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FILTRATION TROUBLE-SHOOTING GUIDE
Diatomaceous Earth (D.E.) Filters
Caution: Due to the possibility of pressure build up in the filter system, it is important to take steps to alleviate this pressure before attempting to service the filter. Always shut off the pump, and open the air-relief valve or pump lid before removing the filter clamp and opening the filter.
Short filter cycles
between cleanings Insufficient
backwash time When cleaning with
a manual backwash valve, the pump should run until
the water runs clear through the sight glass or
discharge hose. Cycling the pump on and off a few
times during this process will usually force more
contaminated earth to waste. The filter may have to
be disassembled for cleaning. Incorrect amounts
of D.E. being used to recharge the
filter Excessive D.E. will
bridge across the filter grids, and reduce the
effective filtering area. Too little causes the
pores of the material to become clogged. Most
filter manufacturers recommend approximately 2 oz.
of D.E. per square foot of filter area, or the
equivalent of a 1 lb.coffee can per 5 sq. ft. of
filter area. Clogged
grids D.E. grids need to
be cleaned with a D.E filter cleanser at least
twice a year, and soaked in a muriatic acid
solution at least once a year Accumulated
oils,calcium and other alkaline deposits are
removed during these processes. This will increase
the grids' filtering capacity. Obstructions on the
pressure side of the filter will also cause high
pressure. Be certain that all appropriate pressure
side valves are open and the lines are free of
blockage. Water not in
balance High pH, total
alkalinity and calcium hardness levels will cause
calcification of the filter elements. Too low of a
chlorine level will allow algae growth, which will
clog the grid pores and reduce filter efficiency.
Correct the chemical balance of the pool water.
Check the total alkalinity and calcium hardness
levels. Clean the grids with a specialized cleaner.
If the grids remain clogged, they should be soaked
in a muriatic acid solution. Improperly sized
filtration system The pump should
cycle the pool volume in approximately 6 to 8
hours. A longer turnover rate means a shorter
filter cycle. Use the manufacturer's sizing chart
to determine the correct size of the filter and
pump. Increase the filter and/or pump size,
if necessary. Over-sized
pump An over-sized pump
can overwhelm D.E. filter capacity and shorten
filter cycles. Flow rates for D.E. filters should
not exceed 2.5 gpm per sq. ft., and 2 gpm or less
per sq. ft. gives longer cycles. Consult the
manufacturer's specs for the pump. If the pump is
too large, downsize the impeller. D.E. is returning
to the pool, and/or the water is cloudy. Damaged or worn
grids, manifold, and/or o-rings Worn or damaged
grids, manifolds or o- rings allows some water to
by-pass filtration and causes earth to enter into
the pool. Repair or replace defective parts. Check
the backwash valve gaskets and/or o-rings. Make
sure that the filter is properly reassembled. If
D.E enters the pool through the main drain when the
filter is not running, check for drips or leaks
around the system. Air in the system is causing the
D.E. to back up. Installing a check valve on the
suction side of the pump will prevent damage and
also makes priming the pump easier, but ultimately
the leaks need to be eliminated. Air in the filter
tank Air will prevent
water from passing through portions of the filter
elements. Bleed the air from the filter.
Check for leaks on the suction side of the system,
and/or check the water level in the
pool. The filter
leaks Water leaks from
the o-ring(s), filter tank, or backwash
valve Determine the
origin of the leak. Turn the pump on and bleed by
opening the air-relief valve. If the filter is
leaking at the clamp, remove the clamp and filter
top, and clean and inspect the entire area and
o-ring. The o- ring should be pliable and round, or
needs to be replaced. Also inspect the mating
surfaces of the top and bottom portions of the
filter assembly for cracks. If the tank
itself is leaking remove and repair or replace. To
reassemble, lubricate the o- ring with a
Teflon-based lubricant, and tighten the clamp or
locknut securely. If water is leaking from the
handle of a spin filter, examine the crank o-rings
and filter shaft for wear and/or damage. Spinning
can cause grooves to develop in the shaft, which
will then need replacement. If the tank itself is
leaking, remove and repair or replace.
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