Vacuuming is a part of our daily chores. But I bet you didn’t know your above ground pool can be cleaned using a vacuum. Well, it can. Vacuuming is a chore that requires consistency and moderation. As to how to vacuum above ground pools, it is a process unlike any other.
Above ground, pools are typically set above ground with filter pumps. Though the process of cleaning and vacuuming an above ground pool can be tedious and time-consuming, ignoring it can lead to serious health issues let alone all the money and manpower you will have to put in once its deadlocked with algae and other nasty microorganisms.
How to Tell that a Pool Needs Vacuuming
Once the water stops being crystal clear, it means that the pool is getting contaminated. The water may start turning milky and have debris and other contaminants. If the blue water starts to appear greenish, don’t swim in the pool until it is cleaned. All these are the telltale signs that your above ground pool needs a good scrubbing.
Above ground pools and all pools, really, don’t require vacuuming often. It takes a while for debris and algae to overpower the chlorine and demand a good clean-up. If the filters run as they should,and you change them as you should, vacuuming will be an occasional chore.
As you set up your above ground pool, bear in mind the ease of cleaning. If you place your above ground pool in an awkward position that you cannot get to, cleaning will be a nightmare for you. A well-positioned pool is always easier to clean than a restrictive one. Also, always cover your above ground pool whenever it is not in use. This prevents debris from getting into the water and exacerbating the situation. As long as your pool is covered, clean-up will always be minimal.
What to Do
Choose a pool vacuum that is well suited to the size of your pool. It is also important to be advised of the suction power of the vacuum. Depending on the size of your pool and how much action it sees, you can gauge how powerful a vacuum you need.
Preparations
Before you get started on vacuuming, more likely the night before, remove the debris and leaves and anything that the leaf rake or skimmer basket will collect. Brush the stubborn debris from the surface with a scrub brush and empty the skimmer once it is filled. Once the pool is cleaned turn on the pump and let the water filter. This will encourage the heavier dust particles and debris to settle on the floor of the pool.
Assembly
Assemble the vacuum cleaner by attaching the swivel end of the vacuum hose to the vacuum head. This is done before inserting the vacuum head into the water. Attach the head to the extension metal or pole. Lower it gently so as to not to disturb the water or the dirt lying at the bottom. Lock the pole leaning on the side of the pool that is accessible to the water return outlet.
Cleaning
Fill the free end of the hose with water by holding it in front of the water return outlet. Keep an eye on the head of the vacuum so that it stays put at the bottom as air bubbles leave the hose. Continue filling the hose with water until there are no more bubbles coming from the head of the vacuum at the bottom of the pool.
Keep the hose submerged as you move it away from the water outlet. Join the skimmer at the top of the suction port with the skimmer disc and start vacuuming with vacuums that require plugging the hose end directly into the suction port, but take care to make it quick to avoid air gushing in into the hose.
With the bottom of the pool in clear view from your standing point, move the vacuum head from end to end moderately overlapping each stroke to give consistent coverage. Do not lift the head in case the vacuum lose grip and suction. Vacuum the entire floor of the pool.
Conclusion
A clean pool is both healthy and a delight to play in. Now that you know how to vacuum an above ground pool, there is no excuse to have a slimy pool or to hire the services of a professional pool cleaner, which might cost you a fortune. Giddy up and vacuum your above ground pool yourself, so you and your family can enjoy swimming.