DE Filter is constantly clogging, high phosphates

[mcbowes]

I've been battling my DE Filter clogging once a week for roughly the past 6 weeks. I just opened up the DE filter, removed the grids and cleaned everything out last Sunday 8/4 and my pressure is ~10 PSI over again indicating dirty.

My water stats are:
FC: 2.0
CC: 0.5
pH: 7.5
TA: 70
CYA: 85
CH: 400
Salt: 3000

I did a phosphate test using the Taylor K-1106 and it was the max, so >= 6000 ppm. I did bring water to the pool store as well and they get the max for their machine at 4000ppm
I did an overnight water test last night and only had a 0.5 drop to FC. My SWG just doesn't seem to be keeping up. Any suggestions where to start fixing this? Do I tackle the phosphates at this point first?

I do realize my current chlorine is low, I shock it and the SWG just doesn't seem to keep up. Was planning to shock today with liquid chlorine but holding off in case someone suggests a different first step here.

Thanks.

-Mike

 

[mknauss]

Follow the SLAM Process

 

[Donldson]

Phosphates don't clog filters, it's almost definitely algae. I agree with Marty, follow the SLAM Process to rid the water if anything that might be alive and multiplying. From there make sure to maintain an appropriate FC level going forward. It's likely your SWG is working correctly but cannot keep up with an organic load that's causing the problem, but you won't know that until you're sure there's nothing growing in the water.

After clearing the organics out of your water if you would sleep better by reducing your phosphate level, you're welcome to do that. It's entirely optional and doesn't negate the necessity of maintaining adequate chlorine in your water, but if you do choose to pursue it you need to finish the SLAM Process first. This isn't just me saying it, the phosphate remover manufacturers state that any algae need be taken care of before using the product.

 

[TinFoilHat]

Keep your SWG off during the slam as it won't be needed. But you will need a large stock of liquid chlorine and a proper recommended test kit such as Taylor K2006c or TF Testkits TF100 or TF100Pro (highly recommnended.) Stay away from the pool stores and their products.

 

[mcbowes]

Thanks all. I've now had 3 successful OCLTs and am meeting the other SLAM criteria. Deep cleaning the DE grids today while the CL is high. Took roughly 18 gallons of liquid chlorine (12.5%), after day 3 I was passing the OCLT and continued the SLAM for a couple extra days to be safe. Thanks again for the help.