U-3 Skimmer Vacuum Plate
Product Overview
Enables direct vacuuming through the skimmer basket to protect your pump impeller from heavy debris.
The Pentair Sta-Rite 08650-0042 Vacuum Plate fits over the skimmer basket inside standard residential U-3 skimmers. It allows pool owners and service techs to connect a manual vacuum hose directly to the skimmer suction port without removing the basket, capturing leaves and coarse debris before they reach the pump strainer pot. Molded from impact-resistant thermoplastic, this OEM replacement plate seats flush to maintain consistent suction during routine maintenance.
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Benefits & What Makes It Different
Direct Basket Retention
Lets you vacuum through the skimmer basket so leaves, twigs, and gravel are trapped before reaching the pump pot.
OEM U-3 Precision Fit
Exact factory replacement for part 08650-0042, engineered to seat securely inside Pentair and Sta-Rite U-3 skimmer housings.
Universal Hose Connection
Accommodates standard manual vacuum hose cuffs to ensure an airtight seal and reliable suction flow.
Compatibility
- Pentair / Sta-Rite U-3 Inground Skimmers
- OEM U-3 Skimmer Basket (08650-0007)
- Standard 1.25-inch and 1.5-inch vacuum hose cuffs
When To Use This
Pro Tip
Always flood your vacuum hose against a return jet to prime the line before pressing the cuff into the vacuum plate. This prevents drawing air into the plumbing and losing pump prime.
Common Questions & Instructions
How do I install the Pentair 08650-0042 vacuum plate in my U-3 skimmer?
Turn off the pump, ensure the skimmer basket is in place, position the plate flat over the basket rim, fill your vacuum hose completely with water to purge air, and push the hose cuff onto the center port before restarting the pump.
Why use a vacuum plate instead of plugging the hose directly into the skimmer bottom port?
Plugging directly into the bottom port bypasses the skimmer basket, sending all vacuumed leaves, pine needles, and debris straight to your pump basket and impeller, which can quickly choke flow and strain your motor.
What vacuum hose size fits the U-3 skimmer vacuum plate?
The center connection port accepts standard 1-1/4 inch and 1-1/2 inch pool vacuum hose cuffs, providing a snug friction fit for manual vacuuming.
Delivered today to your DFW neighborhood
Order this item by 2 PM Central on a weekday, and we'll have it on your driveway by evening. Same-day delivery is FREE to every ZIP in our DFW coverage area — no minimum — or it's free with our weekly service plan.
