N
The Daily Insight

How do I backwash my Zodiac pool filter?

Author

Robert Guerrero

Updated on March 09, 2026

How to Backwash a Pool Sand Filter
  1. Turn off the pool pump.
  2. Set the filter valve handle to the 'Backwash' position and ensure the handle locks in place.
  3. Turn the pump on and backwash for 2 minutes or until the water in the sight glass (located on the filter) is running clear.
  4. Turn off the pump.

Also to know is, how do you backwash Jandy dev60?

This is a pretty straightforward process.

  1. Attach the backwash hose to the waste or backwash port.
  2. Turn the filter system off.
  3. Turn the multiport valve to Backwash.
  4. Turn the filter system back on.
  5. Let the water run out of the backwash port and through the backwash hose for about a minute, or until the water runs clear.

Additionally, what happens if you don't backwash your pool? Backwashing tips

Backwashing can result in a loss of water. While this is unavoidable, you can minimize the amount of water you lose by not overdoing the backwashing process. Keep a close eye on the color of the water through the view glass and stop the minute it becomes clear.

Herein, how often should I backwash my de pool filter?

every 4-6 weeks

Does backwashing remove water from pool?

However, the only way to clean a sand or DE filter is with the water-guzzling method known as backwashing. In this process, you reverse the flow of pool water through the filter. So, while your filter is losing unwanted dirt and debris—your pool is losing a ton of water.

Related Question Answers

Is it OK to run pool pump 24 hours a day?

To conclude, running your pool pump for 24 hours is not a bad thing. It is actually ideal to do so. But since it can significantly increase pool maintenance cost, we suggest only running your pump for 12 hours or less, depending on the size of your pool and the efficiency of your pump.

How long should you backwash pool?

Set the filter valve handle to the BACKWASH pool position and ensure the handle locks in place. Turn on the pump and backwash for 2 minutes or until the water in the sight glass (located on the filter) is running clear. Turn Off the Pump.

What's the difference between backwash and waste?

Drain/Waste: Opting the drain or waste setting will remove pool water without forcing it through the filter. Backwash: This clears out any debris, dirt and other contaminants that may have accumulated on the filter. Closed: if you choose this setting, then the flow of water to the pool and filter will be stopped.

How often should you rinse your pool filter?

A commonly asked question amongst our customers is, “when should we clean our pool's filter cartridge?” Typically, we recommend that your cartridges inside your filter be cleaned every 3 months for longevity of your cartridges, as well as for better pool filtration and water flow.

How long should I run my pool filter?

To keep your pool clean, all the water must run through your pump's filter system at least once a day. This is called turnover rate. It's simple: in order to run your pump effectively for eight hours, your pump should be able to process all of your pool water during that time.

How often should you change the sand in a pool filter?

every 3-5 years

How do I clean my pool pump basket?

Cleaning the Pump Basket
  1. Turn off pool cleaner pump and pool heater.
  2. Close skimmer and main drain valves.
  3. If the pool pump is located below the water level in the pool, then turn the filter valve to "closed".
  4. Remove pump lid.
  5. Use a garden hose to wash the basket.

Do you have to add De Every time you backwash?

If you are replacing DE Powder after a backwash, you will not need to add the full amount - generally around 80%. The grids will have retained some of the DE Power after the backwash, and if you add too much, it may end up in the pool.

Do you need to backwash a cartridge filter?

Cartridge pool filters cannot be backwashed and must be cleaned by hand. Because they were not built for reverse water flow, cartridge filters can't be "backwashed" simply by reversing the water flow in the pool's filter system. These filters must be cleaned by hand when they are dirty.

Should you backwash after vacuuming?

Once you have finished vacuuming, turn off your pump. If you vacuumed on waste, you will need to turn your filter to the “rinse” setting, turn on the pump and let it run for about 30 seconds, and then turn the pump back off. Make sure to set your filter back to “filter” after you do this.

Where does the water go when you backwash a pool?

Backwash pools directly into the private sewer cleanout on your property instead of into the storm gutter. If you are on septic and don't have sufficient area to discharge onto your property, try the following: Hire a contractor to pump the pool water into a truck to be hauled offsite.

What is the purpose of backwashing a pool filter?

Well, as the name suggests, backwashing involves reversing the flow of water through your filter media, be it Zeoplus, sand, glass pearls or diatomaceous earth (DE). This dislodges dirt and debris that may have become trapped, and flushes it out through your multiport valve waste line.

How much de do you add after backwashing?

The next time you backwash and recoat, decrease the amount by 1 pound. This will avoid DE going back into the pool.

Why is my de filter pressure high?

When the filter pressure is higher than normal, this also indicates a flow problem. High pressure usually indicates a dirty pool filter, time to backwash or pull out the filter cartridge for cleaning. Be careful with high filter pressure, as filter tanks can rupture with deadly force.

Why does my DE filter pressure keep rising?

If your filter pressure rises rapidly after backwashing (within hours or days), the filter media (sand, cartridge or grids) may be clogged with oils or minerals, requiring deep cleaning with a pool filter cleaner product made for your filter type, or replacement of the filter media.

Do you vacuum a pool on backwash or waste?

You can vacuum a pool on backwash, in theory at least, but it would have no benefit. The water would be pumped backwards through the filter, trapping much of the dirt, before passing out through the backwash hose. This dirt would then end up back in the pool once the pump was back on the filter setting.

Should I backwash before or after shocking?

Backwash only as needed. Brush the pool vigorously, several times after shocking the pool. Do not use a solar blanket until chlorine and pH level are normal. If chlorine level drops to zero within 24 hours, Repeat the shock treatment.

How long should I run my pool pump each day?

8 hours

How long do DE filter grids last?

7-10 years

How do I know if my pool filter is working?

Here are two ways to check if your filter is working:
  1. #1. Add dirt to your pool skimmer.
  2. #2. Use your pool vacuum to test for filter issues.
  3. True Grit. This is the most common issue associated with sand or debris floating back into the pool after it's been sucked up by the filter.
  4. Too High of Pressure.
  5. Too Low of Pressure.