filter question

[Themadczar]

I had a pretty serious water issue when I opened this spring (first season as a pool owner)... While cleaning up the pool my filter would gain pressure and I would backwash as is normal. Since I resolved the water issue, my pressure has not increased at all. My pool is clear and all is well. I have backwashed once or twice even though the pressure had not increased just to make sure it was clean. From what I understand there is no harm in backwashing "too much". In other words, you cannot backwash too much. Also I plan to add a small amount of de to my sand filter (search other threads on the forum if you are curious about it) in order to 1) make sure my sand isn't channeling, and 2) enhance the filtration. I have also read about washing the sand with a hose, but I am not planning to tackle that until the end of the season. None of this really answers your question, but it does give you some other areas to explore.

[PoolDoc]

I have backwashed once or twice even though the pressure had not increased just to make sure it was clean. From what I understand there is no harm in backwashing "too much".

Not actually correct.

With sand filters, the dirt tends to become part of the filter media. As a result, the filter removes finer and finer particles, as the cycle continues. This is particularly important during algae cleanup.

On the other hand, sand in filters that are rarely or never cleaned can become 'goo-ey'.

A better solution, rather than excessive backwashing, is adding your chlorine via the skimmer. This will break down the oils and goo, that may otherwise accumulate. Just be SURE that there is no MIXING of chemicals going on -- do NOT pour bleach into a skimmer that has a chlorine tab in it.

And particularly, do not dump cal hypo granules in, if you have added stabilizer to the skimmer in the last 3 - 4 days.

[Themadczar]

So are you saying that I should only backwash when the pressure guage is +5 psi even if it's been weeks (or it never happens)?
Thanks for the clarification though. I learn something every day here!

[PoolDoc]

Yep. That's what I'm saying.

If you want to add DE to polish your water, you can probably force a backwash, after the really fine stuff is removed.