Multiport Valve & EC Filters
Proper filter care is crucial for maintaining a clean and healthy pool. Here’s a step-by-step guide for maintaining your filter system, whether you have a Multiport Valve filter or an EC-65/EC-40 (fingers) filter.
Multiport Valve Filters
Filter Pressure
Backwashing:
- Shut the power off.
- Turn the multi-port valve to “backwash.”
- Turn the power on and run the pump for 1 minute.
- Shut the power off.
- Return valve to “filter” position.
- Turn the power on.
- Add 5 one-pound coffee cans of DE into the skimmer.
Daily Operation
Run the pump 10-12 hours (e.g., 8am-8pm). Keep 2-3 chlorine sticks or pucks in skimmer baskets at all times.
Regular Shocking
Shock pool every other Sunday night with 3 one-pound bags; run filter overnight.
Maintenance
Vacuuming
- Turn the valve as needed.
- Fill the vacuum hose with water in the pool.
- Vacuum. If very dirty, shut off the pump, empty the pump basket, replace the lid, tighten handles, and restart the pump.
Testing
EC-65 & EC-40 (Fingers) Filters
Filter Pressure
Should be around 10 psi.
Backwashing
- Shut the power off.
- Open the valve in the back, bump the handle up & down.
- Turn the power on and run the pump for 1 minute.
- Shut the power off.
- Close the valve, turn the power back on.
- Add 5 one-pound coffee cans of DE into the skimmer.
Daily Operation
Run the pump 10-12 hours (e.g., 8am-8pm). Keep 2-3 chlorine sticks or pucks in skimmer baskets at all times.
Regular Shocking
Shock pool every other Sunday night with 3 one-pound bags; run filter overnight.
Maintenance
Vacuuming
- Turn valve as needed; close main drain if present.
- Fill the vacuum hose with water in the pool.
- Vacuum; if the pool is very dirty, follow the same pump-off, basket-cleaning routine as above.
Testing
Test chlorine and pH twice a week. Chlorine: 1.0–3.0 ppm; pH: 7.4–7.6. If off, bring a quart of pool water to your pool store for expert advice.
Regular filter maintenance and chemical checks keep your pool water sparkling and safe throughout the entire season.
Following these maintenance steps offers several important benefits. Consistent backwashing and cleaning enable your filtration system to operate at peak efficiency, ensuring that dirt and debris are removed efficiently. This results in clearer, more inviting water while minimizing the risk of algae blooms or cloudy conditions.
In addition, maintaining balanced chemical levels and a clean filter helps extend the lifespan of your pool equipment. When pumps and filters are free from blockages and strain, they are less likely to experience breakdowns or require costly repairs. Investing a small amount of time in regular upkeep means a safer swimming environment and long-term protection for your pool investment.