Jordan Hidalgo - How to Properly Backwash Your Pool Filter and Why It Matters for Clean Water

Backwashing is the process of reversing the flow of water through your pool filter to flush out dirt, debris, and other contaminants that the filter has trapped. Over time, filters become clogged with fine particles like dust, pollen, algae, and oils from swimmers. A clogged filter reduces water circulation and makes it harder for chemicals to sanitize effectively, leading to cloudy or unsafe water. By backwashing regularly, you remove these accumulated impurities and restore the filter’s efficiency.

1. Jordan Hidalgo - How to Properly Backwash
Your Pool Filter and Why It Matters for Clean
Water Backwashing is the process of reversing the flow of water
through your pool filter to flush out dirt, debris, and other
contaminants that the filter has trapped. Over time, filters
become clogged with fine particles like dust, pollen, algae,
and oils from swimmers. A clogged filter reduces water
circulation and makes it harder for chemicals to sanitize
effectively, leading to cloudy or unsafe water. By
backwashing regularly, you remove these accumulated
impurities and restore the filter’s efficiency.
Why Backwashing Your Pool Filter Is
Essential for Maintaining a Healthy
Swimming Environment

2. Backwashing is a straightforward process, but following the
correct steps ensures you get the best results without
damaging your equipment. First, turn off the pump to
prevent water damage to the system. Next, set the multiport
valve to the “Backwash” position. Turn the pump back on
and allow it to run for two to three minutes, or until the
water in the sight glass runs clear. After backwashing, turn
the pump off again and set the valve to “Rinse.” Run the
pump for about a minute to resettle the filter media before
returning it to the “Filter” setting. Finally, restart the pump
and check pressure levels.
Step-by-Step Guide on How to
Backwash Your Pool Filter the Right
Way
Knowing when to backwash is just as important as knowing
how. One of the most common indicators is a rise in filter
pressure. Every pool filter comes with a pressure gauge that
helps monitor performance. When the reading is 8‒10
pounds per square inch (psi) higher than the clean starting
pressure, it’s time to backwash. Other signs include cloudy
water, sluggish water flow, or weak return jets. If you notice
debris circulating back into the pool, it may also be a clue
that the filter needs cleaning.
Recognizing the Signs That Indicate It’s
Time to Backwash the Pool Filterr Pool
Filter the Right Way

3. When done consistently, backwashing prevents
contaminants from building up inside your filter and
circulating back into the pool. This directly improves water
clarity by keeping fine particles and organic matter out of
the water. More importantly, it allows chlorine and other
sanitizers to work more effectively, reducing the risk of
bacteria or algae growth. Swimmers benefit from cleaner,
safer water that is free from cloudy appearances and
irritants. Regular backwashing also reduces the strain on
your pool pump and extends the lifespan of your filtration
system.
Not all pool filters are the same, and the backwashing
process depends on the type you own. Sand filters and
diatomaceous earth (D.E.) filters are designed for
backwashing, making them relatively easy to clean without
removing the filter media. Sand filters typically require
backwashing every few weeks, while D.E. filters also need a
recharge of D.E. powder after the process. Cartridge filters,
however, cannot be backwashed. Instead, they must be
removed and hosed down manually, which can take more
time and effort.
Differences Between Sand, Cartridge, and
D.E. Filters When It Comes to Backwashing
The Impact of Regular Backwashing on Pool
Water Clarity and Safety

4. Because backwashing discharges water from your pool, it’s
important to consider water conservation and proper
disposal. On average, each backwash can waste between
200 and 300 gallons of water. To minimize this, only
backwash when necessary, based on pressure readings
rather than a fixed schedule. If local regulations permit,
consider reusing backwash water for irrigation, provided it
does not contain high levels of chemicals harmful to plants.
Being mindful of environmental impacts allows you to
maintain a clean pool while reducing waste.
While backwashing is simple, mistakes can lead to wasted
water or damage to equipment. One common error is
over-backwashing. Running the pump too long wastes
water and may disturb the filter media, reducing
efficiency. Another mistake is backwashing too frequently,
which can shorten filter life and remove valuable filter
sand or D.E. powder unnecessarily. Forgetting to switch
the valve back to “Filter” mode after backwashing is
another common oversight, which leaves your pool in
bypass mode and allows unfiltered water to circulate.
Common Mistakes Pool Owners Make When
Backwashing and How to Avoid Them
Water Conservation and Environmental
Considerations When Backwashing Your Filter

5. Your pool is more than just a place to swim̶it’s an
investment in your property and lifestyle. Neglecting tasks
like backwashing not only compromises water quality but
can also lead to costly repairs, from damaged filters to
failing pumps. More importantly, cloudy or contaminated
water makes swimming less enjoyable and potentially
unsafe. By learning how to backwash properly and staying
on top of this maintenance step, you ensure that your pool
remains a clear, refreshing, and healthy retreat for years to
come.
Consistency is the key to successful pool care. While
backwashing should be done as needed based on filter
pressure, it should also be integrated into your overall
maintenance plan. Regularly monitor filter pressure, check
water clarity, and schedule filter inspections to ensure
everything is working smoothly. Combine backwashing with
other essential tasks like testing water chemistry, brushing
pool walls, and skimming debris to keep your pool in peak
condition. Jordan Hidalgo recommends logging your
maintenance tasks so you can track performance and spot
recurring issues.
Why Proper Backwashing Protects Both
Your Investment and Your Enjoyment of
the Pool
Establishing a Routine Backwashing Schedule as
Part of Your Overall Pool Maintenance Plan