FAQs - Main Drain Clip-On

Q: How many clips per drain do I need for my pool?

In most cases, one clip per drain cover is all that is needed. However, this is not always the case.

Because there are so many combinations of pool cleaners, pool drain covers, and the shape of the pool bottom, one clip will work in one case and two clips will be required in other cases. In fact, a pool cleaner may get stuck in one pool, and in an identical setup in another pool, the cleaner it will not get stuck.

In the same way, some applications require two clips. The clips are made of a UV resistant plastic and last about 3 years.

The clips do not have a shelf life so they can be stored for a long time if you choose to have a spare clip on hand.

Each customer has a different pool application (number and style of drain cover).

Q: How can I monitor the status of my order?

When you place your order from our website, you will receive an email with your Invoice #.

When your order is processed, a mailing label is created with a tracking number.

When your order ships, you will receive an email with the tracking number listed.

All orders are shipped via USPS First Class. Most orders will arrive within 3 to 4 business days after the order is scanned by USPS.

Q: What are your shipping costs?

We have a flat shipping rate of $7.50.

Q: How long can I expect the clip to last?

The clip is made of a UV resistant plastic, and will not need to be replaced for approximately 2 to 3 years (in many cases longer).

Effective, easy to install, and affordable swimming pool maintenance products are available with Main Drain Clip-On!

Q: How do I determine which clip will fit my main drain cover?

After you determine how many drain covers you have, and how many clips per drain cover that you wish to purchase, click on the link “Find Your Drain Clip” at the top of this page. From the side of your pool, you should be able to match your pool drain cover to one of those pictured in the link.

Q: Why does my pool cleaner get stuck on the pool drain?

The following are some of things that contribute to good pool cleaners getting stuck on the pool main drain.

1. The shape of the pool bottom in the vicinity of the pool main drain. Only a slight variation in the angle of the pool bottom relative to the pool drain can cause the pool cleaner to get stuck. This is why a pool cleaner may get stuck after the pool is re-plastered. In fact, a pool cleaner interacting with a pool drain that gets stuck in one pool, may not get stuck in another pool with exactly the same combination of pool cleaner and drain cover. This is due to the difference in the shape of one pool bottom versus the other.

2. Suction balance between the water flow through the pool drain and the water flow through the pool cleaner. If the water is flowing through the pool drain and the pool cleaner at the same time, a suction force is created between the two and the cleaner may not have enough forward force to break the suction lock, and the cleaner will stay in a stationary position over the drain cover. To reduce the suction force, adjust the water flow so that most of the water flows through the cleaner and not the drain. This will reduce the suction force between the cleaner and the drain and also give the cleaner more forward force to get off of the drain. The Main Drain Clip is designed to get between the drain cover and the cleaner and prevent cleaner from getting stuck.

3. Wear and tear of your pool cleaner can cause your cleaner to get stuck on the drain. Pool cleaners generally work well but after a period of time they require maintenance. As the cleaner parts wear, the cleaner may begin to get stuck on the drain.

The factors listed above tend to work together in varying degrees to cause good pool cleaners to get stuck on the pool main drain.

Main Drain Clip-On’s simple clip gets between the pool cleaner and the drain cover and prevents the cleaner from getting stuck.

Q: How do I determine which clip to use, D1-LARGE or D1-SMALL?

If your drain cover is similar to the Style “A” or “B” main drain covers, the D1 clips will fit. (See the link “Find Your Drain Clip” at the top of this page).

The distance between the holes on the drain cover is what counts.

This distance varies by manufacturer. If the distance between the holes on your drain are from 6-0″ to 6-3/8″ apart, the D1 SMALL clip will fit. If the distance between the holes on your drain are from 6-3/8″ to 6-3/5″ apart, the D1 LARGE clip will fit.

To measure the distance between the holes, put a two strips of light colored tape, 6-3/8″ apart, edge to edge, on your pool basket. Using your pool basket end of you utility pole to get a measurement of the distance between the holes on the top of you drain cover. If the distance between the holes is less than 6-3/8″ the D1 SMALL clip will fit, if greater than 6-3/8″ the D1 LARGE clip will fit.

If the distance between the holes appears to be a lot greater than 6-3/5″ apart, you have a 10″ drain and you need the D1 XTENDED CLIP PACKAGE. See FAQ and VIDEO page of this website for more information.

Q: What happens if the clip comes out of the Installation Tool before it snaps onto the main drain cover?

The clip floats to the surface.

Q: Is the installation sequence different for the D1 clip and the D2 clip?

The installation sequence is the same for the D1 and D2 clips. However, after installing the D2 clip, use the installation tool to apply a vertical downward force on the clip to better seat the clip in place.