► An Automatic Pool Vacuum?

We have an inground vinyl pool, 18' X 36' and are considering buying an automatic pool vacuum.  Do they really do an effective cleaning job?  Any recommendations?  Thank you.

The T. Family, 11/1/2008

Automatic Pool Vacuums are really great products.  Not only do they do an effective vacuuming of the bottom, these products improve the water clarity and because they improve the circulation, across the bottom, make algae growth less likely.  I have had three different types:  one that required a separate booster pump, a Robotic Pool Cleaner that operated on low-voltage and a suction side cleaner that attached to the skimmer.  They all worked, but without a doubt the Robotic Pool Cleaner worked the best.  It cleaned all the surfaces:  bottoms, walls, steps and the waterline area.  They are much less expensive to operate than the units with the separate booster pumps.  This is no installation and it does not interfere with the pump or the filter operation.  In fact, it acts as a second filter.  There are advantages and disadvantages to consider.  The costs of the units vary considerably and there are operating costs to consider.  What is in your budget?   How much are you willing to pay for greater convenience?  How much use do you expect to give the unit?  Answering these questions will help you decide on the best choice for your needs.  I suggest that you pay a few local pool dealers a visit, in order to see a range of available products, costs and convenience factors.  I'm sure that you'll be happy with your choice.  Automatic Pool Vacuums are one of those products that can be controlled by a pool automation device.  Good luck and enjoy the season.

Sincerely.  Alan Schuster, 11/1/2008

► Circulation Boosters?

My question is about circulation boosters.  Are they a good purchase?  We are buying a 20 x 40 roman pool and one pool guy said we would need 2 units, while another said we don't need one at all.  We will be putting in a main drain, in case that factors in.  Thanks so much!

Laurie B., Canada, 11/17/2004

Confused?  I don't blame you.   The product is designed to increase the return flow action and help lift material off the bottom and eliminate the dead spots.  You will still have to vacuum the pool, to remove debris from the bottom.  The improved circulation will equalize the water temperature.  That's the plan.  For more information on The Circulator, click here.  Having a main drain is a plus, under any circumstances.  I suggest that you consider a robotic pool cleaner.  They come in sized for pools like yours, you'll only need one, it will vacuum the entire bottom and walls, it has a built-in micro-filter that will remove dirt and not just raise it off the bottom, it will act as a moving main drain and will improve circulation and equalize temperatures, it operates on low voltage, requires no plumbing and is inexpensive to operate.  I hope that this information will prove to be useful.

Bon Chance.  Alan Schuster, 11/18/2004

► Worth The Difference?

I have one of those above ground pools, with the inflatable ring on the top.  It is an 18' pool and is above 3.5 feet deep.  I had an awful time with algae last year because I just couldn't vacuum the pool as often or as well as I should have.  The vacuums that come with those pools don't do such a good job!  Anyway, this year I am looking for an automatic vacuum cleaner for it.  I was wondering in you had any recommendations.  I don't want to spend more that $200, if possible.  I was looking at some models, but I am not sure that I would be able to hook them up to the filtration system in my pool.  Do you know if either of these would work?  Any recommendations?  Thanks!

Terri R., Pennington, NJ, 5/30/2011

Those products are designed to attach to the skimmer, which you don't have.  It might be possible to rig something up and I would discuss this with the dealer.  Otherwise, you could use a Smart-Kleen Robotic Pool Cleaner, which does not require the use of the pool pump or filter.  It acts as a moving main drain and as a second microfilter.  It doesn't throw the dirt around.  It removes it!  I hope that I have been helpful.

Sincerely.  Alan Schuster, 5/30/2011

Thank you for responding to my email.  FYI, I did find out that someone sells an automatic vacuum for their top ring pools.  But, your filter pump must be rated at 2000 G.P.H. which most aren't that come with the pool.  So, I'd have to buy a new filter pump, as well as the vacuum.  And, I couldn't get in touch with their customer service to see if it would work in my particular pool and the pool manufacturer had no clue.  Their customer service number was a waste of time...it was always busy.  Not even a call waiting queue to sit in!  So, I gave up and bought a Smart-Kleen.  It costs as much as a new filter pump and the other automatic vacuum would have.  What I like about it is that it operates independently of the filter, pump or skimmer.  Very easy to use.  Thanks again!

