Before installing this product, read and follow all warning notices and instructions accompanying this filter. Failure to
follow safety warnings and instructions can result in severe injury, death, or property damage. Call (800) 831-7133 for
additional free copies of these instructions.
Important Notice
Attention Installer.
This manual contains important information about the installation, operation and safe use of this product.
This information should be given to the owner/operator of this equipment.
Pentair Pool Products
1620 Hawkins Ave., Sanford, NC 27330 • (919) 774-4151
10951 West Los Angeles Ave., Moorpark, CA 93021 • (805) 523-2400
Rev. D 6-6-021 P/N 075157
SECTION I.FILTER OPERATION.
A. GENERAL INFORMATION.
1.This filter operates under pressure. When closed
properly and operated without air in the water system,
this filter will operate in a safe manner.
2.Warning labels should be affixed to the top of the filter
and on the clamp bands at all times. Keep safety labels
in good condition. Replace missing or damaged safety
labels. {For free labels call (805) 523-2400 or
(919) 774-4151.}
3.This booklet will enable you to install and operate your
pool filter in the correct manner. Correct installation
and operation will result in the trouble free operation
of a quality product, as well as prevent unnecessary
repairs.
4. Model SMBW Filter System
a. Standard SM Series Filter with built-in backwash
valve. Simplifies plumbing installations.
U.S. Patent No.
4,414,109
4,328,833
CAUTION
Before starting any filter system, be sure the pump has been adequately primed by filling the strainer on the pump with water.
Failure to do so will result in pump seal problems. When installing in conjunction with a heater, a one-way check valve
should be used between the filter and heater to prevent the backflow of hot water from damaging the filter internals.
B. WHAT IS DIATOMACEOUS EARTH AND HOW DOES IT FILTER WATER?
1.Diatomaceous earth is the skeletal remains of microscopic one-cell aquatic plants called diatoms, also known as
diatomite, D.E., and more properly diatomaceous earth.
2.Under the microscope, these minute diatoms show an amazingly intricate design and variety of forms, such as discshaped, boat-shaped, needle-like and many have a lace-like porous structure.
3.When used as a filter aid, the diatomaceous earth is mixed with water to form a slurry for filter 'precoat'. This
mixture is introduced into the filter system by means of a slurry pot, or by pouring directly into the surface skimmer
with the pump running. The minute diatoms are deposited on the outer surface of the filter elements, forming a
'strawpile' layer or cake by interlacing and overlapping, and thus providing countless microscopic channels which
entrap suspended impurities, but allow clear water to pass through without clogging.
4.We recommend the use of D.E. which is sold and labeled for use with swimming pools and spas. These grades of
D.E. typically have a median particle size of 34 microns, which is ideal for most applications.
WARNING
Diatomaceous Earth (D.E.) Precoat Requirements
Failure to operate your filter system or inadequate filtration
can cause poor water clarity obstruction visibility in your pool
and can allow diving in shallow pool area, or diving into or on
top of obscured objects which can cause serious bodily injury
or drowning.
C. FILTER PRECOATING INSTRUCTION:
1.Mix the Diatomaceous Earth in a pail of water to
form a slurry, then pour the mixture directly into the
surface skimmer with the pump running. Insure that
the right quantity of D.E. is used as shown in the
table.
* By Weight - 1 lb. of D.E. per 10 sq. ft. of filter surface area.
Filter Model*By Weight
NumberPounds
40242.4
40363.6
40484.8
40606.0
P/N 0751572Rev. D 6-6-02
SECTION II.FILTER INSTALLATION.
A. GENERAL INFORMATION
THIS FILTER OPERATES UNDER HIGH PRESSURE. WHEN ANY PART OF THE CIRCULATING SYSTEM,
e.g., CLAMP, PUMP, FILTER, VALVE(S), ETC. IS SERVICED, AIR CAN ENTER THE SYSTEM AND BECOME
PRESSURIZED. PRESSURIZED AIR CAN CAUSE THE LID TO BE BLOWN OFF WHICH CAN RESULT IN
SEVERE INJURY, DEATH, OR PROPERTY DAMAGE. TO AVOID THIS POTENTIAL HAZARD, FOLLOW
THESE INSTRUCTIONS.
1.BEFORE REPOSITIONING VALVE(S) AND BEFORE BEGINNING THE ASSEMBLY, DISASSEMBLY, OR
ADJUSTMENT OF THE CLAMP OR ANY OTHER SERVICE OF THE CIRCULATING SYSTEM: (A) TURN
THE PUMP OFF AND SHUT OFF ANY AUTOMATIC CONTROLS TO ENSURE THE SYSTEM IS NOT
INADVERTENTLY STARTED DURING THE SERVICING; (B) OPEN THE AIR RELIEF VALVE; (C) WAIT
UNTIL ALL PRESSURE IS RELIEVED.
2.WHENEVER INSTALLING THE FILTER CLAMP FOLLOW THEFILTER CLAMP INSTALLATIONINSTRUCTIONS EXACTLY.
