sand filter problems

[griz07]

Not my first pool but first sand filter system ( Swimline Hydrotools #71225) completed the pool install couple weeks and having problems with the filter system...
1 after only about 6 hours running it loses all pressure....have to backwash to get it going again
2 highest the pressure gauge has every read is about 2#
3 water gets dirtier when pump is running !!! looks like it puts "stringie brown hair" into the pool

Pool is a 18x52 AGP.........Water is ok by testing but still playing with it as the weather has been nuts----was filled with "city" water
Last pool I had was a 24x48 AGP with cartridge filter and never had a problem with that-----I put that pool up in 1985 and its still in use today !
Keep thinking prolly something stupid.....rechecked everything...proper filter sand.....hoses connected correctly
My only thought is the label on the top of the filter that shows FILTER---RINSE--BACKWASH is wrong......Swimline has been no help
Weather is heating up & I want this thing RIGHT !
HELP !

 

[duraleigh]

1 after only about 6 hours running it loses all pressure....have to backwash to get it going again

That is a water chemistry problem and not a filter problem. The filter is catching all the debris in the water and clogging up.

You must solve that first. Can you post a pic of the pool? Can you post current test results.

 

[griz07]

wont let me enter pics but will send test results tnite after I get home BUT why no pressure at filter ??????
Thanks

 

[jasnovanorder]

I agree with what Duraleigh said about needing to backwash often. As to the lack of pressure on the gauge it could be a couple things. A faulty gauge is most likely.

 

[griz07]

TH 200-----FC 1/2----PH 7.5---TA 80----CYA 30-50 water is crystal clear.....the gauge was replaced with a new one

 

[duraleigh]

So you are saying the filter pressure starts normal and then drops to near zero after several hours and you have little or no flow to the pool?

Then backwash returns psi to normal?

 

[jmcdtucson]

Wait, FC = 1/2?
That's way too low, could have an algae problem.
Other numbers look good unless it's a saltwater pool.

 

[griz07]

replaced unit with a new cartridge filter pump system-----all good now....tweeked FC