Best Manual Pool Vacuum for Algae [Review & Buying guide]

Algae growth in a swimming pool is not a new phenomenon since various conditions can trigger mild and aggressive algae growth in the environment. However, there are ways of getting rid of it using a manual pool vacuum for algae.

A manual pool vacuum is excellent for removing algae from above-ground and in-ground pools. The vacuum is efficient, saving both energy and time.

Best Manual Pool Vacuum for Algae

You may have tried other methods to clean algae from your pool without success, but having a pool vacuum is preferable. There are several manual pool vacuums for algae, but the best one must meet your algae cleaning requirements.

This article has reviewed and analyzed the top manual pool vacuums on the market. Continue reading to find out our top pick which we hope will interest you.


4 Best Manual Pool Vacuum for Algae Comparison Table

VacuumVacuum TypePower SourceVacuum Head TypeSurface
1. Pool Blaster Water Tech CatfishHandheld manual pool vacuumBattery poweredPivoting head consisting of brush and ball wheelsHot tub, in-ground, above-ground pool, and spa cleaning.
2. POOLWHALEMini jet pool vacuum cleanerWater pressure from a garden hoseThe head has a bottom brush with two pulleysPool and spa cleaning.
3. Pool Supply TownMini jet pool vacuum cleanerWater pressure from a garden hoseThe vacuum head has an extra head handleInflatable/framed above-ground pools, fountains, spa, pond, & hot tub.
4. Pool Blaster Pro 1500 A heavy-duty pool vacuum cleanerBattery poweredFlexible vacuum head consisting of polyurethane ball-bearings  Various surfaces of in-ground pools such as gunite, fiberglass, and vinyl.

Product Review: Best Manual Pool Vacuum for Algae

1. POOL BLASTER Water Tech Catfish (Best Pick)

The pool blaster is a manual pool vacuum that effectively cleans algae from your pool independently without support from the primary filter system.

It is a cordless machine with a runtime of 45 minutes and cleans 33 gallons per minute.

The manual pool vacuum for algae is easy to use, rechargeable, and lightweight.

The battery operation of the device provides it with freedom from messy hoses, additional pumps, or cords, enabling the ease of maneuverability.

The pool vacuum consists of a reusable filter bag that can eliminate filthy germs, leaves, and sand. It is a versatile tool that can be used to clean above-ground and in-ground pools, spas, and hot tubs. It can also be used to clean soft-sided pools.

The manual pool vacuum for algae has a removable head that is seven and a half inches for general cleaning. The head can be removed to expose a nose cone head, which is used to access areas that are difficult to reach.

The vacuum is easy to operate with the push of a button. It is convenient to handle and can be attached to any standard telescopic pool pole. It comes with two disposable microfilter bags, a vacuum head with a soft-bristled brush, an all-purpose filter bag, and a wall charger.

Product Information

  • Brand: Pool Blaster.
  • Form factor: Handheld.
  • Model name: Catfish.
  • Surface: Hot tub, in-ground, above-ground pool, and spa cleaning.
  • Power type: battery powered.
  • Color: Blue.
  • Weight: 3.05 pounds.

Pros

  • The pool vacuum can remove debris from the pool, including algae.
  • It has a multi-purpose vacuum head.
  • It has a reusable filter that is also washable.
  • It is battery-operated, giving it independence from hoses, pumps, and cords.

Cons

  • The telescopic pole of the machine is bought separately.

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2. POOLWHALE Portable Pool Vacuum (Best Underwater Cleaner)

The Poolwhale vacuum is a lightweight underwater manual pool vacuum that is easy to put together or assemble.

It can be easily moved around between sites when needed, enabling you to clean fountains, pools, spas, and ponds.

The manual pool vacuum for algae has a four-piece pool that is four feet long and offers a greater reach when cleaning.

The pole can be broken down for compact storage during the time that it is not used.

The vacuum has a powerful suction that can collect stones, leaves, and stains from the bottom of a pool.

It has a six-section pole of 56.5 inches. The device has a simple design that is easy to assemble, and it attaches to a standard garden hose.

The manual pool vacuum for algae is powered by water pressure from a garden hose. The water enters the vacuum from the garden hose, and it creates a suction effect that pulls debris and dirt, including algae, into the vacuum’s collection bag made of fine nylon mesh.

