How to backwash a sand filter system with automation

We get questions all the time about how to backwash a sand filter system. These instructions are good for a sand filter, with a multi-port valve, and an automation system (we most commonly use the Pentair automation set up with salt generating systems).  So if you need a quick reference guide, here you go. The most important thing to remember…never move the multi-port handle when the system is running.

• Unroll the backwash hose and point it into the yard where you want it to go.
• Turn the system off (by hitting the mode button to change the service mode to service from automatic) Hit the filter button to turn off the pump.
• Move the handle on the multiport valve to backwash Hit the filter button to turn the pump on.
• If you are backwashing to drain excess water from the pool: Let it run as long as you’d like to drain the pool When you are ready, hit the filter button to turn off the pump Turn the handle to rinse Hit the filter button to turn the pump on, it will still push water out the backwash hose, you need to do this to make sure that the water is clear going back into the pool
• Hit the filter button to turn the pump off.
• If you are backwashing to clean the filter system: Let it run as until you see the water in the little sight glass turn clear, or until the water out of the end of the backwash hose runs clear.
• When you are ready, hit the filter button to turn off the pump Turn the handle to rinse.
• Hit the filter button to turn the pump on, it will still push water out the backwash hose, watch the sight glass again until the water is clear, you need to do this to make sure that the water is clear going back into the pool
• Hit the filter button to turn the pump off.
• Turn the handle back to filter
• Hit the mode button to change back to the automated cycle.

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  Here’s a sand filter with a top mounted multi port valve