A Critical Safety Device for Suction Line Protection

Unprotected suction ports present serious safety risks in swimming pools. The Swimables SW-30-404 Vac Lock 1.5” MPT – Black is a purpose-built suction safety device designed to secure unused or inactive vacuum lines and suction fittings. By sealing the port and preventing direct access to suction pressure, this Vac Lock helps reduce entrapment risk and supports safer pool operation.

Vac Locks are commonly installed on dedicated vacuum lines when automatic cleaners are not connected, during seasonal shutdowns, or when ports are no longer actively used. The SW-30-404 provides a durable, threaded solution that remains securely in place under normal operating conditions.

This is a pool-specific suction safety component, not a decorative cap or general plumbing plug.

What a Vac Lock Does

A Vac Lock installs into a threaded vacuum or suction port and blocks direct access to the suction line. This prevents bathers, debris, or objects from coming into contact with suction force when the port is not in use.

A properly installed Vac Lock helps:

• Reduce suction entrapment risk

• Secure unused vacuum ports

• Prevent debris from entering suction plumbing

• Maintain system integrity

• Support pool safety compliance

Vac Locks are especially important on pools with dedicated vacuum lines that are not always connected to a cleaner.

Vac lock installation is often paired with components found in the Pool Safety Equipment Collection.

1.5” MPT Threaded Compatibility

The Swimables SW-30-404 is designed with 1.5-inch Male Pipe Thread (MPT) sizing, making it compatible with many standard pool vacuum and suction fittings.

Compatibility highlights include:

• 1.5” threaded vacuum ports

• Dedicated suction lines

• Standard pool wall fittings

• Compatible with common pool plumbing configurations

The threaded design allows the Vac Lock to be securely installed, reducing the chance of loosening or accidental removal compared to friction-fit plugs.

Why Vac Locks Matter for Pool Safety

Suction entrapment is a well-documented pool safety hazard. Even when a vacuum line is rarely used, leaving it open can expose swimmers to unnecessary risk.

Using a Vac Lock:

• Eliminates open suction access points

• Helps protect children and swimmers

• Reduces liability for pool owners

• Supports safer equipment pad operation

• Complements other suction safety devices

While Vac Locks are not a replacement for certified drain covers or SVRS systems, they play an important role in a layered safety approach.

For additional circulation safety components, this product complements items in the Pool Plumbing Parts Collection.

Durable Construction for Pool Environments

The Swimables SW-30-404 Vac Lock is manufactured for continuous exposure to pool conditions.

Design considerations include:

• Chemical resistance for chlorinated and saltwater pools

• Durable plastic construction

• Secure threading to resist vibration

• Black finish for a clean, low-profile appearance

These features ensure the Vac Lock remains effective and reliable throughout the swimming season.

Common Situations Where Vac Locks Are Used

Vac Locks are commonly installed in the following scenarios:

• Dedicated vacuum lines not connected to cleaners

• Seasonal pool shutdowns

• Pools transitioning away from suction cleaners

• Temporary safety measures during repairs

• Preventing debris from entering unused suction ports

Many service professionals install Vac Locks as a best-practice safety measure during routine maintenance.

If your pool uses suction-side cleaners, related equipment can be found in the Pool Cleaners Collection.

Installation Considerations

Installing a Vac Lock is straightforward but should be done correctly to ensure secure sealing.

General Installation Overview:

1. Turn off the pool pump

2. Ensure the suction line is not under vacuum

3. Inspect and clean the threaded port

4. Thread the SW-30-404 Vac Lock into the port

5. Hand-tighten until secure—do not overtighten

6. Restart the system and verify no air leaks

No special tools are typically required. Over-tightening can damage threads or fittings.

Supports Overall Circulation System Integrity

By sealing unused suction ports, Vac Locks help maintain balanced suction throughout the system. This can:

• Reduce unwanted air introduction

• Improve pump priming stability

• Protect internal plumbing

• Support consistent filtration performance

For full circulation health, suction safety devices should be used alongside components from the Pool Pumps Collection.

Ideal Applications

The Swimables SW-30-404 Vac Lock is ideal for:

• Residential in-ground pools

• Commercial pools with unused vacuum lines

• Pools without permanent suction cleaners

• Safety-focused equipment upgrades

• Preventative maintenance programs

This Vac Lock is a simple, low-cost addition that provides meaningful safety and system protection.

Why Choose Swimables Pool Safety Components

Swimables products are designed with real-world pool environments in mind, offering dependable performance and compatibility with common pool systems.

Key advantages include:

• Pool-industry-specific design

• Accurate 1.5” MPT threading

• Durable materials for long-term use

• Trusted compatibility with standard fittings

The SW-30-404 Vac Lock is a reliable solution for securing unused suction ports safely and effectively.

Buy with Confidence from Benchmark Pool Supply

At Benchmark Pool Supply, we focus on pool-specific safety and equipment solutions—not generic substitutes. The Swimables SW-30-404 Vac Lock 1.5” MPT – Black is selected to meet real service needs and improve pool safety.

When you purchase from Benchmark Pool Supply, you receive:

• Pool-specific safety components

• Clear compatibility guidance

• Fast shipping or convenient local pickup

• Support from knowledgeable pool professionals

We help pool owners and service pros implement smart, safety-focused solutions.