Choosing the Right Bottom Feeder Pool Vacuum
Keeping your pool sparkling clean is a must for any pool owner. But spending hours manually vacuuming and skimming leaves and debris can be tedious and time-consuming. That's where an efficient pool vacuum comes in handy.
When it comes to pool vacuums, bottom feeder models are a popular choice thanks to their superior cleaning power. But with so many options on the market, how do you know which bottom feeder pool vacuum is right for your needs?
What Are Bottom Feeder Pool Vacuums?
Bottom feeder pool vacuums, sometimes called suction side vacuums, are powerful cleaning systems designed to vacuum up dirt, leaves, and debris from the bottom surfaces of your pool.
They connect via hoses to dedicated bottom drain ports or skimmer baskets found on most pools. The vacuum heads feature brushes and wheels that allow them to roll along the pool floor, sucking up debris into filter bags or cartridges as they go.
Key Features and Benefits
Bottom feeder vacuums offer some key advantages over pressure-side or robotic models:
- Superior suction power and debris pickup from using the pool's existing pump and filter system
- Thorough cleaning of pool floor surfaces with brushes and wheels
- compatibility with irregular-shaped pools
- Lower costs compared to robotic options
Types of Bottom Feeders
The main types of bottom feeder pool vacuums include:
- Manual vacuums - Require pushing and guiding the head to clean the pool
- Self-propelled vacuums - Feature motors to automatically move the head around the pool
- 2-wheel or 4-wheel drive vacuums - For improved maneuverability and access
Key Factors To Consider When Buying
With a wide variety of bottom feeder vacuums to choose from, keep the following factors in mind when selecting the right model for your pool:
Pool Size and Shape
Carefully measure your pool's dimensions and evaluate the shape. Larger pools generally require longer hoses and cords as well as more powerful motors. Consider a self-propelled vacuum for efficiency. For irregular shapes, 4-wheel drive models offer maximum maneuverability.
Type of Debris
If your pool tends to accumulate a lot of leaves, a model with dual brushes will allow superior pickup over single-brush options. For heavy debris, look for vacuums with large filter bags or cartridges and ample intake openings to prevent clogs.
Ease of Use and Storage
Evaluate the weight, hose connections, accessories, and storage size of various models. Lighter vacuums with quick-release fittings allow for simpler handling. Easy assembly and breakdown for off-season storage are also useful features for many pool owners.
Power and Runtime
More powerful motors translate to stronger suction for a deeper, faster clean. But they also use more electricity. For cordless battery-powered vacuums, higher voltage lithium-ion batteries provide longer runtimes between charges.
Cord Length
For manual vacuums, match the hose length to the size of your pool for full coverage without needing extensions. For corded electric vacuums, select appropriate cord lengths to easily reach outlets around the pool perimeter.
Manual vs. Automatic Operation
Self-propelled robotic models allow for walk-away convenience but cost more than basic manual vacuums. Evaluate runtimes and coverage patterns to determine if the benefits warrant the higher investment.
Top Brands and Models
When investigating your options, you'll come across certain brands and models that consistently rise to the top in reviews and recommendations from pool owners and professionals.
Hayward Pool Vacuums
As one of the leading manufacturers of pool equipment, Hayward offers a full lineup of trusted bottom feeder vacuums. Top models like the AquaNaut suction cleaner offer powerful cleaning with quad vacuum jets and dual wheel drives. Customers praise their durability and cleaning performance.
Pentair Kreepy Krauly Vacuums
The iconic Kreepy Krauly brand from Pentair leads the way in automatic pool vacuums. Their flagship model, the Prowler 920, features programmable cleaning cycles and a robust filtration system to handle leaves, sand, pebbles and other debris with ease.
Zodiac Pool Vacuums
Zodiac is synonymous with reliability in the pool industry. Customers consistently rate their X-Drive and Cyclonic suction-side vacuums as go-to options in both manual and self-propelled varieties. Key features like 4WD maneuvering, dual filters and extra-large debris intakes allow them to handle even the toughest cleaning jobs.
Other Notable Options
While those brands account for a large share of quality bottom feeder vacuums, other companies like Polaris, Dolphin and Aquabot also manufacture models that rank well for value, durability and cleaning effectiveness.
Installation and Setup
Installing your bottom feeder vacuum will involve assembling components and connecting hoses. Here are some key steps:
Assembling the Vacuum Head Unit
Carefully attach the wheels, handle poles and any other accessories per the manufacturer's instructions. Inspect all parts before assembly to ensure no damage or defects.
Connecting Hoses and Fittings
Securely attach all hoses, using plumber's tape on threaded fittings to prevent leaks. Avoid kinks and ensure adequate slack for moving the vacuum head without tension or strain.
Priming and Starting
Refer to the user manual for model-specific priming and startup procedures. Typically this involves filling the filter bag with water, connecting hoses to the vacuum and pool inlets, and turning on the filtration pump.
Programming Cleaning Cycles
For automated vacuums, set the timing, duration and frequency of cleaning cycles per the recommendations. Adjust settings seasonally based on use patterns and debris loads.
Maintenance Tips and Tricks
Like any pool equipment, proper maintenance is key to ensuring your bottom feeder vacuum continues providing top cleaning performance season after season.
Rinsing Filters and Clearing Intakes
Routinely check and clear debris from filter bags, canisters and all intake openings that could cause reduced suction or flow.
Inspecting Hoses and Fittings
Examine hoses for cracks or leaks and ensure all fittings remain hand-tightened. Replace any worn gaskets or other components.
Checking Wheels and Bearings
Clean debris from wheels, tires and axles. Lubricate bearings as needed so the drive mechanisms move freely without resistance.
Replacing Wear Items
Expect to replace filters, wear plates, bearings and seals periodically. Use manufacturer recommended parts to maintain optimal performance.
Winterizing and Storage Prep
Refer to storage instructions for protecting components and lubricating seals to prevent drying or cracking during off-season down time. Store hoses neatly coiled and secured.
Troubleshooting Problems
No vacuum system is immune from occasional issues. Review troubleshooting tips from the manual and manufacturer website for the most common problems with your particular model.