Removing Metal stains

[waterbear]

Should I be backwashing my DE filter during this process?

Only if your filter pressure rises too high.

Is there a way to eliminate the metals other than a complete water change?

Basically, no, assuming there are no metals in the fill water. If you REALLY know what you are doing you can sometimes get them to 'stain out' on the filter media and then change out the media (DE in your case) but it's tricky at best for someone who really understands the chemistry involved and NOT something to try if you don't.

Thanks, Marty

Welcome!