3.ONCE SERVICE ON THE CIRCULATING SYSTEM IS COMPLETE FOLLOW SYSTEM RESTARTINSTRUCTIONS EXACTLY.
4.MAINTAIN CIRCULATION SYSTEM PROPERLY. REPLACE WORN OR DAMAGED PARTS
IMMEDIATELY, e.g., clamp, pressure gauge, valve(s), O-rings, etc.
5.BE SURE THAT THE FILTER IS PROPERLY MOUNTED AND POSITIONED ACCORDING TO
INSTRUCTIONS PROVIDED.
WARNING
1.New pools have a tremendous amount of debris due to dirt in the lines, plaster dust, etc. This debris will be removed
by the filter and will require daily backwashing of the filter until it is removed. Check the pressure gauge daily and
backwash the filter when the pressure increases 8 - 10 psi over the initial reading. It will require several
backwashings before the pool is clean. Thereafter, the normal filter cycle will be several weeks in a properly
designed system. The filter cycle is lengthened or shortened by contamination loads.
2.When installing backwash lines, it is recommended to install a vacuum breaker where the backwash line is over 40
feet long, or if the line discharges 10 feet or more lower than the water level of the pool. Operating at excessive
vacuum levels can cause the tank to implode, which voids the warranty.
3.A check valve is recommended between the filter and heater to prevent hot water backup from damaging the filter
internals.
4.The maximum operating pressure of the tank is 50 psi. Never operate the unit above this pressure or attach a pump
to this filter that has a shut off pressure higher than 50 psi.
5.Never install a chemical feeder or ozonator upstream of the filter. Always locate downstream with a check valve
between the feeder and the filter.
6.A positive shut off valve is not recommended downstream of the filter and/or heater. If the system is ever run with
such a valve closed, the internal air vent becomes inoperative and an explosive situation could exist. Running the
system with no flow can seriously damage the equipment.
7.Clean your filter when pressure reads between 8-10 psi higher than the original starting pressure. Your filter pressure
reading will increase as it removes dirt from your pool. However, this buildup of pressure will vary due to different
bathing loads, temperature, weather conditions, etc.
a.MY ORIGINAL STARTING PRESSURE IS ___________ psi (pounds per square inch). I SHOULD BACKWASH
(CLEAN) THE FILTER AT __________ psi.
8.Check carton for any evidence of damage due to rough handling in shipment. If carton or any filter components are
damaged, notify freight carrier immediately.
9.The filter should be mounted on a level concrete slab. Position the filter so that instructions, warnings and the
pressure gauge are visible to the operator. It also should be positioned so that the piping connections, control valve
and drain port are convenient and accessible for servicing and winterizing.
Rev. D 6-6-023 P/N 075157
10. Provide space and lighting for routine maintenance access. Do
not mount electrical controls over filter. Install electrical
controls (e.g., on/off switches, timers, control systems, etc.) at
least five (5) feet from the filter. This will allow you enough
room to stand clear of the filter during system start up.
11. Allow sufficient clearance around the filter to permit visual
verification that the clamp is properly installed around the tank
flanges, see Figure 1.
12. Allow sufficient space above the filter to remove the filter lid for
cleaning and servicing. This distance will vary with the model of
filter you are using. See Table 1. for the required vertical
clearance.
B. TO OPERATE FILTER
WARNING
THIS FILTER OPERATES UNDER HIGH PRESSURE. WHEN ANY PART OF THE CIRCULATING SYSTEM, e.g., CLAMP, PUMP,
FILTER, VALVE(S), ETC. IS SERVICED, AIR CAN ENTER THE SYSTEM AND BECOME PRESSURIZED. PRESSURIZED AIR CAN
CAUSE THE LID TO BE BLOWN OFF WHICH CAN RESULT IN SEVERE INJURY, DEATH, OR PROPERTY DAMAGE. TO AVOID
THIS POTENTIAL HAZARD, FOLLOW THESE INSTRUCTIONS.
1.Set rotary valve handle in the filter position.
Table 1.
Vertical
ModelSizeClearance Req.
01155323 sq. ft.33 in.
01155435 sq. ft.39 in.
01155547 sq. ft.45 in.
14741158 sq. ft.51 in.
2.Open air relief valve on top of filter. STAND CLEAR OF THE FILTER.
3.Start pump and wait until a steady jet of water emerges from air relief valve, then close valve.
4.Introduce the required amount of Diatomaceous Earth into filter, see page 2.
5.Filter will operate efficiently until pressure gauge indicates time for
backwashing.
C. TO BACKWASH (CLEAN) FILTER
WARNING
To prevent equipment damage and possible bodily injury and/or property damage,
always turn the pump off before changing the valve positions.
1.Pressure backwashing is accomplished in three easy steps:
a.Turn pump off.
o
b.Rotate handle of rotary valve 90
STAND CLEAR OF THE FILTER.
c.Turn pump on.
d.Backwash for approximately two minutes or until effluent
appears clean. When backwashing is complete, turn pump
off, rotate handle back to filter position and you are ready
for filter operation again. Precoat filter with D.E. as
shown on page 2.
as shown in Figure 2.
