Did you ever wonder how a pool vacuum works? Continue reading as I explain what it does and how it can benefit you below!
I have tried a lot of different methods to clean my pool, and for me, I have found that using a vacuum is my favorite.
Pool vacuums can remove dirt, dust, and other debris stuck on the bottom of my swimming pool. Hence, they can make the water look much clearer and healthier.
However, pool vacuums are available in different types. Some models use powerful motors and electricity, while others rely on additional pool equipment. But how do they exactly work?
Below, I will discuss how different pool vacuums work and how each one of them can benefit you.
So without further ado, let us get on with the article!
How Does A Pool Vacuum Work?
A pool vacuum works by using pressure or suction to draw in debris. Depending on the model, some send dirt and dust into a pump basket, skimmer, or filter, while others feature a bag to collect everything.
There are four common types of pool vacuums available today. These include manual, suction-side, pressure-side, and robotic vacuums.
I will explain how each of them works differently to keep your pool water clean.
Manual Pool Vacuum Cleaner
A manual pool vacuum cleaner is the cheapest and simplest. This type of pool vacuum is exactly what it sounds like. It requires you to manually connect the vacuum hose to an intake valve in the skimmer unit. It also draws power from your water pump, which creates the suction to pull in debris.
However, you must also grab the manual pool vacuum head and push it around the swimming pool to clean dirt and dust. Then, you must wash the filters and clear out the skimmer basket once full. It is similar to using a traditional vacuum cleaner around your house.
Despite its inexpensive upfront cost, using a manual pool vacuum can increase your electric bill due to its continued use of your pool’s filter pump. It is also a time-consuming task.
Suction-Side Pool Vacuum Cleaner
A suction-side pool cleaner works similarly to a manual pool vacuum. It relies on your water pump to create a powerful suction that could scoop up debris. It also has a long hose that connects to the water intake valve in the pool skimmer.
But instead of pushing the hose manually, a suction-side vacuum cleaner can automatically move around the pool in a predetermined pattern. It can even reach the pool floor and pool walls to scrub off stubborn dirt and debris. Thus, it is relatively easy to use for first-time pool owners.
However, there are still a few downsides to suction pool cleaners. First, these type of pool vacuum cleaners depend on your pump for suction, increasing your electric bill. Second, some models do not come with their filter bags. Hence, these suction pool cleaners might require you to clean out the skimmer and wash the filters after vacuuming the pool.
Pressure-Side Pool Vacuum Cleaner
Pressure-side vacuums require connection to the return or pressurized side of your pump, hence their name. Also known as booster pump cleaners, they draw power from the water that is being pumped back into the pool. This pressurized water can drive the wheels and produce suction to suck up debris.
A pressure-side pool vacuum comes with its own filter bag. Hence, it can reduce wear and tear on your pool filter. It also does not require you to backwash the filter once your pool is vacuumed.
But since it still relies on your water pump, it can increase your electric bill.
Robotic Pool Vacuum Cleaner
Robotic vacuum cleaners are independent cleaning machines, making them the most convenient among all types of pool vacuums.
Robotic pool cleaners do not require a connection to your water pool pump or skimmer. Instead, they have built-in motors with smart software to produce powerful suction for keeping your pool clean. Some models also have scrubbing brushes to remove stubborn stains. All these pool contaminants are collected into a separate filter bag, which you can clean later on.
Robotic pool cleaners are also easy to use. They are literally plug-and-play. Once you have programmed them, you can simply plug them into a socket and drop them in the water. Leave them alone and return a few hours later to see your entire pool cleaned.
However, all these benefits come at a high price tag. But if you have the budget, you will find robotic vacuum cleaners worth it.
How Do You Hook Up A Pool Vacuum?
You have probably noticed that both manual and automatic pool cleaners require a connection to other pool equipment for power. So if you want to learn how to hook a pool vacuum, here is a step-by-step guide.
First, switch off your pump to end its water circulation temporarily.
Then, you must connect the vacuum to the pump. The exact attachment location will depend on the type of your pool vacuum. If you have a manual or suction-side vacuum, attach it to the outlet. But those with a pressure-side cleaner must connect it to the inlet where water flows into the pool.
After that, plunge the hoses into the water. Make sure they are fully submerged to prevent air from escaping the lines. Once done, you can attach them to the vacuum hose underwater.
Turn on the pump to use the automatic pool vacuums for your cleaning needs.
If you own a robotic pool cleaner, you will need to follow a different set of instructions to hook it up. Start with connecting the automatic pool cleaner to the nearest wall outlet. Then, put the storage dock near the edge of the pool.
Choose your desired cleaning schedule. Once done, you can expect robotic pool cleaners to turn on and enter the pool automatically.
After the pool has been vacuumed, you can opt to clean the filters and brushes to keep the robotic cleaner in the utmost condition.
How Often Should You Vacuum Your Pool?
If you use your pool every day, it is best to clean it with a pool vacuum regularly. Those who own a robotic vacuum can even opt to run it daily since the device does not need electricity. But if you own a different type of vacuum, you can limit cleaning to every week.
Feel free to adjust the cleaning frequency, depending on how often you use the pool or your free schedule.
However, avoid leaving your swimming pool for too long because algae will bloom. It can also cause clogged pump and pool filter, which eventually lead to overheating.
Do You Remove the Skimmer Basket When Vacuuming a Pool?
When using a pressure-side vacuum or robotic model, you can leave the pool skimmer basket in while vacuuming the swimming pool.
However, you need to remove the skimmer basket if you use a suction-side pool cleaner. That is because this pool vacuum work with the pump’s suction power to pull debris into the filter. So if you leave the basket in, it will be in the way and affect the cleaning process.
With that said, you can place the basket back into the skimmer once the pool maintenance is done. Doing so will prevent the pump from clogging and rattling. It is also an effective way to prevent large debris from jamming and overheating the pool filter system.
What Setting Should My Pool Pump Be On to Vacuum?
In general, you do not have to adjust your pump unless it offers a speed setting for more powerful suction.
If it does, you can use the regular “Filter” setting for routine vacuuming. This pump setting is powerful enough to suck in light to moderate sediment levels.
Those who need to clean larger particles can set the pump to the “Waste” position.
Can You Vacuum a Pool Without a Pump?
You can still vacuum a pool without using a pump. However, it would be difficult unless you are familiar with the right tools and techniques.
One of the most popular ways to clean a pool without a pump is to use a long hose. Connect it to the pool vacuum and submerge it in the water. Then, turn on your faucet or any water source to allow water to flow through the hose. It will create a powerful enough suction to pick up pool debris.
Can You Leave The Vacuum in the Pool?
Yes, you can leave the vacuum cleaner in the pool, but it is not recommended. Prolonged exposure to corrosive chemicals in the water can damage the pool vacuum. It can also cause clogging, which ultimately affects the performance of the pool cleaners.
Is A Robotic Vacuum Cleaner Worth It?
It depends on your needs and personal preferences. If you do not have the time or energy to vacuum your pool manually, then you will find the automatic and smart capabilities of a robot vacuum worth it. You can also expect them to clean hard-to-reach areas of your pool with minimal effort on your part.
Conclusion
I hope this article helped you understand the workings behind pool cleaners! To reiterate quickly, there are different types of pool vacuums available today. Manual, suction-side, and pressure-side pool cleaners depend on a water pump to suck in debris. Meanwhile, robotic vacuums are automatic pool cleaners that rely on electrical motors and advanced algorithms.
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