Terri R., Pennington, NJ, 6/16/2011

Good choice!  The filter that comes standard, with your type of pool, is not particularly effective.  Adding the Smart-Kleen will give you a second microfilter and much better water clarity.  Pools have been maintained, solely on the basis of its filtering effectiveness.  Clearly, you will see the difference.  Enjoy the summer.

Sincerely.  Alan Schuster, 6/16/2011

► Controlling Mustard Algae?

I have a recurring problem with mustard algae.  I have followed some of the recommendations that you have provided under the yellow mustard algae topic. The problem does seem to be under control.  My question is, do you think that an automatic pool vacuum will make a difference?  The pool is a 24' round above ground.  Thanks for the help.

Adam, 4/9/2008

It certainly won't hurt.  The pool vacuum will help improve water circulation across the bottom and all of the nooks and crannies.  And that's where algae tends to gain a foothold.  Robotic pool cleaners have built in micro-filter bags that can help remove dead algae and very fine debris.  Because mustard algae tends to be powdery, the automatic robotic pool cleaner should help remove it from the underwater surfaces.  Did I mention that it will save time and effort?  Good luck with your decision.

Sincerely.  Alan Schuster, 4/9/2008

► Dealing With Dust?

We are in Australia and live on a farm where it is very dusty.  Our 48,000 litre fibreglass pool seems to have dust settled on the bottom edge all the time, even after constant vacuuming (manual) and cleaning cartridge filter. We have a salt chlorinator, which I have to clean daily because of calcium build up due to our bore water.  Are there any products that could bind the dust so the filter could catch it easily.  I am also using a skimmer sock that I change daily.  On the subject of the calcium there is always the white deposit on the bottom of the pool. Is there any product to soften the calcium before it gets to the cell or any suggestions at all. Even if I got an automatic self cleaning cell ,won't all the calcium go straight into the pool and lie on the bottom until I vacuum?  Thanking you and am hoping you can help me.

Debbie, Australia, 2/28/2005

Where do I start?  The manual vacuuming is only doing so much and adds the material to the filter.  The wind blows and the problem returns.  I suggest that you get a robotic pool cleaner.  This product can be operated independently of the pump, whenever you want, and will act as a second microfilter.  It doesn't throw the dust around.  It removes it!  This should make a big difference and might improve the salt chlorinator performance, as well.  Weekly, add a dose of a blue clarifier to help coagulate fine particles for easier removal.  It sounds like nothing short of a self-cleaning salt chlorinator will suffice, although you could try adding a calcium sequestering agent to the water on a regular basis.  It might help the electrode plates stay cleaner longer and help prevent scaling in the pool.  Good luck and I hope that this information will help.

Sincerely.  Alan Schuster, 2/28/2005

► Cleaning Custom Shaped Vinyl Pool?

► To "Clean Me Best"?

Have a pool that is a "figure 8" shape and about 25,000 gallons.  Currently have a "4 year old" cleaner that will no longer climb up walls or out of the deep end of the pool.  It operates hooked up to our skimmer.  So many choices, but I'd really like to go electric.  Looking for educated suggestion on what brand and/or model would "clean me best."  Thanks.

Wondering, 5/26/2005

I would opt for a Robotic Pool Cleaner, as they are very easy to use, effective, do not require any plumbing or installation and operate on safe, low-voltage power.  They even act as a roving micro-filter.  There is not much that you need to do, other than a simple, occasional cleaning.  In our Website Store there is a wide selection of models and one of them will be just right for your pool.  They don't just throw the dirt around.  They cover the entire bottom and the walls and remove the dirt.  There are models for vinyl and gunite pools to choose from.  Cleaning up can be simple.  Enjoy the season.

Sincerely.  Alan Schuster, 5/26/2005

► How Long To Vacuum Or Filter?

I just picked up a pool vacuum.  It is a side suction model that uses the nearer of the two skimmers in my 36 x 16 in-ground pool.  It works great.  I have the pool on a timer: running from 8 am to 7 pm; the other skimmer is turned down to almost off and the main drain is completely off.  How often should I take the vacuum out and let the filter run normally with skimmers and drain wide open.  I haven't taken it out, yet.  About two weeks now.  The water is crystal clear!  Thank you.

