Backwashing a Bestway sand filter is an essential maintenance process that helps to clean the filter sand, allowing it to operate more effectively. Backwashing reverses the flow of water, flushing out the trapped debris and dirt from the sand. Follow these step-by-step instructions to backwash your Bestway sand filter.
Preparing to Backwash
Before backwashing, ensure that your swimming pool pump is turned off to avoid any potential hazards or damage to your system.
Step-by-Step Backwashing Process
Step 1: Turn Off the Pump
Always start by turning off the pool pump to prevent any damage to the system while changing the settings.
Step 2: Attach the Backwash Hose
If your filter has a separate backwash hose, attach it to the filter’s backwash port. Make sure it’s laid out to where you want the waste water to be expelled, ideally away from the pool and plants.
Step 3: Turn the Valve to Backwash
This can usually be done by pushing down on the valve handle, twisting it to the ‘Backwash’ position, and then releasing it.
Step 4: Turn On The Pump
With the valve in the backwash position, turn on your pump. The water will flow in reverse, through the filter, and out through the backwash hose.
Step 5: Run the Backwash for 3-5 Minutes
Allow the pump to run in the backwash setting for about 3 to 5 minutes, or until the water coming out of the backwash hose is clear.
Step 6: Turn Off the Pump
After the backwashing process is complete, turn off the pool pump to change the valve setting to its normal position.
Step 7: Set the Valve to Rinse
After backwashing, you must rinse the sand filter. Push down the valve handle, turn it to the ‘Rinse’ position, and release it.
Step 8: Run the Pump for 1 Minute
Turn the pump back on and allow it to run for about a minute. This will help to settle the sand and get rid of any remaining dirty water in the filter.
Step 9: Return Valve to Filter Position
Turn off the pump again, and set the valve back to the ‘Filter’ position.
Step 10: Turn the Pump Back On
Finally, turn your pump back on for normal operation. Your filter should now be clean and ready to filter your pool water effectively.
After Backwashing
Monitor the pressure gauge to ensure that it has gone down, indicating a successful backwash. If it hasn’t, the filter may require another backwash, or there could be another issue with the system.
Helpful Tips
– Avoid backwashing too frequently, as this can reduce the effectiveness of the sand to filter.
– Make a schedule for backwashing; typical intervals are every few weeks or when the pressure gauge indicates a 8-10 PSI increase over the clean, starting pressure.
– Make sure to follow your specific model’s manual since different models might have slightly different procedures.
Regular backwashing is important to maintain the health of your pool water and to prolong the life of your sand filter. Always refer to your Bestway sand filter’s manual to ensure your specific model’s guidelines are followed closely.