The device has a fine nylon mesh of high capacity, which is better suited for collecting dirt from the bottom of the pool. The nylon mesh is secured at the outlet by a retractable rope buckle. It also has a bottom brush with two pulleys, which makes cleaning effortless.

The manual pool vacuum for algae does not require any filters or pumps. It saves water, and you do not have to empty your pool to clean it with the machine.

The vacuum must be completely submerged in the pool or water will spill all over when used in landscape pools or fountains.

The vacuum comes with a siphon tube, a quick connector, the main body, a mesh bag, a water inlet, a pole collector, six aluminum poles, and a manual.

Product Information

  • Brand: POOLWHALE.
  • Form factor: Mini jet vacuum cleaner.
  • Surface: Pool and spa cleaning.
  • Power type: water pressure.
  • Color: Standard.
  • Weight: 1.2 pounds.

Pros

  • The vacuum does not require any pumps or filters as it uses water pressure.
  • There is no need to empty your pool when cleaning it.
  • The collection bag attaches tightly to the vacuum.
  • It has a high-capacity fine nylon mesh that collects dirt at the bottom of the pool.
  • The vacuum is easy to put together and connects to a garden hose.

Cons

  • The vacuum does not come with a garden hose which you have to purchase separately.

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3. Pool Supply Town Pool Vacuum (Best Versatile Manual Pool Vacuum)

The Pool Supply Town is a budget-friendly model that can keep your pool clean and algae-free.

The versatile electric-free cleaner can clean spas, ponds, and fountains too. The device is easy to assemble, handle, and use.

The manual pool vacuum for algae has a four-foot pole that provides you with extended reach while preventing you from getting wet when cleaning.

It has a drawstring collection bag that can be attached easily and also removed easily for emptying when full.

The vacuum cleaner can brush your pool and vacuum debris simultaneously. It is suitable for inflatable pools, frame above-ground pools, fountains, waterfalls, spas, ponds, and hot tub cleaning.

The manual pool vacuum for algae sucks debris from the pool using water pressure from a garden hose. The pressure from the garden hose creates a venture effect inside the vacuum, producing a strong suction in the vacuum’s head.

The suction is powerful enough to draw algae, debris, and leaves from your pool into the mesh bag of the pool vacuum.

The device comes with everything that you desire to vacuum your pool, including an extra vacuum head handle and an operation and assembly manual. You can also use the vacuum with a telescopic pool pole, but this is not included in the package.

Product Information

  • Brand: Pool Supply Town.
  • Form factor: Mini jet vacuum cleaner.
  • Surface: inflatable pools, frame above-ground pools, fountain, waterfall, spa, pond, and hot tub.
  • Power type: water pressure.
  • Color: original version.
  • Weight: 1.34 pounds.

Pros

  • The pool vacuum is easy to assemble and connect to a garden hose.
  • No electricity is required because it uses water pressure.
  • The vacuum is handy and portable.
  • The device brushes your pool while vacuuming debris simultaneously.
  • It is versatile.

Cons

  • A telescopic pole is purchased separately.

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4. POOL BLASTER Pro 1500 (Best for Whole Pool Deep Cleaning)

The pool blaster is a heavy-duty manual pool vacuum that consists of a P40 pool blaster engine and a professional-grade motor that provides heavy-duty suction power for whole pool deep cleaning.

The vacuum is battery-powered and uses two batteries, each with a runtime of an hour.

The manual pool vacuum for algae is great at capturing algae and even fragments such as silt, sand, and debris the size of a golf ball effectively.

It can clean various surfaces of an in-ground pool, such as gunite, fiberglass, and vinyl.

The vacuum has standard and flexible vacuum heads that enable your pool cleaning to be more natural.

It also has a 19-inch flexible vacuum head consisting of polyurethane ball-bearings. The machine has an integrated handle and does not rely on any hose or filtration system.

The self-contained manual pool vacuum for algae can also be attached to a standard pool pole or maneuvered using the integrated handle for greater precision.

The machine comes with three types of X-Treme multilayers, silt and sand all-purpose filter bags, a shoulder strap, lithium-ion batteries, a wall charger, and a vacuum head adapter.

