What is the best type of pool vacuum for you? It all depends on your needs. This article covers a few things you need to know before buying a new pool cleaner.
There’s a wide variety of features and benefits when purchasing a new pool cleaner, which can make the decision seem overwhelming. But don’t worry! We’ve outlined some key points below, so take a look and see what might be best for you.
Types of Pool Cleaners
Pool vacuums are available in several varieties, with some of them being relatively simple to use. The best style for you depends on which type of pool you have and how engaged you want to be in the cleaning process. Understanding the many types of pool cleaners is the first step in selecting the best one for your needs.
Pool cleaners can be classified into three categories: manual pool vacuums, robotic pool vacuums, pressure side vacuums, and suction vacuums.
Manual Pool Cleaners
Manual pool vacuums use a filter bag to scoop up different types of debris and other items from the water. You’ll need to push or drag the vacuum across your pool floor to scoop up leaves and other small particles. It’s important not to drag this type of vacuum on the floor (or it can leave a scratch), and always make sure you rinse it off after each use.
Manual pool vacuums can be an excellent option for those who have time to devote to the cleaning process. If this sounds like you, then a manual vacuum may be just what you’re looking for. You’ll get more of an intimate experience with your pool’s health and appreciate the time you spend cleaning around it.
“Manual vacuum cleaners are effective and the least expensive option. However, they are very time-consuming compared to automatic and robotic vacuum cleaners since you will have to do all the work.”
– poolcalculator.com
Robotic Pool Cleaners
In contrast to manual pool vacuums, robotic cleaners are designed with a robot that uses a suction system. Robotic cleaners also come equipped with water-lapping brushes that will help remove any kind of debris on the pool floor, concrete, or tile without scratching or damaging these surfaces.
These styles are perfect for those who appreciate the convenience of not having to deal with hoses and filters, as well as those who need their pools cleaned quickly a couple of times a week.
Robotic pool cleaners are great for people who want to get their hands off of the chore or don’t have enough time on their hands to do so manually. They’ll typically move around the pool automatically, grabbing leaves, as well as collecting debris from the side or bottom of the pool.
Pressure Side Cleaner Vacuums
Pressure side pool vacuums use a vacuum hose to clean debris against the pool walls, scraping them off with suction. For this type of cleaner, you’ll need to attach the hose to your vacuum, then push or drag it along your pool’s edge.
Pressure side pool cleaners are great for removing leaves and other debris deliberately, meaning you won’t have to go over the same area multiple times to clean thoroughly. So if you want something powerful yet versatile (meaning you can clean in-depth at one time), this could be the ideal pool cleaner for you.
Pressure cleaners are beneficial because they can get down to the bottom of the pool. This type of cleaner is also able to cover a larger space in one pass.
Suction Side Pool Cleaners
Suction cleaners can be beneficial when you have a small pool. They are easy to use, require little pool maintenance, and leave the pool in good shape all summer long.
The blowers on most suction cleaners are powered by electricity or a battery. Suction power cleaners are designed to vacuum debris out of the pool without disturbing the chemical balance.
They also work well with gas-powered models if batteries are not available. Suction-side cleaners are ideal for deep cleaning up grease spills in your pool or hot tub, but they do not work very well for cleaning steps or stairs out of the waterline.
What to Consider When Buying Pool Vacuums
Here are some considerations to ponder while looking for a good pool vacuum cleaner that can last you for years.
The Pool’s Shape and Size
The pool’s shape and size will determine the type of vacuum that you need. If you have a small pool, there’s no sense in buying a large vacuum. It’s heavier than the smaller model, and it’s more challenging to use.
On the other hand, you’ll need a bigger and better-equipped pool cleaner if you have a large pool. Moreover, you have to pick one with a runtime enough to cover the entire pool. Additionally, because larger pools accumulate a lot of debris, you’ll need a vacuum cleaner that can hold a significant amount of debris before the need to empty.
The Pump That You Have at Present
If you already have an effective pool pump, consider purchasing a pool vac specifically designed to work with your existing equipment. This way, it will be easier to set up and maintain the device.
The Pool’s Skimmer Basket
In case your pool does not have a skimmer, you’ll need to purchase a pool vacuum that has a clean-out port. With this setup, you can easily attach a hose to this port and drain the collected material from the cleaner.
If you have a skimmer that is easily accessible, the simplest and least expensive to use is a dedicated suction-side vacuum cleaner. These are available in both automatic and manual configurations. They’re quick to install, but they use the pool’s filtration system to clean the pool water.
The Length of the Hose and Cord
You’ll need to measure the hose length when choosing the right pool vacuum cleaner. Add at least 5-10 feet extra. This way, you’ll be able to clean the entire perimeter of your pool.
Smaller vacuums may have shorter cords and hoses than larger ones. However, some models come with an extension pole so your pool cleaner can reach all the hard-to-reach-places.
Pool Vacuum Attachments
Pool vacuum attachments are available to help with some of the more tedious parts of cleaning your pool. When deciding on a vacuum attachment, check first to see if it’s compatible with your pool cleaner model.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: How to maintain a pool vacuum?
A: To maintain your pool, start by disconnecting the pool vacuum from the power outlet and turning off the pump.
Set up your pool vacuum in an area where you can drain water from it quickly. Ensure that you have all the needed tools before starting the cleaning process. You will need a garden hose to clean and rinse your cleaner and a small brush to clean your vacuum’s filter and motor unit.
Q: How do I clean pool vacuum filters?
A: To clean your pool vacuum filters, you can either use a brush and hose with running water to clean the filter.
Q: How do I change the filter in a pool vacuum?
A: Cleaning the pool vacuum filter requires you to disassemble the vacuum to get access to the filter. It may involve removing some screws and taking out small plastic parts.
When dealing with plug-in models, there are some additional steps for protection for both you and your pool vacuum unit. Unplugging an electric model will avoid electrical shock when working on it.
Q: How do I clean the pool vacuum bag?
A: To clean a pool vacuum bag, use warm water and a mild cleaning solution or dishwashing soap. The water should be warm enough so that it does not damage the surface of the plastic bag.
Conclusion
Purchasing a pool cleaner can feel overwhelming at first, but with proper knowledge and diligence, you can rest assured that you’ll end with a cleaning system that will keep your pool in perfect conditions all year round.
Check out our website for great pool articles. Maintaining your swimming pool is easier than you might think. Below are a few helpful pool guides. Make sure your family enjoys a clean, safe swimming pool.
