How to set up and run your Intex pool vacuum
An Intex pool vacuum works by creating suction that pulls debris from the pool floor and walls into a collection bag or cartridge. The vacuum connects to your pool's filtration system through a hose, and most models run on either manual operation (you push it across the floor) or automatic operation (it moves on its own). Setup takes about 15 minutes and requires only a hose, the vacuum head, and a connection to your pool pump.
The vacuum does not work without water flow from your pump. Your pump must be running and set to the correct valve position before you start vacuuming. If your pump is off or the valve is set wrong, the vacuum will not move or collect debris.
Key Takeaways
- Your pool pump must be running and the multiport valve set to "Filter" mode before you start vacuuming, or the vacuum will not work.
- The vacuum hose must be completely filled with water before you attach it to the pump intake, or air pockets will break the suction.
- Manual vacuums require you to push them slowly across the pool floor; automatic models move on their own but need the pump running at full speed.
- Empty the collection bag or rinse the cartridge after each use, because a full bag reduces suction and can damage the pump.
- Most Intex vacuums work with pools 15 feet or smaller; larger pools need a separate pump system or a commercial-grade vacuum.
Filling the hose with water before you connect it
Air inside the hose will break the suction and stop the vacuum from working. Before you attach the hose to your pump, you must fill it completely with water. Lay the hose on the pool deck, submerge one end in the pool, and hold the other end above the water. Water will flow down the hose by gravity. Once water reaches the end you are holding, pinch that end closed with your hand to trap the water inside.
Keep the hose pinched and carry it to the pump intake valve. Attach the hose fitting to the pump intake (the valve labeled "In" or marked with an arrow pointing inward). Release your pinch as soon as the fitting is tight. If water leaks out, tighten the fitting by hand or with a wrench until the leak stops. Do not over-tighten, because you will crack the fitting.
Connecting the vacuum head and starting the pump
Screw the vacuum head onto the end of the hose that is still in the pool. The head should be hand-tight; do not use a wrench. Attach the collection bag to the vacuum head by sliding it onto the intake port (the opening on top of the head). If your model uses a cartridge filter instead of a bag, insert the cartridge into the slot on the head and find it with the clip.
Turn on your pool pump. Set the multiport valve to "Filter" mode if your pump has one. The vacuum head should begin to move or pull debris toward it. If nothing happens, turn off the pump and check that the hose is completely full of water and that all fittings are tight. Air leaks are the most common reason a vacuum will not work.
Operating a manual vacuum across the pool floor
Manual Intex vacuums require you to push them. Hold the vacuum pole and move the head slowly across the pool floor in straight lines, overlapping each pass slightly so you do not miss any spots. Move at a pace of about one foot per second. If you move too fast, the suction will not have time to pull debris into the bag, and dirt will scatter instead of being collected.
Pay extra attention to corners, steps, and the area around the drain, because debris collects in these spots. If the suction suddenly weakens while you are vacuuming, stop and check the collection bag. A full bag will reduce suction dramatically. Empty it before you continue.
Vacuuming the entire floor usually takes 30 to 45 minutes depending on pool size and how dirty it is. Work in sections: do the floor first, then the walls if your vacuum head is designed for wall cleaning. Some Intex models have a brush attachment for walls; others do not.
Operating an automatic vacuum
Automatic Intex vacuums move on their own without you pushing them. After you attach the hose and collection bag, place the vacuum head on the pool floor and turn on the pump. Set the pump to full speed. The vacuum will begin moving in a pattern across the floor, usually in a spiral or back-and-forth motion depending on the model.
Do not interfere with the vacuum while it is running. Let it work for 2 to 3 hours, or until the collection bag is full. Check the bag every 30 minutes during the first run to see how quickly it fills. If the bag fills in less than an hour, your pool is very dirty and you may need to empty it and run the vacuum again the next day.
Automatic vacuums work best in pools with flat floors and no obstacles. If your pool has steps, a deep end, or loose toys, the vacuum may get stuck or move inefficiently. Remove obstacles before you start.
Emptying the collection bag and maintaining the vacuum
After each use, turn off the pump and remove the collection bag from the vacuum head. Open the bag and dump the debris into a trash can or compost bin. Rinse the inside of the bag with fresh water from a hose to remove fine sediment and algae. Hang the bag to dry before you store it, because a wet bag will develop mold.
If your model uses a cartridge filter instead of a bag, rinse the cartridge under running water, holding it vertically so water flows from top to bottom. Do not use a pressure washer, because high pressure will damage the filter material. Let the cartridge air-dry completely before you store it.
Check all hose fittings for cracks or loose connections before each use. A small crack will let air in and ruin the suction. If a fitting is cracked, replace it with a new one from the manufacturer. Store the vacuum indoors in a dry place during winter or when the pool is closed.
Troubleshooting common problems
If the vacuum does not move, the pump is not running, the multiport valve is set to the wrong position, or the hose has an air leak. Turn off the pump, check that the hose is full of water, and verify that the valve is set to "Filter". Restart the pump and try again.
If the suction is weak, the collection bag is full, the hose has a kink, or the pump is not running at full speed. Empty the bag, straighten the hose, and increase the pump speed. If the suction is still weak after these steps, the hose may have a small hole. Hold the hose up to a light and look for pinhole leaks. If you find one, replace the hose.
If the vacuum gets stuck on the pool floor, it may be caught on the drain cover or a piece of debris. Turn off the pump, remove the vacuum by hand, clear the obstruction, and restart. If your pool has a main drain in the center of the floor, cover it with a drain plate before you vacuum, because the vacuum can get stuck on it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use an Intex vacuum on a pool larger than 15 feet?
Intex vacuums are designed for pools up to about 15 feet in diameter. Larger pools need a separate pump system or a commercial-grade vacuum with more suction power. If you try to use a standard Intex vacuum on a large pool, the suction will be too weak to clean effectively.
How often should I vacuum my pool?
Vacuum your pool once a week during swimming season if the water is clear. If the pool is in a wooded area or gets heavy use, vacuum twice a week. If the water is cloudy or you see visible debris on the floor, vacuum before you do anything else.
What if my pool pump does not have a multiport valve?
Some small Intex pumps do not have a multiport valve. In that case, the pump is already set to filter mode and you do not need to adjust anything. Just turn on the pump and start vacuuming. If your pump has a valve but you are not sure which position is "Filter", check the pump manual or look for a label on the valve itself.
Can I vacuum the pool while people are swimming?
No. The vacuum creates suction that can pull a swimmer toward the intake if they get too close. Always vacuum when the pool is empty. If you need to vacuum during the day, ask everyone to get out of the water first.
Do I need to backwash the filter after vacuuming?
Yes, vacuuming puts extra debris into the filter and can clog it. After you finish vacuuming, turn off the pump, set the multiport valve to "Backwash", and run the pump for 2 to 3 minutes until the water in the sight glass runs clear. Then set the valve back to "Filter" and restart the pump.