Hi All,

I installed a new Hayward Pro-Grid Vertical DE4820 this year and after backwashing and adding DE filter media (6 lbs. each time) four times, it burned out my 3 year old Hayward 1 HP pump. I took the pump apart and the technician at Leslie's told me that the DE powder gummed up the motor and burned it. Leslie's technicians are convinced that I should pre-mix the DE in a bucket of water and then pour it into the skimmer. Anthony Sylvan and others tell me that DE does not require pre-mixing. The instructions clearly state to add DE slowly into the skimmer closest to the filter until it's absorbed by the plumbing.

I purchased a new pump and plan to pre-mix the DE in water before pouring the next time. I was also thinking of using Aqua Perl, the DE Alternative, and use 3 lbs. instead of 6. Any comments or suggestions will be greatly appreciated.

Thanks in advance. Johnny