There’s some bad information going around right now about how much water is wasted with diatomaceous earth (DE) filter systems through backwashing. And it’s simply not true. All you need to do is stop backwashing and manually clean your filter instead, according to your filter manufacturer's instructions. It’s easy to do and you can still continue to use the best filter aid for swim pools – DE.
Backwashing is a convenience, not a necessity. And while every filter has a multivalve backflush option, it doesn't replace regular manual cleaning, just like you do pre and post swim season. It's the water saving right thing to do to take your filter apart, wash everything out and reassemble it with a new charge of DE. By doing this, you’ll save an average of 10,000 gallons of water every year!
Think about it. You get all the benefits of DE filter aid. The ultimate in water clarification for a pool or spa that truly sparkles. The most efficient dirt-removing filter media available, removing particles down to two microns. A properly balanced pool gives you the clarity and quality you want, reducing the use of chemicals and disinfectants. And you save a lot of water!
For my pool at home, I have a Sta-Rite System 3 DE filter system and it's easy to clean. Here's an overview and instructions:
- Disassemble the filter
- Unscrew union collar holding element assembly in position.
- Grasp element assembly at manifold and remove it.
- Hose down element assembly and clean with bottle brush.
- Use detergent solution or filter cleanser available from a pool service store.
Niels Mastrup has been EP Minerals' Director of Filtration Technology but is now moving to a new role - Western Region Sales Director. You can reach him at niels.mastrup@epminerals.com