Michael, 6/24/2003

There is nothing set in stone.  If you're not troubled by floating debris, you can afford less skimmer action.  Obviously, in your case, floating debris is not the problem.  You shouldn't have to use the cleaner every day.  You might try every other day as a compromise between a cleaner bottom and optimum circulation.  Enjoy the summer.  Glad to be of help.

Sincerely.  Alan Schuster, 6/24/2003

► Poor Performance?

I have a fibreglass pool with an acrylic spa. The entire pool area is screened in. The pump/DE filter/gas spa heater package is located outside about 40 feet from the center of the pool and about 25 feet from the skimmer end of the pool. It is all 100% inground pool/spa and is plumbed below ground. There is also a "heat pump" pool heater that is about 60-70 feet from the pool (installed a few years ago).  The pool was installed in 94 when the house was built. I have used an automatic pool vac from day one but over the last 6 months the vacuum has been very difficult to keep working properly (this is the 2nd one in a 10 year period).  I bought a new and different unit to replace the old one.  Today, when I installed the flow measuring device into the vacuum hose to calibrate the flow in the dedicated vacuum port in the pool, I found that I could not get enough flow to even move the piston in the measuring device (which is a clear plastic tubular piece with a spring loaded piston that indicates flow by piston movement compressing the internal spring).  I tried various settings on the valve at the pump that controls the split of return water between the skimmer and the vacuum port but nothing worked. The pump would simply cavitate.  The is the original pump, that was installed with the pool (10 years old).  Could the pump rotor or impellor cavity be worn sufficiently to cause the pump to be very inefficient and not be able to flow enough water to run the pool cleaner?  Incidentally, I tried the cleaner using the skimmer port as well and there was no difference. (still would not work).  The question is: Do these type of pumps lose pumping power with age? I would assume that the answer is yes, but wanted to confirm before spending the money for a new pump.  Thanks for any guidance.

John G., Sorrento, FL, 12/21/2004

I suppose that it is possible that there is an impellor problem.  I am not an expert in this area, but I would hazard a guess that the pump might seize or that the running sound would be noticeably different.  I believe that there are more likely causes of the problem.  Unfortunately, you did not provide me with the filter type or any indication of pressure readings.  I suggest that you check the return flow.  If it is not strong, that would be indicative of high filter pressure and the causes could include:  Clogged pump strainer basket, blockage on the lines or clogged filtration media.  If you have a sand filter, it may have been affected by high levels of calcium hardness.  You might need to replace the sand.  If you have a cartridge filter, it may have been affected by calcium deposits and may not have the proper porosity.  In this case, I suggest that you replace the cartridge - you should replace the cartridges periodically or at the very least clean them by soaking overnight in an acidic cleaning solution.  High pressure is indicative of inadequate water flow through the filter and would explain the problem with the automatic pool cleaner.  There is one type of cleaner that would have solved many of your problems:  the robotic pool cleaner.  It does not use the pump or filter and actually functions as a second moving filter.  Something to consider?  I hope that this information proves helpful.  Best wishes for the holidays.

Sincerely.  Alan Schuster, 12/22/2004

► Which Pool Cleaner?

I have an inground vinyl pool and am considering an automatic pool cleaner.  I would prefer one that is plumbed in, but I don't want the expense of a separate motor.  Are suction-side cleaners as good?

Chris, Danbury, CT, 5/23/2004

The type of cleaner that you plug into the skimmer intake does not require a separate motor.  They do an effective cleaning job.  The only drawback is that you must remove it after each use, otherwise there will be no skimming action.  If it is not a problem to do this a few times weekly, depending upon your actual pool situation, you should be quite satisfied with a suction-side cleaner.  Just make sure that you get one that is designed to work in a vinyl lined pool.  A better type of cleaner, that doesn't require plumbing, installation or a separate pump, is the Robotic Pool Cleaner.  It can function as a second filter and removes dirt and debris very effectively.  I hope that I have been helpful.

Sincerely.  Alan Schuster, 5/23/2004

► Not Quite Perfect Pool Water?

My water seems to be perfectly clear in the morning.   After the kids start using the pool, I notice that the water is not as clear as I would like.  The pool is big rectangular above ground.  I'm not sure about the size.  I test the water and can find nothing that needs to be corrected.  The next day everything is fine and it starts all over again.  How can I avoid this problem?

