When the time comes to purchase a new pool cleaner there are a few options to choose from. With this guide you will hopefully have a better understanding of each type of pool vacuum and be able to select the model best suited for your needs. We know in order to maintain that clean sparkling pool water it takes work. Some of the cleaner models help you keep your work load to a minimum.
Reminder: Once you select your cleaner type, ensure the cleaner will work with your pool type, size and shape. Many In-Ground models specify the surface type (ie. vinyl/fiberglass or concrete).Many Above-Ground models will only clean a flat bottom pool.
Types of Cleaners
Suction-Side Cleaners are the most popular type of cleaners for both in-ground and above-ground pools. This cleaner requires no extra power, no booster pump and is powered by your existing filtration system. You can either attach the cleaner hose through a dedicated suction line or the skimmer. Dirt and debris picked up by a suction-side cleaner will travel directly to your pool pump and filter.
Suction Cleaner Pros and Cons
· Pros
o In most cases they also act as a scrubber since they are suctioned to the wall/floor
o No Power Required
o No Booster Pump Required
o Inexpensive Cleaners in General
o Automatic - No Manual Operation Required
· Cons
o You will need to clean filter more often
o Not the best option for heavy leaf debris
o Loses efficiency if pool filter is dirty
Pressure-Side Cleaners are powered by your existing pool pump or a separate booster pump. The hose will attach to a dedicated pressure line or a return jet. Dirt and debris picked up by a pressure-side cleaner will be stored in the cleaner’s bag.
Pressure Cleaner Pros and Cons
· Pros
o Self Contained Debris Bag
o Cleaners have a “tail” to stir up smaller debris for easier removal
o Great at removing larger debris
o Many models have different bag options for finer filtration
o Automatic - No Manual Operation Required
· Cons
o Some models require an extra booster pump
o Cleaning of the walls is less effective than other options
Robotic Cleaners are fully self-contained and do not require your pool equipment to be on in order for the cleaner to operate. Robotic Cleaners have their own motors, one for moving and another for cleaning. They do not require any vacuum hose and simply plug into an electrical outlet near the pool.
Robotic Cleaner Pros and Cons
· Pros
o Fully Self-Contained – will not dirty your filter
o Extremely efficient when cleaning small debris and leaves
o Automatic - No Manual Operation Required
o Does not require separate booster pump
o Many models will clean floors/wall/steps
o Many models have a water circulation feature to help keep your chemicals distributed throughout the pool
o Some models feature remote options
· Cons
o Higher price range
o Recommended to be removed when cleaning is complete
Manual Cleaners are a much less expensive option and require a hose that connects to the skimmer or suction line (just like the suction-side models). The person cleaning the pool using a manual cleaner would hook the vacuum head to the hose and also to a telepole. Manual cleaners often include vacuum heads, skimmers,and scrub brushes, all of which attach to a telescoping pole for accessing the deepest reaches of the pool.
Manual Cleaner Pros and Cons
· Pros
o Easy to Spot Clean
o Less Expensive Options
o No Power Required
o No Booster Pump Required
· Cons
o Requires Pool Vacuum Hose
o Requires Use of Telepole
o Loses efficiency if pool filter is dirty
o Manual Cleaning
Vac-Heads have wheels, attach to hose and pole, and are ordered based on the type of pool you have.
Skimmers are used to remove debris from the pool’s surface. They are also used to help pick up the larger debris that can cause some cleaners issues.
Swimming Pool Brushes are used to target specific areas of the pool and also to loosen the algae that may form on the sides of pool walls, steps and floors.
Battery Powered Cleaners are a great addition for smaller pools and spas. They are self-contained, run off of batteries, and many have the option to attach to your telepole for deeper cleaning.
Swimming Pool Cleaner Accessories are used to improve the use of your pool cleaner. The most common accessories out right now would be the Polaris Ladder Guard, and Polaris Unicover, .There are a variety of bags for Pressure Side and Robotic Cleaners too; however those are normally product specific.
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