Steps to Manually Vacuum Pool

Tools Needed

Vac Head, Telescopic Pole, Vac Hose, Vacuum/Skimmer Plate (optional if you want to use the skimmer basket).

Step 1. Assemble Equipment: Attach the vacuum head to the telescopic pole, one end of the hose should have a swivel and/or be labeled vac head, connect vacuum hose to the vacuum head. 

Step 2. Prime the Hose: Lower the pole & vacuum head into the pool. Take end of hose and submerge in front of return jet to fill it with water. Water will shoot down the hose & air bubbles will come out the vac head, when bubbles stop hose is primed, this will help prevent air from entering the system and prevent loss of suction power. Once hose is primed don't lift hose out of water!

Step 3. Connect to Skimmer: Locate the skimmer and remove the lid cover. Attach the other end of the vacuum hose to the vacuum/skimmer plate then insert into skimmer or remove basket and put hose in bottom of skimmer inlet port. Have the filter system on Filter setting & ensure the pump is running to maintain suction.

Step 4. Begin Vacuuming: Slowly move the vacuum head across the pool floor, avoid stirring up debris. Overlap your strokes to make sure you cover all areas. Take your time to ensure thorough cleaning. When gliding vac head light pressure is ok, if more force is needed then use a pool brush attachment.

Step 5. Empty & Clean: Periodically check and empty the skimmer basket if used, and check and empty pump pot basket. Check filter system, depending on level of debris filter picked up, it might be time to clean your filter system.

Step 6. Brush and Net: After vacuuming, use a pool brush to gently clean the walls and a net to remove any floating debris. 

Step 7. Wrapping Up: Its best to check and add chemicals last after vacuuming. Check for proper water flow, leaks, and all filter settings before walking away. Properly clean up and store all equipment. 

Tips

• Vacuuming will mostly be done on Filter setting, but for filters that have a Waste setting you will only vacuum on that when there is heavy debris and heavy algae build up, but keep in mind you will be drawing your water level down.
• If filter system grabs air, then you have to crack the bleeder on the tank until water comes out. 
• Always Inspect Equipment Regularly for any signs of wear, damage, and sharp edges! Promptly address any issues by repair or replacement to avoid costly repairs. Many people unintentionally cause damage to the pool or filter and tears to the pool's vinyl liner and nobody wants that. When brush or vac head toothbrush bristles start to fall off or there's a break or chip do not use, throw away and replace!
• Keep an eye on your pool’s water level. It should be 3/4 up skimmer mouth, you want at least 1in from top of mouth so floating surface debris can enter, you also don't want your water level so low the skimmer sucks air.