How do I backwash my filter?
- When the filter pressure rise 8-10 PSI over the clean starting pressure it is time to backwash. Turn the pump off and rotate the multiport valve to backwash. Turn on the pump and the dirty water will flow out the waste line. Once the water runs clear in the valve’s sight glass, turn off the pump. Rotate the valve to rinse. Turn on the pump for 20-30 seconds. This will clean out the plumbing lines and reset the sand bed. Turn off the pump, rotate the valve to filter position and begin to filter. Take a reading of this new clean starting pressure, so you have a reference point for the next backwash cycle. Water may need to be added to the pool to replace the backwashed water.
Cartridge Filters
- In a cartridge filter, the water flows into the filter that contains one or more filter elements. These elements have a fine mesh material. The tight mesh fabric is able to strain out the impurities. Cleaning the cartridge is simple because all you need to do is remove the cartridge, wash it and put it back in the filter.
Why will my cartridge filter not clear algae from my pool?
- When a cartridge filter is clean it is possible for algae to pass through the filter element. Cartridge filters filter smaller particles as the filter becomes dirty. The dirt or debris on the element’s surface helps to catch smaller particles. It may be necessary to add certain chemicals to the pool so smaller particles can be picked up by the filter element. Consult your Hayward dealer for the proper chemicals to accomplish this task.
How do I clean my cartridges?
- The cartridges should be cleaned once a season with a degreaser or acid bath.
- Body oils are the first thing to clog a cartridge element. A degreasing solution should be used to remove oils. If an acid bath is used to remove oils, it will embed these oils into the fabric and make the element less effective. You local Hayward dealer should have a cartridge cleaner or you can use a mixture of laundry detergent and water.
1-cup detergent to 5 gallons of water. Dissolve the detergent in a bucket of water and soak the element(s) for 24 hours. YOU MUST THOROUGHLY RINSE THE ELEMENTS PRIOR TO REINSTALLING THEM INTO THE FILTER. IF YOU DON’T THE POOL WILL FILL WITH SOAP BUBBLES.
- An acid bath is for mineral deposits on the elements. If an acid bath is needed, do a degreasing wash first, then the acid treatment. Start off with a mixture of 1 part acid to 5 parts water in a bucket. ALWAYS add acid to water, never water to acid. If the mixture does not clean the elements effectively, increase the mixture to 2 parts acid to 5 parts water. Follow the proper disposal of the acid mixture, as per the acid manufacturer’s instructions.
Most Hayward dealers offer a filter cleaning service.
Why is my pump running hot and powering off?
- This maybe caused by insufficient power due to an undersized wire or a poor connection. Check your owner’s manual for proper wiring.
- Your local power company might be experiencing a power drop especially during a heat wave. Restart your pump when the weather cools to confirm that the problem is really in the motor.
- Your pump has a thermal overload, which will shut the motor off when it gets too hot—it will restart once it has cooled down. Check the air intake vents of your motor to ensure they are free of debris. If debris is blocking these vents, it will cause the motor to run hot and possibly shut down.
- Make sure your pump is located in an area with adequate drainage. Flooding from rain and other sources could cause a pump to run hot and cut off.
Why is my pump noisy?
- The motor has an internal cooling fan that can be heard. When installing your pump, it is advised to carefully consider the location; under a bedroom window may not be an ideal location.
- Vibration from the pump’s feet and the base (where the pump rests) can cause the pump to be noisy. A piece of old carpet or rubber between the pump’s base and equipment pad might reduce the noise.
- Ensure the pump is level and the suction lines are not higher then the pump.
- The bearing(s) might be noisy due to age or high concentrations of chemicals and heat. A leaky pump seal could damage the front motor bearing. It is very important to quickly repair any leaks around the pump to prevent extensive damage. It is recommended that you replace the bearings or the entire motor. Contact an Authorized Hayward Dealer for repair.
- Many times a noisy pump can come from cavitation. Cavitation has two possible causes, which are both hydraulically (water flow) related. The first is that the suction piping is undersized. If this pipe is undersized, the amount of water the pump requires to operate properly is reduced. Increasing the pipe size (increase water flow) or dropping the size of the impeller (decrease water flow) can quiet the pump. The second is that there is little or no backpressure on the pressure side of system (water feature pumps are a good example). Adding a valve or something to increase backpressure is advised.
- For all of the above, it may be necessary to contact an authorized Hayward dealer for assistance.
Why is my pump cutting off and on every 5-10 seconds?
- Hayward motors are factory wired for 240 volts unless the motor is 120 volts ONLY. Check the voltage of the incoming supply power and ensure the motor is wired or can be wired for this voltage (data plate on motor will help provide voltage and wiring information). Also check for loose or badly connected wires. Contact a certified electrician for repair.
Why are there air bubbles flowing into the pool from the return fitting(s)?
- If air is returning into the pool there might be a leak on the suction side of the pump. Check the following items that maybe causing air to enter the system: It may be necessary to contact an authorized Hayward dealer for repair.
- The strainer cover and O-ring. Tighten if loose or replace gasket if damaged.
- Level of water in the pool is low causing water and air to mix into the skimmer..
- The skimmer weir may be stuck in the up position causing water and air to mix in the skimmer.
- Check the drain plugs on the pump strainer housing.
- Check all of the threaded fittings for leaks from improper sealants or sealing procedures.
- Check glued fittings for bad glue joints.
- Check all valves for possible leaks. Valve stem O-rings are a common suction leak point.
- Check and ensure the pump is not cavitating.
- Check pump housing for cracks.
Why won’t my pump fill with water (prime)?
- An air leak on the suction side of the pump.
- Check to make sure the suction line is free of obstructions.
- Check to make sure the impeller is still attached to the shaft of the motor. If the impeller has broken off, it will need to be replaced.
- If the pump is installed a distance from the pool or is elevated above the normal deck level, the time needed to prime the pump could be longer. For elevated installations, a check valve may be needed on the suction line to allow for easier priming.
What should I use as a lubricant for my o-rings and gaskets?
- Hayward recommends a silicone or Teflon based lubricant for all o-rings and gaskets. Jack’s 327, by Hayward, is the best for the job. Other lubricants may cause premature failure and swelling of the o-rings and gaskets. NEVER USE PETROLEUM JELLY for a lubricant. Its’ oils will break down the rubber of the gasket or o-ring.