A pool vacuum is a great addition to your pool accessories. If you don’t have one already I would certainly recommend one!
Basically, they can suck up all those pesky bits in your pool that you don’t want to be there.
Ever gone to jump in the pool to see sticks, stones, insects, and just general grubby dirt floating around.
It can be enough to put you off even getting in the pool. The pool vacuum is the perfect answer to your problems – it gets rid of all the grime.
However, in order to do so, this device needs to be connected by a hose to the filter system.
In this article, I’m going to go over exactly how you hook the pool vacuum up to an Intex pump.
Overview
For such an innovative, handly little contraption it can be a bit difficult and fiddly to install.
Especially so if you’re installing one for the very first time. This is because unlike similar products it doesn’t plug into a power source.
It also doesn’t really help that installation can vary from one situation to another.
Most models will come with a manual to help you if you do get stuck, they’ll let you know how to change accessories and how to fix it to your pool pump, but they can tend to be a little confusing.
Luckily, most models follow similar rules, so I can guide you through what exactly it is you need to do.
Different Pool Vacuums
For pool vacuums, you can get either manual or automatic versions.
Both need a vacuum connection, so whichever one you purchase, or already have, will need to be hooked up to an Intex pump.
However, how you will clean these pumps will differ depending on which one you purchase.
Manual
These pool vacuums are designed for you to clean the floor manually. They are basically big brushes with a rod that can be swept across the pool floor.
The brush is connected to a telescopic pole that connects with a hose to the filter system.
Similarly to how you’d vacuum your living room carpet, you just drag this across the pool and the suction cup will suck up all the dirt.
The drawback of a manual pool vacuum is that you’re going to have to get into the pool yourself to clean it – so if you’re trying to avoid coming into contact with the dirt in the pool you might want to consider the automatic cleaner.
Automatic
Unlike the manual cleaner, you don’t have to worry about doing any of the work yourself. This cleaner will work all by itself.
You still need it to be connected by a hose to the filter system, but the negative pressure allows it to move independently.
These are typically the preferred option out of the two because you don’t have to get in the pool yourself.
Literally, just place it in the pool and let it do the work for you.
Rules For Optimal Use
If you really want to get the best out of your vacuum there will be a few rules that you need to follow.
- Attachments – Make sure that you have all the suitable supplies and attachments.
- Temperature – You shouldn’t use your pool vacuum if the temperature is either too cold or hot. Your manuals should inform you of your target temperature.
- Don’t Over-Clean – Doing so with clog up the filter.
How To Connect The Vacuum To The Pump
Connecting the vacuum to the pump will seem more difficult than it actually is. Below is a step-by-step guide on how to do so.
- Unplug the pump from the outlet.
- Unscrew and pull out the hose connection.
- Check out the house that is marked ‘A’ and screw it to the hose adaptor.
- Then connect the adaptor to the hose connection from step 2.
- Make sure everything is screwed up and attached and then lock the hoses into place. You can do so by turning it clockwise.
- You should have a free end of the hose marked ‘D.’ Attach the end of the hose to the clamp.
- Then you’ll want to connect this to the upper vacuum connection and tighten up the clamp with a screwdriver.
- Place the vacuum in the water, and make sure that the hose is beneath the level of water so that the air in the hose can be filled up with water.
- Turn the upper air release valve counterclockwise. This will fill the vacuum with water, which creates a backflow.
- Finally, limit the inflow of air by tightening the valve back in the opposite direction.
Final Thoughts
Pool vacuums are great tools for cleaning your pool, even if the initial installation can be a little confusing.
Before I go, I’ll leave you with some parting advice on how to always get the very best out of your product.
- Always follow the operating manual and instructions.
- Always exhaust any air in the filter before you begin.
- Be gentle and patient – being rough will just cloud the water.
- Let the filter run for about 10-20 minutes before you actually start vacuuming.
- Backwash the filter after big jobs.
