Even if your pool’s water is crystal clear and inviting, dirt accumulating at the bottom can be an eyesore and make swimming less enjoyable. To tackle this issue, it’s essential to remove the dirt efficiently. The most straightforward method to clean dirt from the pool’s bottom is by using a pool vacuum. If you find a significant amount of dirt, it is advisable to set the multiport valve to ‘waste.’ If there is only a small amount, you can vacuum it on the ‘filter’ setting and backwash afterward to expel the dirt.
Dirt can settle at the bottom of your pool for various reasons, such as wind blowing debris in, children playing, or a malfunctioning DE (diatomaceous earth) filter, if applicable. Recently, I encountered a considerable amount of dirt at the bottom of my pool after replacing some pipework for the skimmers, which involved lifting the paving and digging around the pipes.
Table of Contents
- How to clean dirt from the bottom of the pool
- Step 1 – Brush the pool sides
- Step 2 – Use a pool net
- Step 3 – Vacuum on filter or waste?
- Step 4 – Top up the pool
- Step 5 – Connect the vacuum and hose
- Step 6 – Switch the pump on
- Step 7 – Start to vacuum
- Step 8 – Finish up
- How to remove stones from the bottom of the pool
- How to remove dead algae dust from the pool
- How to clean the bottom of the pool without a vacuum
- How to prevent dirt from entering the pool
- My top 3 pool cleaning tools
- Step and corner vacuum brush
- Leaf rake net
- Robotic pool cleaner
- Frequently asked questions
Step-by-Step Guide to Removing Dirt from the Pool
Follow these detailed steps to effectively clean dirt from the bottom of your pool:
Step 1 – Brush the Pool Sides
It’s a good practice to brush the sides of the pool thoroughly. This action helps dislodge dirt that may be clinging to the walls, allowing it to fall to the bottom for easier cleanup.
Step 2 – Use a Pool Net
Utilize a pool net to carefully scoop up larger debris from the pool’s bottom, such as leaves, small stones, and other items that could clog the filter baskets. Leave smaller particles for the vacuum to handle, and try not to stir them up too much.
Step 3 – Vacuum on Filter or Waste?
Deciding on the appropriate setting for your multiport valve depends on the amount of dirt present. If there’s minimal dirt, set the valve to ‘filter’ and proceed to the next step. If the bottom is heavily soiled, consider vacuuming on the ‘waste’ setting.
Step 4 – Top Up the Pool
When vacuuming on the waste setting, the water removed through the vacuum hose will be expelled from your system. This can lower your pool’s water level significantly, so it’s wise to add water before you begin. This way, you can vacuum the entire pool without interruption.
Step 5 – Connect the Vacuum and Hose
Ensure the pump is off before connecting one end of the vacuum hose to the vacuum head. Lower the head into the pool, allowing the rest of the hose to sink to remove any air. Then connect the hose to the skimmer outlet or a dedicated vacuuming inlet if available.
Step 6 – Switch the Pump On
Set the multiport valve to either ‘filter’ or ‘waste.’ If using the waste setting, open the valve to the waste outlet. Now, turn on the pump.
Step 7 – Start to Vacuum
Vacuum gently to avoid stirring up dirt particles. If disturbed, they may become suspended in the water and settle again later, requiring another round of vacuuming. Be cautious if you are vacuuming to waste, as the water level will drop quickly. If necessary, pause to refill the pool.
Step 8 – Finish Up
Once all dirt is vacuumed, turn off the pump. Remove the vacuum and hose. For sand filter pools, backwash the filter to remove any collected debris. For cartridge filter pools, manually clean the filter before resuming normal operation. Remember to check chemical levels and perform regular maintenance.
How to Remove Stones from the Bottom of the Pool
If you notice larger stones at the bottom of your pool, it’s best to remove them using a net prior to vacuuming. This is crucial for two reasons:
- The vacuum may not have the capacity to pick up larger stones.
- If the vacuum does pick them up, it could potentially damage the pool system.
Sometimes, retrieving them can be challenging, and you may need to dive to collect stubborn stones from the bottom.
How to Remove Dead Algae Dust from the Pool
After treating a green pool for algae, dead algae will settle at the bottom as fine dust. The most effective way to remove this is by vacuuming on the waste setting.
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How to Clean the Bottom of the Pool Without a Vacuum
Cleaning the pool bottom without a vacuum can be time-consuming and may require multiple attempts. However, it can be done. The only effective method is to brush the dirt along the bottom with a suitable brush—using a soft brush for vinyl liners and a stiffer brush for tiled or concrete surfaces.
Gather the debris into a small pile, but do so slowly to avoid disturbing the dirt. Once piled, gently sweep it into a dustpan with a long handle and carefully lift it out. Alternatively, you can turn off the skimmer suction and open the main drain to sweep dirt towards it, allowing the drain to suck it up.
How to Prevent Dirt from Getting into the Pool
Prevention is always easier than cleanup. To minimize dirt in your pool, consider the following tips:
- Regularly sweep the area around the pool to keep it clean.
- Keep potted plants and other items away from the pool’s edges.
- Trim back any vegetation near the pool.
- If the pool won’t be used for a while, consider using a pool cover.
My Top 3 Pool Cleaning Tools
Here are my top three pool cleaning tools that have proven invaluable:
Step and Corner Vacuum Brush
This tool is excellent for reaching areas that standard vacuum heads cannot access, ensuring thorough cleaning.
Leaf Rake Net
A quality leaf rake is essential for those with many leaves in their pool. The Stargoods Pool Skimmer Net is especially effective at removing leaves.
Robotic Pool Cleaner
Although they can be pricey, robotic pool cleaners are a worthwhile investment. I recommend the Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus, as it cleans not only the bottom but also the sides and waterline of your pool.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you vacuum a pool on backwash?
No, vacuuming on backwash is not possible, as it reverses the water flow in the filter, causing any dirt collected to settle in the sand filter.
Can you vacuum a pool on the recirculate setting?
Yes, you can use the recirculate setting, but it is ineffective as it circulates dirt back into the pool instead of removing it.
Why is my pool filter blowing out dirt?
If your sand filter is blowing dirt back into the pool, it likely needs backwashing (or cleaning for a cartridge filter). This issue can also occur if the multiport valve is set to recirculate.