Above ground pool vacuums can vary in performance and effectiveness. Any decent vacuum will pick up not only small particles, like sand, but will also pick up larger debris, like twigs. One way to enhance the effectiveness of your above ground pool vacuum while making sure that your pool’s filter and pump have a healthy lifespan is to use an called a leaf canister.
What Is A Leaf Canister?
Leaf canisters connect to the vacuum hose between the vacuum and the pump. They are also occasionally referred to as leaf traps, leaf catchers, or leaf filters. They perform the simple yet very important task of preventing bigger particles, such as leaves and twigs, from arriving at your pool’s filter after they are sucked up by your pool’s vacuum. Big particles, such as sticks and leaves, will seriously reduce the ability of your filter, and will deplete the life of your pump.
Is A Leaf Catcher Necessary For My Above Ground Pool Vacuum?
Though a leaf filter is not required for the use of a vacuum in your above ground pool, it is highly recommended. Using one will prevent strain and wear on your pool’s filter and pump, helping them to last longer and clean more efficiently. You will find that the small price of is well worth it when you notice that your filter lasts longer, not to mention that you probably won’t need to repair your pump any time soon.
Does My Vacuum Require A Certain Kind?
Any kind will do. Several different companies produce them. Just about all of them are good quality. However, be aware not to confuse a pool vacuum leaf canister with a different item called a leaf catcher that connects to the surface skimmer of your pool. Fortunately, they are different in appearance, so it won’t be challenging to tell them apart.
Which One Should I Get?
The most popular leaf trap for above ground pool vacuums is the BLK Canister Standard, made by Hayward, the company that manufactures the top-selling above ground pool vacuum, the AquaBug.
Other popular models include:
Large Capacity Leaf Canister – Also made by Hayward, this is similar to the BLK Canister Standard, only it is a little bigger. This allows it to hold more leaves and debris, and also enables you to empty it with less frequency.
Zodiac G3 Leaf Canister – The Zodiac is similar to the Hayward models, but it utilizes a patented T-Trap design to collect particles and debris.
Leaf Canister CLC030 – While not quite as widely used as the Hayward or the Zodiac models, this is still a quality product.
For more information on the Polaris Vac-Sweep above ground pool vacuum, or to read more about the best and worst above ground pool vacuums, visit Bob Washington’s website.