Troubleshooting Guide for Your Hayward EC-40 & EC-50 Pool Filter
If you are experiencing any issues with your Hayward DE filter System you can find some common solutions here.
Use the following guide to troubleshoot your Hayward EC-40/EC-50 Pool Filter
High Pressure
| Probable Cause | Remedy |
|---|---|
| D.E. coated with normal build-up of pool dirt, algae, etc. | Bump |
| Overcharge of D.E. | Bump-Drain-Recharge |
| Restriction in return line caused by small eyeball fitting | Change to larger size fitting |
| Partially closed valve on return line | Open valve |
Return Flow drop off
| Probable Cause | Remedy |
|---|---|
| D.E. coated with normal build-up of pool dirt, algae, etc. | Bump |
| Pump strainer basket clogged | Clean |
| Skimmer basket clogged | Clean |
| Pump impeller vanes clogged | Clean with stiff wire brush through pump strainer opening |
| Air leak on suction side of pump | Check cover gasket, hand knobs, hose, clamps, etc.Replace or tighten |
| Electric motor running less than max. RPM | Consult pump/motor troubleshooting guide. Most problems are due to: (1) Undersized/improper wiring; and/or (2) Power cut-backs |
Short Cycles
| Probable Cause | Remedy |
|---|---|
| D.E. loaded to capacity with pool dirt, algae, etc. | Bump-Drain-Recharge |
| Bumping incorrectly | Slow down stroke – quick stroke up. Repeat 6 times |
| Bump handle bent | Check and straighten, or replace |
| Pump output exceeds design flow rate of filter | Check GPM/LPM output. Regulate pump output to max. filter GPM/LPM rating |
| Algae present | Super-chlorinate, Bump- Drain-Recharge |
Short Cycles continuing after Bump-Drain-Recharge
| Probable Cause | Remedy |
|---|---|
| Contaminated or clogged Flex-Tube braids due to: 1. Natural build-up of chemical deposits 2. Running D.E. charge too long with build-up of live algae present 3. Operating filter without D.E. 4. Operating filter too long without D.E. after the pump starts. D.E. must be added immediately after filter is filled with water and a steady stream is coming from the pump | Clean tube nest (2 methods): 1. Detergent Cleaning: Remove tube nest, hosing it down with forceful stream of clean water. Soak tube next in strong solution of laundry detergent and warm water. Hose down again. 2. Chemical Cleaning: Use water and muriatic acid solution to chemically dissolve contaminates. Consult with pool dealer. |
Short Cycles when vacuuming
| Probable Cause | Remedy |
|---|---|
| Dirty Water | Bump-Drain-Recharge more often |
| Live, vigorously growing algae | Add chlorine, then vacuum |
| Alum or flocking agents clogging the filter | Vacuum to bypass filter, avoid using flocking agents |
D.E. leaking into pool through return lines
| Probable Cause | Remedy |
|---|---|
| Opening or tear in one or more Flex-Tubes | Replace Flex-Tube |
| Rip or hole in diaphragm gasket | Replace gasket |
| Worn or loose-fitting diaphragm gasket | Replace gasket |
| Loose bolts on tube nest plates | Tighten bolts |
D.E. leaking into pool through skimmer or main drain
| Probable Cause | Remedy |
|---|---|
| Filter check valve worn or stuck open | Clean and/or replace valve |
Hard Bumping
| Probable Cause | Remedy |
|---|---|
| Caking of D.E. under tube sheet. Due to build up sun tan oil, hair, floating particles binding together to form clay-like substance | Bump-Drain-Recharge more often. Reduce use of oils |
| Overloaded with D.E.Due to improper draining of last charge of D.E | Bump-Drain-Recharge with correct amount of D.E |
| Filter runs too long between bumping | Bump more often |
Splash D.E. Diatomaceous Earth 12lb Box
Diatomaceous earth powder is an all-natural, porous powder derived from the tiny fossilized exoskeletons of algae-like water plants known as diatoms. When used in DE filter systems, diatomaceous earth powder provides a remarkable filtration media, trapping debris and contaminant particles ranging from leaves and dirt to bacteria and other micro-organisms.
