Crack the Code on Above Ground Pool Vacuuming

Keeping an above ground pool sparkling clean is crucial for swimmer health and an enjoyable backyard oasis. But effectively using a manual vacuum for above ground pools can be frustrating if you don't understand the proper techniques. By learning a systematic vacuuming approach, you can crack the code on flawless above ground pool cleaning.

Gain a Solid Foundation in Above Ground Pool Vacuums

First, let's cover some pool vacuum basics. Manual vacuums for above ground pools typically involve a vacuum head attached to a telescopic pole that connects to a flexible vacuum hose. The hose links to your pool's pump and filter system, utilizing the suction to remove debris from pool floors, walls and hard-to-reach spots.

Vacuuming serves the critical purpose of cleaning your pool water by extracting dirt, leaves, bugs and other contaminants that have settled on surfaces or at the waterline. It also gives a deep clean to the vinyl liner. This keeps swimmers healthy and makes pools visually appealing.

Assembling the Right Vacuum Equipment

Having the proper vacuum accessories ensures an efficient cleaning. The equipment you'll need includes:

• Telescopic pole - Adjusts to desired length
• Vacuum head - For scrubbing and suctioning
• Vacuum hose - Flexible PVC to withstand wear
• Skimmer plate - Catches large debris

Check all vacuum parts for cracks or leaks before use. Then assemble them securely, attaching the vacuum head to the telescopic pole and connecting one end of the hose to the head inlet.

Prime the Hose to Prevent Loss of Suction

Before starting the vacuuming process, you'll want to prime the vacuum hose. This releases any trapped air pockets that could reduce suction efficiency if pulled into the pump system.

To prime it, submerge the free end of the vacuum hose into the pool. Position it in front of the return jets, allowing powerful streams of water to flow into the hose for 5-10 seconds. This forces out any air bubbles so none remain.

Why Priming Matters

When air accumulates inside vacuum hoses, it interrupts the constant flow required to lift and transport debris. Air pockets make the pump work harder for less dirt removal. Plus, trapped air scrubs pool surfaces less thoroughly since it compresses under pressure.

By preventively eliminating air, priming allows vacuum power and efficiency to reach their maximum. The pump won't labor excessively, and every inch of the pool gets scrubbed super clean.

Connect the Vacuum Hose to Suction

Now we're ready to hook up the primed vacuum hose to establish constant suction flow. The two connection options are to link it either:

• Directly into the skimmer's dedicated suction port. Use adapters if needed.
• To the vacuum plate in the skimmer box. This catches leaves and sticks as you vacuum.

Whichever entry point you use, push the hose end firmly onto the fitting for an airtight seal. A loose connection weakens suction and risks dislodgement.

Adjust the Port Cover if Using the Skimmer Plate

When connecting through the vacuum plate, you may need to remove or adjust the skimmer's floating weir door. This plastic cover normally sits flush over the skimmer's basket to regulate flow.

To allow vacuuming, remove the weir door completely or shift it midway onto the basket. Just make sure it doesn't fully block skimming flow. Reinstall it correctly after you finish vacuuming.

Turn On the Filter Pump and Adjust Settings

Now power on the pool pump and filtration system. Let it run for a full 5 minutes first to prime itself and create full suction pressure.

While waiting, decide if you want to run the pump at a faster speed than normal. Most pools have a 2-speed or variable speed pump allowing you to adjust water velocity.

• Low speed for gentle overall vacuuming.
• High speed for very dirty pools or meticulous scrubbing.

Pumps that offer a "Waste" mode are perfect for vacuuming extremely dirty pool bottoms or after big storms. Waste mode bypasses the filter to avoid rapid clogging.

Vacuum Using Long Overlapping Strokes

Now comes the actual vacuuming. Begin by slowly submerging the vacuum head, allowing all remaining air to escape the hose. Then firmly push the head down onto the floor.

Use long, steady passes across the entire pool floor. Overlap each stroke slightly to ensure you hit every inch without missing spots. Work methodically around the bottom, covering one section completely before moving to adjacent areas.

Avoid Agitating Settled Contamination

When vacuuming, move the head slowly and smoothly without stirring up heavy debris. This prevents dispersing particles throughout the water. Allow them to enter the skimmer naturally.

If you want to vacuum up settled debris without agitation, temporarily switch the pump to "Waste" mode. This directs it away from the filter to prevent premature clogging.

Scrub the Walls and Waterline Too

Use the same overlapping stroke technique to vacuum pool walls as needed. Position the head vertically and work from the floor upward to extract any stuck-on bits.

You can also vacuum directly at the waterline with careful positioning. This keeps the tile or coping channels free of grime and organic matter that fosters bacteria.

Power Down Equipment and Remove Parts

Once finished, turn off the pool pump before proceeding. Then disconnect the vacuum plate or detach the hose end from the skimmer suction port. Coil it neatly to prevent kinks.

Next, slowly lift the vacuum head out of the pool in a vertical motion. Tilting it prevents water from spilling over. Extract the telescopic pole last.

Take Your Time for Proper Equipment Removal

When removing vacuum equipment from a pool, patience prevents problems! Extracting everything too quickly risks spilling debris-filled water back into clean areas.

It also allows heavy particles to settle again instead of skimming out. By steadily lifting gear straight up, water stays inside hoses. This lets vacuumed material flow normally into the skimmer basket.

Post-Vacuuming Cleaning and Storage Steps

You're not completely finished after exiting the pool. Proper cleaning and storage procedures maintain vacuum performance and part longevity.

Rinse All Vacuum Parts Thoroughly

First, use a garden hose to rinse away all debris from vacuum parts. Blast every inch of the vacuum head, telescopic pole, and the hose exterior plus interior. Thorough washing prevents later buildup.

Check the hose interior by connecting it to a faucet and flushing clean water through. Make sure no particles remain inside.

Allow Equipment to Dry Before Storing

Next, let everything dry completely in sunlight for 1-2 hours. Packing away damp gear fosters mold, mildew and corrosion.

As a final step, apply vinyl protectant to the vacuum head nozzle and perimeter brush. This preserves soft, pliable edges so they don't grow brittle and crack over time.

Store Safely to Prevent Equipment Damage

Find covered, shaded storage to protect your investment. Hang hoses neatly coiled so they don't tangle. Insert the telescopic pole with head attached into a corner without bending.

Proper storage preserves function and longevity. It also prevents damage from UV rays, dirt accumulation and curious pets!

Inspect and Clean Filters Regularly

The final vacuuming step involves checking your pool filter post-cleaning. Even in "Waste" mode, enough debris can accumulate during heavy vacuuming to clog media pores.

Backwash or Rinse Most Filter Types

For sand, DE and cartridge filters, backwashing or rinsing reverses water flow to eject trapped contaminants. Screen filters only need spraying. Follow manufacturer guidelines for your filter's specific cleaning method.

Reset valves to normal filtration mode once you've flushed the system. Check that unobstructed water flows through all jets to confirm cleanliness before reassembly.

We've now cracked the entire vacuuming code for above ground pool greatness. By methodically working through preparation, vacuuming, dismantling and storage steps, you'll keep water pristine all season.

Refer back to these guidelines whenever vacuuming. And don't hesitate to call in a professional cleaning service periodically for a sparkling refresh!