A drop in water pressure from the nozzles and the appearance of a green, cloudy suspension in the pool are the first and surest signs that your sand filter Bestway stopped coping with cleaning. When the pressure gauge on the valve cover shows a value 0.1–0.2 bar above normal operating pressure or the arrow enters the red zone, this is a signal that the filter element is critically dirty. At this point, the system not only pumps water worse, it stops retaining fine dirt, passing it back into the pool bowl, which requires immediate intervention from the owner.
The process of restoring equipment functionality Bestway involves a sequence of precise mechanical actions, known as backwashing, which reverses the water flow to flush out accumulated debris. Unlike cartridge filters that require removal and scrubbing, sand filters rely on hydraulic force to clean the media, but this mechanism can fail if the multiport valve is mishandled or if the sand bed has become clogged with oils and calcium deposits over several seasons. Understanding the specific mechanics of your model, whether it is a compact Flowclear unit or a larger Steel Pro system, is essential to avoid damaging the internal laterals or the pump motor.
Ignoring the symptoms of contamination leads to increased energy consumption, overheating of the pump motor and, ultimately, to the need for costly replacement of the entire unit. Regular maintenance, including not only standard backwashing, but also deep chemical cleaning or filler replacement, can extend the life of the device to 5-7 years. In this guide, we'll go through every step of maintenance in detail, from daily routines to seasonal conservation, to ensure your water always remains crystal clear.
Diagnosis of contamination and preparation for maintenance
Before taking active steps, it is necessary to accurately determine the current state of the filtration system. The main indicator is the built-in pressure gauge located on the top of the multi-port valve. During normal operation, immediately after backflushing, the pressure should be in the range of 0.05–0.15 bar, depending on the pump model and the length of the pipes. If you observe an increase in readings to 0.2–0.3 bar or higher, this means that quartz sand The inside of the tank is full of contaminants and requires rinsing.
A visual inspection of the pool water also provides important clues. If the water becomes cloudy despite the filter working, or the pressure from the return nozzles becomes weak, as if the pump is working at half capacity, then the channels in the sand are clogged. Sometimes the problem lies not in the amount of dirt, but in its nature: organic substances, cosmetics and sunscreens create a sticky film that ordinary water cannot wash off. In such cases, not only mechanical washing is required, but also the use of special chemical reagents to break down organic matter.
Preparation for servicing begins with turning off the power supply. Never attempt to change multi-port valve modes or disassemble connections under pressure. Turn off the pump at the outlet or at the GFCI control box. Make sure that all hoses are securely secured with clamps, as the pressure in the system may briefly increase during backwashing. Also check the water level in the pool: for the backwash procedure, the water level must be sufficient to prevent the pump from trapping air, usually at least half the height of the skimmer or inlet.
⚠️ Caution: Never operate the multi-way valve handle while the pump is on. Sudden changes in the direction of pressure flow can break internal seals or damage the valve mechanism, causing leaks and mixing of dirty and clean water.
Sand filter backwash technology
Backwashing is a basic cleaning method that should be performed regularly, usually every 1-2 weeks during the height of the swimming season or when pressure increases. The essence of the process is to change the direction of water flow: it is fed from the bottom up through the sand mass, loosening it and carrying accumulated dirt into the drainage. First, make sure the valve handle is in the OFF or the pump is turned off. Smoothly turn the handle to position BACKWASH (Backwash), making sure that it is firmly seated in the desired groove.
Connect the backwash hose to the drainage hole, if it is not integrated into the system, and direct its end into the drain or away from the pool, as dirty water with chemical residues will flow out. Turn on the pump and watch the sight glass (if your model has one Bestway) or the color of the flowing water. In the first minutes the water will be very dirty, but after 2-3 minutes it should become clear. If the water does not clear up for a long time, the sand may be very dirty or there is not enough sand for effective filtration.
