How to Get Rid of Backswimmers in a Pool

Backswimmers are aquatic insects that can become a nuisance in backyard pools, especially during warm months. They may sting swimmers and disrupt the enjoyment of a refreshing dip. This guide provides practical, non-chemical strategies to reduce and remove backswimmers, with safe tools and routine maintenance to keep your pool enjoyable and clean.

Quick Answer

Remove visible backswimmers with a long-handled skimmer, then prevent reinfestation by improving circulation and removing debris. Use an automatic vacuum to clean the pool floor, and routinely skim and brush surfaces to keep larvae from thriving. Regular checks after rainfall or warm spells help keep populations down.

What You’ll Need

telescoping pool skimmer net with long handle — reach and remove floating insects and debris without bending
manual pool leaf skimmer net 17 inch — larger surface area for quick removal of swarms
automatic pool vacuum head and hose kit — cleans the pool floor and helps disrupt larvae habitats

	U.S. Pool Supply 11.5 Foot Swimming Pool Leaf Skimmer Net with Telescopic Aluminum Pole, 8 Sections – 6″ Deep Ultra Fine Mesh Netting Basket, Remove Finest Debris, Adjustable Length, Clean Spas, Ponds
	17.5″ Pool Net, Pool Skimmer Net with Double-Layer Netting Bag, Aluminum Frame, Deep Nylon Net, Large Capacity Pool Cleaning Net, Leaf Skimmer Rake Net for Above Ground & In-ground Pools (No Pole)
	POOLWHALE Professional 1-1/2-Inch x 36-Feet Swimming Pool Vacuum Hoses and Weighted Rotatable Handle Vacuum Head with Wheels, Perfect for Above Ground and Inground Pools

Before You Start

Before tackling backswimmers, ensure the pool surface is safe to work around and the pump is running to keep circulation high. Wear protective gloves if you contact any aquatic life, and avoid handling them with bare hands. Clear the pool of leaves and debris so skimmer nets can operate efficiently. Time estimate: 15–60 minutes for initial clean, then 10–20 minutes per maintenance session.

Step-By-Step: How To Remove Backswimmers

Turn on the pool pump to maximize filtration and circulation. A strong current helps push backswimmers toward the skimmer.
Inspect the surface for obvious swarms and skim them using the telescoping pool skimmer net with long handle. Extend the pole as needed to reach corners and walls.
Use the manual pool leaf skimmer net 17 inch to sweep larger clusters into the net. Work methodically from the perimeter inward.
Check shaded corners and near the skimmer basket, as these insects may cluster away from direct sunlight.
Skim the waterline to pick off insects clinging to the surface. They often gather near the waterline where they rest before dispersing.
Run the automatic pool vacuum head and hose kit to clean the pool floor. This disturbs larvae and removes eggs that may be present in the sediment.
Brush the pool walls and floor with a stiff brush to disrupt any larvae or eggs attached to surfaces. This also helps bacteria and algae control, which can attract more insects.
Empty the skimmer basket and clean the vacuum filter after each session to maintain effective circulation and filtration.
After vacuuming, recheck the surface for any remaining backswimmers and repeat skimming as needed. Consistency is key to preventing regrowth.
Consider adjusting the filtration schedule to shorter, more frequent runs during warm spells, which can reduce stagnant areas that backswimmers favor.
Monitor after rain or heavy wind, as disturbed vegetation and runoff can introduce new insects. A quick skim and vacuum can prevent buildup.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Likely Cause	Fix	Prevention
Backswimmers persist after cleaning	Insects hiding in debris or near walls	Brush walls, revisit corners, and extend skimmer reach	Regular debris removal and weekly brushing
Swimmers return after rain	Runoff introduces insects	Skim and vacuum soon after rainfall	Improve drainage around the pool and clear nearby vegetation
Healthy pool water inflow with pests	Stagnant areas and low circulation	Increase pump run time; optimize return jets	Routine circulation checks
Visible larvae on floor	Eggs hatched in sediment	Vacuum thoroughly; brush and remove debris	Regular cleaning schedule

Common Mistakes

Relying solely on chemical treatments; backswimmers are best managed with physical removal and maintenance
Neglecting routine skimming and vacuuming during busy weeks
Using a small net for large clusters, which slows removal
Forgetting to clean skimmer baskets, reducing suction and effectiveness

By avoiding these pitfalls, pool owners can maintain clearer water and reduce backswimmer activity effectively.

Tips For Best Results

Skim the surface daily during hot, windy, or rainy periods when insects are more active
Operate the pool pump continuously during peak insect periods to discourage settling
Keep a dedicated pool skimmer net on a long handle handy for quick response
Inspect and clear vegetation around the pool that can harbor pests
Combine physical removal with routine brushing to disrupt life cycles

Call A Professional

Consider contacting a pool professional if backswimmers persist despite consistent removal and cleaning, or if the pool water shows persistent quality issues despite good circulation. Stop signs include ongoing swarm patterns after several days of maintenance, persistent debris buildup, and any signs of an unbalanced sanitizer or heavy algae growth.

FAQ

What are backswimmers?

Backswimmers are aquatic insects that float on the water surface and can be aggressive when disturbed. They are commonly found in warm, still pools or ponds.

Are backswimmers dangerous to swimmers?

They can deliver a brief sting if handled, but they are not typically aggressive toward swimmers. They are more of a nuisance than a serious health threat.

Can I use chemicals to kill backswimmers?

Physical removal is preferred to minimize chemical exposure. If needed, use swimming-pool-safe products as directed and in accordance with local guidelines.

How often should I skim and vacuum?

During peak insect activity, skim daily and vacuum 2–3 times per week. Reduce frequency when counts are low but maintain routine maintenance.

Will a bigger skimmer net help?

Yes, a larger surface area like a 17-inch leaf skimmer can reduce time spent collecting insects and debris.

Should I keep the pool clean year-round?

Yes. Regular maintenance minimizes hidden larvae and reduces pest habitats, keeping the pool inviting for longer.

What maintenance schedule is best after rain?

Skim and vacuum within 24 hours of rainfall to prevent insects from settling in.

When should I contact a pro?

Contact a pro if backswimmers persist after consistent cleaning or if water quality remains poor despite maintenance.

Buying Guide

When choosing tools to manage backswimmers, consider size, reach, and ease of use. A telescoping skimmer with a long handle helps reach corners without bending, while a wide 17-inch leaf skimmer speeds up surface cleanup. An automatic pool vacuum head and hose kit supports thorough cleaning of the pool floor, disrupting larvae in sediment and supporting overall water quality. Look for durable materials, easy assembly, and compatibility with your pool type (above-ground or in-ground). Noise level and energy efficiency matter for frequent use, as do compatibility with your existing pool equipment.

Size matters for ease of use: a longer handle reduces strain while reaching edges and the floor. Noise and energy usage are considerations with automatic vacuums, especially for larger pools. Controls and maintenance requirements should fit your routine; simple assemblies and quick filter changes save time. Placement of tools matters as well: keep skimmers close to the pool edge storage and have a dedicated spot for the vacuum hose to prevent tangles. Overall, a small, high-quality setup with a long-reach skimmer and a robust vacuum kit offers the best balance of performance and ease for keeping backswimmers at bay.