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3 SIGNS YOUR POOL FILTER NEEDS TO BE BACKWASHED

31 May 2022

One of the simplest and most reliable ways to maintain healthy pool water throughout the year – especially in the busy summer season – and keep your filtration system clean is to backwash regularly.

Not exactly sure what that means? Well, as the name suggests, backwashing involves reversing the flow of water through your filter media, be it ZeoPlussandglass pearls or diatomaceous earth (DE). This dislodges dirt and debris that may have become trapped, and flushes it out through your multiport valve waste line.

Knowing when to backwash your filter is really important in keeping your pool water clean and filtration equipment in peak condition. The good news is that there are three common signs that indicate if and when your pool filter needs to be backwashed. They include:

  1. Water pressure – an increase in your PSI (per square inch) pressure reading is a sign that your pool's filter is under strain, either through a blockage or, as we talked about here, faulty equipment
  2. Water flow – debris and contaminants clogging the filter media restricts the rate at which water can pass through the filter, reducing the flow of water into your pool
  3. Water clarity – cloudy water may indicate that the filter media is dirty or unable to catch the dirt and debris making its way into your pool

How often should I backwash my pool filter?

That's a little like asking how long a piece of string is because it depends on how much you use your pool, if it is surrounded by overhanging trees or foliage, or prone to getting grass clippings in it when you mow the lawn.

That said, many pool owners backwash weekly as part of their summer maintenance routine, often after they vacuum to collect the remaining particles that are often stirred up.

Dirty pool filter media can increase the growth of algae, and put unwanted strain on your pump as it tries to push clean water through a clogged filter. Here are a few tips on how to spring clean your filter media, and why making the switch from sand to glass pearls can increase water quality.

For improved cleaning, add Aqua-Health Natural Filter Cleaner when backwashing to assist in the removal of built up fats and oils.

In the event you have a cartridge filter and are unable to backwash, remove your cartridge for soaking and cleaning to remove built up grime and thoroughly rinse your cartridge with water before replacing.

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