I have a DE filter and this will be the first year/attempt opening the pool by myself versus a pool service. I'm confused as to when you finally get around to starting the pool filter and priming it.
1) Do I have to backwash right away once the filter is primed (before adding any DE)? or
2) Do I add DE once the filter is primed and then vacuum and then backwash?
3) Do I have to backwash at all initially?
I feel as if I don't add DE almost immediately the filter is going to be coated with gunk/algae and then the coat of DE on top of that. One video I have watched online recommends you set your multiport valve to waste as to not get the gunk into the filter. If that's the case ...
1) Does the filter getting properly pressurized if the multiport valve is initially set to waste when I first turn it on the system?
2) After running on waste and then running on filter should I backwash and then add DE? or
3) After running on waste, should I then backwash, and then add DE?
Just to clarify, so I don't come off sounding completely hopeless, I do realize the point of backwashing is to flush the dirty DE out of the filter. I'm just wondering if there's a different procedure upon initial opening because the grids might initially get coated with gunk before you even get a chance to add DE.
Sorry if any of these questions come off as stupid. I just want to make sure not to damage any equipment as I do not have the money to make any major replacements/repairs. Thanks for any input/advice in advance.
1) Do I have to backwash right away once the filter is primed (before adding any DE)? or
2) Do I add DE once the filter is primed and then vacuum and then backwash?
3) Do I have to backwash at all initially?
I feel as if I don't add DE almost immediately the filter is going to be coated with gunk/algae and then the coat of DE on top of that. One video I have watched online recommends you set your multiport valve to waste as to not get the gunk into the filter. If that's the case ...
1) Does the filter getting properly pressurized if the multiport valve is initially set to waste when I first turn it on the system?
2) After running on waste and then running on filter should I backwash and then add DE? or
3) After running on waste, should I then backwash, and then add DE?
Just to clarify, so I don't come off sounding completely hopeless, I do realize the point of backwashing is to flush the dirty DE out of the filter. I'm just wondering if there's a different procedure upon initial opening because the grids might initially get coated with gunk before you even get a chance to add DE.
Sorry if any of these questions come off as stupid. I just want to make sure not to damage any equipment as I do not have the money to make any major replacements/repairs. Thanks for any input/advice in advance.