Pool vacuums come in several different types, each with its own unique benefits and usage scenarios. Below, we will outline the pool vacuum head top picks on the market and investigate the considerations to keep in mind while shopping.
8 Best Pool Vacuum Heads
1. Milliard See-Thru Pool Vacuum Head
The Milliard See-Thru Pool Vacuum Head with Brush offers spring-loaded locking clips. It is compatible with 1 1/2 and 1 1/4 inch standard vacuum hoses. The triangular head provides smooth and accurate maneuverability. ABS plastic provides durability.
2. HydroTools by Swimline Weighted Half Moon Pool Vacuum Head
- {DEEP CLEAN}: This vacuum head is perfect for deep cleaning of all pool types. Featuring an extra-large Half Moon Crescent cleaning area designed for optimal suction, this vac head picks up dirt quicker &...
- {WEIGHTED DESIGN} Built In weighted design ensures that the vacuum quickly sinks to the bottom of your pool or spa, stays submerged, and keeps constant contact with the floor to create the optimal...
- {HOSE COMPATIBILITY} Hydrotools Vac Heads are strategically designed to fit virtually applicable all hoses. The Universal Hose Connector is designed with two ports to fit both 1-1/4 and 1-1/2 inch hose....
- {POLE COMPATIBILITY} Double reinforced molded handles feature adaptable EZ clip attachment points in order to be compatible to practically all standard sized extension poles and telescopic poles...
- {CLEAN BRUSHES} Our pool cleaning vacuums feature strategically positioned integrated brush bristles that help further loosen & capture dirt and debris to increase your vacuuming performance and reduce the...
The HydroTools by Swimline Pool Vacuum Head Is weighted to maintain proper contact with the pool floor and comes in a half-moon shape. This pool vacuum head is compatible with 1 1/4 and 1 1/2 inch vacuum hose necks.
3. Swimline Weighted Flex Vacuum Head
- {DEEP CLEAN}: This Hydrotools vacuum head is perfect for deep cleaning of all pool types. Featuring an extra-large rectangular cleaning area designed for optimal suction, this vac head picks up dirt...
- {WEIGHTED DESIGN} Built In weighted design ensures that the vacuum quickly sinks to the bottom of your pool or spa, stays submerged, and keeps constant contact with the floor to create the optimal...
- {HOSE COMPATIBILITY} Hydrotools Vac Heads are strategically designed to fit virtually applicable all hoses. The Universal Hose Connector is designed with two ports to fit both 1-1/4 and 1-1/2 inch hose....
- {POLE COMPATIBILITY} Double reinforced molded handles feature adaptable EZ clip attachment points in order to be compatible to practically all standard sized extension poles and telescopic poles...
- {EXTRA MANEUVERABILITY} This vac head comes equipped with integrated wheels installed to the bottom of the unit to help move quickly and provide the easiest cleaning experience.
The Swimline Weighted Flex Vacuum Head comes highly rated with 4.3 out of a total of 5 stars. Inexpensive and durable, this vacuum head is also compatible with 1 1/4 and 1 1/2 inch hose necks.
4. U.S. Pool Supply Weighted Transparent Triangular Pool Vacuum Head
- Swivel head connection accepts 1-1/4" and 1-1/2" hose
- EZ clip handle for attaching poles
- See through body allows bottom viewing while cleaning
- Weighted triangular body or easy corner cleaning
- Full One Year Warranty
The U.S. Pool Vacuum Head sports a see-through, triangular body that enables cleaners to see the pool floor section being cleaned. Also compatible with 1 1/4 and 1 1/2 inch hose necks, this pool head also comes with a full one-year warranty.
5. POOLWHALE See-Thru Weighted Transparent Triangular Pool Rotative Vacuum Head
- Rotative hose fitting makes it easy to vacuum without twisting the hose
- Accepts 1-1/4" or 1-1/2" vacuum hose
- Handle fits on any standard telescopic pole (not included)
- Reasonable positioning of bottom brush and ball wheels for more efficient pool cleaning
- Triangle shape vacuum head is molded from soft and elastic,avoid impact and damage to pool liner.
