Backwashing your swimming pool filter continues to be the most important part of maintaining your pool and the filtering system can but can also save you money in operating costs with chemicals and energy savings and taking the mystery out of how it works with newer-type valves like a push-pull backwash valve can make filters more efficient. How do Push-Pull type Backwash Valves operate?
- Turn pump off
- Twist valve handle
- Pull up on the valve & move into backwash position
- Turn the pump back on & H2O will start to come out backwash line.
- Backwash for 3 min.
- When H2O runs clear from backwash line, turn pump off
- Push valve handle to filter position & twist it to lock
- Turn pump on & bleed air from filter
If you are not as familiar with Push-Pull Valves or Slide Valves and have been living around Multi-port selector handle valves like myself then read this article and familiarize yourself with how they operate.
How Do Push-Pull Type Backwash Valves Operate
The Push-Pull valve also called a Slide valve, mounts to bulkhead fittings on the side of a Sand or D.E. filter. The advantages of a Push-Pull valve are that they are simple to operate along simple to understand, have very few parts, and are less restrictive to water flow than the multi-port valve selector type valve found on sand filters. 
It is how you can start your backwashing using a push-pull valve.
- Turn the pump off, twist the valve handle, and PULL UP on the valve to move it into the backwash position.
- Turn the pump back on and the water will start to come out of the backwash line.
- Backwash for at least 3 minutes.
- When the water runs clear out of the backwash line, turn the pump off.
- PUSH the valve handle to the filter position and twist it to lock it.
- Turn the pump back on and bleed any remaining air from the filter tank.
- Once the water begins circulation through the system, slowly add a full charge of DE to the skimmer to recoat the filter grids.
The Push-Pull valve also called a Slide valve, mounts to bulkhead fittings on the side of a Sand or D.E. filter. The advantages of a Push-Pull valve are that they are simple to use, simple to understand, have very few parts, and are less restrictive to water flow than the multi-port valve. Because of this high flow, low-pressure advantage, Slide valves have gained a new popularity among variable speed pump owners, looking to gain more energy savings from their investment.
Push-pull valves use a plunger with two disks attached and a handle at the top of the piston. The only action is to either pull the handle up, or push the handle down. Sand filters usually operate in filter mode with the plunger in the up position, and backwash by pushing the handle down (always shut off the pump before changing a backwash valve). D.E. filters are usually in filter mode when the plunger is down, and backwash by pulling up on the handle. Keep that in mind, if converting from a Multiport to a Slide valve.
When you pull up or push down on the plunger (aka piston) of a push-pull valve, you are reversing the direction of water into and out of the filter. This is where we get the word “back-wash”, because we are sending the water through the filter backward, to flush out trapped dirt.
How to Backwash a Pool with a Multiport Valve?
- Shut pump off
- Roll out the backwash hose
- Turn the multiport valve handle to backwash
- Turn pump on
- Backwash until H2O from the hose or sight glass runs clear, about 2-3 minutes.
- Shut pump off
- Turn the valve to rinse-Turn the pump on for 30 sec.
How to Backwash a Sand Filter?
- Turn the filter system’s power off
- Attach backwash hose
- Set to Backwash position on the multiport valve
- Turn the filter on & backwash for 2-3 min or until the sight glass clears.
- Turn the filter off again
- Set it to the Rinse
- Turn the pool filter on & rinse for..……………………………………. Read more
How to Use a Push-Pull Valve for Backwashing
Steps for Using a Push-Pull Valve for Backwashing
- Turn Off the Pump:
- Before you start, make sure the pool pump is turned off to avoid any pressure-related issues.
- Open Air Relief Valve:
- If your system has an air relief valve, open it to release any built-up air pressure in the system.
- Position the Valve:
- The push-pull valve typically has two positions: “Filter” and “Backwash”.
- Pull the handle up to move the valve to the “Backwash” position. This redirects the water flow to clean the filter media.
- Turn On the Pump:
- Turn the pump back on. Water will start flowing in reverse through the filter, carrying debris out of the filter and into the waste line or designated disposal area.
- Observe the Water:
- Let the water run through the system for about 2-3 minutes or until the water in the sight glass (if present) or waste line is clear.
- Turn Off the Pump:
- Once the backwash process is complete, turn off the pump again.
