There's nothing quite as refreshing as the first swim of the summer. And if you're lucky enough to have a swimming pool in your backyard, you don't have to go far to jump in. But before you can make a splash, you should clean and prepare your pool for a season of heavy use. It's likely that your pool, whether inground or above ground, has been sitting vacant and under a cover for the winter season, so it's likely in desperate need of some TLC.
If this is your first year with a pool, the maintenance process can feel daunting, but we're here to help. When vacuuming, your pool pump should always be set to filter, and the ball valve should be turned off. To ensure a summer full of cannonballs, pool parties, and backyard summer soirees, we've sought out guidance from Swim University and Home Depot. Read on to learn exactly how to vacuum a pool.
Step One: Check Your Pump
Before you begin, you should always be sure that the pool pump and filter are up and running. According to Swim University, you always want to double-check your pool filter's starting pressure once your vacuum hose is assembled. It should be well under the manufacturer-recommended level. This ensures a more seamless process rather than a tedious back-and-forth.
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Step Two: Prep the Hose
At the start of the vacuuming process, make sure all of the air is out of the hose. To do this, place the vacuum so it rests on the bottom of the pool, and place the other end of the vacuum hose against a return jet in the pool. This will push water in, and air out. Once the air bubbles stop, you're ready to go.
Step Three: Vacuum
Starting at the shallow end and working your way toward the deep end, use long, sweeping strokes to clean the pool. Be sure your strokes overlap slightly for the most thorough clean, just like when you're vacuuming inside. Rushing and going too fast will only kick up more debris rather than get rid of it.
Step Four: A Final Pass
Once you're done with the vacuum, use a net and a cleaning brush to wipe down the side walls of the pool and clean up any remaining debris that may have lingered or is now floating. Then be sure to top off your water, adjust your chemicals, and test the pool's pH levels. You're ready to swim!
Kate McGregor is House Beautiful’s SEO Editor. She has covered everything from curated decor round-ups and shopping guides, to glimpses into the home lives of inspiring creatives, for publications such as ELLE Decor, Domino, and Architectural Digest’s Clever.
