“Waste bypasses the filter, sending water directly out, while backwash reverses flow through the filter to expel debris. Both aid in pool maintenance.”
TL;DR Waste Vs. Backwash
Waste refers to the process of removing debris and dirty water from the pool or spa, while backwash involves reversing the flow of water through the filter to flush out accumulated dirt.
By properly utilizing these two functions, you can ensure that your pool or spa remains sparkling clean and safe for swimming. Regularly using waste and backwash will help prolong the lifespan of your filter, improve overall circulation, and maintain optimal water quality.
What is waste?
In the context of swimming pools, “waste” refers to a setting on the pool’s multiport valve that allows water to be directed out of the system without passing through the filter.
This setting is commonly used during backwashing. When the pool filter becomes clogged with debris and contaminants, the waste setting is activated to bypass the filter and send the dirty water directly to a drain or another suitable outlet, preventing the accumulated impurities from re-entering the pool.
The waste setting is crucial for maintaining water quality by efficiently removing unwanted substances from the pool without putting additional strain on the filtration system.
What is backwash?
In swimming pools, backwash refers to the process of reversing the flow of water through the pool’s filtration system to clean the filter. As a pool filter collects debris and impurities from the water, it becomes clogged and less effective.
During backwashing, the water flow is temporarily reversed, sending the accumulated dirt and contaminants out of the filter and through a designated waste or backwash line.
This helps in maintaining the efficiency of the pool’s filtration system, ensuring clean and clear water for swimmers. After backwashing, it’s essential to rinse the filter and return the system to its regular filtration mode.
Waste Vs. Backwash – Key differences
| Feature | Waste | Backwash |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Bypasses filter, directs water out | Reverses flow to clean filter |
| Direction | Exits pool system directly | Reenters pool system after cleaning |
| Filtering | Skips the filter | Involves the filter |
| Debris Disposal | Direct removal of debris | Expels accumulated debris |
| Water Conservation | Less efficient use of water | Recycles water within the system |
| Frequency | Used sparingly during major cleanups | Part of regular filter maintenance |
Image Credits
Featured Image By – Şahin Sezer Dinçer from Pixabay
Image 1 By – Engin Akyurt from Pixabay
