Pool Vacuum Buying Guide--Hook the Perfect Match for Crystal Clean Water

As summer approaches and backyard pools emerge from beneath their winter covers, pool owners everywhere face the annual chore of getting their pools clean and ready for another season of fun in the sun. But anyone who has manually vacuumed a pool knows it's labor-intensive work. Is there a better way to keep pool water sparkling all season long without so much elbow grease?

The answer is investing in an efficient, easy-to-use pool vacuum . With options ranging from manual models to high-tech robotic cleaners, pool vacuums make maintaining crystal clear water a breeze.

Why You Need a Pool Vacuum

Pool vacuums deliver various benefits that save you time and money over the swim season.

• Remove debris that brushing misses - Vacuums dislodge and dispose of dirt, leaves, bugs and other contaminants that standard brushing fails to capture.
• Keep water clear and contaminant-free - By continually removing debris from floor to surface, vacuums prevent buildup that clouds water.
• Saves hours over manual cleaning - Automatic vacuums practically maintain the pool for you after initial setup.
• Reduces need for chemicals/maintenance - With debris constantly siphoned away, less filtration and chemical adjustment is needed.
• Prevents algae growth - Leaves and dirt degrade water quality over time, eventually spurring algae spread if unchecked.

For pools small and large, manual coverage has clear limitations - vacuums fill the gap for consistently impeccable water clarity.

Choosing the Right Type of Vacuum

With a basic grasp of why vacuums matter for crystal clean pools, which style serves your needs best? Several key factors distinguish the main vacuum types.

Manual vs. Automatic Operation

Manual vacuums demand the most hands-on effort, requiring you to maneuver the vacuum head around the entire pool to remove debris. But simpler functionality also brings affordability in both purchase and operation costs. For small to mid-size pools, manual operation may suffice if you don't mind the extra work.

Automatic vacuums , whether electric- or water- powered, free you from physically moving the vacuum after setup. Units navigate the pool independently once activated, ideal for larger pools where full manual coverage proves impractical. You benefit from spotless results without lifting a finger. The convenience does show in higher upfront and continued costs though.

Suction vs. Pressure vs. Robotic Drive

A vacuum's inner workings also influence its cleaning prowess. Many options exist, but a few prevalent technologies stand out.

Suction vacuums harness your existing pool's pump system to move and operate. While convenient, dependence on shared suction can reduce effectiveness if pump output lags. Confirm your system has muscle to spare before buying to prevent shortfalls. Some feature a supplemental pump for consistent performance at added expense.

Pressure vacuums incorporate their own internal water pump and relieve reliance on your pool's system for drive power. Pressure variants take advantage of your pool's return jets for built-in propulsion. Performance stays reliable, though the independent pumping carries higher energy demands.

Robotic vacuums utilize advanced programming for autonomous navigation and cleaning. Onboard computers map the pool layout and can even detect high debris zones to target over time. Sophisticated engineering comes at a premium, but provides exceptional and convenient coverage requiring minimal effort after setup.

Key Features to Consider

With pool types and operation modes covered, which specific attributes matter most when selecting your vacuum?

• Type of Drive System - Wheels, tracks and water jets all have pros and cons
• Cleaning Path Width - Wider coverage saves cleaning time
• Size of Debris Intake - More debris collected without dumping
• Length of Cable - Go for 30-50 ft. minimum reach
• Compatibility - Ensure it works for your pool type
• Programmability - Mapping, timing settings, etc.
• Energy Rating - Balance performance and efficiency

Factor your pool's unique specifications into these decision points - there's certain to be an ideal vacuum fit. Checking reviews of any model under consideration helps further match cleaning prowess to your pool's needs.

Prepare the Pool Before Vacuuming

While capable vacuums accomplish the actually debris removal, proper setup makes their job far easier while enhancing results.

• Skim debris off surface
• Brush walls and steps
• Maintain proper pH and chlorine levels
• Check filter, pump and other equipment
• Consider using a pool cover

Attending to surfaces, balancing chemicals and getting equipment shipshape reduces the debris burden for vacuums to handle. Pool covers also lock out contaminants that would otherwise accumulate.

For vacuums to channel their full cleaning might, be sure to prep the pool beforehand rather than just letting them rip from start to finish.

Tips for Effective Vacuuming

Installing your new vacuum marks just the beginning - use these pointers to keep it functioning flawlessly for years on end:

• Submerge past waterline for airless operation
• Move slowly and methodically for complete coverage
• Clean vacuum after each use to maintain filtration rate
• Alternate direction occasionally for most uniform cleansing
• Check for air pockets in hose reducing performance
• Empty debris bag before it reaches capacity

Like us, vacuums thrive under care and regular upkeep. Adhering to these best practices ensures optimal debris removal over your vacuum's lifetime.

After Vacuuming Care

The job's not entirely done once vacuuming wraps up. Follow-up maintenance preserves water quality before the next cleaning session:

• Test and adjust chemical levels to meet standards
• Inspect equipment like pumps and filters for damage
• Consider automating via programmable vacuum or pool maintenance system for increased convenience and effectiveness

Vigilance between cleanings stops any backsliding in clarity or contamination. Pool automation systems represent the ultimate hands-off approach to upholding meticulous water quality day in and out.

When selecting a new pool vacuum, first consider your pool's size and filtration specifics to determine ideal type and features. Contemplate automatic operation for effortless debris removal from crystal clear water if it fits your budget. Before purchasing, prepare your pool for vacuuming success through surface skimming, equipment checks and chemical balancing.

Once up and running, attend to simple maintenance procedures for long and reliable life from your vacuum. With the right vacuum matched to your pool, enjoy carefree summers spent swimming not scrubbing!