Our drain line is connected to our neighbors so we keep it closed until we backwash so we don't get detritus from her pool backwash. We goofed and left the line closed when we backwashed. The algae we had just vacuumed to filter all came rushing back into the pool. The tech from pool store said we are probably going to have to buy a new filter because sending the water backwards will ruin the filter. That is hard for me to believe. Do you have any input other than telling us we are idiots? We already know that part, lol.
Backwashed with drain line closed
- Thread starter Shar47
- Start date
You're probably fine. Just backwash then rinse and back to filter.
Backwash sends water backwards so how is the filter going to be ruined?
Backwash sends water backwards so how is the filter going to be ruined?
You have a sand filter filled with ZeoBrite. What exactly did he think would be damaged?
If anything the spider gasket in your multiport valve "may" be damaged, but doubtful. With the drain line closed the pressure would have increased and the only way i see "The algae we had just vacuumed to filter" being sent back to the pool is by being forced back thru the multiport valve. If it were me I would jsut run the multiport valve around a couple of times (you know it's best to always move it in the same direction, right?) to reseat it and keep moving forward.
Now, the bigger problem I see is why do you have algae? Your signature says you "Test with chlorine and ph tester and have water tested at pool store also" and this why I think you have algae. you have not taken control of your pool. Vacuuming up algae does not eliminate it. Proper pool care including keeping the FC at the proper level eliminates/prevents algae.
So, my suggestion is to stop going to the pool store. Their only response it to sell you something.
Now, it didn't get algae overnight and it will take time to clear. But, we can teach you how to get it sparkling and keep it that way for a lot less money than the pool store.
Not much credence is given to pool store testing around here. While you would think that a "professional" would be the best, unfortunately in most cases it is quite the opposite. Between employees who blindly trust the word of chemical sales representatives and high school kids working in the pool store for the summer you end up with poor results from their testing. But, what can you do?? We base our pool care system on accurate testing and only adding what the pool needs, when it needs it. To do that you need your own accurate test kit. Order a TF100 test kit and at least include the XL option. That will give you what you need while you are clearing the pool, and probably enough reagents for a couple of years normal use.
While you wait for it to get delivered, you have a homework reading assignment. Start with ABCs of Water Chemistry and Turning Your Green Swamp Back into a Sparkling Oasis
Lets get rid of all that algae now an have a beautiful pool all summer.