Figure 1.
Figure 2.
P/N 0751574Rev. D 6-6-02
D. HOW TO CLEAN THE SEPARATION TANK, performed after each backwash operation. (If installed or if applicable.)
The purpose of the separation tank is to collect the spent
diatomaceous earth during backwashing (cleaning) of the
filter. It must be cleaned after each backwash to prevent
any clogging problems. It is recommended that this
procedure be repeated to ensure complete backwashing of
the filter. One backwashing may not be sufficient.
1.Open valve C and valve D* to drain separation tank.
While the tank drains, the filter can be pre-coated and
restored to the filter cycle. Be sure valve B is closed;
see Figure 3.
Figure 3.
WARNING
Valve "D" is the air relief valve. It is important that this
valve be opened before proceeding further. The tank is
pressurized and is dangerous if the air is not vented
prior to removing the lid clamp. Failure to open the air
relief valve could cause the lid to separate resulting is
serious bodily injury and/or property damage.
2.To remove the clamping ring, partially unscrew the adjustment knob and release the head of the T-bolt from the
slotted bracket.
3.Remove tank lid with screwdriver or with a tool available from the manufacturer. Avoid cutting rubber O-ring.
4.When water has drained from bag, remove bag from tank by grasping the handles of the bag with both hands;
pushing down with one hand; pulling up with the other and lifting bag out.
5.Turn bag inside out and empty contents is a waste container. Rinse bag with garden hose.
6.Install bag in tank with the rim of the bag immediately below the tank inlet opening, then push down on the rim
opposite the inlet opening until the rim is level.
7.Remove rubber O-ring and clean both O-ring and channel. Lubricate O-ring with a non-water soluble grease or
silicone lubricant and replace O-ring in channel.
8.Clean the inside surface of the tank lid where it seals against the O-ring. Place lid on tank; push down on lid to seat
in-place.
9.Replace the clamping ring. Engage the head of the T-bolt into the slotted bracket and tighten the adjustment knob.
Hand tighten only.
E. HOW TO CLEAN FILTER MANUALLY & WINTERIZING INSTRUCTIONS
(Required at least once a year and when winterizing your filter to prevent damage during freezing conditions.)
1.Turn pump off.
2.Set valve handle or valves for backwash position.
3. STAND CLEAR OF THE FILTER - Turn pump on and run for 3 minutes, then turn pump off.
4.Drain filter with respect to opening the air relief valves as discussed in a, and b, below.
WARNING
Valve "D" is the air relief valve. It is important that this valve be opened before proceeding further. The tank is
pressurized and is dangerous if the air is not vented prior to removing the lid clamp. Failure to open the air relief
valve could cause the lid to separate resulting in serious bodily injury and/or property damage.
a. To drain filter model SMBW, set valve handle to backwash position and open tank air relief valve.
b. To drain filter model SMBW with Separation Tank, set valve handle to backwash position; open tank air relief
valve; close all other valves and remove drain plug on backwash line.
5.To remove the clamping ring, unscrew the adjustment knob and open clamp band.
6.Remove tank lid with screwdriver or with a tool available from the manufacturer. Avoid cutting rubber O-ring or
bending of lid or tank O-ring channel.
Rev. D 6-6-025 P/N 075157
7.Use garden hose to rinse down filter elements until all debris has been flushed from tank. Then screw drain plug on
backwash line on models with Separation Tank.
8.Unscrew wing nut; remove washer and unclip air vent tube from holding wheel. Remove holding wheel.
9.Lift out filter elements and scrub each element with a soft brush. If elements are coated with scale, it will be
necessary to brush with a mild solution of muriatic acid (10 parts water to 1 part muriatic acid). Rinse elements with
water.
10. Remove manifold and inspect for damage. Replace rotor O-ring & lubricate as needed.
11. Replace clean elements in manifold sockets; notch on element will guide it to proper position. All elements are
interchangeable.
12. Replace holding wheel over center rod; place washer over rod and turn holding wheel until elements spread to widest
gap. Replace washer, then screw wing nut on rod. Do not tighten nut beyond finger tight. Be sure to clip air
vent tube back into slot on holding wheel. Clean vent tube screen cap of any debris.
13. Remove rubber O-ring and clean both O-ring and channel. Lubricate O-ring with a non-water soluble grease or
silicone lubricant and replace O-ring in channel.
14. Clean the inside surface of the tank lid where it seals against the O-ring. Place lid on tank; push down on lid to seat
in place.
15. Replace the clamping ring. Engage the bolt through the bolt clamp and tighten the adjustment knob. (Hand tighten only.)
16. To restore to the filter cycle, refer to the operating and cleaning instructions of the filter model involved. When
winterizing, ensure that all water is removed from the lower internal portion of the filter.
SECTION III. TROUBLE SHOOTING
A. Before performing any of the recommended actions below, it is important to consult the instruction manual including