About Pool Vacuums

Swimming pool vacuums are automatic pool cleaners that remove dirt and debris from swimming pool floors and walls. Many swimming pool owners find pool vacuums a more convenient and effective cleaning tool than manual cleaning methods. Most automatic pool vacuums clean in a self-navigating pattern that covers the entire pool. Pool vacuum models are available for both above-ground and in-ground swimming pools.

History

In 1951, Ferdinand Chauvier, a hydraulics engineer, invented the first swimming pool vacuum in South Africa. Chauvier developed the pool vacuum for his own pool. The original pool vacuum operated manually.
In the early 1970s, Chauvier's son, Daniel, convinced him to improve the original model for a growing number of interested customers. Chauvier created the first automatic pool vacuum, the "Kreepy Krauly," in 1974. Today, automatic pool vacuums are a common pool-cleaning device available at pool supply stores all over the world.

Types

Companies manufacture three types of automatic pool vacuums: suction-side cleaners, pressure-side cleaners and robotic cleaners. Suction-side vacuums utilize the suction of the pool filter as a power source. The vacuum hose attaches to the skimmer, and the pool pump creates suction to move debris into the pool filter system. Pressure-side vacuums rely on the water pressure from the filter's return hose for power. The water pressure generates suction and collects debris in a bag. Robotic vacuums operate independently from the pool and have self-contained filtration systems. All three types are available in above-ground and in-ground pool models.

Function

Automatic pool vacuums are used to remove large and small debris such as algae, dirt, calcium deposits and leaves from swimming pools. Pool owners use pool vacuums when pools are opened for the summer to remove all of the debris accumulated over the winter and for general periodic cleanings. Pool vacuums clean the floors, walls and stairs of the swimming pool.

Considerations

Suction-side vacuums are the most affordable automatic pool cleaners available. This type of vacuum works best for small pools with small debris and dirt. Large debris may clog the skimmer. The pool owner will have to adjust cleaner settings to get complete pool coverage.
Pressure-side vacuums may require a booster pump for optimal performance. The cleaner has a collection bag, which does not allow debris to clog the pool filter. The bag will need to be emptied regularly in order to function properly.
Robotic vacuums are the fastest automatic pool cleaners. Pool owners can program a robotic vacuum or operate it by remote control. The self-contained filtration system eases the stress on the pool's filter and pump.

Significance

The invention of automatic swimming pool vacuums has revolutionized pool cleaning. Pool owners do not have to spend hours scrubbing pool walls and stairs by hand. Pool vacuums clean a pool more efficiently than manual cleaning methods because the machines can quickly remove all types of debris from every surface of the pool. Pool owners can save time by programming a robotic vacuum to clean the pool without supervision.

Resources

• Kreepy Krauly--More information about Ferdinand Chauvier and the kreepy krauly pool vacuum
• Specialty Pool Products--Sells pool vacuums and provides more information on pool vacuums