Vacuum to Waste on Pool: A Comprehensive Guide

October 10, 2023 by 

Swimming pools are a luxury, a great place to relax and, for many, a significant investment. Like all good things, pools require maintenance, and a crucial part of this maintenance is vacuuming. However, there’s a specific method of vacuuming that pool owners might not be entirely familiar with but should know about: vacuuming to waste. As its name suggests, this method involves vacuuming out the debris and discharging it directly out of the system rather than through the pool’s filter. Why and when would one choose this method? This guide will delve deeper into the subject of vacuuming to waste and shed light on its intricacies.

What is vacuuming to waste?

Every pool has a circulation system, with the filter playing a vital role. However, there are times when you might not want the debris and dirt you’re vacuuming up to go through this filter. Enter the concept of “vacuuming to waste.”

When you choose to vacuum to waste, you’re essentially bypassing the filter system and directing the vacuumed water straight to the drain or sewer. This action is facilitated using a multiport valve found on most pool filters. By turning this valve to the “waste” setting, you change the flow of water, ensuring that the dirt, algae, or any other debris you’re vacuuming out doesn’t touch the filter.

The primary advantage here is that it prevents the potential clogging of your filter with debris, which can sometimes be too much for the system to handle. By ensuring a direct pathway out, you’re not just cleaning the pool but also ensuring your filter doesn’t have to handle the excess load.

When should you vacuum to waste?

Vacuuming to waste isn’t a daily or even weekly procedure. Instead, it’s a specialized cleaning method reserved for specific situations. So, when should you consider vacuuming your pool to waste?

  1. Heavy Debris: Whether it’s the aftermath of a storm or merely the seasonal shedding of leaves, there might be times when your pool is filled with more debris than you’re used to seeing. Leaves, twigs, sand, dirt – when these accumulate, it can be a taxing job for the pool filter to process all of this material. Vacuuming to waste ensures that this debris is quickly and efficiently removed without overwhelming and potentially damaging your filter system.
  2. Algae Blooms: Algae are tiny organisms that can sometimes take over pools, turning the water green and making the pool unsightly and unsafe for use. When there’s an algae outbreak in your pool, merely filtering won’t suffice. The algae need to be removed as quickly as possible to prevent them from multiplying and taking over completely. Vacuuming to waste in such a situation helps in removing the bulk of the algae, making it easier to treat the pool with chemicals afterward.
  3. Seasonal Cleaning: When spring rolls around and it’s time to open your pool after a long winter, you might find a lot of debris at the bottom. Winter covers are not entirely impervious to fine silt, dirt, or even some leaves. Before you treat your pool with opening chemicals, it’s a good idea to vacuum to waste to get rid of this accumulation, ensuring a smoother and cleaner opening process.

How to vacuum to waste

Vacuuming to waste may seem a bit intimidating for those unfamiliar with the process, but with the right equipment and guidance, it’s a straightforward task. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

  1. Prepare Your Equipment: Ensure you have a pool vacuum ready and a garden hose on standby. Both will be instrumental in the vacuuming process.
  2. Adjust the Multiport Valve: Locate the multiport valve on your pool filter. Turn the setting to “waste.” This ensures that the water being vacuumed bypasses the filter and goes straight to the drain or sewer.
  3. Set Up the Vacuum: Attach the pool vacuum to the garden hose. Once connected, turn on the water. Ensure there’s a steady flow, as this will help in effectively vacuuming the debris.
  4. Begin Vacuuming: Carefully insert the pool vacuum into the skimmer. As you start vacuuming, you’ll notice the debris being sucked in. Vacuum all areas of the pool meticulously. This includes the floor, walls, and steps. Since the debris is being directly expelled, there’s no worry about clogging up the system.
  5. Finishing Up: Once you’re satisfied that you’ve removed the majority of the debris, turn off the water and disconnect the pool vacuum. Reset the multiport valve on your pool filter to its regular “filter” setting. You’ve now successfully vacuumed to waste!

Tips for vacuuming to waste

For a seamless vacuuming experience, here are some useful tips:

  • Optimal Timing: It’s best to vacuum to waste when the pool water is cool, preferably in the early morning or late evening. This is especially crucial when dealing with algae, as cooler temperatures can help prevent its spread.
  • Avoid Overloading: Even though the debris is being directed out of the system, try not to vacuum large amounts at once. This can lead to the vacuum hose getting clogged.
  • Post-Algae Cleanup: If you were dealing with an algae bloom, it’s advisable to backwash your filter once you finish vacuuming. While you’ve vacuumed most of it to waste, some might find its way into the filter. Backwashing ensures any remnants are removed.
  • Pre-chemical Cleaning: If you’re opening your pool for the season, always vacuum to waste before adding any pool chemicals. Cleaning up the debris first ensures the chemicals work more effectively.

Benefits of vacuuming to waste

Let’s recap the reasons why vacuuming to waste is a technique worth knowing for pool owners:

  • Efficiency: It provides a swift way of removing large quantities of debris without putting undue stress on the pool filter.
  • Algae Control: Directly removing algae without circulating it through the pool system helps curtail its spread.
  • Filter Longevity: By not overloading the filter with heavy debris, you’re ensuring its longevity and optimal functioning.
  • Clear Waters: Regular vacuuming, and especially vacuuming to waste when needed, ensures that your pool water remains clear and inviting.

To sum it up, vacuuming to waste is more than just a cleaning technique – it’s a strategic method to maintain the pristine condition of your pool, especially during challenging times like after a storm, during an algae bloom, or when opening the pool after winter. By understanding when and how to employ this method, pool owners can ensure they’re getting the most out of their pool with the least amount of hassle. Whether you’re new to pool maintenance or looking for ways to enhance your cleaning routine, vacuuming to waste is a valuable tool to have in your arsenal. Safe swimming!