No, we have an adapter that we have to screw into the hole for the return and then place the hose over that. The pump runs/circulates until we put the hose over the adapter to be able to start vacuuming. The hose is full of water, like we always do and before attaching it to the adaptor we let the suction of the pump pull the water through the hose as well. As soon as we put the hose over the adapter. Its like the pump won't keep the flow going so we can vacuum. A few times it would vaccum, but then stop after 3-5 mins. There is not a bunch of stuff on the bottom, more like fine silt like, since we use a drain through cover. I won't get another cover like that. Even though the traditional tarp like cover is more of a pain, because I have to drain it before we can remove it. At least my water is clear when I open up the pool.