How hard is it to take apart an EC65 to clean?

[Timmy]

That is perfect, thanks.

I have the Hayward scoop. I agree, the first year I used a coffee can, the scoop is much better.

So far so good, holding steady at about 7-8 psi and the flow at the returns is very strong.

At least now I know if I run into problems during the year the disassembly shouldn't be so bad per your directions above.

Now if the pool water would only get higher than 73 we could actually enjoy it.

[bbb]

I also highly recommend the Hayward "Jet Action Perflex DE Filter Cleaner Wand" - it is a long white wand that attaches to your hose, and lets you clean your filter fingers better during backwashes. I got mine last year for around $20 from my local pool store. You can then stick the hose into youre backwash valve (or into the pressure gauge hole if you remove the pressure gauge) while you are backwashing to clean out lots more gunk than otherwise. During a complete disassembly it washes out the fingers well, but without TOO much pressure (like from a pressure washer). As a matter of fact, I use that wand for lots of things around the house because it gives an awesome small single jet of higher pressure water spray.