Keeping your pool sparkling clean doesn’t have to be a chore. Learning how to vacuum a above ground swimming pool is a simple skill that makes maintenance easy. With the right tools and a little know-how, you can remove dirt, debris, and algae from the floor of your pool in no time. This guide will walk you through every step, from gathering equipment to putting everything away. Let’s get your pool looking it’s best.
A clean pool is more inviting and safer for swimming. Regular vacuuming prevents problems before they start, saving you time and money on chemicals. Whether you have a manual vacuum, a automatic cleaner, or something in between, the principles are the same. We’ll cover all the methods so you can choose what works for your pool and your routine.
How to Vacuum a Above Ground Swimming Pool
Before you start, you need to gather your equipment. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and efficient. You don’t want to be searching for a part while your pump is running dry.
Essential Equipment You’ll Need:
* A pool vacuum head (with brushes or wheels)
* A telescopic pole
* A vacuum hose (long enough to reach from your skimmer to the farthest part of your pool)
* Your pool’s filtration system (pump and filter)
* A skimmer vacuum plate adapter (if vacuuming through the skimmer)
First, you need to connect the vacuum head to the telescopic pole. This is usually a simple clamp or screw mechanism. Make sure it’s secure. Next, attach one end of the vacuum hose to the opening on the vacuum head. It should fit snugly to prevent air leaks.
Now, here’s a critical step: priming the vacuum hose. This means getting all the air out of the hose so water can flow through it. If you skip this, your pump could lose prime and potentially get damaged.
To prime the hose:
1. With the vacuum head and hose connected, drop the vacuum head into the shallow end of the pool.
2. Hold the other end of the hose up to a return jet (where water comes back into the pool). Let the water force fill the entire hose until no more air bubbles come out.
3. Alternatively, you can slowly feed the hose into the pool, letting it fill with water as it sinks. Plug the end with your hand to keep the water in until you’re ready to connect it.
Once the hose is full of water, you’re ready to connect it to the pool’s circulation system. For most above ground pools, you’ll connect through the skimmer.
Connecting to Your Pool’s Skimmer
Locate your pool’s skimmer. Remove the skimmer basket. You’ll see the suction hole at the bottom of the skimmer well. Take your skimmer vacuum plate and place it over the opening. This plate acts as a lid and has a port for your hose. It also prevents large debris from shooting directly into your pump.
With the plate in place, quickly take the primed hose end (keep it plugged with your hand underwater to maintain the water seal) and connect it to the port on the vacuum plate. You should hear the pump’s suction immediately catch hold. If you don’t, you may have an air leak—check all connections.
Now, you are ready to start the actual vacuuming. Lower the vacuum head to the pool floor. You’ll feel the suction pull it down.
The Vacuuming Technique: Slow and Steady
Vacuuming is not about speed. Moving too fast will stir up debris instead of collecting it. Think of it like mowing a lawn in slow motion.
Effective Vacuuming Steps:
1. Start in the shallow end and work your way toward the deeper center.
2. Use slow, overlapping strokes. Push the vacuum head forward, then pull it back slightly over the same path.
3. Overlap each stroke by about half the width of the vacuum head. This ensures you don’t miss any spots.
4. Pay special attention to corners and around the ladder, where debris likes to collect.
5. If you have a large amount of debris, you might need to stop and empty your pump basket halfway through to maintain good suction.
Keep an eye on your pump’s pressure gauge. If the pressure rises by 8-10 PSI above its normal, clean operating level, it’s time to stop and backwash or clean your filter. A clogged filter reduces suction and strains your pump.
What to Do After You Finish Vacuuming
When the pool floor looks clean, turn off your pool pump before disconnecting anything. This is a important safety step that protects your equipment.
1. Turn the pump off.
2. Disconnect the vacuum hose from the skimmer plate.
3. Remove the vacuum plate and replace the skimmer basket.
4. Lift the vacuum head out of the water and disconnect it from the pole and hose.
5. Drain the hose by coiling it up, starting from the end that wasn’t connected to the vacuum head. Hang it up to dry if possible.
6. Rinse off the vacuum head and pole.
7. Restart your pool pump to its normal filtration setting.
8. Check and clean the pump basket one more time.
Congratulations! You’ve successfully vacuumed your above ground pool. Your water should look clearer already.
Using an Automatic or Robotic Pool Cleaner
If manual vacuuming sounds like to much work, an automatic cleaner is a great investment. They come in three main types: suction-side, pressure-side, and robotic.
Suction-Side Cleaners: These attach to your skimmer or a dedicated suction line. They use your pool pump’s suction to move around and collect debris into the pump basket or a separate bag. They are affordable but can put extra wear on your pump.
