Rotate Dial Valve to “Backwash Position”. Always make sure the valve handle is in the slot.
4. Extend the flexible backwash hose to where you want the discharge to run.
5. Turn On the pool timer and allow water to run out from the backwash line.
6. Allow water to run until it runs clear, approximately 3-5 minutes.
7. Turn off power at time clock and rotate filter valve to Filter position.
8. Allow filter to run approximately 4-6 minutes in Filter position.
9. Repeat steps 2, 3, 5 and 6 or until discharged water is clean. This will usually take 3 times.
10. After final backwash, turn off power and rotate valve to Rinse position. Turn on filter time clock again. Allow to run in Rinse cycle for approximately one minute. Roll up the flexible backwash hose to original position; some systems may not require the backwash hose.
11. After final rinse, cut off filter at time clock, rotate valve to Filter position and turn On filter power again.
12. If your pool has more than one skimmer, plug up the skimmer which is farthest away from the filter system by placing the black plug, attached to the control plate, in the center port preventing any water to flow through this skimmer. This procedure is known as “Closing off the Skimmer”. Remove lid from skimmer closest to filter system. Empty any debris from the skimmer basket, which could restrict full water flow, and replace control plate.
13. In a 5 gallon plastic bucket, add 6 to 9 one pound coffee cans of diatomaceous powder to bucket and fill bucket. Fill bucket with water, stir to a milky, thick solution. Amount of D.E. will be determined by the size of filter.
14. Very slowly, pour solution into skimmer allowing skimmer to pull down D.E. mixture. Be cautious not to get any of this solution into the skimming pool water for this will surely cloud the water. When you are near bottom of bucket and solution is too think to pour, add more water to bucket to give the solution a free flow.
15. Once you have added all the solution to the skimmer, rinse the bucket and pour final liquid into skimmer and remember to unplug the other skimmer.

One thing to remember when backwashing the D.E. filter system for the first time, always make note of the beginning filter pressure gauge reading. This will help you to remember what your normal setting of pressure will be for the next backwashing cycle.

We very highly recommend that the Diatomaceous Earth filter system be dismantled and cleaned a minimum of three (3) times a year. This recommendation is made to ensure that the elements inside the tank be preserved to endure their full estimated life.

For ninety percent of our customers, this procedure is normally done by our service department due to the detailed reassembly of the grid system. However, if attempted, feel free to call our office prior to dismantling the filter tank so we may advise you of the correct backwashing procedure.

Many people think that a D.E. and a sand filter can be backwashed the same way. This is a popular misconception since these are two completely different filters and each with a different process of backwashing. In order to have proper filtration, all filters need proper maintenance.

Follow these directions to enjoy a clean filter and a clean pool in no time courtesy of your friends here at Texas Pool Sharks:

1.     Filter is ready for backwashing when the pressure on the filter tank gauge goes up 8-10 pounds above normal setting.

2.     At this point, turn off all time clocks on all pumps.

3.     Rotate Dial Valve to “Backwash Position”.

4.     Extend the flexible 2″ backwash hose to wash out area, the grass, If no backwash hosing is supplied, water will then be back washed into pee trap.

5.     Turn on the pool timer and allow water to run out backwash line.

6.     Allow water to run until it comes out clear out of the tank. This will take approximately 3-5 minutes.

7.     Turn off power at time clock, then rotate filter valve to Filter position and On power at time clock once more.

8.     Allow filter to run approximately 4-6 minutes.

9.     Repeat steps 2,3,5,6.

10. After final back wash, turn off power and rotate valve to rinse position. Turn on power and allow filter to rinse for ONE minute.

11. After final rinse, cut off filter at time clock. Rotate valve to Filter position and turn on filter power again. Roll up the flexible back wash hose to original position.

12. Back washing is complete. Make a mental note of the beginning pressure on the filter gauge.

Your sand filter should be back washed once a week, or more often if pressure raises above normal setting (10lbs. over). If you think that your sand filter will wear out from this process, think again. The sand does not lose its angular shape, it simply becomes polluted with skin oils, hair or sunscreen chemicals that will be removed once the filter has had its proper maintenance.

Usually spring and fall will cause the pressure to go up with all the blooms and shedding of trees and shrubs.  After a normal backwash the pressure on your sand filter should drop down 8-10 pounds.  The sand in your filter system should last approximately 5 to 7 years before needing to be changed out.

If you should have any more questions, or if you get stuck trying to backwash your filter feel free to contact us over the phone.