Product Information

  • Brand: Pool blaster.
  • Form factor: Heavy-duty pool vacuum cleaner.
  • Surface: various surfaces of the in-ground pool such as gunite, fiberglass, and vinyl.
  • Power type: battery powered.
  • Color: original version.
  • Weight: 1.34 pounds.

Pros

  • The vacuum offers cord-free convenience since it is battery-powered.
  • There is no dependency on a hose or filtration system.
  • It has flexible standard vacuum heads for more natural cleaning.
  • It has three types of multilayer all-purpose filter bags.
  • It is versatile because it can clean various surfaces.

Cons

  • The price of the vacuum is expensive since it is on the higher side.

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5. Poolmaster 28316 (Best Fully Assembled Manual Pool Vacuum)

The pool master vacuum cleaner is a leaf vacuum, but it is the most durable machine for cleaning algae.

It has a high-pressure jet responsible for eliminating debris and dirt from your floor pool.

It also consists of a 15-inch body that collects leaves and other debris more efficiently.

The manual pool vacuum for algae consists of four multi-direction swivels that make the device easy to maneuver.

It has a durable material made of mar-proof rubber, which prevents the vacuum from getting snugged up on obstructions under water and prevents damage to your liner.

The pool vacuum comes with three perimeter brushes that assist in loosening debris and dirt. It has a large profile design, which makes it easy to maneuver around your pool. It also consists of an aluminum handle for added strength.

The manual pool vacuum for algae utilizes water from the hose to pump it into the mini hole in the machine’s body. The jets forcefully lift the leaves into the vacuum and keep them there when eject. The large filter bags of the vacuum filters out leaf debris.

The device features a powerful suction capable of picking leaves from the floor of your pool and a center opening for capturing large loads of leaves. The vacuum comes with a perimeter bumper, a garden hose adapter, a carry handle, and two reusable leaf bags.

Product Information

  • Brand: Poolmaster.
  • Surface: Swimming pool.
  • Power type: Water pressure.
  • Color: Neutral.
  • Weight: 1.8 pounds.

Pros

  • The vacuum has two reusable leaf bags.
  • Replaceable perimeter brushes.
  • It has high-pressure jets for collecting leaves.
  • It is easy to maneuver.
  • A mar-proof perimeter bumper that prevents damage to your pool.
  • It has four multi-directional rotating wheels for rapid movement.

Cons

  • The vacuum needs a pool pole and a garden hose which are purchased separately.
  • It cannot pick stone debris or sand.

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6. POOL BLASTER Aqua Broom (Best Portable Manual Pool Vacuum)

The pool blaster aqua broom is a portable pool vacuum cleaner that is also versatile.

It can be used on hot tubes, in-ground pools, above-ground pools, spas, and soft-sided pools.

It is especially valuable when it comes to cleaning sand debris, dead algae, silt, and pollen.

The aqua broom offers an intense particulate cleaning of silt and sand better than most pool vacuums for pools, hot tubs, and spas.

It is lightweight and easy to use with a telescopic pole or by hand. It is suitable for light-duty cleaning.

The manual pool vacuum for algae is battery powered by 5 D-cell batteries and has a runtime of three hours. The device does not require any external equipment support or downtime. Operating it is easy since you just have to twist the switch and it starts working.

The vacuum has a patented value design which enables it to trap particulates inside the filter once captured. This ensures that the dirt collected does not return to the pool once it enters the filter bag.

The manual pool vacuum for algae has a pole adapter that allows for a telescopic pole to be attached to it. It has two filter types for different cleaning tasks. The first is a disposable microfilter bag, and the second is an all-purpose filter bag.

Product Information

  • Brand: Pool Blaster.
  • Surface: hot tubes, in-ground pools, above-ground pools, spas, and soft-sided pools.
  • Power type: Battery powered.
  • Color: Blue.
  • Weight: 2.81 pounds.

Pros

  • The vacuum has a patented retention valve.
  • Once the dirt is captured, it is trapped inside the vacuum.
  • It has a long runtime for thorough cleaning.
  • The machine has two filter types for different cleaning jobs.
  • A micro-filter bag that is disposable.
  • It has an all-purpose filter bag.

