Why is my pool vacuum not working? Tips from a professional | - Houses and gardens

Cleaning a pool isn't fun for most people, and it can be even worse when the pool vacuum just doesn't work.

Fortunately, a broken pool vacuum can usually be repaired very easily. I spoke with contractors and pool cleaners about how professionals repair their pool vacuums so you can enjoy your pool again.

Whether you use a pool vacuum, a robot, or a handheld vacuum, these are the most common problems you need to solve.

1. Check the blockages

(Image credit: Petegar / E+ / Getty Images)

The first thing to check is the inlet channel. "Nine times out of ten, a problem with your pool's vacuum is due to something stuck somewhere in the filter or hose," says pool expert Rafi Friedman.

This is usually a pretty simple fix: all you need to do is lift the vacuum out of the water and use your hands to clear the clog. Pool expert John Uhle told me to "look at the entrance to see if there is any visible debris that could be causing the clog." Common debris that could get stuck include leaves, sticks, or even small toys. Remove it carefully using tweezers, a small hook, or a similar tool. Be careful not to push the plug in further and damage the interior of the vacuum cleaner.

Uhle also recommends flushing the water inlet opening with a garden hose to remove debris. However, things can get much more complicated. Friedman says, "If something gets stuck in the top of the pipe, there can be a serious problem. » To remove these parts, you will need to disassemble the vacuum cleaner and possibly even replace sections of hose.

Rafi Friedman

Outdoor living specialist

Rafi Friedman is president of Coastal Luxury Outdoors, a Florida-based pool design, construction and cleaning company. Coastal Luxury Outdoors provides five-star service to over 1,000 customers and builds over 100 pools per year.

Founding Partner, Discount Salt Pool

John Uhle is a founding partner and product expert at Discount Salt Pool. John has personally worked with tens of thousands of pool owners over the last decade to create an affordable, low-maintenance pool. John has hands-on experience with a variety of pool equipment types.

2. Check your filters

Another common problem is that your filters are clogged. John Uhle told me that there are three main types of filters: cartridge filters, bag filters and fine mesh filters. Fortunately, there is the same simple solution for all three. Uhle recommends: "Disconnect the bag or canister from the vacuum cleaner, throw any collected debris into the trash, then rinse inside and out with a garden hose, air dry and connect to the vacuum cleaner." "You can also soak the cartridge filters in soap and water for a thorough cleaning. Friedman also recommends cleaning or spraying the filter to remove fine particles. "This final step is crucial, especially when there are no obvious major obstacles."

USA Pool Supply Pool Vacuum Cleaner

If you want to clean a pool on a budget, this simple vacuum cleaner is for you. It requires a little effort, but it will save you hundreds of dollars.

Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus

If you want the easiest cleaning possible, you need this robot pool vacuum cleaner. It is controlled via an app and can clean the bottom and walls of any pool.

WYBOT Osprey200

The WYBOT Osprey200 offers automated robotic cleaning at a lower cost. The only disadvantage is that it cannot clean along the walls.

3. Check whether there is air in the pipe.

Your vacuum cleaner may have some suction power, but it may not be enough to remove something. In this case, there may be air in the hose that is preventing the vacuum pump from priming properly.

To fix this problem, remove the vacuum hose from the water and allow all the water to drain out. When you begin vacuuming, make sure the entire hose is submerged below the water line. This ensures that there is no air in the tube that will affect the suction.

If you are using a hose connected to a skimmer, there may be too much debris in the skimmer or the skimmer fitting is broken. Try connecting the hose directly to the pump. This should make the suction performance much better.

4. Check for air leaks

(Image credit: Getty Images)

The problem could also be an air leak somewhere in the vacuum. Finding a leak can be difficult because it requires an inspection of the entire system. Common signs include air bubbles or foam coming out of the pool return jets. Fluctuating water levels in the pump basket or difficulty priming the pump indicate that there is air in the system. Unusual noises such as sucking, gurgling or splashing in the pump area often indicate air leaks, especially around the pump basket cover or its seal.

What is the "shaving cream test"?

If you think you have an air leak, there is an easy way to check. You can cover and operate the suction and pool system with soap foam. When dimples form in the foam, you can see exactly where the vacuum is coming out. You can also use smoke or shaving cream, called the "shaving cream test." However, John Uhle warns against these tests. "Smoke tests can also be effective, but if you're looking for a crack on a windy day, you'll have to strain your eyes to see when the system is sucking in the smoke." Many experts advise against using shaving cream or similar substances. "Shaving cream is a pretty thick substance. To see whether the system will accept them, the crack would have to be right," says Uhle.

If you notice cracks, you will need to purchase replacement parts and possibly replace the vacuum cleaner entirely.

Frequently asked questions about pool vacuums

Can a pool vacuum destroy a liner?

A pool vacuum designed for concrete pools will likely destroy the liner of a vinyl pool. Make sure you have the right type of vacuum cleaner for your pool.

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If you need more help with pool cleaning, learn how to clean a pool filter and the best way to clean pool tiles.

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