Views: 222 Author: Tina Publish Time: 2026-01-30 Origin: Site
Content Menu
● What Backwashing a Bestway Pool Filter Actually Does
● Understanding the Multiport Valve on a Bestway Pool Filter
● Safety Rules Before You Backwash
● Tools and Preparation for Backwashing
● Step‑By‑Step: How to Backwash Bestway Pool Filter
>> Step 1: Turn Off and Unplug the Pump
>> Step 2: Connect the Waste or Backwash Hose
>> Step 3: Set the Valve to Backwash
>> Step 4: Turn On the Pump and Perform the Backwash
>> Step 5: Turn Off the Pump and Switch to Rinse
>> Step 6: Turn On the Pump and Rinse the Filter
>> Step 7: Turn Off the Pump and Return to Filter Mode
>> Step 8: Re‑Cap Port D and Check Water Level
● How Often Should You Backwash a Bestway Pool Filter?
● Reading the Pressure Gauge and Valve Symbols
● Common Mistakes to Avoid When Backwashing
● Extra Maintenance Tips for Bestway Pool Filters
● OEM Insights: Designing User‑Friendly Sand Pool Filters
● Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
>> 1. How often should I backwash my Bestway pool filter?
>> 2. How long should I run the backwash cycle?
>> 3. Do I always need to use the Rinse setting after backwashing?
>> 4. Can I vacuum my pool while the valve is set to Backwash?
>> 5. What should I do if the pressure stays high after backwashing?
Backwashing your Bestway pool filter is one of the most important maintenance tasks you can perform to keep your pool water crystal clear, healthy, and easy to manage. When you understand how to backwash a Bestway pool filter correctly, you protect your pump, extend the life of your sand, and make your entire pool system more efficient.
As a professional OEM manufacturer of premium sand filter pool filter systems, pumps, and accessories, we design our pool filter solutions so that even first‑time users can perform a safe and effective backwash at home. This guide explains everything you need to know about how to backwash a Bestway pool filter, including step‑by‑step instructions, how the multiport valve works, common mistakes to avoid, and extra pro tips that will help you get the best performance from your pool filter all season long.
A Bestway sand filter pool filter uses a tank filled with specially graded filter sand to trap dirt, debris, and tiny particles as your pump circulates pool water through the system. During normal filtration, the pump pulls water from the pool, pushes it into the filter tank, and sends it through the sand bed before returning the clean water to your pool.
Over time, the sand in the pool filter collects:
- Dust, fine dirt, and pollen
- Body oils, sunscreen, and cosmetics
- Dead algae and organic contaminants
As this contamination builds up, the sand bed becomes clogged and the pressure inside the pool filter rises. Flow at the return jets weakens, the pump works harder, and water can turn cloudy even if your chemistry is balanced. Backwashing reverses the flow of water through the pool filter and flushes out the trapped debris through a waste outlet (in Bestway systems, this is typically Port D on the control valve assembly).
By backwashing regularly, you:
- Restore normal flow and reduce pump strain
- Improve filtration performance and water clarity
- Extend the life of the sand in your pool filter
- Reduce the risk of algae blooms due to poor circulation
Most Bestway sand filter pool filter systems use a multiport valve with several settings. This valve sits on top or on the side of the filter tank and allows you to direct water through different paths inside the pool filter.
Typical multiport valve positions include:
- Filter – Normal everyday setting. Water flows from the pool, down through the sand in the pool filter, and back to the pool.
- Backwash – Reverses the flow through the sand, sending dirty water out through the waste line.
- Rinse – Flushes and resettles the sand bed after backwashing, also sending water out to waste.
- Recirculate – Bypasses the pool filter tank; water circulates without being filtered.
- Waste/Drain – Sends water straight to waste without passing through the pool filter, often used to lower water level or vacuum to waste.
- Closed – Shuts off flow through the valve (pump must always be OFF if the valve is on Closed).
Bestway pool filter systems often use symbols instead of words. For example:
- Play arrow symbol – Filter
- Double backward arrows – Backwash
- Raindrop symbol – Rinse
- Circular arrows – Recirculate
No matter which Bestway model you use, the basic logic is the same. For backwashing, you will only use Filter, Backwash, and Rinse before returning to Filter.
Before you learn how to backwash a Bestway pool filter, it is essential to understand a few safety rules that apply to any sand filter pool filter system:
- Always turn the pump off and disconnect power before changing the valve position on the pool filter.
- Never run the pump with the valve set to Closed.
- Do not run the pump with the water level below the pool's inlet or outlet fittings.
- Use an appropriate backwash hose or pipe to direct waste water away from your pool foundation.
- Never run the sand filter dry; the pool filter must always be filled with water during operation.
Following these basic safety practices protects both your equipment and your pool structure.
