How to Backwash a Jandy Pool Filter - Sand and DE Models
The short answer
Jandy and Zodiac sand and DE filters run on either a push-pull slide valve or a multiport valve. This guide covers the exact backwash steps for both valve types, the DE recharge after backwashing, and the Jandy-specific notes that keep the valve seals intact.
Jandy Pool-Safe Silicone Lubricant Tube
Keeps the push-pull plunger seal and multiport O-rings from drying and cracking.
In This Guide
How to Backwash a Jandy Pool Filter
To backwash a Jandy pool filter, turn the pump off, then either rotate the multiport valve to BACKWASH or pull the push-pull slide valve up to its backwash stop. Restart the pump and run until the discharge water runs clear, about 2 minutes. On a multiport valve, stop the pump and run RINSE for 30 seconds, then return to FILTER. On a push-pull valve, just push the plunger back down. The job runs about 10 to 12 minutes.
First, Identify Your Jandy Valve Type
Jandy and Zodiac filters ship with one of two valves, and the procedure changes depending on which you have.
| Valve Type | Backwash Action | RINSE Step? | Common On |
|---|---|---|---|
| Push-pull (slide) valve | Pull plunger rod up to stop | No | Many Jandy sand filters |
| Multiport valve | Rotate handle to BACKWASH | Yes, 30 seconds | DE filters, some sand filters |
A push-pull valve is a vertical plunger with two positions: down filters, up backwashes. A multiport valve has a rotating handle with six labeled positions: FILTER, BACKWASH, RINSE, WASTE, RECIRCULATE, and CLOSED. If you are unclear on what each position does, the full breakdown is in this pool filter valve settings guide.
The Jandy Push-Pull Valve Procedure
- Turn the pump off and wait 5 seconds.
- Confirm the backwash hose is on the waste line.
- Pull the plunger rod straight up to the upper stop. Pull it all the way; a half-raised plunger blends filter and backwash flow.
- Restart the pump and watch the hose discharge until it runs clear, about 2 minutes.
- Turn the pump off, push the plunger fully back down to the filter position, and restart.
Push-pull valves have no RINSE position, so there is no separate re-settle step. The trade-off is they cannot recirculate or send water to waste while filtering, which a multiport can.
The Jandy Multiport Valve Procedure
The multiport sequence matches every other top-mount sand filter. Turn the pump off, rotate to BACKWASH, run until the sight glass clears, turn off, run RINSE for 30 seconds, turn off, return to FILTER. This is the same six-position routine used by other major brands, and you can compare it side by side with the Pentair pool filter backwash sequence and the Hayward pool filter backwash sequence, which share identical valve labeling.
Recharging DE on a Jandy DE Filter
Jandy DEV and DEL DE filters lose their DE coating during backwash. After you return the valve to FILTER, mix fresh diatomaceous earth with water into a thin slurry and pour it slowly into the skimmer with the pump running. Use about 80 percent of the rated DE charge printed on the filter label. Skipping this leaves the grids bare, which lets dirt pass straight through and can let unprotected grids clog and tear.
Keep the Seals Alive
The one maintenance item that prevents most Jandy valve failures is lubricating the seals. On a push-pull valve, wipe the plunger rod and seal yearly with pool-safe silicone. On a multiport, lubricate the large tank O-ring at the valve base. Never use petroleum-based grease, which swells and degrades rubber. And the rule that protects every Jandy valve: only move it with the pump off.
Related Guides
- Jandy Pool Filter Guide - the CS, CL and DEV lineup, cartridges, and parts
- How to Backwash a Pentair Pool Filter - Triton and FNS multiport steps
- How to Backwash a Hayward Pool Filter - Hayward-specific procedure
- Pool Filter Valve Settings Guide - what every valve position does
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Jandy pool filters use a multiport or push-pull valve?
How do I backwash a Jandy DE filter?
Why won't my Jandy push-pull valve hold position?
How often should I backwash my Jandy filter?
Our team combines 15+ years of hands-on pool maintenance experience with rigorous product testing. We own and test every piece of equipment we recommend — and we do not accept payment for positive reviews.