Our Top-Rated Picking
After researching dozens of pool cleaners and testing several hands-on, here are our top picks for best robotic, suction-side and self-propelled pool cleaners:
Buying Guide
Pool cleaners are devices designed to remove dirt, debris, and other contaminants from your pool, keeping it clean and healthy for swimming. With so many different types and models of pool cleaners available, choosing the best one for your needs can be overwhelming.
Type of pool cleaner: There are three main types of pool cleaners - suction-side, pressure-side, and robotic. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it's important to choose the type that best suits your needs. Suction-side cleaners are affordable and easy to use, pressure-side cleaners are powerful and efficient, and robotic cleaners are convenient and effective.
The most popular type of swimming pool that appears in most American homes today is the in-ground pool. For this type of swimming pool, all pool cleaners can work. You can see Hayward W3RC9990CUB and Pentair GW9500 are suction side types that work very well on this model.
Size of your pool: The size of your pool will determine the size of the pool cleaner you need. Be sure to measure your pool and consult the manufacturer's specifications before purchasing a pool cleaner to ensure that it's the right size for your pool.
Usually, the most important thing you need to pay attention to is the length of the water hose when connecting to the pump. It will limit the cleaning range of the pool cleaner. However, you can absolutely buy and use extra hoses to increase the length of the water hose.
Type of pool surface: Different pool cleaners are designed for use on different types of pool surfaces, such as concrete, vinyl, or fiberglass. Be sure to choose a pool cleaner that is compatible with your pool's surface to avoid damage.
Amount of debris: If your pool is prone to accumulating a lot of debris, such as leaves or twigs, you may need a more powerful pool cleaner to effectively remove the debris.
Dirt and litter can come from the areas around the pool, especially in dense gardens where you can't stop the leaves from falling. Then not only the pool floor need to be cleaned but even the water surface will be covered with leaves and trash if not cleaned regularly. You can use high-end AIPER Seagull Pro products that can suck up all the trash in the pool or you can combine the use of racket accessories for regular cleaning.
Filtration system: The effectiveness of your pool cleaner may be affected by the condition of your pool's filtration system. Be sure to clean or replace your pool's filter regularly to ensure that your pool cleaner can operate at maximum efficiency.
Budget: Pool cleaners can range in price from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars, so it's important to consider your budget when choosing a pool cleaner. While more expensive pool cleaners may offer additional features or better performance, there are still many affordable options available that can effectively clean your pool.
Brand reputation: Look for pool cleaners from reputable brands with good customer reviews and warranties. This can help ensure that you're investing in a high-quality product that will last for many years.
Editor’s Verdict
If you need a robotic pool cleaner that can tackle extra-large pools efficiently, I'd highly recommend the Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus. This handy little robot does a great job navigating your pool on its own. It uses intelligent sensors to detect and avoid obstacles as it makes its way through the water, ensuring it covers every nook and cranny. I like that Dolphin backs this product with a solid 5-year warranty. It shows they stand behind quality and performance.
Customers say the Nautilus excels at maneuvering pools of various shapes and sizes while still providing powerful suction and cleaning action. So if you've got a huge pool that needs a robotic cleaner it can handle, this is a great option.
Or if you're looking for an automatic pool cleaner that's effective yet affordable, the Hayward W3PVS40JST fits the bill. This basic cleaner uses a simple, no-frills design that has a proven track record of thoroughly cleaning most average-sized residential pools. While it lacks fancy features, what it provides is a reliable performance at an entry-level price.
Being a well-established name in pool equipment, you can feel confident Hayward will stand behind its product. Customers say this cleaner does an awesome job keeping pools clean with minimal hassle.
Explore the best robotic pool cleaners for inground pools, building on our selection of the finest robotic pool cleaners.
FAQs
How often should I run my pool cleaner?
It depends on the type and pool size. As a guideline, run robotic cleaners once per day for 4-6 hours, suction/pressure cleaners 3-4 times per week for 3-4 hours, and manual cleaners after each use or at least once a week. Run them more often during peak swimming seasons.
What is the best way to maintain my pool cleaner?
Clean filters at least monthly or as needed, inspect hoses and connections yearly for damage and tighten loose parts, replace wear parts like brushes annually, add bleach monthly to the compartment to prevent bacteria buildup, and rinse debris traps after each use. For winter storage, fully charge batteries, raise cleaners off the floor and store indoors in a cool, dry place. With proper routine maintenance, your pool cleaner will perform well for many years.
What are the most common pool cleaner issues?
The most common issues are clogs, debris collection problems, leaks and mechanical or electrical failure. To avoid these, clean filters regularly, check hoses and straps regularly for damage, empty debris collection bins as needed, store cleaners properly over winter, only use cleaners in compatible pools, and follow the manufacturer's maintenance schedule.
Conclusion
Choosing the best pool cleaner for your needs can seem overwhelming due to the many options, features, and considerations. By considering key factors like type, size, features, durability, price, and reviews - and choosing a pool cleaner that is tailored to your unique pool and lifestyle - you'll end up with the best option for keeping your pool clean and hassle-free for the long run.