Once the water is clear, turn off the pump and let the water in the tank settle for 30-60 seconds. This is necessary so that heavy sand particles settle to the bottom and do not go into the drain the next time you switch. Then move the valve handle to position RINSE (Washing). This step is often overlooked, but it is critical: the water flows through the sand from top to bottom, compacting the sand bed and flushing any remaining dirt out of the lines so it doesn't end up back into the pool. Turn on the pump for 30-60 seconds, then turn it off.
- 🔄 Check the position of the valve handle: it should be strictly in the sector
BACKWASHbefore turning on the pump. - 💧 Control the rinsing time: the standard cycle takes 2-4 minutes until the water in the viewing window becomes clear.
- 🛑 Don't forget about the stage
RINSE: It compacts the sand and prevents cloudy water from the hoses from entering the clean pool. - 📉 Keep an eye on the pressure gauge: after completing all procedures, the pressure should return to the original “clean” values.
Deep chemical cleaning of filter media
Even regular backwashing becomes insufficiently effective over time. Sand accumulates microscopic particles of grease, calcium deposits and biofilm, which create channels (channeling), allowing water to pass through the filter without being cleaned. To solve this problem, deep cleaning using special products is required. This process is called chemical flushing and is carried out 1-2 times per season or when a persistent unpleasant odor appears from the water.
To carry out the procedure, you will need a special product for cleaning sand filters (filter cleaner), which does not form a lot of foam. Turn off the pump and set the valve to BACKWASH. Pour the recommended dose of chemical directly into the skimmer or in front of the pump inlet so that the solution goes directly into the sand tank. Turn on the pump for 1-2 minutes so that the chemical is evenly distributed throughout the sand, then turn it off and leave the filter to soak for 6-12 hours (usually overnight).
The next day, run a standard backwash cycle (BACKWASH) for 5-7 minutes to wash away all dissolved dirt and chemical residues. Then loop RINSE within 1-2 minutes. After such treatment, filtration efficiency is significantly restored, and the pressure in the system is stabilized. If even after dry cleaning the pressure remains high and the water is cloudy, this indicates that the resource quartz sand exhausted and needs to be replaced.
Why is “silted” sand dangerous?
If the sand in the Bestway filter is caked and covered with an oil film, the water begins to follow the path of least resistance, forming channels. Visually this looks like normal water flow, but in fact the filter allows dirt to flow back into the pool. Chemical cleaning destroys these grease plugs, restoring the porous structure of the filter layer.
Replacing sand and maintaining internal elements
Average service life of quartz sand in filters Bestway lasts from 3 to 5 years, after which the granules become rounded, lose their filtering ability and require replacement. Replacement is also necessary if the sand has turned into stone due to an overdose of chemicals or if the internal collectors (beams) are mechanically damaged. To replace, you must completely dismantle the upper part of the filter (multi-way valve) and scoop out the old sand.
It is important to use special quartz sand of fraction 0.4-0.8 mm (No. 16-30). The use of ordinary river or construction sand is strictly prohibited: a fraction that is too fine will wash into the pool, making the water cloudy, and a fraction that is too coarse will not retain pollution. Before adding new sand, make sure that the internal collector pipes (slots) are intact. If they have cracks, sand will get into the pool and will have to be washed out constantly.
Filling is done through the top hole of the tank. Fill the tank about a third full with water to soften the fall of sand and protect the internal elements from impact. Then carefully pour in the required amount of sand (indicated in the instructions for your model). Once filled, reinstall the valve by lubricating the O-rings with silicone grease. Do not compact the sand with your hands - it should settle on its own under the influence of water during the first flush.
| Parameter | Norm/Value | Action on deviation |
|---|---|---|
| Clean filter pressure | 0.05 - 0.15 bar | Check hoses and cover |
| Flushing pressure | +0.2 bar from normal | Make a Backwash |
| Sand fraction | 0.4 - 0.8 mm (No. 16-30) | Replace filler |
| Sand service life | 3 - 5 years | Complete boot replacement |
⚠️ Attention: When replacing sand, carefully inspect the central pipe (riser) inside the tank. Cover its top hole with a rag or tape before adding sand to prevent grains of sand from getting inside, which could damage the mechanical seal of the pump.
