Pentair filter 3.0 Start-up and Operation

Tank Owner’s Manual Pg. 9 of 23

9/26/05 Rev. D

• Consult Appendix B for media specifications.

• Partially fill the tank with water. This will help

prevent damage to the internal piping when

installing the gravel.

• Install the gravel media. This layer should reach

to the top of the effluent laterals and be level.

• Install the sand media. This layer should reach to

approximately the centerline of the tank. The sand

bed should be level and smooth. See pictures at

right for example.

3.0 Start-up and Operation

The following steps should be followed in the order shown for initial start up of the filter

system. Each section will be explained in more detail in the following pages.

1. Start system in backwash mode

2. Backwash each tank until clean

3. Start system in normal filtration mode

After the media is in place, reinstall the manway cover and fill the system with water. It is

again important that all air in the tank(s) be bled out using the manual air relief fitting on the top of

the tank(s). Once all of the air in the tanks is released, you may begin the initial backwash of the

tanks. Each tank should be backwashed for at least 5 minutes to remove any dust or dirt from

construction, as well as the “fines” in the media. When the wastewater coming from the

backwashed tank runs clear and is free of grit, the tank has been fully backwashed. Repeat this

for all tanks in the system. For some instances it may be necessary to repeat this backwash

procedure a second time in order to ensure that all “fines” have been removed.

Some things that should be noted during the backwash cycle:

• Adequate backwash flow (Approx. 15-20 GPM per square foot of filtration area)

• Quality of water flowing to waste (i.e. dirt, grit, etc.)

During a backwash the pressure through the system may differ from when it is in filtration

mode. This is normal, however it is important to make sure that the pressure does not exceed

the operating pressure of the tank.

After backwashing is complete, run the system in normal filtration mode. Once this is

done, you should take note of the following:

• Inspect pool water returns for sand. If the filter is returning sand to the pool, turn

off the system immediately. Refer to the Appendix C for further information.

Above: Sandbed should

be flat and smooth when

sand is installed.