Abstract: A pool vacuum method and apparatus that uses a skimmer with an aperture that allows pool water to communicate with a chamber in the skimmer. An upwardly-facing shoulder is formed at the base of an upper sidewall and the top of a lower sidewall and a rigid vacuum plate, which has a conduit to which a hose and vacuum head may be attached, is placed adjacent the shoulder. A neoprene gasket is attached to the vacuum plate and is interposed between the shoulder and the vacuum plate. The gasket has a lip that extends radially outwardly of the vacuum plate to form a secondary seal by expanding outwardly against the upper sidewall. Upon operating a pump, the suction causes the vacuum plate and gasket to seal to prevent or greatly inhibit water from passing the vacuum plate and gasket other than through the conduit.