too small to get grabbed by filter while vacuuming?

[Watermom]

As long as your pressure isn't plummeting, I guess it isn't a concern.

[CarlD]

AnnaK,
If it works, go for it! Having the sock catch all the debris rather than the pump's basket is always a good thing.

Carl

[Yeggim]

I have a plate that goes on top of the skimmer basket. The basket stays in place during vacuuming. I do use skimmer socks when I vacuum. Is that a bad thing to do?

I don't any more. I used to vacuum with the skimmer socks in but mine seem take a beating and wear out prematurely.

[AnnaK]

They do prevent a whole lot of fine debris, especially tree flower bits (bracts) and dog hair, from getting into the filter and I save much water by not having to vacuum to waste or backwash. The pump pressure doesn't appear to be affected, the gauge stays steady.

Yes, the socks do take a beating but they really are very inexpensive in the overall scheme of things. I go through maybe six skimmer socks in a season. My pool store sells 5 for $6 and they sell for less than that on eBay.

[AnnaK]

Got'cha! Be kind to skimmer socks

Something Poconos mentioned to me some time ago when I was unhappy with a Polaris cleaner for leaving the fine stuff. The suggestion was to put a wad of medical gauze or cheese cloth inside the Polaris bag to help trap that dust. I sold the Polaris because I really do like vacuuming by hand and the thing got in my way but the idea of trapping what amounts to silt with gauze or cheese cloth is a good one.

In fact, I think I'll try that in my skimmer basket, see what happens.