Pentair SM/SMBW 2000 - Manual (Page 10)

4
SM/SMBW 2000 Series™ Filter Installation and User’s Guide
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 disc-shaped, 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 — Failure to operate your filter system or inadequate filtration can cause poor water clarity obstructing
visibility in your pool and can allow diving in the shallow pool area, or diving into or on top of
obscured objects which can cause serious bodily injury or drowning.
Filter Precoating Instruction
1. Mix the Diatomaceous Earth {D.E.} 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
D.E. Precoat Requirements below in Table 1.
* By Weight - 1 lb. of D.E. per 10 sq. ft. of filter surface area.
Filter Model * By Weight
Number Pounds
2036 3.6
2048 4.8
2060 6.0
2072 7.2
Diatomaceous Earth (D.E.)
Precoat Requirements
Table 1.