Using a pool Hoover, commonly known as a pool vacuum cleaner, is a fundamental method for keeping your swimming pool free from debris that settles on the bottom. It works by connecting to your pool's filtration system, which provides the suction needed to pull dirt, leaves, and other particles into the filter.
Here’s a simple, step-by-step guide to effectively use a manual pool vacuum:
Step-by-Step Guide to Using Your Pool Vacuum
Mastering the use of a pool vacuum ensures a cleaner swimming environment and helps maintain your pool water's clarity. Follow these steps for effective cleaning:
1. Assemble Your Equipment
First, gather your pool cleaning tools: the vacuum head, telescopic pole, and vacuum hose.
- Connect the vacuum head securely to the telescopic pole. Ensure it's locked in place.
- Attach one end of the pool vacuum hose firmly to the connection port on the vacuum head.
2. Submerge the Vacuum Head
Slowly introduce the assembled vacuum head and pole into the pool water.
- Lower the vacuum head into the water until it touches the bottom. This allows water to start filling the vacuum head and the hose connected to it. Avoid dropping it quickly, as this can stir up debris.
3. Prime the Vacuum Hose
This is a critical step to ensure proper suction and prevent air from entering your pump. The hose must be completely filled with water.
- Take the free end of the vacuum hose (the end not connected to the vacuum head).
- Hold this end in front of the water return outlet in your pool. The water pressure from the return will push water through the hose, filling it and expelling air bubbles through the vacuum head. Continue until no more air bubbles are seen coming from the vacuum head.
- Alternatively, you can slowly push the hose straight down into the water, guiding it from the vacuum head end towards the free end, allowing it to fill with water as you go.
4. Connect to Suction Source
Once the hose is completely primed and submerged, connect the free end to your pool's suction point.
- Carefully guide the free end of the hose to the nearest skimmer. You will typically insert the hose into the skimmer using a skim vac plate or adapter that sits inside the skimmer basket area.
- Ensure the connection is secure to maintain suction. If your pool has a dedicated vacuum line connection on the pool wall, use that instead.
5. Begin Vacuuming
With your pool pump running, suction is now established through the vacuum. You can start cleaning.
- Begin vacuuming the pool floor using slow, overlapping strokes, much like vacuuming a carpet.
- Move the vacuum head smoothly to avoid stirring up debris, which would make the water cloudy.
- Keep the vacuum pole locked in place and make sure the head stays in contact with the floor of the pool. This is essential for consistent suction and effective cleaning.
- Work your way across the entire pool bottom and up the lower sections of the walls if necessary.
6. Monitor and Maintain
Keep an eye on your pool's filtration system as you vacuum.
- Check the skimmer basket periodically, especially if there's a lot of large debris. Empty it as needed.
- Monitor your filter's pressure gauge. Vacuuming can quickly load the filter with dirt, causing pressure to rise. You may need to backwash or clean your filter after vacuuming, especially after cleaning a very dirty pool.
7. Finish Up
When the pool floor is clean:
- Carefully disconnect the vacuum hose from the skimmer or vacuum port.
- Lift the vacuum head and pole out of the water.
- Disconnect the hose from the head and drain any remaining water from the hose and equipment.
- Rinse all components with fresh water and store them away from direct sunlight.
Following these steps will help you effectively use your pool vacuum to keep your pool clean and inviting.
