We've used the aquabug for 4 years in our 24' AG pool. It works great, but the concern about leaves is well founded....if you have a lot of leaves, vac them by hand.

We found the same problem with the bug not seeming to have enough "umph" sometimes. You need to get ALL of the air out of the bug and the hose, and be sure that the hose sections are firmly put together. Make sure your return is not pointing down toward the bottom of the pool.

You will love it, it's well worth the $100!