Sweeping a pool, also known as vacuuming, involves using a manual pool vacuum to remove debris from the bottom and sides of the pool. Here's how to do it:
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Gather Your Equipment: You'll need a pool vacuum head, a telescopic pole, a vacuum hose, and a skimmer plate (also known as a vacuum plate or skimmer disk).
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Prepare the Vacuum Hose: The vacuum hose needs to be filled with water to remove air. Hold one end of the hose against a return jet in the pool until all the air bubbles are gone. This prevents loss of suction.
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Attach the Vacuum Head: Connect the vacuum head to one end of the vacuum hose. Attach the telescopic pole to the vacuum head.
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Connect to the Skimmer:
- Remove the skimmer basket from the skimmer housing.
- Insert the open end of the hose into the skimmer plate.
- Place the skimmer plate into the skimmer, directly over the suction vent. This connects the vacuum to the pool's filtration system.
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Begin Vacuuming: Slowly lower the vacuum head into the pool and onto the pool floor. Move the vacuum head in slow, overlapping sweeps across the pool floor. Avoid lifting the vacuum head out of the water, as this can introduce air into the hose and reduce suction.
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Clean Walls (If Necessary): Use the vacuum head to carefully clean the pool walls as well, working from top to bottom.
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Empty Skimmer Basket (If Needed): As you vacuum, the skimmer basket may fill with debris, reducing suction. Empty it as needed.
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Turn Off and Disconnect: Once the pool is clean, turn off the pool pump. Remove the skimmer plate and hose from the skimmer. Disconnect the vacuum head and pole.
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Clean and Store: Clean the vacuum head, hose, and pole. Store them in a dry place.
Important Considerations:
- Slow and Steady: Moving the vacuum head too quickly will stir up the debris instead of vacuuming it.
- Overlapping Strokes: Overlapping your strokes ensures you don't miss any spots.
- Proper Suction: Ensure good suction by priming the hose and checking for air leaks.
- Filter Cleaning: Vacuuming can put extra strain on your pool filter. Clean your filter after vacuuming.