Sandy A., 7/23/2003

Having a group of kids jumping into the pool and swimming about is apparently stirring up some silt on the bottom.  This fine silt is causing the change in the water's appearance.  Make sure that the filter is operating during these periods.  Filters can't remove silt from the bottom.  However, once the swimmers raise the silt, it can be filtered out and the problem will slowly get better.  If you don't have an automatic pool cleaner, it is something to consider.   It is an especially important, in the case of a large above ground pool.  Adding a Robotic Pool Cleaner will act as a moving filter and will vacuum the bottom and remove the silt.  It is best to do this before the kids jump in.  You might try to vacuum more often, again in the morning before the kids stir things up.  Lastly, you should try using a quality "Blue" Clarifier, after the water has been stirred up:  these products can help remove fine, suspended particles, by increasing the filter efficiency.  Sounds like the kids are enjoying the pool.  Have a good summer!

Sincerely.  Alan Schuster, 7/23/2003

► Pool Circulation Concerns?

DEAR ALAN, WE INSTALLED A POOL CLEANER WITH ITS OWN BOOSTER PUMP IN OUR NEW POOL.  IT'S TRULY AMAZING IT'S ALMOST AS IF IT'S  ALIVE AND INTELLIGENT. MY POOL GUY INSTALLED IT BETWEEN THE CARTRIDGE FILTER AND THE HEATER. THE TEMP RISE ACROSS THE HEATER IS NOT ABOVE NORMAL, SO I DON'T THINK IT WILL HARM THE HEATER BY STARVING IT .  THE WAY SOME OF THESE VINYL POOLS ARE MADE ALL THE RETURNS AND SKIMMERS ARE ALL UP SO HIGH THAT IT SEEMS THAT ONLY THE TOP THIRD OF THE POOL GETS FILTERED AND HEATED.  I WOULD HAVE HOPED TO HAVE THE CLEANER DISTRIBUTE FRESH HEATED WATER TO THE BOTTOM OF THE POOL AND HELP TO EVENLY HEAT AND FILTER IT.  THE POOL IS ONLY MODERATELY USED AND IT'S ABOUT 24,000 GALLONS. HOW LONG SHOULD I CYCLE THE AUTO CLEANER?  SHOULD I ALSO CYCLE THE FILTER PUMP? AND LASTLY, SHOULD I RE-PIPE THE BOOSTER PUMP TO THE OUTLET OF THE POOL HEATER OR AM I JUST THINKING TO MUCH?  THANKS.

GEORGE C., CATSKILL, NY, 5/25/2004

It doesn't sound like you have a main drain.  It would have provided better top to bottom circulation.  The pool cleaner will function as a moving main drain.  Pool cleaners normally are not operated daily, but as needed or several times weekly.  You could operate it a few hours daily, to help turn the water over.  The filter should be on a timer and operate 6-12 hours daily, depending upon individual circumstances.  I don't think you have to do anything with the booster pump location.  To improve circulation, try pointing one return downward.  Even better would be to add The Circulator.  These inexpensive, easy-to-install devices can boost the circulation by as much as 1500%.  I hope the suggestions help.  Enjoy the season.

Sincerely.  Alan Schuster, 5/25/2004

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► Algaecide:  To Use Or Not To Use?

I have never used an algaecide in my new above ground pool and have had no problems to date.   My friends with pools, all seem to use algaecides and chlorine.  Is it a good idea to use algaecide?  Just wondering.

Jeff E., Lakeland, NJ, 8/2/2004

The best way to use an algaecide is to add it before you have a problem!  That way, it can help you avoid a problem.  Chlorine levels rise and fall during the course of the day, depending upon chemical additions and bather usage.  When the sanitizer levels drops too low, algae can begin to grow.   If an algaecide is present, it just might keep the algae under control, until an adequate sanitizer level is restored.  Both above ground and inground pools should use algaecides.  However, the choices may differ because of the materials of construction.  Your above ground pool does not have a main drain and means the water circulation is not very good across the bottom.  Consider adding an automatic pool cleaner:  it will act as a moving main drain and help avoid conditions favorable to algae growth.  Robotic Pool Cleaners have models that are designed for use in aboveground and inground pools and do an excellent cleaning job and make algae growth less likely.  I hope that I have been of assistance.

Sincerely.  Alan Schuster, 8/2/2004

► Tough Choosing?