Also, Triangular and see-through, the POOLWHALE Rotative Pool Vacuum Head fits any standard telescopic pole. It is also compatible with 1 1/4 and 1 1/2 inch hose necks and rotates to avoid twisting and, with its triangular shape, is the perfect tool for maneuvering tight corners.
6. Milliard Deluxe Pool Vacuum Head
- Easy Cleaning – Milliard’s Deluxe vacuum head is weighted so it sinks right to the bottom of your pool and stays there. The triangular shape makes it easy to maneuver along corners and walls for a...
- Specialty Corner Brushes - unique angled bristle sets are placed at the three corners of the triangular head. These brushes sweep right along the pool corners, providing an effective cleaning for those...
- Universal Fit - the vacuum port fits standard 1.25” and 1.5” vacuum hoses and the handle has spring loaded locking clips making it easy to attach to standard extension poles.
The Milliard Deluxe Pool Vacuum Head has specialty corner brushes to remove dirt at all angles and sections of the pool. Compatible with 1 1/4 and 1 1/2 inch hose necks, it has a universal fit and spring-loaded locking clips.
7. Milliard 14″ Flexible Spa And Pool Vacuum Head
- Handle adapter included for use with standard pool extension poles, and spring-loaded locking clips are removable and adjustable to line up with your pole.
- Flexible plastic body curves to the pool floor to keep constant suction on the area being cleaned.
- Weights keep the vacuum head at the bottom of the pool, and free-rolling wheels keep it from scratching or scraping on delicate surfaces.
The Milliard 14″ Flexible Spa and Pool Vacuum head has a 1 1/2 inch suction port connection and comes with a handle adaptor and spring-loaded locking clips. Made from ABS plastic and comprising of a weighted body, this 4.4 out 5 stars rated vacuum head keeps constant suction throughout the pool.
8. ATIE Heavy-Duty Professional-Grade Flexible Weighted Pool Vacuum Head
- Professional grade pool vacuum head for pool owners and pool professionals
- Connects to 1.5" vacuum hose, vacuum size: 14" L x 7.5" W
- Weighted vacuum head maintains contact with pool floor for effective vacuum
- Chrome-plated metal handle for easy maneuverability
- Long lasting urethane wheels with ball bearings roll smoothly
The ATIE Weighted Body Pool Vacuum Head connects to 1 1/2 inch vacuum hoses and is weighted to ensure contact with the pool floor. At only 4.6 pounds, this vacuum head is light and maneuverable.
What Is a Pool Vacuum Head?
Traditional vacuum heads comprise a pool skimmer and pool hose that attaches to the pool’s filter system to help you achieve a clean pool. The pool vacuum head is typically made from plastic and has holes for water to flow through. Bristles are generally made of either plastic or rubber. Plastic pool vacuum heads can be less effective on pool flooring that has any grooves or cracks, while pool vacuum heads with rubber bristles can grip onto the pool liner and decking more effectively, especially on pool floors with grooves.
As the pool cleaner moves across the pool floor, the pool vacuum head picks up dirt and debris. It must be fastened to a pool pole for the pool cleaner to have the optimal reach, as the vacuum head generally cannot freely move from spot to spot.
Check out our post on Wanda the Whale – An Alternative Pool Suction Cleaner!
Considerations When Buying Pool Vacuum Heads
When purchasing a pool vacuum head, be sure to consider the following:
Type of Pool
There are different vacuum heads made for different types of pools. For example, pool vacuum heads for above-ground pools may not fit standard pool poles. Some pool vacuum heads can accommodate pool poles that are not included, while others cannot.
Cost
A swimming pool vacuum head can cost anywhere from $10 to several hundred dollars. Generally, pool vacuum heads with rubber bristles are more expensive than pool vacuum heads with plastic nylon bristles. Pick a budget-friendly option that is the right for your vacuum head and pool type. Buy online for the best selection and more competitive prices.
Reviews
Make sure to read through the consumer reviews to weed out any products with known issues. The better the rating, the more likely you’re to get a quality, long-lasting product.
