waterway Aqua Clean D.E. Filter System Owner’s Manual

waterway Aqua Clean D.E. Filter System

CRYSTAL WATER / AQUA CLEAN D.E. FILTER SYSTEM OWNER’S MANUAL

GENERAL DESCRIPTION

Your Crystal Water / Aqua Clean D.E. Filter combines superior water filtration with ease of operating and totally corrosion-free construction. It uses diatomaceous earth (D.E.) which is the most efficient dirt remover and filter medium known.
The D.E. is fed through the skimmer at initial start-up, it uniformly coats the curved vertical filter elements which are covered with a custom fitted monofilament polypropylene filter cloth. As pool water is pumped through the Slide Valve (optional) into the bottom of the filter tank, the D.E. coats the filter grids and filters out even the most minute particles resulting in clear, clean, sparkling water.
After a period of time, the accumulated dirt in the filter causes a resistance to flow, the pressure rises, and flow diminishes. This means the dirt holding capacity of the D.E. has been reached, and it is time to clean (backwash) your filter. With the Slide Valve in the backwash position, the water is automatically reversed through the filter, flushing the trapped dirt, debris and D.E. out the waste line. Once the filter is backwashed of D.E. and dirt, the Slide Valve is manually re-sequenced to filter position and a fresh charge of D.E. is added to resume normal filtering.

INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

READ AND FOLLOW ALL INSTRUCTIONS

• A). When installing and using this equipment, basic safety precautions must always be followed. This filter operates under high pressure. Failure to follow instructions may result in serious injury.
• B). Make sure clamp is located properly over the filter flange. The clamp must be tightened firmly and evenly until spring coils touch each other (See illustration step. 22, page 6.)
  CAUTION: All suction and discharge valves must be open when starting the system. Failure to do so could result in severe personal injury and/ or property damage.
  WARNING: This product should be installed and serviced by a qualified professional only

1. PUMP SELECTION AND LOCATION:
   To power your filter, select a continuous duty pump designed for swimming pool or spa service.
   It is important to first determine where your pump and filter will be located. If above the water line, a self-priming pump has the ability to lift water from a lower level and prime automatically.
   Select a pump with an average output range suitable for the filters capacity. Other considerations are operation of hydrotherapy fittings, automatic cleaners, etc. Your dealer will help you select the proper size pump for your system.

2. FILTER LOCATION:
   Since plumbing fittings offer a resistance to water flow, position the filter as close to the swimming pool as practical. Keep the number of fittings to a minimum. Select a well-drained area, one that will not flood when it rains. The filter should be placed on a level concrete slab, very firm ground or equivalent, as recommended by your pool dealer. Allow for minimum top and side clearances as per chart. Be sure filter, pump, drain and pressure gauge are accessible for convenient operation.
   Position filter so the tank can drain away from pool and buildings by gravity.
   If practical, place pump and filter in the shade to shield it from continuous direct heat from sun.

3. PLUMBING:
   Use 1 ½”, 2″ or 2 ½” piping. Connections are 2″ slip (solvent weld ).

4. Ball or gate valves are recommended where needed. While all systems vary, the main consideration is to provide the desired control of water flow from the pool to the pump, to the filter and back to the pool. When the filter is located below the water level, provide valves to prevent back flow of water to the filter during cleaning and routine servicing. O-Rings
   (Inside Union Nuts)

5. Assemble Waterway Slide Valve (optional) to filter. Lubricate the O-Rings first (we recommend using silicone lubricant). Align the two valve pipe connections, O-Rings in place, with the two openings in the side of the filter tank and press in firmly. Secure the assembly to the tank connections with the two bulkhead lock nuts.
   DO NOT OVER TIGHTEN.

6. Connect the pool skimmer(s) and main drain(s) to the inlet and the return lines to the outlet of the slide valve (optional). Always use two or more drains per pump.
   If pressure gauge is not already installed, apply Teflon tape to the gauge threads on the manual air relief valve (MAR), and carefully screw the gauge into the gauge adapter assembly.
   DO NOT OVER TIGHTEN.

7. A filter drain plug is furnished with each filter and is all that is needed for complete filter draining. A Heavy Duty Manual Air Relief Valve (MAR) is furnished to aid in bleeding unwanted air when starting the filter. The internal auto air vent provides air removal during operation.

