How to Connect a Pool Backwash Hose

If you have a swimming pool, you’ll need to connect a backwash hose at some point. Backwashing is an important part of pool care, as it helps to remove debris and dirt from the pool filter. While it may seem like a simple task, there are a few things you’ll need to keep in mind when connecting a backwash hose.

In this article, I’ll walk you through how to connect a pool backwash hose, so you can get back to enjoying your pool. But first, let’s look at what a backwashing hose is and why you need to know how to connect one.

Main Takeaways

• Backwashing is a necessary part of pool maintenance.
• Connecting a backwash hose to the filter is an easy way to remove debris and dirt from the pool.
• Dispose of dirty backwash water properly to keep your home and yard clean.
• You should backwash once a week or when the pressure gauge reads 8-10 psi higher than usual.

What is a Backwash Hose Used For?

A backwash hose is an important part of any pool owner’s maintenance arsenal. This hose removes debris and dirty water from the filter, which allows the filter to continue cleaning the water.

The backwash hose attaches to the back of the pool filter and flushes out all the dirt and grime that has accumulated in the filter. It is typically made of flexible PVC and is about 50 feet long. It’s important to backwash your pool regularly, as it will help extend your pool filter’s life.

This process is important because a dirty filter can lead to cloudy pool water and even algae growth. This process should be done every few weeks to ensure the filter works correctly and prevent it from becoming clogged.

Step-By-Step: How to Connect a Backwash Hose

Now that you know the importance of backwashing, let’s look at how to connect a backwash hose to a pool. By following these simple steps, you’ll be able to get your pool back in tip-top shape in no time.

Step One: Turn Off The Power To The Pool Pump

This is an important safety step, as you don’t want the pump to turn on while working on the backwash hose. Turn off the valve that controls water flow to the pump, and then unplug the pump from the power outlet.

Step Two: Remove the Cap from the Filter

Once the power is off, remove the cap from the filter. Locate the backwash valve on the filter and turn it to the “backwash” position. This will release any pressure that may be built up in the filter.

Step Three: Attach the Backwash Hose to the Filter

Once that’s done, attach the backwash hose to the filter. The backwash hose will have a coupling that must be attached to the outlet on the side of the filter.

Tighten the coupling until it is snug. You can also use Teflon tape to create a watertight seal around the threads.

However, you don’t want to overtighten it, as this could damage the backwash hose or the filter. And there it is! You’ve successfully connected the backwash hose to the filter.

Step Four: Turn on the Water Supply and Backwash the Pool

Now it’s time to turn on the water supply and backwash the pool. Open the valve that controls the flow of water to the pool pump.

Then, turn on the backwash valve on the filter. This will cause water to flow through the backwash hose and out of the pool. Let the water run for a few minutes until the water coming out of the backwash hose is clear. 

How Often Should You Backwash?

The general rule of thumb is to backwash once a week or when the pressure gauge reads 8-10 psi higher than average. However, this may vary depending on the pool filter type and the amount of debris in your pool. While keeping the pool clean is important, you don’t want to overdo it and waste water.

How often you should backwash your filter also depends on the type of filter you have. If you have a sand or DE filter, you should backwash it more often, as these filters clog more quickly. If you have a cartridge filter, you can usually get away with the backwashing every other week or when the pressure gauge reads 8-10 psi higher than average.

Where to Dispose of Dirty Backwash Water

The water that comes out when backwashing your filter contains a lot of dirt, leaves, and chemicals you don’t want in your pool. So, where can you dispose of this water? Although it won’t necessarily harm the environment, you still don’t want the water to drain into your yard or flowerbeds. And if you have an above ground pool, draining the dirty backwash water straight into your yard may cause your foundation to sink.

The best way to dispose of the dirty water is to hook up a hose and direct it to a low spot in your yard where it will drain away. You can also use a sump pump to get rid of the water if you don’t have a hose long enough to reach the desired location.

If you live in an area with many trees, you may want to consider running the hose into a storm drain instead. This will keep the dirty water away from your home and yard and help prevent flooding.

Please check with your local municipality to see if this is allowed in your area. You don’t want to inadvertently break any laws.

Most importantly, never drain your backwash water into a natural body of water. This can contaminate the water and harm the local ecosystem.

And that’s all there is to it! Following these tips, you can quickly and safely dispose of your pool’s backwash water. Doing so will help keep your pool clean and ready for swimming all season long.

Bottom Line

Pool backwashing is a necessary part of pool maintenance. Connecting a backwash hose to the filter can easily and quickly remove debris and dirt from the pool. Just be sure to dispose of the dirty water properly to keep your home and yard clean. Check out my recommendations for the best pool backwash hose if you need a new one.

If you need help or have further questions, please contact me. I’ll be more than happy to assist you.