These instructions are provided for your convenience. They are not meant to supersede any instructions provided by the equipment manufacturer or your pool builder. Pool Emporium, Inc. assumes no liabilities.

Backwashing A Filter With A Bump Handle

If it is not time to backwash the filter (every two months), try "bumping" it to relieve pressure (3-5 pounds above normal) by moving the bump handle down slowly and then up quickly. Repeat 3-4 times. PLEASE NOTE: Biguanide users (such as SoftSwim®) will have to backwash twice as often.

1. Shut the pump off.
2. Unroll the blue backwash hose, and turn the valve at the backwash hose to open it.
3. Bump the filter 3-4 times.
4. Turn the pump on until the water runs clear coming out of the backwash hose.
5. Shut the pump off.
6. Repeat steps 4 to 6 two more times.
7. Close the valve at the backwash hose.
8. Roll up the backwash hose.
9. Get the D.E. ready to recharge the filter. Scoop pool water into a bucket, add the proper amount of D.E., and mix to get a slurry mixture.
   1. In the absence of manufacturer's recommendations, the general rule of thumb is that you add one pound of D.E. for every 10 square feet of filter area. For example, a 36 square foot filter would need 3.5 pounds of D.E. A 48 square foot filter would need 5 pounds of D.E.
   2. A D.E. scoop is a minimal investment, yet the easiest way to ensure you are adding the proper amount of D.E. Overcharging or undercharging could damage your filter.
10. Remove the white skimmer lid from the pool deck.
    1. If there is an automatic cleaner plugged into your skimmer, or if there are any other obstacles present, remove them.
11. Turn the pump on and SLOWLY pour the slurry D.E. mixture into the skimmer basket. When you're finished, wait 2 to 3 minutes before replacing any items you've removed from the skimmer.

PLEASE NOTE: IF THERE IS ANYTHING INSTALLED BETWEEN YOUR PUMP AND FILTER (I.E.: SOLAR), YOU SHOULD HAVE A BY-PASS VALVE INSTALLED IN THE PLUMBING. MAKE SURE TO OPEN THIS BY-PASS BEFORE RECHARGING THE D.E.!