Maintaining the Multi-Way Valve and Seals
The multi-port valve is the brain of the sand filter Bestway, controlling water flows. Over time, moving parts can become jammed and rubber seals (O-rings) lose elasticity, causing water to leak out or dirty water to flow into clean water. Regular care of this unit extends the life of the entire filter. If the handle is difficult to turn, do not apply excessive force as this may break the stem.
To service, remove the valve top cap (after turning off the pump and relieving pressure). Remove the inner rotating part. Thoroughly rinse all parts to remove sand and dirt. Pay special attention to the rubber rings: wipe them with a soft cloth and apply a special silicone lubricant. Do not use petroleum products (vaseline, lithol) under any circumstances, as they destroy rubber.
If you notice that water continues to drip from the drain even in FILTERMost likely, sand has gotten between the valve seat and the rotating part or the O-ring has worn out. Disassemble the unit, remove foreign objects and, if necessary, replace the repair kit. Cleanliness of the contacts of rubber surfaces is the key to the tightness of the system.
- 🧴 Lubricate the O-rings with silicone grease every 1-2 months during the season.
- 🔍 Check the integrity of the spring and valve handle retainer every time you replace sand.
- 🚫 Do not use aggressive solvents to clean plastic valve parts.
- 🔧 Tighten the valve cover bolts evenly, crosswise, to avoid distortion.
☑️ Checklist before starting after maintenance
Seasonal maintenance and conservation
Proper preparation of the sand filter Bestway by winter is a guarantee that in the spring it will work again without problems. The main danger is the freezing of residual water inside the tank, pump or valve, which will inevitably lead to rupture of the plastic. Preservation should begin before the first frost, when the daytime air temperature remains stably below +10°C.
Drain all the water from the pump by unscrewing the special plugs (if any) or simply turning the pump over (for some models). Remove the pressure gauge if it is removable. The most reliable way is to completely dismantle the filter, wash it and put it in a warm, dry room (garage, storage room). If this is not possible, and the filter remains outside, it is necessary to thoroughly dry the insides and close all openings with plugs to prevent moisture and rodents from getting there.
Do not leave sand inside the tank over the winter if there is a risk of freezing, as wet sand will expand and can damage the tank walls, although this is rare. It is best to remove the sand, rinse the tank and store the components unassembled. Before storage, lubricate all threaded connections and seals to prevent the rubber from drying out during non-use.
The main rule of wintering: Water should not remain in the pump and valve. Even a small amount of moisture expands when freezing and breaks plastic cases, making repairs economically impractical.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
How often should I change the sand in the Bestway filter?
Quartz sand lasts from 3 to 5 years, depending on the intensity of use of the pool and the quality of chemical water treatment. If after backwashing the pressure does not drop to normal and the water remains cloudy, it’s time to change the sand. Replacement is also required if the sand has turned into hard lumps (petrification).
Is it possible to use regular river sand instead of special sand?
Absolutely not. River sand has irregular granule shapes and different fractions. Small particles will pass through the system and enter the pool, making the water cloudy, while large particles will not provide high-quality filtration. Use only special quartz sand of fraction 0.4-0.8 mm.
Why is the pool water cloudy after washing the filter?
Most likely a step was missed RINSE (Rinse) after backwash. In Backwash mode, dirty water remains in the hoses and the top of the filter. If you immediately turn on the Filter mode, this dirt will end up in the pool. The reason may also be damage to the internal collectors (slots) inside the tank.
What to do if the valve handle does not turn well?
Don't try too hard. Turn off the pump, remove the valve cover and check if sand has gotten between the rubbing surfaces. Wash the mechanism and lubricate it with silicone grease. If the plastic is warped or cracked, the multi-way valve will need to be replaced.
Do I need to remove the sand from the filter for the winter?
Preferably. Although sand itself is not afraid of frost, the water it contains expands when it freezes. This can create stress in the tank walls. In addition, wet sand is an excellent environment for bacteria to grow during downtime. It is better to dry the tank and keep it warm.