Waste and Recirculate on sand filter?

[jsw5620]

Can anyone explain to me the what these two positions are used for? Thanks!

 

[zea3]

The "waste" setting allows you to vacuum the pool and by-pass the filter. The water goes to "waste" meaning it is discharged from the pool. The "waste" line uses a flexible hose to direct the flow of waste water away from the pool or it is connected to the home's sewer system. If your "waste" line is just a short piece of pvc you will need to get the flexible hose to direct the water away from the pool. Vacuuming to "waste" is a good choice when there is a lot of debris or algae in the pool or if you need to lower the water level in the pool. Also when you backwash the filter the water will exit through the "waste" line.

"Recirculate" by-passes the filter and just keeps water circulating in the pool. This is useful when adding dry chemicals to the pool and you need them to dissolve in the water without getting caught in the filter. Recirculate is also helpful when you have a problem with the filter but you need to keep the water moving to mix in bleach.

Be sure the pump is off when changing settings on the filter.