Cons

  • The telescopic pole is bought separately from the pool vacuum.
  • The microfilter bags cannot be reused.

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7. Skooba Above Ground Pool Vacuum (Best Filter)

The Skooba pool vacuum is a portable device that is also easy to assemble. The vacuum has a filtration system that it uses to collect debris from your pool.

It may be small, but it is powerful enough to reach your pool’s nooks and crannies.

The manual pool vacuum for algae collects debris from your pool without the use of any chemicals.

The machine’s outer ring rotates, ensuring that the surfaces in your pool get a thorough cleaning.

The Skooba pool vacuum is compatible with all standard suction forces and comes with an adapter for above-ground Intex pools.

The vacuum is suitable for all types of swimming pools. Its compact and lightweight design allows easy storage when not in use.

The manual pool vacuum for algae is simple to use since you only have to twist and lock the head cleaner. The head directly attaches to the skimmer of the pool and uses your pool’s filtration system to create suction.

The suction collects debris and removes it from the water with its in-built filter bag. There is no additional water that is added to your pool when cleaning the pool.

The vacuum has a flow rate of 500 gallons per hour and a minimum pump power of 45 watts. It comes with a pool vacuum hose that is 16 feet long, 4 sections of cleaning poles and connectors, and a nozzle with a wide mouth.

Product Information

  • Brand: Kokido.
  • Power type: the filtration system of the pool.
  • Surface: all types of swimming pools.
  • Weight: 4.44 pounds.

Pros

  • The manual pool vacuum is easy to use and assemble.
  • It has a powerful suction.
  • The built-in filter bag is easy to dump without getting dirty.
  • It utilizes twist and lock technology.
  • It can be used for all types of swimming pools.

Cons

  • The filter bag has to be emptied frequently since it gets filled halfway, causing suction loss.
  • You have to shut down the whole vacuum to empty the bag and clean it.

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Final verdict

A manual pool vacuum for algae is an essential tool if you have a swimming pool. That is because the chances of algae forming in your pool are high. After all, swimming pools have the right conditions for algae to thrive.

The best manual pool vacuum for algae has to be able to effectively get rid of algae from your pool while meeting other essential cleaning needs in the pool. It should have enough cleaning power, be portable, and be easy to use and handle.

The vacuum should have a re-usable filter bag to reduce filter bag expenses. The device should be versatile, meaning that it should be capable of handling the cleaning of any type of swimming pool.

The POOL BLASTER Water Tech Catfish

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Conclusion

The best manual pool vacuum for algae is the POOL BLASTER Water Tech Catfish. The pool blaster effectively cleans algae from your pool without any support from your pool’s primary filter system.

The machine is a cordless device since it is battery-powered and has a runtime of 45 minutes. During this time, it cleans 33 gallons per minute. The battery is rechargeable and its operation provides you with cordless freedom.

The pool vacuum is easy to use and handle because it is lightweight and compact. It consists of a reusable filter bag that can eliminate filthy germs, leaves, and sand.

The machine is versatile because it can be used in above-ground pools, in-ground pools, spas, hot tubs, and soft-sided pools. The manual pool vacuum for algae operates by the push of a button and is convenient to handle.


FAQs

How to choose the best manual pool vacuum for algae

Power: The power of a pool vacuum is determined by the motor’s suction, which is measured in gallons per minute (GPM). The higher the GPM, the better the power of the device since it will clean your pool better.

If your swimming pool is large, consider a manual pool vacuum with more power because it will have a large motor which allows for more water flow. If you have a smaller pool, then there is no need for more power.

Climbing ability: Ensure that your pool vacuum can clean the floors and walls of your vacuum. If the pool has stairs, the manual vacuum should also be able to clean these areas without any hassles.

Hose length: You will require a hose that is at least 50 feet long based on your pool’s size. The hose length is a critical feature if you are cleaning an above-ground pool. If a pool vacuum lacks enough hose length, it is useless, even with powerful suction.

Quality: It is preferable to have a quality product for cleaning your pool, especially when dealing with algae. A pool vacuum of low or ordinary vacuum may give you optimal performance.