You do not need complex tools to backwash a Bestway pool filter. In most cases, you only need:
- Your installed Bestway sand filter pool filter and pump
- A backwash or garden hose attached to the waste outlet (Port D)
- Access to an area where the backwash water can safely drain
- Your user manual or OEM instructions for your specific Bestway pool filter model
Before beginning, check that:
- All unions and hose clamps are tight on the pool filter and pump
- The pump basket and skimmer basket are not clogged
- The water level in the pool is at the correct height, since you will lose some water during backwash and rinse
1. Make sure the pool filter pump is switched off at the control panel or unplugged from the outlet.
2. Wait a few seconds for the water inside the pool filter to stop moving.
3. Never move the multiport valve handle while the pump is running or while water is flowing; this can damage the internal valve components.
This simple step is the most important rule whenever you operate your Bestway pool filter.
On Bestway sand filter pool filter systems, Port D is usually the waste or backwash outlet:
1. Locate Port D on the side of the valve or filter head.
2. Unscrew the Port D cap and remove it carefully, making sure not to lose the sealing gasket.
3. Attach a backwash hose or garden hose to Port D and lead it to an appropriate drainage area, away from the pool deck and foundations.
Securing a proper waste hose keeps your pool area clean and prevents erosion or flooding around the pool.
1. Press down or lift the multiport handle (depending on design) to unlock it.
2. Rotate the handle until it clicks firmly into the Backwash position, marked by double backward arrows or labeled “Backwash” on some pool filter valves.
3. Make sure the handle sits fully in the Backwash slot, not between positions.
Now you are ready to backwash the sand bed inside your Bestway pool filter.
1. Turn the pump back on or plug it in while the valve is set to Backwash.
2. Observe the water discharged from the end of the backwash hose. It will often start off dark or cloudy as dirt and debris are flushed out of the pool filter.
3. Keep the pump running in Backwash mode for about 3–5 minutes, or until the water coming out of the hose appears clear.
During this stage, water travels backwards up through the sand in your pool filter, lifting and carrying contaminant particles out through Port D instead of returning them to the pool. This process breaks up compacted layers in the sand, restores pathways between sand grains, and relieves excess pressure inside the pool filter tank.
Once the water running out of the hose is clear:
1. Turn the pump off again.
2. Push down and rotate the multiport handle from Backwash to Rinse. Confirm that the handle is locked firmly in the Rinse position.
Rinse is a crucial step in the backwash process. It resets the sand bed in your pool filter and stops any loose debris from flowing back into the pool.
1. Turn the pump on while the valve is set to Rinse.
2. Let the pump run for about 1 minute, or until the water in the waste line looks clean and free of air bubbles.
3. Rinse mode directs water through the sand in the normal direction but still sends it out through Port D instead of back to the pool.
This step clears out any remaining cloudy water from the pool filter and resettles the sand bed so it is ready for efficient filtration.
After rinsing:
1. Turn the pump off again.
2. Rotate the valve handle back to the Filter position (often marked by a play‑arrow symbol).
3. Ensure that the handle is securely locked into Filter, not positioned between settings.
Now your Bestway pool filter is back in normal filtration mode and ready to clean your pool water again.
1. Turn off the pump if it is not already off.
2. Remove the waste hose from Port D.
3. Replace the gasket and screw the Port D cap back on securely.
4. Check the pool water level and, if necessary, top up the pool so the water sits at the recommended height on the skimmer or inlet openings before restarting continuous filtration.
When everything is in place, you can turn the pump back on in Filter mode and resume normal operation.
The ideal backwash frequency for a Bestway pool filter depends on:
- Pool usage and bather load
- Environmental factors (dust, pollen, leaves, nearby construction)
- Filter size and pump strength
However, a practical guideline for most Bestway sand filter pool filter systems is:
- Backwash whenever the pressure gauge reads about 8–10 PSI higher than the clean‑filter baseline.
- In high‑use seasons or hot weather, this usually means backwashing roughly once every 1–2 weeks.
- In cooler weather or low‑use periods, you may backwash less frequently, as long as flow and clarity remain good.
If you are just starting with a new Bestway pool filter, note your clean starting pressure right after installing the filter and filling the tank with sand. That value becomes your reference point for future backwash decisions.
Many Bestway sand filter pool filter models are equipped with a small pressure gauge on the filter tank or valve assembly, alongside icon‑based valve markings. You should:
- Note the clean pressure right after a fresh backwash and rinse.
- Plan to backwash when the gauge is about 8–10 PSI higher than that baseline.
- Avoid operating the system if the pressure rises into a red or “danger” zone, as indicated on some gauges.
