Welcome to a journey of discovery in maintaining your pool’s cartridge filter system! Keeping your pool water clean and sparkling involves knowing the ins and outs of backwashing.
In this guide, we’ll unveil eight brilliant steps to backwash a cartridge filter system that will make maintenance a breeze. Whether you’re a seasoned pool owner or just starting out, these simple yet effective techniques are a must-see for anyone looking to keep their pool in top shape. Let’s dive in!
In this post we will cover:
Steps to Backwash a Cartridge Filter System
Steps to Backwash a Cartridge Filter System
A cartridge filter cannot be backwashed by reversing the water flow in the filter system of your pool because such filters are not built for reverse water flow. When a cartridge filter is dirty, it should be cleaned by hand or with a garden hose.
Below is the procedure for backwashing a cartridge filter system:
Step 1: Turn off the filter’s power and close the valve that leads to the pool’s outlet. Then, at that point, close the valve connecting the skimmer to the pump inlet.
If you lack valves at these connections, insert a plugin to the skimmer to prevent water from flowing into the pump and another at the pool inlet to prevent water from flowing back into the filter housing.
Step 2: Loosen the air valve on top of the filter, allowing air to enter the cartridge filter housing as pressure is slowly released.
Step 3: Open the filter drainage valve to empty trapped water in the filter housing to prevent recontamination of the freshly cleaned filter when it is reinstalled.
Step 4: Remove the top of the cartridge filter to access the cartridge. Lift the filter from the housing and hose it off using a garden hose. Also, hose down the housing of the filter.
Step 5: Prepare a chemical bath in a large container for your filter. Make a solution by combining a cup of trisodium phosphate (TSP) with four cups of water. Repeat the ration until the filter is covered in the solution.
Step 6: Leave the cartridge to soak overnight in the solution before rinsing it off with a garden hose.Replace the filter and place the top back on its housing.
Step 7: Close the drainage valve, then open the inlet valves to the filter and pump. Unplug the skimmer and pool return inlets if you plugged them in earlier.
Step 8: Switch on the filter and open the air relief valve on the unit’s top. Close the air valve when the water starts spraying out. At this point, the cartridge filter is ready to clean the pool again.
FAQs
How often should I backwash my cartridge filter system?
It’s recommended to backwash your cartridge filter system when the pressure gauge indicates a 7-10 psi increase above the baseline pressure.
What if the water doesn’t run clear during backwashing?
If the water remains cloudy after backwashing, it may indicate a need for deeper cleaning or cartridge replacement. Consider soaking the cartridges in a cleaning solution or replacing them if they are worn out.
Can I backwash my cartridge filter system too often?
Yes, excessive backwashing can lead to unnecessary wear and tear on the system. It’s best to follow manufacturer guidelines and only backwash when necessary based on pressure gauge readings.
How long should the backwash process take?
The duration of the backwash process can vary depending on the size of your filter system and the extent of contamination. On average, it may take around 5-10 minutes, but monitor the sight glass for clarity to determine when the process is complete.
Can I backwash my cartridge filter system while the pool is in use?
A: It’s generally not recommended to backwash the system while the pool is in use, as it can disrupt water circulation and filtration. Plan to perform backwashing during times of low pool activity to minimize inconvenience.
The Wind-Up
With these 8 brilliant steps, maintaining your cartridge filter system is a breeze. From simple tools to easy techniques, we’ve covered it all. Now, keeping your pool crystal clear is within reach for everyone. So, get ready to dive in without worries. Happy filtering!