Gradual loss of suction while vacuuming

[matt4x4]

Your problem is related to the skimmer basket - having it AND the vac adapter in there REALLY reduces flow, remove the basket and just let the big stuff catch in the pump basket - works like a charm - the only time you have to shut off is when you've lost so much pressure due to dirt collected that you have to backwash - at which time you can close your valves, empty the pump basket, open the valves again, prime and then go through a backwash/rince cycle.
Also, if your water level is pretty low (just above skimmer) it's even easier for air to get sucked in around the adapter, always make sure your adapter seals well, even though it sits in there good, sometimes you get more leakage than other times

[Area Man]

Also, if your water level is pretty low (just above skimmer) it's even easier for air to get sucked in around the adapter, always make sure your adapter seals well, even though it sits in there good, sometimes you get more leakage than other times

I have a vacuum problem that's a variation on this. I should probably replace the vacuum hose, but it can leak air at the end that connects to the vacuum adapter or plate that goes into the skimmer. When the hose moves around, a leak can open up between the hose and the hose end/connector, which is above the water line. My cheapo solution is to run water from a garden hose over this joint while I'm vacuuming. This keeps air from getting into the system and wrecking the vacuum.

Rick

[JohnT]

I have a vacuum problem that's a variation on this. I should probably replace the vacuum hose, but it can leak air at the end that connects to the vacuum adapter or plate that goes into the skimmer. When the hose moves around, a leak can open up between the hose and the hose end/connector, which is above the water line. My cheapo solution is to run water from a garden hose over this joint while I'm vacuuming. This keeps air from getting into the system and wrecking the vacuum.

Rick

Are you sure you don't have the wrong end in the skimmer? The swivel end that's supposed to go on the vac will leak if it's on the skimmer end.

[Area Man]

Are you sure you don't have the wrong end in the skimmer? The swivel end that's supposed to go on the vac will leak if it's on the skimmer end.

By golly. I didn't realize the ends weren't the same! That solves my problem, so I'm glad I "contributed". Thanks, JohnT!

[MassAttack]

Thank you - that's a lot of good information and advice. While I was able to pretty much rule out leaks, there could be more than one cause to my problem. I did find this morning that backwashing more seems to have helped a lot. After backwashing I was able to vacuum for nearly 30 minutes before losing suction. Even though backwashing seems to have done it for me, I will keep all the other advice in mind too. Next year when I have a lot dirt early on I will vacuum to waste, and at some point I will also try bypassing the skimmer basket.

Thanks again.