A quality product will have few complications, malfunctions, or difficulties. It will also improve cleaning efficiency while reducing the time required for cleaning.

Filtration system: manual pool vacuums are not designed with a filtration system or a pressure cleaner. Therefore, you have to clean out debris using an extension wand or brushes according to your product’s manual.

The filter rate of your pool vacuum should be able to filter at least 70 gallons of water per minute. If you know the filter rate of your device, you will have better water quality.

Compatibility: You should consider the size of your pool when choosing a pool vacuum for algae since pool vacuums work with specific pool types. A wrong pool vacuum will not fit your pool’s size. However, there are some that work for all pool types.


Why do you need a manual pool vacuum to clean algae?

When your pool has algae, it will turn the water green in color, and this can be dangerous because some algae types produce chemicals that are toxic to humans when they come into contact with them. The toxins can cause different reactions to the skin.

Therefore, it is essential that you clean algae from your pool and a manual pool vacuum will go a long way in helping you get rid of the algae. This is the best option when you do not want to use expensive chemicals on your pool.

Even when you use chemicals to clean your pool, some particles such as sand, leaves, and acorns can still build up along the bottom. These heavy particles cannot be pumped through the filter system of your pool. This is where the manual pool vacuum comes in handy.

Most manual pool vacuums cost around $200 and have enough power to clean your pool without the use of batteries or electricity.


How to Clean an Above-Ground Pool without a Pool Vacuum?

The procedures for cleaning an above-ground pool may vary based on the type of dirt that you are cleaning, such as leaves, large debris, algae, oil materials, sand, and acorns.

Large debris: if your pool’s floor is covered by large debris such as flower petals and leaves, a pool vacuum will not be effective in removing them. However, you can use a leaf rake to eliminate them by gathering them into a pile and then using your hand to remove them.

A plastic rake is better because it will not scratch the surface of your pool.

Oils: Oily debris and stains are brought about by natural skin oils that people use, suntan lotions, and insect repellants. The stains and debris come from those who swim in the pool. You can remove them by sopping up excess oil in your pool.

You can also use a few tennis balls to float around in your pool so that they can absorb the oil. The oil will be absorbed by the felt on the ball. Throw away the balls and replace them as soon as they start to look dirty.

Algae and sand: How you remove sand particles or algae from your pool will be dependent on whether the pool has a filtering system or not. If the pool has a filter system, removing the sand and algae will be easy.

Begin by cleaning the filter and ensuring that it is in good working condition. If it is in proper condition, turn the filter off and then brush the sides of your pool to remove algae and other debris there.

If you have vinyl pool liners, do not use metal brushes or stainless steel but use a nylon-bristle brush. Once the sides of the pool are clean, turn the filter on and agitate the water by getting as many people to swim in the pool as possible if it is not too dirty.

Agitating the pool will lift small debris off the pool’s bottom so that it can be processed by the filter and be removed. If the pool is too dirty, use a garden hose to lift the debris with a pressure attachment so the filter can take care of it.

If your pool lacks a filter or it is too dirty for the filter to handle the mess, removing the small debris will be an uphill task. Brush the sides of the pool to remove large algae and debris. Then slowly sweep the small debris into a pile.

Slow movements are essential to avoid making currents or waves that may scatter the small debris. Once you have them in a pile, dive into the pool’s bottom and gently collect them into a dustpan.


How do you stop algae from coming back into your pool?

If you want to stop algae from coming back into your pool, prevention is the key. You have to keep your pool from getting algae growth through periodic maintenance. Even though it may be time-consuming, it is worth it since it will keep your pool in great shape.

One of the best ways of making sure that your pool is algae-free is to ensure that the pool filters are always in good condition. Some of the essential maintenance hacks include the following:

Regularly check your pool’s water balance. Make sure that the filtration system is working properly so that the pool’s water can be regularly cleaned.

Shock the pool on a weekly basis to reduce cloudy water that could indicate early stages of algae growth. The shocking should be done before using an algaecide since they cancel each other out when done simultaneously.

Regular proper use of algaecides is essential since algaecides prevent the growth of algae. Brush the pool and clean the skimmer, filter, and pump regularly. Also, vacuum your pool regularly.