How to Clean a DE Pool Filter

Regular cleaning of a Demetrius Earth, or DE, pool filter will ensure that pool water is optimally filtered. This helps to maintain a sparkling clean pool and reduces vacuuming and sweeping of the pool sides and bottom. When the pressure of the pool filter reaches 20 PSI higher than after the last cleaning, clean the filter to reduce strain on the pool pump.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Screwdriver
• Demetrius Earth (DE)
• Garden hose
• Attachment for garden hose with a jet spray option

Maintenance During Season

1. Turn the filtration option to "Bbackwash" and start the pump.

2. Operate the pump until water being expelled is clear. Turn off the pump.

3. If your pool filter has a bump handle, pump this up and down to dislodge DE in filtration unit.

4. Turn the filtration option to "Rinse" and start the pump.

5. Operate the pump until water being expelled is clear. Turn off the pump.

6. Repeat the first three steps to be sure that all loose DE is removed from the unit.

7. Return the filtration option to "Filter" and start the pump.

8. Pour the recommended amount of DE in the skimmer basket. If you do not have an owner's manual for your DE pool filter, contact a local pool supply store for the correct amount of DE for the make and model of your filter. Use a permanent marker to write this on your unit.

9. Note the pressure of the tank after cleaning. When the pressure of the tank is 20 PSI higher than after cleaning, it is time to clean the unit.

Clean at Least Once During Season

10. Follow the first six steps above.

11. Turn off the pump.

12. Release pressure in the filter. The pressure release valve is usually located on the top of the unit under the pressure gauge.

13. Unscrew the drain plug in the bottom of the unit and allow all water to drain.

14. Slowly unscrew the screws that secure the lid.

15. Remove the lid. You may need to pry with a screwdriver, but be careful not to damage the gasket.

16. Unscrew the nut holding the filter. Lift the filter out and wash the filter and reservoir with a garden hose attachment with a jet spray option.

17. Replace the filter and re-attach the nut.

18. Screw in the drain plug securely.

19. Replace the gasket and lid and re-attach lid. Be sure to tighten securely. The filtration unit operates under pressure that can cause the lid to blow off violently if it is not secured properly.

20. Repeat Steps 7 to 9 in the Maintenance section.