How to Troubleshoot a Pool Vacuum That Won't Sink

Vacuums help keep pools like this pristine.

Swimming pools require constant maintenance and care. Without proper vacuuming and cleaning, pool water becomes dirty and unsuitable for swimmers. Pool vacuums consist of a vacuum head attached to a pole and hose. Pool vacuums enable you to clean the bottom and sides of your pool through suction; dirty water and debris are pulled through the vacuum into the pool's filter system. A primary sign of pool vacuum failure is the vacuum floating near the surface of the pool after priming.

Things You'll Need

• Water hose

Instructions

Troubleshoot the Vacuum Hose

1. Check the vacuum hose for obstructions. Detach the vacuum hose from the vacuum head and pole. Lay the vacuum hose on the ground and insert a water hose into one end. Turn on the water hose and check the open end of the vacuum hose for exiting debris. If water does not flow out through the open end of the hose there is a blockage in the hose.

2. Remove the blockage from the vacuum hose. Insert the water hose as far into the vacuum hose as possible. Dislodge the debris clogging the vacuum hose and push it out of the open end of the hose. If the debris will not give way use a hard item such as a broom handle to dislodge the debris.

3. Check for a bend in the vacuum hose. Spread out your vacuum hose on the ground and run it through your hands. Check for bends or folds in the hose. Straighten the hose in spots that have bends and lay the hose in sunlight. Sunlight will "reset" the memory of the hose and remove bends and folds. A severe fold in the hose is not repairable and you'll have to purchase a new hose.

4. Check for punctures or cuts in the hose. Run water through the vacuum hose and inspect the outside for leaks. Large punctures can severely hamper the pressure needed for the vacuum to function and can be temporarily fixed using duct tape.

Troubleshoot the Vacuum Head

1. Check the vacuum head for cracks. Examine the nipple where the hose attaches to the vacuum head for cracks. Cracks larger than hairline cause pressure loss and the vacuum to fail. Duct tape may remedy cracks but purchasing a new vacuum head is recommended.

2. Check the underside of the vacuum head for blockage. Run water through the opening on the underside of the vacuum head to ensure no debris is blocking flow.

3. Check the vacuum head and hose for a proper fit. Attach one end of the vacuum hose firmly to the nipple of the vacuum head. Check the strength of the connection. The vacuum hose and head should fit together tightly to form a seal and have no give.

References

• Pool Center: Cleaning Equipment