How to Install an Automatic In-Ground Pool Vacuum

Clean the swimming pool filters before installing the pool vacuum. Brush the sides and bottom of the pool and remove debris with a hand vacuum.

Connect the leader hose to the vacuum, taking care to attach the end marked for the vacuum opening. Secure the remaining hose fittings to the leader hose by matching male to female ends and twisting them together. If the fitting is too tight to connect properly, dip the ends in water before twisting them together.

Turn off the pool pump. Set the pump valves so all air goes through the skimmer. Close the main drain. Pull off the skimmer basket. Install the vacuum regulator and reducer cone into the line leading to the pump by twisting it into position. These devices hold the vacuum line in place and should remain underwater and inside the skimmer at all times.

Hold the hose underwater until it fills entirely with water. Attach one end of the hose to the vacuum regulator and reducer cone.

Slip the flow gauge into the open end of the leader hose while you hold the hose underwater. Turn the swimming pool pump on again. Adjust the vacuum regulator to suit your needs. Turn the knob clockwise to increase suction and counterclockwise to decrease it. Turn the pump off again.

Remove the flow gauge while holding the hose underwater. Attach the vacuum to the leader hose. Place the vacuum on the floor of the swimming pool. Add pool weights to the hose if it doesn’t sink to the bottom.

Turn the pump back on again. Observe the pool vacuum as it works to ensure it is covering the entire floor as you planned. Adjust its cleaning pattern according to the manufacturer’s directions to get optimal cleaning.