Choosing the Best Automatic Pool Cleaner for Your Pool
Choosing the Best Automatic Pool Cleaner for Your Pool
If you’re tired of spending your afternoons vacuuming the pool instead of relaxing in it, it might be time to upgrade your cleaning routine. Automatic pool cleaners are a game-changer — they keep your pool sparkling with minimal effort on your part.
With several types to choose from, finding the right one for your pool depends on your layout, filter system, and debris levels. In this guide, we’ll walk you through each cleaner type and help you decide which one fits your needs best.
Start with Your Pool Type
The first step? Know what kind of pool you have.
- Inground pools typically need longer hoses and more powerful cleaners that can climb walls and handle various depths.
- Above-ground pools are shallower with flatter bottoms and generally require smaller, lighter cleaners.
Understanding this helps you avoid buying a cleaner that’s either underpowered or overkill.
Consider These Factors
Not all pools are built the same. Here are a few important things to think about:
- Debris levels – Do leaves, acorns, or pollen constantly fall into your pool?
- Pump horsepower – Suction cleaners rely on your pump. If it’s not strong enough, the cleaner won’t perform well.
- Cleaner line availability – Pressure-side cleaners may need a dedicated return line or booster pump.
- Pool surface – Some cleaners work better on smooth vinyl, others on textured concrete or tile.
- Filter size – A smaller filter might clog easily with suction-based systems.
Robotic Pool Cleaners: Smart & Independent
Robotic cleaners are the most advanced and efficient type on the market. They don’t connect to your pool’s filter or pump — they’re plug-and-play units that clean floors, walls, and waterlines using built-in motors and filters.
✅ Pros:
- No wear on your pool equipment
- Cleans fine debris and scrubs surfaces
- Energy-efficient and programmable
- Works independently of pump and filter
❌ Cons:
- Higher initial cost
- Needs occasional filter basket cleaning
🔥 Popular Models:
- Polaris P956i
- Dolphin Proteus DX4
- Jacuzzi JCRX
Suction-Side Cleaners: Simple & Affordable
Suction-side cleaners connect to your skimmer or suction line and move with the flow of water, collecting debris into your pool’s filter.
These are best for pool owners on a budget who don’t deal with heavy leaf litter.
✅ Pros:
- Budget-friendly
- Easy to install
- Great for small debris like dust and sand
❌ Cons:
- Increases wear on pump and filter
- Not ideal for large leaves or twigs
- May require frequent filter cleaning
🔥 Popular Models:
- Hayward Pool Vac XL
- Zodiac G3
- Polaris MAXX
Pressure-Side Cleaners: Great for Heavy Debris
Pressure-side cleaners use your pool’s return jets — and sometimes a booster pump — to drive movement. They collect debris in their own mesh bag, reducing the load on your filter.
These are excellent for wooded yards and windy areas.
✅ Pros:
- Excellent for large leaves and dirt
- Doesn’t clog your main filter
- Good wall and floor coverage
❌ Cons:
- Some models require a booster pump
- More parts = more potential maintenance
- Slightly higher cost
🔥 Popular Models:
- Polaris 280
- Polaris 3900 Sport
- Pentair Kreepy Krauly
Quick Comparison
🤖 Robotic Pool Cleaners
- Best For: Smart homes and energy-conscious pool owners
- Key Benefit: Cleans thoroughly and operates independently from your pool system
- Consideration: Higher upfront cost; requires a plug-in power source
💧 Suction-Side Pool Cleaners
- Best For: Budget-conscious homeowners with light debris
- Key Benefit: Easy to install and cost-effective
- Consideration: Relies on your pool’s pump and filter system, which may lead to more frequent maintenance
🍃 Pressure-Side Pool Cleaners
- Best For: Yards with lots of leaves, twigs, or heavy debris
- Key Benefit: Collects debris in its own bag and covers large surface areas
- Consideration: May require a separate booster pump and has more moving parts
Final Thoughts
Every pool is different — and so is every pool owner. Whether you want plug-and-play simplicity or something that fits into your existing pump system, there’s an automatic cleaner out there to match your needs.
Need help choosing?
👉 Contact Oasis Pools LI — we’ll help you find the right cleaner for your setup and budget.