BACKWASH INSTRUCTIONS FOR D/E FILTERS:

A DE filter offers the best possible filtration, but it also requires the highest level of maintenance.

Backwash Instructions

• DE filters should be backwashed when the pressure rises to 5-8 lbs above normal or every four weeks, whichever is sooner. If the DE filter goes less than 3-4 weeks between backwashing on a home pool, then it may be time for a DE filter clean in an acid bath.
• The backwash process is as follows:
• Empty the skimmers (so that you are not sucking leaves into your backwash water because they will be trapped on the underside of the filter and will come back into the pool when you are done backwashing).
• Turn the pump off and empty the pump trap basket.
• Check to make sure there is not a cutoff valve on the backwash line.
• Turn Multiport handle to “backwash” position and turn pump on. Let run 15 seconds.  Turn off pump, and turn multiport to the “Rinse” position.  Let run 15 seconds.  Repeat this procedure 3 times.
• Return multiport to “Filter” position.
• Bleed any air which may be trapped in the system by opening the petcock located on top of the filter. Leave it open until a steady stream of water is attained and then turn off.
• When you are done backwashing and the backwash valve is back in the “filter” position, add the proper amount of DE to the pool by feeding through the skimmer closest to the filter slowly with the pump running. Note that adding the DE too quickly can cause a blockage in the skimmer line.

Do not attempt to move the backwash valve position with the pump running. Always turn the pump off before moving the backwash valve handle. Failure to do so can cause serious equipment damage or serious personal injury.

Always clean skimmer and pump baskets with the pump turned off.

NEVER RUN THE PUMP WITH BASKETS REMOVED AS YOU COULD DRAW DEBRIS INTO THE PUMP AND CAUSE DAMAGE TO YOUR FILTER EQUIPMENT.

ALWAYS ADD DE AFTER EVERY BACKWASHING OR FILTER PADS MAY BECOME FULL OF DIRT AND DEBRIS, REQUIRING AN ACID BATH TO CLEAN.