Pressure-Side Cleaners: These connect to a dedicated pressure line (like a booster pump) or a return jet. They use water pressure to move and have their own debris bag. They are excellent for larger debris like leaves and don’t tax your main filter as much.
Robotic Cleaners: These are the premium option. They plug into a standard GFCI outlet and operate completely independently of your pool’s filtration system. They have their own internal pump, filters, and smart navigation. They are highly efficient and great for energy savings, but have a higher upfront cost.
No matter which type you choose, always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for setup and maintenance. Regularly cleaning the cleaner’s filters or bags is key to keeping it running effectively.
Troubleshooting Common Vacuuming Problems
Sometimes, things don’t go perfectly. Here are solutions to common issues.
Problem: Loss of Suction
* Cause: Air leak in the hose connections, a full pump basket, or a clogged filter.
* Fix: Check all hose connections are tight. Turn off the pump and empty the pump basket. Backwash or clean your filter if the pressure is high.
Problem: Vacuum Head Sticks to the Pool Floor
* Cause: Too much suction, often because the main drain valve is fully open.
* Fix: Partially close the main drain valve at the pump to divert more suction to the skimmer/vacuum line. This gives you better control.
Problem: Debris Is Stirred Up, Not Collected
* Cause: You are moving the vacuum head too quickly.
* Fix: Slow down! Use those slow, overlapping strokes. Also, ensure your filter is clean for optimal water flow.
Problem: Algae Cloud When Vacuuming
* Cause: You are vacuuming live algae. For fine algae, the filter can’t catch it all and it just recirculates.
* Fix: For severe algae, you may need to “vacuum to waste” if your system allows it. This sends the water out of the pool, bypassing the filter. Otherwise, treat the algae with shock and clarifier first, let it settle, then vacuum.
Pre-Vacuuming Pool Care Tips
A little prep makes vacuuming much easier. Before you even get your hose out, follow these steps.
First, skim the surface of your pool thoroughly. Use a leaf net to remove leaves, bugs, and other floating debris. This prevents them from sinking while you’re vacuuming.
Next, brush the pool walls and floor. Start from the top of the walls and work down, pushing debris toward the main drain or the center of the pool floor. This loosens algae and dirt, making it easier for the vacuum to pick up. Let the water settle for about 30 minutes after brushing.
Finally, check your water chemistry. Balanced water helps your filter work efficiently. If your pH or alkalinity is off, your filter won’t be as effective at trapping fine particles.
Maintaining Your Vacuum Equipment
Taking care of your tools ensures they last for seasons to come. After each use, rinse the vacuum head, pole, and hose with fresh water. This removes chlorine and debris that can cause wear.
Store your hose out of direct sunlight, preferably coiled in a large circle, not kinked. Hang it if you can. Check the hose for cracks or leaks at the beginning of each season. A small leak can ruin your suction.
Inspect the brushes or wheels on your vacuum head. Replace them if they are worn down. A clean, functional vacuum head is more effective at agitating and collecting dirt.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How often should I vacuum my above ground pool?
A: For routine maintenance, vacuum at least once a week during the swimming season. If you have heavy use, lots of trees nearby, or after a storm, you may need to vacuum more frequently.
Q: Can I vacuum my pool without a skimmer plate?
A: It’s not recommended. The plate creates a direct suction path and prevents large debris from clogging your pump line. You can sometimes connect the hose directly into the skimmer suction hole, but you risk clogging and losing prime.
Q: Why is my pool vacuum not moving?
A: For manual vacuums, ensure the hose isn’t tangled or kinked, restricting water flow. For automatic cleaners, check for clogged hoses, full debris bags, or worn-out parts like treads or turbines. Refer to your cleaner’s manual.
Q: Should I vacuum my pool on filter or waste setting?
A: For normal dirt and debris, use the “FILTER” setting. Only use “WASTE” for very heavy debris or algae blooms, as it removes water from the pool and you’ll need to refill it afterward.
Q: How long does it typically take to vacuum a pool?
A: For an average-sized above ground pool, manual vacuuming takes 20 to 45 minutes, depending on how dirty it is. Automatic cleaners can take several hours but require minimal effort from you.
Q: Do I need to add water after vacuuming to waste?
A: Yes, absolutely. Vacuuming to waste expels water from your pool. You must add fresh water to bring the level back to the middle of your skimmer opening to ensure your pump operates correctly.
By following this comprehensive guide, you can master the task of keeping your pool floor perfectly clean. Regular vacuuming is the cornerstone of clear water and a healthy swimming environment. With a little practice, it will become a quick and easy part of your weekend routine.