Yes, most pool vacuums are designed to pick up both fine debris like sand and larger debris like leaves from the pool floor. However, how effective a pool vacuum is at picking up sand depends on the type of pool vacuum and its settings.
Page Contents
How do pool vacuums work?
There are a few different types of pool vacuums:
- Robotic pool cleaners – These battery powered vacuums roam around the pool floor and walls scrubbing and vacuuming. They have bristle brushes and vacuum motors to loosen and suck up debris.
- Suction side pool cleaners – These attach to the pool’s skimmer or dedicated vacuum line. The pool’s pump provides the suction power through the hose to vacuum up debris.
- Pressure side pool cleaners – These also attach to the pool’s plumbing system but use the return jets for pressure-powered mobility and vacuuming.
- Handheld pool vacuums – These battery powered or hose vacuums are manually operated above the pool floor to vacuum up debris in specific areas.
No matter the type, pool vacuums rely on strong suction to lift and capture debris through the vacuum mouth or brush rolls. Fine particulate debris like sand and silt is light and easy to stir up from the pool floor. With properly configured settings, pool vacuums can suck up these fine particles successfully.
Pool vacuum features for picking up sand
Certain pool vacuum types and features can improve sand pickup:
- Robotic pool cleaners often perform best, as they closely scrub and vacuum the pool floor.
- Wide vacuum mouths and large brush rolls capture more sand across the pool floor.
- Adjustable wheels raise the vacuum higher off the floor, allowing more sand to be sucked up.
- Sand-specific filter bags in the vacuum head catch and contain sand while allowing water to pass through.
- Strong suction motors and optimal hose diameters improve sand-picking efficiency.
Pool vacuum settings
To enable a pool vacuum to best pick up fine sand particles:
- Use lower gear settings for slower vacuum speeds to be more thorough.
- Adjust wheels, brushes, and suction for maximum floor contact and vacuum power.
- Empty collection bags when halfway full for strongest and most consistent suction.
- Clean vacuum filters regularly to maintain optimal suction flow.
Vacuuming tips for sand removal
- Use sideways sweeping motions to kick up and capture sand in the vacuum’s path.
- Move slowly and methodically to thoroughly vacuum the entire pool floor.
- Start vacuuming sand in the deep end to avoid kicking up excessive clouds near the pool’s surface.
- Vacuum during ideal conditions – low winds and calm water to contain kicked up sand.
- Finish by vacuuming towards the main drains so residual sand settles there.
Best pool vacuums for picking up sand
Certain pool vacuum models tend to excel at sand removal:
| Pool Vacuum | Features |
|---|---|
| Dolphin Premier Robotic Pool Cleaner | Dual scrubbing brushes, large vacuum, adjustable wheels |
| Polaris Quattro Sport Pressure Pool Cleaner | Turbine-drive, wheels raise vacuum off floor |
| Hayward Poolvergnuegen Suction Pool Cleaner | Self-adjusting turbine vanes for constant suction |
| Pentair 360042 Kreepy Krauly Suction Cleaner | Dual suction for dislodging and vacuuming sand |
| Zodiac MX8 Suction Side Pool Cleaner | Low-flow turbine for maximum suction |
Maintenance for sand removal
Regular maintenance can optimize a pool vacuum’s sand picking up performance:
- Clean filter baskets and empty collection bags when half full.
- Rinse off vacuum brushes and inspect for wear and clogging.
- Check hoses for damage or blockages preventing optimal suction.
- Clean and lubricate bearings, gears, wheels, and internal components.
- Replace worn gaskets, seals, and O-rings causing suction leaks.
- Check and adjust wheel height for ideal floor clearance.
Pool filtration system tips
A pool’s filtration system also influences vacuum sand removal:
- Clean out pump baskets regularly to maintain unobstructed water flow.
- Backwash and rinse filters often to clear trapped silt and optimize circulation.
- Inspect and tighten all plumbing fittings and connections.
- Ensure proper water flow rates for most effective vacuum suction.
- Replace worn filter components like cartridges, DE grids.
When to contact a pool service professional
Contact a pool cleaning service for assistance if:
- Sand remains in the pool despite frequent vacuuming.
- The pool vacuum fails to pick up any or most of the sand.
- You observe leaks, blockages, or other issues reducing vacuum performance.
- The pool’s pump, filter, or plumbing have chronic operational problems.
- Sand removal is taking an excessive amount of time and effort.
Experienced pool service technicians have specialized tools, equipment, and expertise to effectively troubleshoot and remedy sand accumulation issues.
Conclusion
Regular pool maintenance and attentive vacuuming are key for clearing fine debris like sand from a swimming pool. Pool vacuums equipped with features tailored for sand removal and operated with the proper technique can successfully suck up sand from the pool floor. Always clean and inspect equipment regularly and contact a pool service professional if excessive sand remains despite frequent vacuuming.