Hello friends, just moved into a new place and we now have a pool. I’m learning the ins and outs. Anyways, I’ve watched videos and read info on backwashing the filter to clean it out, but all the material I can find refers to a backwash setting and my filter does not seem to come with such a setting. I did notice an outlet at the bottom of the filter, but I’m just not sure where and how the back wash is supposed to work. Any help is appreciated. I’ve attached a photo for reference.
How to backwash this filter?
- Thread starter Garrettboys
- Start date
- Jun 22, 2014
- 47,796
- Pool Size
- 17888
- Surface
- Fiberglass
- Chlorine
- Salt Water Generator
- SWG Type
- CircuPool RJ-45 Plus
Welcome to TFP! 
I'm not seeing a multi-port valve (MPV) or plunger valve which would allow you to do a backwash. Typically those go with sand or DE filters, while cartridge filters are not normally equipped with valves for a backwash since we just pull the cartridges out and rinse them off. You highlighted the square area, but I'm not seeing anything down there. 
The red ball valve looks like it was an install item designed to help you pump water to waste from the pump, but I can't quite see all the plumbing from that angle. Can you update your signature with all of you r pool and equipment info? That could help. Also include your test kit while you're at it since we look for that as well. There should be a make/model number on that filter housing somewhere.
I'm not seeing a multi-port valve (MPV) or plunger valve which would allow you to do a backwash. Typically those go with sand or DE filters, while cartridge filters are not normally equipped with valves for a backwash since we just pull the cartridges out and rinse them off. You highlighted the square area, but I'm not seeing anything down there. The red ball valve looks like it was an install item designed to help you pump water to waste from the pump, but I can't quite see all the plumbing from that angle. Can you update your signature with all of you r pool and equipment info? That could help. Also include your test kit while you're at it since we look for that as well. There should be a make/model number on that filter housing somewhere.
Welcome to TFP.
I’m 99.9% sure that is a cartridge filter. There should be a bleeder valve somewhere to release the pressure on that filter, then you can loosen the band and inspect the contents.
I’m 99.9% sure that is a cartridge filter. There should be a bleeder valve somewhere to release the pressure on that filter, then you can loosen the band and inspect the contents.
When you are done cleaning it and putting everything back together and turn the pump on, give the little black body that the pressure gauge is attached to a little (gentle) twist. It will bleed any air out of the filter chamber after you clean and reassemble it. Don't force it!
Enjoy your new home and new-to-you pool!
Enjoy your new home and new-to-you pool!
- Jul 21, 2013
- 52,476
- Pool Size
- 35000
- Surface
- Plaster
- Chlorine
- Salt Water Generator
- SWG Type
- Pentair Intellichlor IC-60
There should be a bleeder valve somewhere to release the pressure on that filter, then you can loosen the band and inspect the contents.
Bleeder valve is under the pressure gauge. Twist the ring base under the gauge and water and air will come out the nipple on the left.
Cartridge Filter Use and Care - Further Reading
www.troublefreepool.com
Thanks everyone! Thanks to the person who said it was a cartridge filter. I was able to open it and pressure washed the cartridges to a pretty white and now all seems well. Being that this was my first post, I’m encouraged by the responses here, so thank you!
- Jun 22, 2014
- 47,796
- Pool Size
- 17888
- Surface
- Fiberglass
- Chlorine
- Salt Water Generator
- SWG Type
- CircuPool RJ-45 Plus
Lots of folks prowling the site to respond, so don't hesitate to ask questions. As you get to know your pool and equipment, make sure to update your signature too. It will help for future posts. Have a good week.
Be careful if you used a pressure washer to clean your cartridge - too much pressure can make the fibers fall apart and will shorten the life of it (ask me how I know that ? ). A good blast from the jet spray from the garden hose is usually enough to clean it sufficiently.