SunTouch® - Pentair

How to BACKWASH Your Filter
When your filter pressure gauge is reads 8 - 10 lbs above the clean, starting pressure (after backwashing), it is time to
backwash your filter. This process involves turning a valve so that the water will flow through the filter backwards,
flushing out the dirt. Sand filters can have either a push-pull valve (also known as a slide valve) or a multiport valve.
The multiport valve has multi-ports on the valve, usually six positions:
Position 1: FILTER: This is the normal operating position, except when backwashing, rinsing or wasting.
Position 2: RINSE: Position the handle in this setting for 20 seconds after backwashing to rinse tank.
Position 2: RECIRCULATE: Use position if the filter's broken (to keep pool water circulating).
Position 2: BACKWASH: Use this setting to reverse the flow in the filter and send water out of the waste line. Make
sure valves are open or hoses rolled out
Position 2: CLOSED: Position the handle in this setting to close off flow from the pool, usually to work on the
equipment. Do not operate pump with valve in closed position
Position 2: WASTE/DRAIN: Another filter bypass setting, but this setting sends the water out of the waste pipe (hose),
instead of returning it to the pool. This setting is used to lower pool water level or to vacuum to waste.
To BACKWASH a sand filter with a multiport valve
Note: If you are using an IntelliFlo pump with SunTouch, first set SunTouch in “SERVICE” mode (see page 38)
Service Menu (14/14). Set the filter pump to OFF and set the valves as disired.
1. Shut off the power to the pump.
2. Press down on valve handle, rotate valve from FILTER to BACKWASH position.
3. Roll out any backwash hose or open any waste line valves.
4. Open air bleeder valve on filter.
5. Switch the pump ON.
6. Watch pressure gauge for backpressure and hose for kinks. Be prepared to shut off pump quickly.
7. After the hose fills up with water, run for two to three2 - 3 minutes or until the water runs clear.
8. Switch the pump OFF and reposition multiport valve handle to the RINSE position.
9. Switch the pump ON and run on rinse for 15 - 25 seconds.
10. Switch the pump OFF and move multiport valve handle to the FILTER position.
11. Switch the pump ON and note lower pressure. Roll up the backwash hose.
To BACKWASH a sand filter with a slide valve
Note: If you are using an IntelliFlo pump with SunTouch, first set SunTouch in “SERVICE” mode (see page 38).
Service Menu (14/14). Set the filter pump to OFF and set the valves as disired.
1. Switch the pump OFF, roll out backwash hose.
2. Twist to unlock plunger T-handle, pull / twist plunger upwards 2” to 3".
3. Open air bleeder assembly on filter, and switch the pump ON.
4. Watch pressure gauge for backpressure (+ 40 PSI) and hose for kinks. Be prepared to shut off pump quickly.
5. After the hose fills with water, run for 2 - 3 minutes or until water runs clear.
6. Switch the pump OFF and push T-handle back down into locked position.
7. Switch the pump ON and note lower pressure. Roll up the backwash hose.