Great website.  There seems to so many pool vacuums out there.  Do you have a preference?  Why?  Thanks.

Austin, 1/11/2005

You're right there are lots to choose from.  Suction-side cleaners are less expensive, but remove the skimmers from being able to be used, while the vacuuming is being performed.  Some vacuums require a separate booster pump and add to the operating costs.  Robotic pool cleaners cover the entire pool, operate inexpensively on low voltage, require no installation, do not interfere with pool filtration, act as a moving main drain and microfilter the water.  I hope that this information proves helpful.

Sincerely.  Alan Schuster, 1/11/2005

► Foggy Brown Pool Water?

I have a problem with my pool.  It is 15 X 30.  I have a brown mist on the pool floor.  I checked with my test kit and everything seems to be fine.  I check the water and it is clear.  I, then, tried to vacuum the pool and the floor cleans up.  The water gets foggy and then come morning time, the brown settles back to the pool floor.  What is it and what can I do?  Please e-mail me.

Anthony P., Brooklyn, NY, 6/30/2003

What you are describing is silt:  fine particles that settle to the bottom.  These particles can be minerals, dead algae, debris, etc.  Without a main drain, it can be difficult to remove the silt.   Make sure that you operate the filter during periods of activity.  That way, the filter will have a chance to remove the particles that are lifted off the bottom.   Try adding a "Blue" Clarifier.  These products will help coagulate particles and make their removal more efficient.   Is the filter operating properly and for long enough periods?  If you have a sand filter, do not backwash too frequently - usually only if the pressure is too high.  Try vacuuming before the pool is used in the morning.  An automatic pool vacuum will easily remove and control the silt.  Something to consider?  When I lived in Brooklyn (Bensonhurst) pools were rare, but there were plenty of trees.  I hope that I have been helpful.

Sincerely.  Alan Schuster, 6/30/2003

► Low Voltage Pool Cleaner?

My friend has an automatic cleaner that he says operates on low voltage.  Is it really safe?  I am looking to get one for my inground pool.  Please advise.  Thank you.

Ellen H., 7/7/2003

Normally water and electricity do not mix.  In this case, all of the electrical components have been designed for underwater use.  In addition, as added protection the cleaner must only be plugged into a receptacle that is protected with a Ground Fault Interrupter (GFI).  The robotic pool cleaners do an excellent job of cleaning the walls, bottom and waterline area, without interfering with the pump or  filter.  I hope that I have been helpful.

Sincerely.  Alan Schuster, 7/7/2003

► All Stirred Up?

My pool water parameters: chlorine 2 PPM, pH 7.4, alkalinity 70 PPM, total calcium hardness 110 PPM.  The main problem when many boys around 20 swimming the water becomes cloudy and after they leave by 5 MIN. the water become very clear.  Have you any answers?  Best regards.

Taysir, 3/12/2003

My guess is that you do not have a main drain.  The cloudiness is due to silt on the bottom.  When the boys jump in, they stir up the bottom and this results in cloudy water.  After swimming ceases, the silt settles to the bottom and the water clears up.  I suggest that you add an automatic pool cleaner to the pool.  Considering your problem, the robotic pool cleaner, with its built in micro-filter would be the ideal solution.  This will act as a moving main drain and help remove the silty deposits.  Another option would be to vacuum more frequently, especially early in the morning before the pool has been used.  I hope that I have been helpful.

Sincerely.  Alan Schuster, 3/13/2003

► Not Doing The Pool Cleaning Job?

Can you tell me how to get a suction-side to circulate the whole pool instead of staying in one area.  Alan, would the pool eyes have anything to do with it?  Which way should these point if it is relevant? The pool is an hour glass shape with an eye on opposite sides at about 1/4 from the end. Thanks.

Tom, 5/3/2004

Take the hose out of the pool and straighten it out.  Leave it in the Sun to help smooth out the curves.  Put it back in and hope for the best.  This type of cleaner does have its limitations.  By contrast a Robotic Pool Cleaner can be programmed to cover the entire pool. The shape of your pool would be a challenge for most any suction-side cleaners.  You want the eyeballs positioned to send the water flow towards the skimmers.  This could be influencing the cleaner.  Good luck.  Have a good season.

Sincerely.  Alan Schuster, 5/3/2004

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