Troubleshooting Your Hayward D.E. Filter

Will backwashing or regenerating my D.E. filter thoroughly clean my filter?

No, you must thoroughly clean the elements at least once a year. You can clean your filter elements using automatic dishwasher detergent. Remove the elements from the filter, according to the instructions in your Owner’s Guide, and hose them off with a forceful stream of water from your garden hose. Fill a large plastic container with warm water and add about a 1/2 cup detergent. Soak the elements for approximately 3 – 4 hours. After soaking, rinse off the elements again. Re-assemble your filter according to the instructions in your Owner’s Guide. Note: do not soak elements in muriatic acid if the pool uses Biguanide products. This will damage the filter.

You may choose to clean the elements with muriatic acid or other commercial filter element cleaners, mix according to the package instructions. Use extreme caution when handling any cleaning agents, as they can be harmful to the eyes, skin and clothing. After cleaning, thoroughly rinse all elements with cold water.

How often do I need to change the D.E.?

Whenever you backwash your D.E. filter allowing the dirt and D.E. out the waste line or when you regenerate and drain your Perflex or ReGenX filter.

The pool won’t stay clear

Your pool chemistry may be out of balance, allowing algae to multiply.

The flow rate through the filter may be low due to clogged or undersized piping. Cleaning the lines or changing to larger pipes will correct this problem.

Your filter operation time may not be long enough to compensate for heavy use or hot weather. Try running your filter for 24 hours to clear the water, then adjust to less running time.

Your pump may be hooked up to the wrong port on the multiport valve. If incorrectly installed, the filter will be flowing in reverse. Be sure the pump is connected to the port marked “pump” on the valve.

You could be backwashing too often. Backwash only when the pressure rises 7 – 10 psi over the starting pressure, or when the return flow back into the pool becomes low.

To read the full article, please visit the Hayward Pool Products Information Center at Blue Haven Pools and Spas Supplies Direct.