What should be done if a filter has become air bound?

When a filter becomes air bound, it means that air has trapped itself within the filter media, often hindering the proper flow of water through the system. Backwashing the filter is the correct response in this situation for several reasons.

Backwashing helps to remove the trapped air, as well as accumulated debris and contaminants within the filter. During the backwashing process, water flows in the reverse direction through the filter media, flushing out any blockages, including air pockets, and restoring normal operation. This process also helps to aerate the filter media and allows for a more effective filtration once water flow resumes.

The other choices would not effectively address the air binding issue. Changing the media immediately might be excessive and unnecessary if the issue can be resolved by backwashing. Increasing the water temperature does not specifically address air binding and could potentially cause other issues with the water chemistry or operating conditions. Suspending operations indefinitely would not be a practical solution and would lead to service interruptions without addressing the underlying problem.

Therefore, backwashing is the most appropriate action to take in the case of an air-bound filter, effectively restoring functionality and ensuring continued efficient filtration.