Diatomaceous Earth versus Sand filter

[dalparadise]

Backwashing a DE filter is a snap -- I do mine about once per month during swim season and maybe once in the winter, since I never close my Texas pool. It probably takes 30 minutes to backwash and recharge the system. There is no gunk to touch -- no problem.

Now, once per year, in late September, I break the filter down and thoroughly clean it. It is a nasty mess and a real pain. Last fall, it took me over an hour to finish cleaning, reassembling and recharging.

I don't know much about sand, but I know DE filters are incredibly good at filtration. In fact, I think it's the same basic principle most water treatment systems use. With a little effort, a DE system will provide water that is cleaner than the stuff coming out of your tap. I love mine.

[debs_pool]

Well, the DE fix is super-cheap so you might as well try it--throw out eight or 10 bucks on 10# of DE. Add enough to raise pressure 1 #, starting with about 1/3 of a cup. 10# will easily last one summer, if not 2.

CarlD,

HOW do you do this? (I'm not ready yet (or even no if I should do this) - still working on that algae problem!) Is this something I might want to do? Or do I just want to keep sand? If I have to have "maintenance" it's usually expensive -- because I have to call the pool place. WHERE do you add this DE? And it's okay to mix sand & DE? If this is addressed somewhere else, I apologize for not continuing my search of threads.
And I can't thank you enough for all your help -- but thanks for all your help.