Backwashing a Hayward Perflex Filter

Bump Handle Models: EC75, 65, 50, 40 & 30

1. Your filter pressure gauge should normally read between 10-15 psi if the pool water is clear.  If the pool water is not crystal clear expect the filter pressure to rise, even in a matter of hours.  The water is being cleaned by this style filter down to the micron of a particle; it will clean the pool in a matter of days if you clean it!
2. As the filter collects the particles in the water the pressure will start to build.  You will notice the water will move slower and slower going back into the pool.  Once the pressure gauge reads 8-10 above the normal psi (ex. If your regular pressure is 12 psi and you’ve reached 20 psi) it’s time to start the process.
3. You have an extended cycle filter (that’s what the “EC” means).  Shut the power to the system off and “bump” the handle on top of the filter up and down 5-7 times.  Turn the power back on and you may see a decrease in pressure.  If the pressure comes back down let the filter continue to take more particles out of the water and repeat this step once the pressure rises again.
4. If the pressure does not come down after you do this you must “bump & drain” the filter.
5. Repeat step #3:  shut power off, bump handle and with power still off open the valve on the back/bottom of the filter tank.  Let the tank drain and then close the valve.  You have drained all the dirty filter media (this media is a white powder called diatomaceous earth or “de” for short).  The filter cannot operate without de!  
6. Turn the power back on and open the air vent valve on top off the filter tank (do not remove it).  When the air vent valve squirts a stream of water-close it.  The tank is now full with water again and you can go over to the skimmer and add the appropriate amount of DE to replenish what the filter needs.  The amount of de is measured in pounds and is an exact amount for your filter model.