Is It OK To Vacuum Pool On Filter Setting?

Swimming pools are a great way to beat the heat and relax during the summer months. However, keeping them clean and well-maintained can be a daunting task. One of the most important aspects of pool maintenance is regular vacuuming. But, the question that often arises is, “Is it okay to vacuum pool on filter setting?”

What is Filter Setting?

Before we dive into the answer to this question, let’s first understand what filter setting means. Filter setting refers to the mode in which the pool filter is running. There are three main filter settings:

Filter mode: This is the default mode in which the filter runs. Water is drawn from the pool, passed through the filter, and then returned to the pool.

Backwash mode: This mode is used to clean the filter. Water is drawn from the pool and sent through the filter in reverse, flushing out any debris that may have accumulated.
Rinse mode: This mode is used after backwashing to rinse any remaining debris from the filter before returning to filter mode.

Can You Vacuum Your Pool on Filter Setting?

The short answer is no, you should not vacuum your pool on filter setting. The reason for this is simple – when you vacuum your pool, you are stirring up debris and dirt that has settled on the bottom. If you vacuum on filter mode, the filter will not be able to keep up with the amount of debris being stirred up, and it can lead to clogging and damage to the filter.

When you vacuum your pool, you should switch the filter to waste mode. This means that the water being drawn from the pool is not being sent through the filter at all, but is instead being sent directly to waste. This allows you to vacuum up all the debris without clogging the filter.

How to Vacuum Your Pool on Waste Mode

Now that we know we should vacuum our pool on waste mode, let’s go over the steps involved in doing so:

Make sure your pool is filled to the appropriate level. You want the water level to be at least halfway up the skimmer opening.

Attach your vacuum head to the telescopic pole and attach the vacuum hose to the vacuum head.
Attach the other end of the vacuum hose to the skimmer suction port. Make sure the skimmer basket is removed.
Turn the filter valve to waste mode.

Turn on the pool pump and prime the vacuum hose by holding it over the return jet until water flows out of the other end.
Slowly move the vacuum head along the bottom of the pool, being careful not to stir up too much debris at once.
When you’re finished vacuuming, turn off the pool pump and switch the filter valve back to filter mode.

Conclusion

Vacuuming your pool is an important part of pool maintenance, but it’s important to do it correctly. Remember to always vacuum on waste mode to avoid damaging your filter. With proper vacuuming and regular maintenance, you can keep your pool sparkling clean all summer long.

FAQs: Is It OK To Vacuum Pool On Filter Setting?

1. Can I vacuum my pool on filter setting?

Yes, you can vacuum your pool on filter setting. This is actually the most common way to vacuum a pool.

2. What are the benefits of vacuuming a pool on filter setting?

Vacuuming your pool on filter setting allows the dirt and debris to be filtered out of the water, leaving you with a cleaner and clearer pool. It also helps to keep your filter system running smoothly by preventing clogs and reducing the need for backwashing.

3. Are there any precautions I should take when vacuuming my pool on filter setting?

Yes, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, make sure your filter is clean before you start vacuuming. This will ensure that it can effectively filter out the dirt and debris from your pool. Second, be careful not to let the vacuum head run dry, as this can damage the pump. Finally, if you notice that the flow rate of water into the skimmer is significantly reduced, stop vacuuming and clean out the filter basket.