Question about DE filter

[Jlwine]

I have a DE filter. Over all it seems to work great. However, my pool is in a fairly wooded area--I do have an automatic cover and I keep it covered at all times it is not in use. Occasionally, I get this very lightweight matter in the pool. It is about the size, weight, and density of oregano as a reference. When I vacuum it probably 80% of it winds back in the pool. Therefore, it can take several days to get rid of it, unless I give up and just vacuum to waste.

Should I be concerned that this is an indication of some type of filter malfuction, or does this seem normal? I have examined the element and there does not seem to be any tears or holes--and it was suitably covered with DE. This is just my second full year with the pool and the water is chemically great and is otherwise crystal clear.

[Jlwine]

Bump..

I can't be the only one here with a DE filter.

Please, any feedback would be helpful.

[Bleach=Chlorine?]

I have a DE filter and although I am no expert if visible material is returning to the pool it would seem there is an issue. I have lots of very fine particles that fell from some trees and when I vacuumed them up they don't return into the pool. It may be that there is not enough DE coating the fingers, the filter is broken somehow or something I didn't think of. Hopefully some experts weigh in.

[Poconos]

I would imaging something the size of oregano would be caught with or without the DE in the system. Don't know what kind of valve you have on the filter but if you inspected the grid, fingers, or whatever they're called in the filter, then I would suspect water is bypassing the filter at the valve. Maybe a multi-port? If it is one of these then there is an internal gasket that could be messed up. Any more info on the valve? Model etc?
Al

[Jlwine]

I hadn't thought of that. That is an interesting idea. It is a mulitiport: Filter-Rinse-Backwash-Recirculate-Waste-Closed I don't know the brand off hand--I'll check tonight.

The part that confuses me is that the water is other wise crystal clear--all other signs would appears that the filter works just fine. I took it apart last night and examined the grids--no problems at all. However, only the top two third of the filter were covered with DE. I cleaned everything and added more DE this time. Nevertheless I am with you that even without DE at all you would think particles that big would be filtered. That is why your multiport suggestion is interesting.

[mshumack]

You didn't say have size or brand DE filter you have but usually you put in 1 lb of DE powder for every 10sq-ft of filter area. For example a 60 sq-ft filter takes 6 lbs of DE. It sounds like your not adding enough to cover the grids.
Good Luck

[Jlwine]

It is 24sq feet Pentair FNS plus. I have one of those 44 fluid once cups you get from a fast food joint. I had been using three cups, last night I put in five.