Manual pool vacuums work by using suction created by the pool's filtration system, combined with manual effort to guide a vacuum head around the pool to collect debris. Here's a breakdown:
The Components
- Vacuum Head: The part that directly contacts the pool floor and walls. It has brushes or rollers to loosen debris and a port to connect to the vacuum hose.
- Vacuum Hose: A long, flexible hose that connects the vacuum head to the pool's skimmer or a dedicated vacuum line. This hose carries the debris-laden water to the filtration system.
- Telescopic Pole: This allows you to reach all areas of the pool without having to get in the water. The vacuum head attaches to one end of the pole.
The Process
- Assembly: You connect the vacuum head to the telescopic pole. Then, you attach one end of the vacuum hose to the vacuum head.
- Priming the Hose: This is crucial. The hose needs to be filled with water to create suction. You can do this by:
- Submerging the entire hose into the pool, starting at the vacuum head end, to force the air out.
- Connecting one end of the hose to a return jet in the pool (while the filter pump is running) until all the air bubbles are gone.
- Connecting to the Suction Source: With the hose primed, connect the other end to the suction source. This is usually done by:
- Skimmer: Turning off the pump, removing the skimmer basket, and connecting the hose to the skimmer port (sometimes requiring a skimmer plate for a secure fit).
- Dedicated Vacuum Line: If your pool has one, simply connect the hose to the designated vacuum line fitting.
- Vacuuming: Turn the pump back on (if you turned it off to connect to the skimmer). The pump will draw water through the vacuum head and hose, creating suction. Guide the vacuum head slowly and methodically over the pool surface, overlapping each pass slightly to ensure complete coverage. The suction pulls debris into the vacuum head and through the hose to the pool's filter.
- Cleaning the Filter: After vacuuming, your filter may need to be cleaned, depending on the amount of debris collected. Backwash your sand or DE filter, or clean your cartridge filter.
Important Considerations
- Slow and Steady: Moving too quickly will stir up debris, making it harder to vacuum effectively.
- Overlapping: Overlapping each pass ensures that you don't miss any spots.
- Filter Type: Regularly check and clean your filter, as vacuuming can quickly clog it, especially if the pool is very dirty.
- Water Level: Maintain the proper water level in your pool for optimal skimmer operation.
In short, manual pool vacuums rely on your pool's pump and filter system and your guidance to remove dirt and debris, keeping your pool clean.
