First thanks to anyone who can help...I have an intex 18x18 with an intex sand and saltwater filtration system with the skimmer basket attached at the pump! As of now it is no use because the holes at the intake inside the pool are so small nothing can get through and I havent found a part to buy that would fit! seems like everything I read online is a homemade something or another and Utube dosent even have a good video! I think I understand that u can use a pliers and break off intake to fit that blue "male" fitting and then a hose would attach onto male part allowing debris to get to the skimmer at the pump... Right? So my question is does the lid stay on the skimmer while vacuuming? And would it be ok to leave that blue male attachment on the intake in the pool all the time? Wasn't sure if it's better to start a vacuum from the intake or straight from the skimmer so I haven't bought any parts yet! Looks like I need either the blue male intake connector or the 1.25-1.5 hose fitting attachment at the skimmer? What do I do?