Using your pool vacuum hose is a key step in keeping your swimming pool clean. The hose acts as the conduit between your pool vacuum head (which collects debris) and your pool's filtration system (which sucks up the water and traps the debris).
Step-by-Step Guide to Using a Pool Vacuum Hose
Properly using the pool vacuum hose ensures you get good suction and effectively clean the bottom of your pool. Follow these steps:
Step 1: Connect the Hose
First, connect one end of the pool vacuum hose to your vacuum head. Ensure the connection is snug to prevent leaks and loss of suction.
Step 2: Submerge and Prime the Hose
With the vacuum head and hose connected, slowly lower the assembly into the pool water. It's crucial to submerge the entire hose under the water. This process fills the hose with water, removing any air that would otherwise prevent proper suction. As the hose fills, you can gradually extend the pool pole attached to the vacuum head so that you can get it to the bottom of the pool easily once it's fully submerged.
Step 3: Connect to the Skimmer or Vacuum Port
Once the hose is completely full of water (primed) and fully submerged, take the other end of the hose to the skimmer or dedicated vacuum port.
- Using the Skimmer: Remove the skimmer basket and insert a vacuum plate (sometimes called a skimmer vac adapter) into the skimmer opening. Insert the open end of the vacuum hose firmly into the hole on the vacuum plate. The vacuum plate creates a sealed connection directly to the suction line connected to your pump.
- Using a Dedicated Vacuum Port: If your pool has a dedicated vacuum port on the wall, remove the cap and securely attach the open end of the hose to the port.
Step 4: Begin Vacuuming
With the hose connected to the suction source, your pool pump will now pull water and debris through the vacuum head, up the hose, and into your filtration system. Move the vacuum head slowly across the bottom of the pool in overlapping passes, similar to vacuuming a carpet. Avoid lifting the vacuum head out of the water while the pump is running, as this will draw air into the system and cause you to lose prime.
Tips for Effective Vacuuming
- Check Connections: Ensure all connections (hose to head, hose to skimmer/port, vacuum plate is sealed) are tight before starting.
- Submerge Slowly: Take your time submerging the hose to ensure all air is expelled.
- Clean Filter: Make sure your pool filter is clean before you begin vacuuming, especially if you expect a lot of debris. A dirty filter can reduce suction.
- Backwash/Clean Filter After: After vacuuming, backwash or clean your filter to remove the collected debris.
By following these steps, including fully submerging the hose to remove air and extending the pole to reach the bottom effectively, you can successfully use your pool vacuum hose to clean your pool.
