How to Troubleshoot a Jacuzzi Pool Filter

If your Jacuzzi diatomaceous earth (D.E.) filter is not filtering properly, there are several steps you can take to identify and correct the problem. The most common symptom of a filter problem is cloudy water or poor circulation. The problem could be a dirty filter or worn or broken internal parts.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Jacuzzi Diatomaceous earth Replacement filter grid

Finding and Fixing the Problem

1. Check the filter pressure gauge. A clean filter runs at about 15 pounds. When the pressure rises to 25 pounds, it's time to backwash. Turn the pump off and set the filter valve to backwash. Turn the pump on and backwash the filter. Turn the pump off again and reset the valve to filter. If the pressure returns to the normal range, you've probably solved your problem. Recharge the filter by adding one pound of D.E. by weight for every 10 square feet of filter area.

2. Watch the water flowing out of the return lines. After backwashing, a small amount of D.E. may flow back into the pool. If it clears up quickly, there is no problem. If the water continues to run cloudy, you probably have a broken or worn part in the filter that needs replacing.

3. Turn the pump off and disable the timeclock so the equipment does not come on while you are working. Turn the filter valve to backwash and backwash the filter to remove the D.E. coating from the filter grids. Turn the pump off and open the air release valve to drain the filter tank.

4. Loosen and remove the tank band holding the two halves of the filter tank together. Remove the top half of the tank. Pull out the filter grid assembly and remove the bolts holding the assembly together. Remove each filter grid and inspect them all for tears and holes. Examine the grid's nipples where they fit into the manifold for cracks or breaks. Replace any bad grid you find.

5. Inspect the top manifold for cracks or breaks. Check all the O-rings. Look into the bottom of the filter where the manifold pipe fits into the collection tube. Again, you are looking for cracks or breaks in the plastic parts.

6. Reassemble the filter parts after replacing any worn or broken parts. Apply silicone lubricant to all O-rings, including the tank ring. Install the grid assembly back into the filter. Be sure the manifold tube seats tightly into the collection tube and the O-ring seats properly. Put the lid back on and tighten the tank band.

7. Turn the filter valve back to filter. Start the pump and bleed the air out of the tank through the air release valve. Add the correct amount of D.E. through the skimmer. Reset the timeclock. Your filter should be working properly and the pool water will soon return to the crystal clear condition of a properly filtered pool.

References

• Jacuzzi filter diagram