Vacuum

How to Vacuum Your Fiberglass Swimming Pool: A Complete Guide by Tallman Pools

Keeping your fiberglass pool clean isn’t just about looks—it’s essential for your pool’s longevity and water safety. While automatic cleaners help with daily upkeep, manual vacuuming offers precise cleaning for fine debris and algae prevention, ensuring crystal-clear water.

Here’s an easy guide from Tallman Pools to help you vacuum your fiberglass pool like a pro.

What You’ll Need

Using tools made for fiberglass surfaces avoids scratches and ensures an effective clean.

• Vacuum Head: Choose a soft brush head for gentle cleaning.
• Telescopic Pole: Attach this to your vacuum head to maneuver from the pool deck.
• Vacuum Hose: Make sure it’s long enough to reach your pool’s furthest corner.
• Vacuum Plate: This creates the seal needed for proper suction.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Assemble Your Equipment

Attach the vacuum head to the telescopic pole and connect one end of the hose to the vacuum head.

2. Prepare Your Filter System

Before starting, decide your vacuum setting:

• “Filter” Setting: For light debris, debris goes through the filter.
• “Waste” Setting: For heavy debris or algae, bypasses the filter and sends water out of the pool.

Always turn the pump OFF before changing valve settings, then turn it back ON once set.

3. Prime the Hose

Submerge the vacuum head and hose in the water. Hold the hose’s free end to a return jet to push out air until bubbles stop.

4. Connect to the Skimmer

Keep the hose end underwater and connect it to your vacuum plate. Place the plate over the skimmer basket to create suction.

5. Maximize Suction Power

Turn off the main drains at the valve bank to direct full suction to the vacuum.

6. Start Vacuuming

Use slow, overlapping strokes, starting at the shallow end and moving to the deep end. Go slowly to avoid stirring up debris.

7. Finish and Reset

• Turn the pump OFF and disconnect the vacuum. Empty debris from the skimmer basket.
• Reset valves and filter settings.
• Refill the pool if vacuuming on “Waste” lowered the water level.
• Backwash the filter if vacuuming on “Filter.”
• Turn the pump back ON to complete the process.

Pro Tips from Tallman Pools

• Monitor Water Levels: Don’t let water drop below the skimmer intake when vacuuming to “Waste.”
• Check for clogs in the skimmer basket or pump basket if suction weakens.
• Balance Your Water: Test and adjust your pool’s chemical levels after vacuuming.
• Stay Consistent: Weekly vacuuming prevents algae and reduces strain on your filter system.

Conclusion

At Tallman Pools, we believe regular maintenance is the key to a beautiful, long-lasting fiberglass pool. By mastering manual vacuuming, you’ll keep your pool looking its best and ensure a safe swimming environment for your family.