One can say to backwash a D.E. filter system is quite different from backwashing a sand filter. Although they complete the same objective, which is cleaning the internal elements of the filter and lowering its overall pressure, the process can differ depending on the D.E. filter system as well. The Hayward EC-40 and Hayward EC-50 are the most common filter systems for above ground pools. They do not have a multiport valve (similar to a sand filter) but instead have a “bump” handle at the top of the tank and an outlet for backwashed water at the bottom of the tank.
What is Filter Bumping?
First to describe bumping, a term unique to Diatomaceous Earth filters. The bumper handle at the top of a D.E. filter is designed to relieve pressure in your filter system without having to go through the process of backwashing. It is common for D.E. to clog the “fingers” or filtering mechanisms within the tank and raise the pressure. Bumping will regenerate the D.E. currently in the tank and can extend time between backwashing cycles saving you money by reducing the amount of Diatomaceous Earth used throughout the season.
How to Bump a DE Filter System
Turn off the pump and clear the leaf basket in the skimmer and the motor to be sure there is a good water flow.
In a slow downward motion and a rapid upward motion, move the bump handle up and down 5-7 times.
Restart filter and resume normal operation.
How to Backwash a D.E. Filter
Turn off the pump and clear leaf basket in the skimmer and the motor to be sure there is good water flow.
If not already connected, attach a backwash hose to the port labeled “backwash” at the bottom of the tank. A shutoff valve should be attached to the backwash port. If there is no shutoff valve, there will be a plug closing the port. Remove the plug and install a shutoff valve.
Dial Handle for easy flow regulation. 1.5″ Slip (no threads). Original Hayward Trimline Ball Valve.
Follow step #2 above for bumping and regeneration of the D.E. within the tank. This will loosen dirt and debris allowing the tank to drain properly during the backwash.
With the pump turned off open the shutoff valve at the bottom of the tank and allow the water to flow out of the filter, occasionally bumping the handle 3-4 times.
Take note of the color of the water at the end of the backwash hose. Once water is clear and no longer cloudy, turn the pump on and allow it to run for approximately one minute and then turn off the pump.
This pool backwash hose is flexible and durable! Use a hose clamp (not included) to connect the backwash discharge hose to your pool filter for draining.
Close the shutoff valve and restart the pump.
Replace the needed amount of D.E. (4 scoops (lbs.) for the Hayward EC-40 and 5 scoops (lbs.) for the Hayward EC-50. Add the D.E. directly to the skimmer attached to the pool while the filter is running.
When used in DE filter systems, diatomaceous earth powder provides a remarkable filtration media, trapping debris and contaminant particles ranging from leaves and dirt to bacteria and other micro-organisms.
Hi, I’m trying to find out how to attach/vacumm my saltwater pool 8000. Came with vac, but no instructions. The bottom is quite dirty with some soil stains. . How do I clean it?
Sure, here is a link to easy to understand vacuuming instructions for an Above Ground Pool: http://blog.thepoolfactory.com/how-to-vacuum-your-above-ground-pool/
Last summer when we closed our pool we purchased a kit for closing the pool. When we opened the pool this spring we found that there is a builded up of sort of a beige color powder. We have vaccum and removed the plump cartridge and cleaned it. Even though the water is clear we can still see this powder at the bottom of the pool. How can we remove this.
The powder in your pool is most likely the D.E. powder from your filter. Somehow the powder is escaping from your filter and returning to the pool. You should have the filter serviced.
I do not have a sand filter. I have a Jacuzzi Splash Pak 60 and this happened during the winter. When I uncovered my pool the water on the top was clear but at the bottom of the pool it had this beige powder. I still feel that is was from the kit we used to close the pool. But since then I have been able to vaccum the powder and cleaned out my catridge and my pool is crystal clear. Thanks for all your help.
My apologies I assumed you had a D.E. Filter since you comment was on a post for “How to Backwash a DE Filter”, no worries. Please use our contact us form to get in touch with one of our Pool Experts!