8. All electrical connections should be made in accordance with local codes.

9. CAUTION: ANSI/ NSPI-4 Article V, standard for in-ground pools, advises that components such as the filtration system, pumps and heater be positioned so as to prevent access by young children.

10. TWO-POSITION SLIDE VALVE (OPTIONAL):

    • (A). FILTER: Set Valve to Filter for normal filtering. Also use for vacuuming (handle in DOWN position).
    • (B). BACKWASH: For cleaning filter (handle in UP position).

11. BEFORE STARTING THE FILTER:
    Obtain a supply of operating chemicals, D.E., and a pool test kit. Use only swimming pool grade D.E. Balance the pool water by adding chemicals in accordance with the instructions provided by the chemicals’ manufacturer .

12. ADDING DIATOMACEOUS EARTH (D.E.):
    Add the correct amount of D.E. (see specifications on the filter label) into the system through the skimmer at a slow even pace. Record the pressure gauge reading after the diatomaceous earth (D.E.) has been added. This is the start (clean) pressure.

13. ADDING DIATOMACEOUS EARTH (D.E.):
    Add the correct amount of D.E. (see specifications on the filter label) into the system through the skimmer at a slow even pace. Record the pressure gauge reading after the diatomaceous earth (D.E.) has been added. This is the start (clean) pressure.

14. PRESSURE GAUGE:
    Filtration starts as soon as D.E. has been added to the filter. As the filter removes dirt from the pool water, the accumulated dirt causes a resistance to flow. As a result, the pressure gauge will rise and the water flow will decrease. When the pressure rises 8-10 psi above the start (clean) pressure, it is time to backwash (clean) the filter. NOTE: During initial clean-up of the pool, particularly with a new pool or a very dirty pool, it may be necessary to backwash more frequently due to the unusually heavy initial dirt load in the water.

15. BACKWASHING (CLEANING) THE FILTER:

    • (A). Shut off the pump set filter Slide Valve (optional) to backwash. Set valve to UP position for backwashing.
      Important: To prevent unnecessary strain on piping system and valves, always shut off pump before switching filter Slide Valve (optional) positions.

    • (B). Start pump and backwash for approximately two to five minutes, or until water out waste line appears clean.

    • (C). Shut off pump and set valve to down position for filter.
      Proceed as in ADDING DIATOMACEOUS EARTH (D.E.) described in step 13, page 6.

16. DISASSEMBLY:
    Shut off the pump then use a 7/8” deep socket and ratchet (1) to remove Spring Barrel. Place clamp assembly out of the way in a convenient place (2). You can now easily remove the filter lid, exposing the dirty element assembly.
    Damage to clamp may lead to system failure.

17. INITIAL CLEANING:
    We recommend hosing down the element cluster assembly with a strong stream from a garden hose. Be sure to remove drain plug and/or open any valves on drain port. Remove as much of the dirty D.E. and accumulated debris by flushing it out of the drain opening. This will allow for easier removal of the element cluster assembly. After cleaning, flush with water.

18. REMOVING GRID ELEMENT:
    Rock the element cluster assembly slightly from side to side to free the manifold from the vertical outlet elbow. The grid element cluster assembly may now be removed by lifting it straight up using the lift handles.

19. Place the Grid Element Cluster on the ground. Thoroughly hose off the remaining dirty D. E. and debris.
    

20. REASSEMBLY:

    • (A). Lubricate Outlet Elbow Assembly O-Ring with silicone lubricate.
    • (B). Replace D.E. Manifold Assembly into filter tank, carefully fitting the Manifold Assembly over Outlet Elbow O-Ring.

21. REINSTALL TANK LID:
    Clean and lightly lubricate O-Ring with silicone lubricant and carefully place over bottom filter body lip.
    Clean O-Ring flange sealing surface on filter lid and place over bottom tank O-Ring, pressing down firmly and evenly to seat the filter lid in place.