Suction
Suction is vital when selecting a pool vacuum head. When you’ve completed putting in the effort of cleaning your pool, you want it actually to be clean! Don’t forget to read through the specs of your pool vacuum head to make sure it can handle the clean-up of your pool.
Efficiency
There are pool vacuum heads made to be highly efficient at picking up pool floor debris. While you want your pool to be clean, you don’t want to spend hours making it happen. Search for a product that is efficient, has good suction and is capable of the job.
Size
Pool vacuum heads come in a variety of dimensions. You want to pick a pool vacuum head size that is most appropriate for the pool type you have, as they are not one size fits all.
Attachments
Not all pool vacuum heads are compatible with the same features and attachments. When shopping, make sure you know the dimensions of any pool vacuum attachments you have at home to ensure that the vacuum head you select will work. This includes the pool vacuum head, hose, rubber bumpers, and wheels.
Maintenance
Make sure you are aware of any regular maintenance your pool vacuum head will need to prevent any premature malfunctions of your machine. The more you use your vacuum, especially on larger pools, the more wear and tear it experiences. Preventative maintenance can save your vacuum from a breakdown and from needing any additional service.
Warranty
If your pool gets a lot of wear and tear and relies on a pool vacuum for regular cleanings, it is wise to find a product with a warranty if the vacuum head has any issues.
Considering a robotic vacuum cleaner? Check these out:
– Polaris Pool Vacuum Cleaners
Pool Vaccum Head FAQ
Other questions similar consumers have:
What Is the Best Pool Vacuum Head and Why?
The right pool vacuum head for your pool will depend on the qualities of the pool itself (i.e., above-ground pool vacuum head or in-ground), how often you use it, where you plan to use it, and your pool vacuum head budget. Know the specifications of your pool when shopping for the best fit.
When Should You Buy a New Pool Vacuum Head?
In general, pool cleaners will need to be replaced after several years of use or when it is damaged. The price of replacement pool vacuum heads can vary depending on the pool vacuum head type and brand. Regular pool cleaning can help extend the life of your vacuum head. To keep the bristles from wearing out, you may want to use a stiff brush to remove any dirt or debris built upon them. If this does not help, it may be time for a replacement.
How Long Does a Vacuum Head Last?
There is no set standard for pool vacuum head lifespan because pool cleaners and pool vacuum heads vary widely in quality and construction. Therefore, you may want to look into pool vacuum head warranty information before purchasing.
How Much Will It Cost to Buy a Vacuum Head?
The pool vacuum head purchase cost may vary depending on the pool type, pool vacuum head quality, and pool material. Increased suction power typically requires more money.
How to Connect a Pool Vacuum Head to a Suction-Side Hose?
To connect a pool vacuum head to a suction-side pool cleaner, you should know the pool material and pool dimensions. Other pool cleaning systems may require additional equipment. To learn how to attach your pool vacuum head, follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully or consult an expert before selecting a pool vacuum head for your home.
Why Do I Lose Suction When Vacuuming the Pool?
Pool vacuum heads rely on suction to suck up debris. Suction pool cleaners that lose suction can be caused by air bubbles, pool filter changes, or overuse of pool cleaners.
How Frequently Should Pool Vacuuming Be Done?
Pool vacuuming is typically done once a week but can vary based on pool conditions, weather, and season.
The Bottom Line
There are pool vacuum heads made to be highly efficient at picking up pool floor debris. When shopping, make sure you know the dimensions of any attachments you have for your pool at home to ensure that the vacuum head you select will work. Consider a pool vacuum head with a warranty in the event that it has any issues. Pick the right vacuum head, and you’ll be swimming pretty all summer long.
For over 15 years, Sean Moore has been sharing his love and enthusiasm for swimming pools and hot tubs with everyone he knows. His goal is to help everyday people DIY their maintenance to save money by teaching how to properly take care of your equipment, safely and correctly balance chemicals, and extend the life of your water oasis.
Pricing on this page was last updated on 2024-10-13