How to vacuum above ground pool with sand filter? If you want to keep the above-ground pool squeaky clean, vacuuming with a sand filter is a great way to do it. It’s a given that above-ground will accumulate dirt and require frequent cleaning and vacuuming.
Above-ground pool owners need to have it regularly cleaned during the swimming season. Also, vacuuming with a sand filter keeps the water crystal clear, prevents debris build-up, and suppresses algae growth. Luckily, cleaning the above-ground pool is fairly easy and can be completed within a few hours.
How to Vacuum Above Ground Pool with Sand Filter?
Cleaning the pool is a routine task, whether you own an in-ground or above-ground pool. If the pool is moderately dirty, use the ‘Filter’ setting on the vacuum with a sand filter.
If you have been vacuuming for the first time, this step-by-step guide will help you with the cleaning process.
Prep
Before you fire up the vacuum, brush the sides of the pool as well as get rid of all the debris and leaves floating on the pool surface. Using a pool skimmer and garden rake will help you get rid of any floating elements.
It is best to empty the skimmer and pump before vacuuming to have maximum available suction. Preparing the pool will minimize potential damage and result in efficient cleaning.
In addition, use a pool net to pick up large particles of dirt and floating elements from the bottom of the pool. Often, stones and leaves clog the filter basket which affects the efficiency of the vacuum.
Attach the Vac Hose to the Vacuum Head
After prepping the pool, connect the vacuum head to the vac hose and pool pole. After attaching the vacuum head, pole, and hose, move on to the next step.
Attach The Hose to the Vacuum
Straighten out the hose and attach it to the fitting on top of the assembled vacuum head. Insert the vacuum into the water next to the skimmer until it reaches the bottom of the pool.
Fill in Water and Expel Air
After lowering the vacuum head in the water, push down the rest of the hose vertically into the water. This will allow air to be expelled as the hose is filled with water and is slowly submerged under water.
To avoid introducing air into the system, make sure to fully submerge the hose and gradually move towards the vacuum plate.
Attach Vacuum Plate to Skimmer
If it was primed correctly, water should start coming out of the end of the hose where the vacuum plate is located. Now, swiftly attach the vacuum plate to the skimmer to minimize the entry of air into the hose.
Adjust Settings and Start the System
Check the existing setting, if it is not already set to ‘Filter’, move the multiport valve to Filter settings. If the pool is extremely dirty, it should be set to Waste settings.
After turning on the system, give it some time for the pressure to stabilize and the pump to re-prime.
Start Vacuuming
Use the steer to gradually move the vacuum back and forth along the bottom of the pool. Vacuum using long and gentle strokes in order to not disturb the debris gathered at the bottom of the pool. If you move the vacuum quickly, the dirt will go into suspension in the water and settle at the bottom again after you’re done vacuuming.
It is ideal to start at the corner and move along the side before making your way to the middle of the pool. Remember to move at the correct speed and make sure to not create waves and move around the dirt.
Keep Monitoring the Pump Motor
Keep checking the vacuum’s pump motor, if it sounds strange. Turn it off, empty the basket, and start the system back on.
Remove the Vacuum From the Pool
Once cleaned, de-attach the skimmer or suction port from the pump. When the vacuum end of the hose rises to the surface near the skimmer’s mouth, make sure to switch off your system immediately.
This prevents the intake of air and ensures that any debris previously sucked up doesn’t re-enter the pool when it’s turned off. Now, remove the hose, vacuum plate, and vacuum as well as empty the skimmer basket.
How to Vacuum Above-Ground Pools Using Waste Setting?
If the pool has too much dirt, the Filter setting would not be as effective. While most of the cleaning steps remain the same, a pool owner has to move the multiport valve to Waste settings, bypass the filter, and pump the water to waste.
When the Waste setting is turned on, water levels quickly drop, make sure the level of water does not drop below the level of the skimmer.
Frequently Asked Question
What setting do you vacuum an above-ground pool with a sand filter?
You can keep your multiport valve filter set to “Filter” when it comes to light vacuuming. However, for more extensive cleaning and when dealing with a larger amount of debris, switch your filter system to the “Waste” setting.
How often should you vacuum an above-ground pool?
Vacuuming an above-ground pool once a week is sufficient to keep it sparkling clean. Make sure to perform other maintenance tasks including backwashing and chemical level checks along with weekly cleanings.
Conclusion
Lastly, once you’ve followed these steps to vacuum your above-ground pool using a sand filter, you’ll be able to enjoy a clean and sparkling pool all season long. Remember to regularly maintain your pool and check the water chemistry to keep it in top shape.
