yes we cleaned out the filter when we added the new sand. At that time the laterals seemed ok.
No we haven't inspected the spider thingy, don't know exactly what that is.
The multiport valve turns easily.
When I tried using the DE it immediately shot right back into the pool, never could get it to "clog" my sand so that it would increase filtration. ( If Im understanding the concept properly of why DE is used...?) It took forever to get the DE cleaned out of the pool.
The reason we replaced the sand was because we realized it wasn't filtering properly so that was something we tried. After reading about pumps and filtering, I realized that my pump was too large and possibly forcing water thru the filter so hard and fast it wasn't filtering.
We installed a valve that I can almost completely close to reduce the water flow but it doesn't help the filtering problem. It does however slow down the strong suction at the skimmer enough to where the "socks" can be used. That's the only thing keeping the pool useable is the "socks" are catching just enough to get us by. When it gets really bad I use floc to settle all the debris then gently vacuum the bottom of the pool using the bucket method. Using the pump to vacuum doesn't work bc it pulls the water hard enough to stir up the debris on bottom, making it harder to vacuum.
For a while when I would backwash it was dirty so I felt like it was catching something. Eventually there was nothing when I would backwash, just clear water so I don't feel like the filter is working at all. I read about channeling? .........
I just feel like my filter isn't working properly but I don't know if the too big pump is(was) part of the problem or not. The lid on the pump is now cracked so I cant use it at all. So I for sure have to order a new pump . Its too cold here at night to use the pool anytime soon, so Im not rushing, trying to do my research properly before I order. I def want a pump that is atleast 2 speed so that I have the option of a gentler circulation but also to save electricity.
Im thinking 3/4 HP?
I had intended on getting a variable speed but now that Im looking, Im a little put off at the price.