22. THESE INSTRUCTIONS MUST BE FOLLOWED EXACTLY TO PREVENT THE LID FROM BLOWING OFF DURING SYSTEM STARTUP.

    • Be certain the O-Ring is in position in the lower tank half. Place the filter lid over the lower tank half, sandwiching the O-Ring in between.
    • Holding the ends of the Filter Clamp apart, position the center segment over both upper and lower tank half flanges. Bring the ends of the clamp together, while inserting T-bolt into the trunnion (3).
    • Place washer, tension-indicating spring (Spring Barrel Assembly) and nut on T-bolt (Detail). Recheck filter clamp for proper seating on tank flanges.
    • Begin to tighten nut using a 7/8″ deep socket and ratchet (2). While tightening the nut, tap all around outside of filter clamp with a mallet (or similar tool) to insure uniform loading and proper seating of clamp. Continue tapping and tightening until spring coils of the spring touch each other (4). Do not tighten beyond this point.
    • Check spring coils once per month to assure that they continue to touch each other – if not, repeat step 4.
      

23. Install Drain Plug, open pool suction and return valves and proceed as in step 12, page 6, INITIAL START-UP OF THE FILTER.

24. WINTERIZING:
    To winterize where sub-freezing temperatures can be expected, the filter should be drained. Remove Drain Plug, backwash filter, remove and clean Filter Grids. Reinstall Filter Grids in filter tank.
    Be sure to remove the drain plug during the winter season to avoid cracking the filter tank.

25. WINTERIZING VALVE:
    Slide Valve (optional): Open waste line and raise valve to backwash position.
    NOTE: Drain and winterize all equipment according to instructions. Consult your retailer or service professional if you have any questions .

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

Read and Follow All Instructions:
Algae is a form of plant life which can vary in size from a few thousandths of an inch to the size of a small tree. Of the many forms of algae, the one most frequently found in the swimming pool water are microscopic in size and green in color.
Algae readily grows in sunlight and can, under favorable conditions, quickly overgrow a swimming pool, turning it completely green in just a few hours. On the other hand, swimming pool water can be unfavorable to algae growth simply by maintaining a chlorine level of at least 1.0 ppm in the water at all times. The chlorine level should be checked at least once a week using a suitable test kit.
If an algae condition develops and the pool water “blooms” green, super chlorination of the pool will be necessary to clear it. Add unsterilized granular chlorine or liquid chlorine. Follow the chemical manufacturer’s recommendation for super chlorination. The algae will quickly become inactive and can then be removed by the filter. Live algae, on the other hand, multiplies so fast that the filter cannot keep up with its growth rate.
When correctly used, commercial algaecides are effective against algae, though algaecides should be used in conjunction with, and not as a substitute for, regular chlorination or superchlorination.
Maintaining a chlorine level of at least 1.0 ppm in the pool water at all times is the most effective way to prevent algae growth in swimming pools.

NOTE:
Pure clear swimming pool water is the combination of two factors: adequate filtration and proper water chemistry balance. One without the other will not give the clean, clear water you desire.
Your filter system is designed for continuous operation. However, this is not necessary for most swimming pools. You can determine your filter operation schedule based on your pool size.
To properly sanitize your pool, maintain a free chlorine level of 1 to 3 ppm and a pH level of 7.6 will help in preventing algae and bacteria to grow in your pool and make it easier for your filter to properly clean the pool water.

SERVICE AND REPAIRS:
Consult your local authorized Waterway dealer or service center. No returns may be made directly to the factory without the expressed written authorization of Waterway Plastics.

INSTALLING BODY O-RING

Clean and lube O-Ring before installing.

IMPORTANT NOTE:
O-Ring will climb off if twisted.

1. Start at back (opposite side from fittings), place O-Ring around lip of filter and draw it toward you putting O-Ring between thumb and forefinger.

2. Slide hands back to you, making sure O-Ring does not twist.

3. Continue drawing O-Ring toward you, keeping thumb and forefinger between O- Ring and filter lip.

4. When finished make sure O-Ring is not twisted. Replace lid.

BULKHEAD GASKET INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS

1. Insert the Gasket (711-4200) with beveled edge facing in, inside each Bulkhead Fitting (2) (419-4201).
2. Apply a non-petroleum lubricant to O-Rings (805-0232) on Tailpiece (417-2201).
3. With Gasket (711-4200) in place, push Tailpiece (417-2201) into Bulkhead Fitting (419-4201).
4. Tighten Union Nut (415-4211) onto Bulkhead Fitting (419-4201).
   HAND TIGHT ONLY.