- Reset the Valve:
- Push the handle down to move the valve back to the “Filter” position.
- Turn On the Pump:
- Turn the pump back on to resume normal filtration.
- Close Air Relief Valve:
- If you open an air relief valve, close it after the system is back to normal operation.
Additional Tips
- Regular Maintenance: Regularly backwash your filter to maintain its efficiency. The frequency depends on pool usage and debris load.
- Water Level: Keep an eye on the pool’s water level, as backwashing can lower it. Refill if necessary.
- Check the Pressure: Monitor the filter’s pressure gauge. High pressure indicates that it’s time to backwash.
Safety Precautions
- Avoid Turning the Valve with Pump On: Always turn off the pump before moving the valve to prevent damage.
- Wear Protective Gear: Use gloves and safety glasses if needed to protect yourself from debris and chemicals.
Using a push-pull valve for backwashing is a straightforward process, ensuring your pool’s filtration system remains efficient and effective.
Pentair Push Pull Backwash Valve
Because of this high flow, low-pressure advantage, Slide valves especially the Pentair Push Pull Valves on their filters have gained new popularity among variable speed pump owners, looking to gain more energy savings from their investment.
Push-pull valves use a plunger with two disks attached and a handle at the top of the piston. The only action is to either pull the handle up or push the handle down.
Sand filters usually operate in filter mode with the plunger in the up position, and backwash by pushing the handle down, and just as you would a multiport handle, always shut off the pump before changing a backwash valve.
D.E. filters are usually in filter mode when the plunger is down, and backwash by pulling up on the handle. Keep that in mind, if converting from a Multiport to a Slide valve.
When you pull up or push down on the plunger of a push-pull valve, you are reversing the direction of water into and out of the filter.
This is where we get the word back-wash because we are sending the water through the filter backward, to flush out trapped dirt.
How to Backwash a Pool with a Multiport Valve?
- Shut pump off
- Roll out the backwash hose
- Turn the multiport valve handle to backwash
- Turn pump on
- Backwash until H2O from the hose or sight glass runs clear, about 2-3 minutes.
- Shut pump off
- Turn the valve to rinse-Turn the pump on for 30 sec. ……………………………………………….. Read more
References:
In-The-Swim-POOL FILTER BACKWASH VALVES
FAQ’s
1. What is a push-pull valve?
A push-pull valve, also known as a plunger valve, is a type of valve used in pool filtration systems to control the flow of water for backwashing the filter.
2. Why is backwashing necessary?
Backwashing is necessary to clean the filter media by reversing the flow of water, which removes trapped debris and contaminants, ensuring the filter operates efficiently.
3. How often should I backwash my pool filter?
The frequency of backwashing depends on pool usage and debris load. Generally, it should be done when the filter’s pressure gauge shows an increase of 8-10 psi over the normal operating pressure.
4. Can I backwash with the pump on?
No, always turn off the pump before moving the push-pull valve to avoid damage to the system.
5. What if the water level in my pool drops significantly after backwashing?
Backwashing can lower the pool’s water level. Refill the pool to the appropriate level after backwashing to maintain proper filtration and circulation.
6. How do I know when backwashing is complete?
Backwashing is complete when the water running through the sight glass (if present) or waste line is clear, which typically takes 2-3 minutes.
7. What should I do if the push-pull valve is hard to move?
If the push-pull valve is hard to move, check for any debris or obstructions around the valve. Ensure the pump is off before attempting to move the valve. If it remains difficult to move, consult a pool professional.
8. Can I use a push-pull valve on any type of pool filter?
Push-pull valves are commonly used with sand and DE (diatomaceous earth) filters. Check your filter manufacturer’s guidelines to ensure compatibility.
9. What are the main positions of a push-pull valve?
The main positions of a push-pull valve are “Filter” for normal operation and “Backwash” for cleaning the filter media.
10. Is it normal for the filter pressure to be high after backwashing?
After backwashing, the filter pressure should return to normal. If it remains high, check for clogs or other issues in the filtration system.
11. Do I need any special tools to operate a push-pull valve?
No special tools are required to operate a push-pull valve. It is designed to be moved by hand.
12. What should I do if there is no water flow during backwashing?
If there is no water flow during backwashing, ensure the pump is on and the valve is in the correct position. Check for any blockages in the system.