This article attempts to explain the steps involved in vacuuming a pool. There are several types of swimming pool filtration systems, such as cartridge filters, sand filters, and diatomaceous earth filters. The instructions given here assume that you are using a sand or diatomaceous earth filter, although some cartridge-based systems may be similar.
Steps
Step 1. Turn off the skimmer as indicated on the hoses
Step 2. Start by connecting the suction hose to the body of the vacuum cleaner
Step 3. Fill the tube with water before putting the adapter on the skimmer to avoid loss of driving force
Some skimmers require you to remove the basket before you can attach the hose, so be sure to do this if necessary. Holding one end of the vacuum cleaner beyond the return port is a good way to purge the air trapped in the line.
Step 4. Vacuum according to the manufacturer's instructions
Basically you have to move very slowly and in a calculated way, while you inhale. Use a grid pattern to make sure you clean all areas of the floor and walls.
Step 5. Disconnect the hose from the skimmer and remove the vacuum cleaner equipment
Step 6. Turn off the pump
Step 7. Clean the filter basket and pre-filter basket
The pre-filter basket is the one found in the pump.
Step 8. Turn the filter knob to the "BACKWASH" setting, and then turn on the pump
Step 9. Continue running the pump until the water in the filter light is clear
Step 10. Turn off the pump and set the filter knob to "RINSE", and then turn the pump on for approximately 60 seconds
Step 11. Turn off the pump and return the filter knob to "FILTER"
Step 12. Turn on the pump and resume normal use of the pool
Advice
- It is always a good idea to vacuum before and after the backwash. The latter removes dirt and debris collected by the filter. If you don't backwash, the filter will slowly start to clog, causing too much pressure while it is running. If the filter has to withstand too much pressure, it can break or explode.
- To avoid deformation and damage to the pumps and filters be sure to manually collect as much debris as possible before vacuuming. This is especially important when opening the pool in spring.
- A good way to fill the tube with water at the beginning is to put the aspirator over the return outlet. This will fill the tube easily, without having to try to keep it underwater while you are trying the operation with the air pockets!
- If the pool is very dirty, it might be a better idea to "vacuum the waste". In this case, set the filter to "WASTE" before vacuuming, in this way the system bypasses the filter and empties the water from the pool.
- When vacuuming, be sure to keep an eye on the flow of water back to the pool, as well as the amount of suction you are receiving. If any of these begin to decrease, you will need to turn off the pump and clean the pre-filter basket.
- Some diatom filters require you to add more diatoms after reflux. Check the manufacturer's instructions to see when and how to do this.
- Put a garden hose in the pool when you plan to vacuum on "Trash". By increasing the water level on the upper part of the skimmer mouth, you will have more time to vacuum, while keeping the water in the optimal range.
- If you vacuum a very dirty pool with the "waste" function, it is possible that organic material such as leaves clog the suction line, the pump basket or even the pump fan.
- Never turn the filter knob while the pump is running. The seals inside the filter are damaged and have to be replaced.
Warnings
- While you wash or pass the vacuum cleaner, make sure you do not bring the water level below the skimmer. Fill the pool further if necessary.
- If you do not have the waste function on the multiport valve (such as a standard pull and suck filter flow valve) do not vacuum the pool in the backwash function, as on some filter models it would push debris into the inside of the cartridge.
Related wikiHows
- How to Diagnose and Clean Turbid Water in a Swimming Pool
- How to Maintain the Correct Chemical Balance of Water
- How to Close Your Swimming Pool for the Winter
- How to Eliminate and Prevent Green Algae in a Swimming Pool