CRYSTAL WATER / AQUA CLEAR D.E. FILTER

Replacement Parts Diagram

Item:     Part No.      Description

• 1 550-6730 Pressure Relief Valve Assembly

  • 1a 672-3150 Heavy Duty Air Relief Valve Filter
  • 1b 519-7671 Heavy Duty Air Relief Valve Body
  • 1c 830-4000SS Pressure Gauge
  • 1d 602-4960 Bezel Cover
  • 1e 805-0233-EP O-Ring(2)
  • 1f 827-8150 Spring
  • 1g 519-4370 Plunger
  • 1h 718-4201 Valve Nut

• 2 550-4450 36 sq. ft. Filter Lid
  550-4430 48 sq. ft. Filter Lid
  550-4440 60 sq. ft. Filter Lid

• 3 550-4260 Metal Clamp with Clamp Spring Assembly

• 4 550-4550 Clamp Spring Assembly

• 5 805-0000 O-Ring Main Body

• 6 550-4320 Air Relief Assembly – 24, 36, 48 and 60 sq. ft. D.E. Filter

• 7 718-4320 Manifold Nut

• 8 550-4200 D.E. Manifold Assembly with Air Relief Assembly

• 9 818-3940 D.E. Short Grid – 36 sq. ft.
  818-3900 D.E. Short Grid – 48 sq. ft.
  818-3920 D.E. Short Grid – 60 sq. ft.

• 10 818-3950 D.E. Grid – 36 sq. ft.
  818-3910 D.E. Grid – 48 sq. ft.
  818-3930 D.E. Grid – 60 sq. ft.

• 11 550-4380 D.E. Grid Support Assembly with 20″ PVC Shaft – 36 sq. ft. Filter
  550-4310 D.E. Grid Support Assembly with 26″ PVC Shaft – 48 sq. ft. Filter
  550-4350 D.E. Grid Support Assembly with 32″ PVC Shaft – 60 sq. ft. Filter

• 12 550-4390 2 1/2″ Outlet Elbow Assembly – 36 sq. ft. DE Filter
  550-4220 2 1/2″ Outlet Elbow Assembly – 48 sq. ft. DE Filter
  550-4210 2 1/2″ Outlet Elbow Assembly – 60 sq. ft. DE Filter

• 12a 805-0145 O-Ring

• 13 550-4410 Long Elbow Fitting 2 1/2″ diameter

• 14 515-4201 Filter Body

• 15 550-4270 Bulkhead Fittings Pack – Fitting Nuts O-Ring 2 1/2” to 2” Reducers

  • 15a 805-0339 O-Ring (2)
  • 15b 419-4201 2 1/2” Bulkhead Fitting (2)
  • 15c 805-0232 O-Ring (2)
  • 15d 417-2201 2 1/2” Tailpiece with Piston O-Ring Groove (2)
  • 15e 415-4211 2 1/2” Union Nut (2)
  • 15f 421-4201 Reducer 2 1/2” to 2”
  • 15g 421-4071 Reducer 1 1/2” to 2”

• 16 400-6621 Drain Assembly

  • 16a 805-0224 O-Ring (224)
  • 16b 715-6611 Plug – 1-1/2 MPT

GENERAL POOL CHEMISTRY GUIDELINES
To properly sanitize your pool, maintain a chlorine level of 1 to 3 ppm and a pH of 7.2 to 7.6. Insufficient chlorine or an out of balance pH level will permit algae and bacteria to grow in your pool and make it difficult for your filter to properly clean the pool water.

WARRANTY

For product registration visit: www.waterwayplastics.com.

For Warranty questions or claims please contact point of purchase.

Designed, Engineered & Manufactured in the USA.

©2022 Waterway Plastics

2200 East Sturgis Road, Oxnard CA 93030 • Phone 805.981.0262 • Fax 805.981.9403 www.waterwayplastics.com • waterway@waterwayplastics.com

References

• Waterway Plastics – Pool & Spa Supplies

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