Vacuuming is an essential part of pool maintenance. Though pools typically have their filter that takes care of fairly larger specks of dirt, smaller specks of dirt may escape the filters. Allowing dirt to build up in your pool is an invitation to algae. Handheld pool vacuums do a good job of getting rid of dirt in the pool. They are renowned for their efficiency and relative affordability. We reviewed the best handheld pool vacuums above; this guide will walk you through the buying process. The guide includes the peculiarities of handheld pool vacs and the factors to consider when buying one. The final section answers frequently asked questions about swimming pool vacuums.
What are the Things to Consider Before Buying a Handheld Pool Vacuum?
Handheld vacuums for pools are available in different designs and shapes. Therefore, it is important to look at certain factors when making a purchase. A holistic consideration of these factors helps us to make a sound buying decision.
Power Source
One of the most important factors to consider first is the vacuum’s source of power. Handheld pool vacuums can get their power from four sources. These sources include battery, electricity, garden hose, and manual input.
Pool vacuums that rely on electricity for their power are usually corded. With this power source, your vacuum can keep on working as long as there is power. It is very powerful and larger than other types of vacuum cleaners. It is suitable for cleaning ponds and large pools.
Powering a pool vacuum with a garden hose involves attaching your garden hose to the vacuum to create a suction that rids the pool of debris. This type of pool vacuum relies on the venturi effect to create a suction that removes dirt from the pool. It is the most cost-effective of all types of pool vacuums.
Manual pool vacuums rely on pumping action to clean the pool. They are ideal for light-duty cleaning.
Battery-powered handheld pool vacuums are similar to the regular upright vacuum cleaner. They rid the pool of dirt through the action of a motor that creates suction. This type of vacuum cleaner is cordless, thus eliminating the limitation that comes with corded vacuums. It is essential to note subtle factors like charging time, charging indicator, and battery capacity with battery-powered cleaners. The battery capacity is of particular importance because it affects the vacuum’s running time. You should get a battery-powered pool vacuum that can clean your pool with one full charge. For example, if it takes 20 minutes to vacuum your pool, your handheld pool vacuum should be able to run for 20 minutes or more after a full charge.
Size of Debris
The size of debris you are trying to remove from the pool should also inform the choice of the pool
vacuum you will buy. The vacuums usually have an upper and lower limit of debris they can evacuate. For example, if you are trying to rid the pool of silt, you should opt for vacuums that can handle small debris. Conversely, if you are up against leaves and twigs, a vacuum that can handle larger debris will be ideal.
Pool Type
Also, you should consider the type of pool you have before buying the handheld vacuum cleaner. For example, you are not expected to use a pool vacuum that is too powerful for a vinyl pool. This is to avoid damaging the pool and incurring extra costs in repairs
Weight
Unlike robot pool vacuums that can do the cleaning on their own, handheld pool vacuums require that you manually move them around the pool. Thus, it would help if you considered the weight of the vacuum unit when making a purchase. If it is too heavy, it wears you out too easily.
Pole
Your handheld pool vacuum may come with or without a pole. Those that come with poles are ready to use right out of the bag. In comparison, the ones without poles require you to get a suitable pole before putting them to use. On the upside, getting a pole for your vacuum gives you more control over the length of the pole and the grip.
Bag vs. Canister
As with regular vacuums, handheld pool vacuums also collect dirt inside a bag or a canister. Depending on your preferred collection tool, you choose any of the two.
Tips on Using Handheld Pool Vacuums
- You don’t need to rush the vacuuming process. Rushing it stirs up the dirt, making it harder to vacuum.
- Go slow to ensure you cover every part of the pool.
- Endeavor to empty the vacuum bag or canister before using it. This helps to avoid bringing more dirt into the pool.
How Much do Handheld Pool Vacuums Cost?
The price of handheld pool vacuums usually depends on the size and overall capacity. Usually, they cost between $20 and $350. Handheld pool vacuums that cost between $150 and $350 are considered high-end. You can get a balance of cost and efficiency with vacuums that cost between $70 and $120.
Handheld Vacuums for Pools FAQ
Q – Are battery-powered pool vacuums any good?
A – Battery-powered pool vacuums are good investments to add to your pool maintenance kit. They are lightweight and clean up the pool very well.
Q – How often should I vacuum my pool?
A – How often you vacuum your pool depends on how often you use it. As a rule of thumb, you should endeavor to vacuum the pool at least once a week. If you notice that the pool does not look clean with the weekly cleaning, you may want to increase the frequency.
Q – How long does it take to vacuum a pool?
A – The time it takes to vacuum a pool depends on the size of the pool. Typically it takes around 15 minutes to vacuum a standard pool completely. Bigger pools could take more time. Also, this figure could be significantly different depending on how dirty the pool is.