Should I be doing so many backwashings on my pool?
It is one of the frequently asked questions of any person new to pool cleaning, or even an individual who has been cleaning a swimming pool for a long time.
You wash the water, the chlorine, and a little brush on the walls now and then, but the filter?
When you have a backwash on your pool filter, then this entails that you also have to watch it.
And now I think we should discuss the frequency of backwashing as well as the ways to make it an inseparable part of the routine without overanalyzing it.
What Is Backwashing?
Backwashing is nothing more than cleaning the filter in the pool by reversing the water flow.
Rather than the water running through the filter out of the pool and back into the pool, you re-route the water and run it through the filter back up the garden hose against the flow of water, and push the dirt through a waste hose or pipe.
It is as though you are in the process of rinsing your filter to enable it to work again. This is normally carried out through sand filters and DE (diatomaceous earth) filters. Cartridge filters do not require backwashing to be cleaned; They are cleaned differently.
How To Know It’s Time To Backwash
While there is no magic answer to that, there are simple cues your body will give. The most obvious and helpful sign is the pressure gauge on your filter.
If it increases above the norm, generally around 8-10 psi higher than your typical clean pressure, you should backwash pool.
This is just the filter getting full of all the crap it has caught from the water (leaves, fine dust, oils, and anything else that should not be floating around in your pool).
Further, if you do not wish to trust the pressure gauge alone, then adhere to simple timing. If you actively use your swimming pool, in hotter seasons at least once or once every two weeks.
If the pool use is low or it has a cover, then you can wait longer, perhaps once every three to four weeks. If it rains or you have a big pool party after this test is done, check the pressure again because your filter may have worked a little harder.
Why Regular Backwashing Is Useful
By backwashing when you need it, you have a clean pool, and the water passes more easily through the system.
This implies that the filter will be called to do less work and that the volume will be capable of being dealt with by your pump. They make the whole set-up much easier, and they also consume less electricity.
Backwashing will also ensure that the dirt and oil do not spend most of the time inside the filter. That even caused the filter not to get clogged and maintained a supply of clean water.
Also, remember that backwashing also allows the chemicals in your pool to perform their function more efficiently. Under such conditions, chlorine mixes better with pool water due to no obstructing particles, and mixes at every part of the pool.
Filter Type And Backwashing Frequency
What type of filter you use can also be a factor. Sand filters are typically backwashed every few weeks or when the pressure reading indicates.
It will take you the same amount of time if you have DE filters, but each time you need to backwash the system, you also must refill it with fresh DE powder.
The cartridge filters should be hosed down once per month or more frequently, depending on the degree of contamination, without actually backwashing the filter.
Regardless of the filter you have, check your gauge. It will help you see what is occurring in the filter, and it will visually show you when there is something wrong with it, and that it must be taken care of.
Simple Steps To Backwash A Pool
The backwash takes some getting used to, but super simple, literally (pun intended). If you can run a hose, you’re set. Begin by turning the pool pump off. Now you need to set the multiport valve to the “backwash mode.”
Restart the pump and run it for approximately 2-3 minutes. The water coming from the waste hose will be dirty. After the water comes out clean, turn the pump on again. Flush it out by turning on the pump for 30 seconds to one minute and switching the valve to rinse.
This will reset the filter and won’t allow any remaining dirt to return into the pool. Next, shut the pump off, return the valve to “filter,” and start the pump. That’s it. You’re done.
How Much Water Is Used While Backwashing?
The backwashing will use little water, up to 250-500 liters each time on average. This is only a small disadvantage; however, it comes with the territory of keeping your filter healthy and your pool water pristine.
So, the only noticeable difference is when you plan your backwashing in conjunction with future water top-ups or rainwater refills.
When To Avoid Overdoing It
And truthfully, if your pool doesn’t need it, you don’t have to backwash every day or even once a week. Nothing but the signs, pressure at 10 psi after start up and as needed thereafter, water flow, and when to clean your filter.
Simply avoid over-backwashing as it will only end up wasting water, and your filter should not require that much attention unless it has been under a lot of stress.
It is just a matter of getting started, and once you have gotten into that groove, it will also most likely balance well with your pool.
Keep Your Pool Running Smooth
Once you add backwashing into the mix with your regular pool maintenance, things just seem simpler. The water remains cleaner, the filter life will be increased, and it feels better to swim there.
Now it is just as common practice as running the chlorine or brushing the walls. Most pool owners do it on Sundays with a couple of other cleaning chores, and they never take 10 minutes to complete.
And if you are using pool chemicals or clarifiers, backwashing at the proper time allows for those to function better because they will not be fighting a congested filter as well.
Final Thoughts
Backwashing is not so difficult or technical. It is nothing but just another one of those little things that keep a clearer, smoother flowing water and in the long run, extend the life of your pool equipment. Once you have an easy schedule to follow, have religion on your side with your pressure gauge and watch the pool water a little closer, then you will be in touch when it is time to backwash. Better yet, it will only take you minutes of your precious time, and you could have your pool clean and ready anytime without hassle at all! One trick is easy daily practice.
