Small amounts of DE can be added to a sand filter after each backwash to improve the filtering. The first time you use DE, you need to figure out how much DE to add to your filter. After the first time, you can simply mix the full amount of DE with water in a bucket and pour that slowly into the skimmer.
Although DE powder is used for filter grids, it can be added to sand filters. When the powder is added to the sand, the sharp edges of the DE powder enhance the filtering process of the sand by capturing tiny dirt particles during the filtering process.
Diatomaceous Earth, used in D.E. pool filters, can also be used in sand filters and cartridge filters to trap particles down to 3 microns in size. Use 1-3 cups depending on your filter size, by pouring it into the skimmer after backwashing, and it forms a layer on top of and down into your sand bed.
Like a sand filter, DE filters require regular backwashing to keep the filter clean. Unlike sand filters, however, the DE is actually removed with the trapped contaminants. This means that you have to add more DE to the filter each time that you backwash.
Adding DE To Your Sand Filter
That is what makes DE filters top of the line when comparing the three different filter types. However, DE powder can also be used with sand filters to improve their filtering quality. You can add small amounts of DE powder to your filter after each backwash to improve your filterability.
After backwashing, new DE must be added to the filter. Add the entire amount of DE the filter recommends. If you see DE returning to the pool, vacuum it to waste, after it settles. The next time you backwash and recoat, decrease the amount by 1 pound.
DE Filter Grids Clogged with Oil
Much is brought in on the wind, or dragged in by swimmers. Pool lubricants and some gel type pool clarifiers can add oils to your pool, which eventually is trapped in the filter grids.
Sand filters are least effective but also the least expensive to buy and use. Cartridge filters are more effective but are more expensive to buy and use. DE filters are the most effective but are the most expensive to buy and use.
Overall a DE filter will result in a much cleaner pool when compared to a sand filter. Diatomaceous earth filters filter much small particles, approx. 1-6 microns, compared to a sand filter which filters particles that are 20-40 microns in size. A DE filter will however require a lot more maintenance and ongoing costs.
A DE filter will work better on smaller particles while a cartridge filter will work more efficiently with larger types of debris.
You can add DE powder to your sand filter to make it more effective. Just add 1-3 cups of DE powder when you backwash or replace your sand. Adding powder makes your sand filter 4x more effective, allowing it to filter contaminants down to 3 microns.
ADD DE POWDER - Remove the cover to the skimmer closest to the pump and filter. Slowly add the required amount of DE Powder into the skimmer. If you simply dump the DE Powder into the skimmer, you may clog the pipes. CAUTION: WEAR A MASK WHEN ADDING DE POWDER.
To improve the performance of sand filters and avoid some of the common problems associated with them, make sure to use sand filter cleaner before backwashing the sand bed. A great tool in the toolbox of anyone with a sand filter is alum, also known as aluminum sulfate. Alum can be added to the pool water.
Your filter may be clean and normal at 9-10 psi, but your neighbor's filter gauge could run higher, and be clean at 15-16 psi. Some systems with very low resistance can run very low pressures, barely registering, while other filter systems can run quite high, pushing 30 psi when the filter becomes dirty.
The 3 main types of filters that can be used with your salt system are sand, cartridge and diatomaceous earth or D.E. When considering each type of filter for your salt water pool they each have their distinct advantages, ideal application and disadvantages.
DE Filters remove the smallest particles of any filter, from 3-5 microns. Maintenance: Must be backwashed as with a sand filter when the pressure is 10 psi over the normal level. New DE powder must be added to the filter as well.
You should backwash your DE pool filter about once a month during pool season. In addition to the regular schedule, you'll want to perform additional backwashing if: You've been running your pool filter for 48 hours straight. This can cause a pressure build-up, even if the filter grids look clean.
Diatomaceous Earth Pool Filter Price
The average cost of a diatomaceous earth pool filter is between $520 and $2,000, depending on its size and complexity. This is one of the most efficient options.
Whenever the filter fills up with the dirt/debris it reduces the flow of water to your pool. Low flow = poor circulation which will lead to algae in the pool. Bottom line, the filter must be backwashed on a regular basis to ensure that your pool water is clear.
If you do not add enough DE to your filter, then the grids are not totally coated with DE and the dirt that goes into your filter will attach itself right to the fabric on the grids and will not backwash off. This will cause your filter to short cycle (go very short times between backwashing).
Using a garden hose flush out all of the DE from the filter grids. Then use the hose to rinse the rest of the tank. After cleaning the DE off the grids place them back in the manifold inside the filter. When you have cleaned and put back the grids you need to lubricate the ring on the inside of the tank.
A DE Scoop is specially designed to measure DE powder and 1 scoop is equal to 1/2 lb. of DE powder. To determine how many scoops or coffee cans of DE your filter requires take your filter square footage and divide by 5 (this would be after a full cleaning).
Answer: It is not recommended to swim in the pool when DE is present. It is more dangerous in dry form when it is in the air and breathed in. However, people do swallow water when swimming and swallowing DE is always the danger with it.