The valve symbols are designed to be intuitive:
- Play arrow – Filter
- Double arrows – Backwash
- Droplet – Rinse
- Circular arrows – Recirculate
If you are ever unsure, check the label on the valve or consult your model's manual. As an OEM manufacturer, we always recommend clear, durable labeling on the control heads of any pool filter or pump to avoid user confusion and ensure safe operation.
Even experienced pool owners sometimes make errors that reduce the effectiveness of their Bestway pool filter. When learning how to backwash a Bestway pool filter, avoid these common mistakes:
- Changing the multiport valve position while the pump is running or while the motor is powered.
- Backwashing for less than one or two minutes, which only cleans the upper sand layer in the pool filter.
- Skipping the Rinse step, which can allow disturbed sand and fine debris to flow back into the pool.
- Forgetting to close or re‑cap Port D, leading to leaks or reduced pressure.
- Backwashing excessively; over‑frequent backwashing can waste water and reduce filtration efficiency if the sand bed never fully compacts to its ideal profile.
Use your pressure gauge and water clarity as your guide, instead of backwashing on a fixed calendar schedule only.
To keep your Bestway sand filter pool filter running at peak performance, adopt a complete maintenance routine that goes beyond backwashing:
- Empty skimmer and pump baskets several times a week to maintain strong water flow.
- Check hoses and clamps for air leaks that could cause the pump to lose prime.
- Inspect the multiport valve periodically for drips or cracks, and replace O‑rings if needed.
- Maintain proper water chemistry to prevent scale and oils from forming sludge inside the pool filter.
- Consider deep‑cleaning the sand once or twice per season if you have heavy bather loads or many trees around your pool.
When used together with regular backwashing, these steps help your Bestway pool filter deliver consistently clean, clear water while extending the lifespan of both the filter and the pump.
As a professional factory specializing in high‑end sand pool filter systems, we support many international brands with OEM solutions that are compatible with Bestway‑style pools and pumps. From a manufacturer's perspective, there are several design details that make backwashing easier and safer for end users:
- Clear, embossed symbols on the multiport valve, so users immediately understand Filter, Backwash, Rinse, and other modes.
- Robust internal diverter components inside the valve that can withstand frequent valve changes without leaking.
- A large, easy‑to‑read pressure gauge with colored zones marking the ideal range and the “backwash now” threshold.
- Port D or waste outlets positioned for easy hose attachment and quick drainage during backwash.
- UV‑stabilized housings and tanks so the pool filter remains reliable in outdoor installations.
If you are an importer, wholesaler, or brand owner looking for OEM pool filter, pump, LED light, or accessory solutions, choosing a partner that understands how real users operate and backwash their systems in the field will translate into fewer customer complaints and better long‑term loyalty.
Knowing how to backwash a Bestway pool filter correctly is one of the best skills you can develop as a pool owner. By using the multiport valve in the proper sequence – Filter to Backwash, then Rinse, then back to Filter – you keep the sand bed in your pool filter clean, restore normal pressure and flow, and help your water stay sparkling and inviting.
Whether your pool system uses a compact Bestway sand filter pool filter or a larger OEM‑grade filtration unit, the principles are the same: monitor pressure, backwash until the waste water clears, rinse to resettle the sand, and return to normal filtration. Combine this simple routine with consistent chemical balance and basic equipment checks, and your Bestway pool filter will deliver reliable performance throughout the entire swimming season.
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Most pool owners find that backwashing a Bestway pool filter every 1–2 weeks during heavy use is sufficient, but the real indicator is your pressure gauge. When pressure rises about 8–10 PSI above the clean starting value, it is time to backwash. In cooler seasons or low‑use conditions, you may backwash less frequently as long as flow remains strong and the water looks clear.
You should run the backwash cycle on your Bestway pool filter for about 3–5 minutes, or until the water flowing from the backwash hose turns from cloudy or brown to clear. Stopping too early will leave deeper layers of the sand bed dirty, while running excessively long wastes water without any additional cleaning benefit.
Yes. Rinse is an important step in the process of how to backwash a Bestway pool filter. After backwashing, running the pump on Rinse for about 1 minute flushes leftover dirt out the waste line and resettles the sand bed inside the filter. Skipping Rinse can send fine debris and disturbed sand back into your pool through the return jets.
No. You should not vacuum your pool with the valve on Backwash. In Backwash mode, water is flowing out to waste rather than passing through the pool filter and returning to the pool. If you want to vacuum to waste (for example, when removing heavy debris or dead algae), set the valve specifically to Waste or Drain, not Backwash, and follow the appropriate instructions for that mode.
If the pressure on your Bestway pool filter remains high even after a full backwash and rinse, check for other issues: clogged skimmer or pump baskets, blocked return fittings, air leaks in the suction line, or very old, worn‑out filter sand. In some cases, you may need to deep‑clean or replace the sand inside the pool filter, or inspect the laterals and internal components for damage.
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