Pool Cleaners

There are several types of pool cleaners designed to keep swimming pools clean. The main types include:

Suction-Side Pool Cleaners:
A suction-side pool cleaner connect to the suction port or skimmer of the pool and rely on the existing pump and filter system to function. 

Recommended Suction Cleaners

• The Pool Cleaner 4 Wheel Suction Cleaner, 40 Ft Hose - Model W3PVS40JST
• Hayward AquaBug Above Ground Suction Pool Cleaner - Model W3500
• Baracuda Ranger Cleaner - W01698

Pros

• Low Maintenance Costs - suction cleaners have few moving parts, making maintenance less frequent and
• No Extra Equipment Required - suction cleaners use the pool’s skimmer or dedicated suction line to power the cleaner’s movement and collect debris.
• Easy Installation - can be adapted to operate on most pool
• Affordability - the least expensive of the three main pool cleaner types.

Cons

• Affects Normal Filtration -if connected through the pool’s skimmer, it prevents surface debris from being collected. Also, it lowers the filtration rate.
• Not Ideal For Large Debris - the suction cleaner’s small venturi hole may get clogged by large or heavy debris like leaves or nuts.

Pressure-Side Pool Cleaners

A pressure-side pool cleaner is an automatic pool cleaaner that uses an auxiliary booster pump or the return line pressure to create a power venturi suction. Pressure side cleaners are ideal forheavy debris loads.

Recommended Pressure-Side Cleaners

• Pentair Legend Pool Cleaner w/o Pump - LL505G
• Polaris 280 Black Max Pool Cleaner & Pump - POL280BLK
• Pentair Kreepy Krauly Legend II Pressure Side Inground Pool Cleaner - Model LX5000G

Pros

• Ideal for Large Debris - pressure side cleaners have extra large venturi suction lines, making large debris or heavier debris loads a breeze
• Has Built-In Debris Filter Bag - Pressure side cleaners use their own debris collection filter bag instead of routing debris into your pump’s strainer basket
• Independent from Pool Pump: Most Pressure-side cleaners operate independently from the pool's main pump, which can reduce the load on the pool's filtration system and may result in energy savings.

Cons

• More Complex - Besides the booster pump requirement for most models, the pressure side pool cleaner internal is more complex. More moving parts can lead to more frequent maintenance.
• Upfront Cost - The pressure-side cleaner itself costs more than a suction-side cleaner. The total price tag could double if a booster pump needs to be added to your system.

Robotic Pool Cleaners
A robotic pool cleaner is an automated, independent cleaning device designed to clean the bottom and sometimes the walls of swimming pools. Unlike suction-side and pressure-side cleaners, robotic pool cleaners operate with their own built-in electric motors and filtration systems.

Recommended Robotic Cleaners

• Dolphin E20 Inground Pool Cleaner, 50 Ft Cable - 99996148-XP
• Maytronics Nautilus CC Plus Robotic Cleaner, 60 Ft Cable - 99996403-PCF
• Dolphin E50 Inground Pool Cleaner, 60 Ft Cable - 99996281-XP

Pros

• Smart Navigation: Many robotic cleaners have intelligent navigation systems, allowing them to map and clean the pool systematically and efficiently.
• Suitable for All Pool Sizes: Robotic cleaners are suitable for pools of various sizes, from small residential pools to larger commercial pools.
• Energy Efficiency: Robotic cleaners are generally energy-efficient, operating on low-voltage electricity. They don't rely on the pool's circulation system, leading to potential energy savings.

Cons

• Higher Initial Cost - Robotic pool cleaners typically have a higher upfront cost than suction or pressure-side cleaners. 
• Weight and Handling: Some models can be heavy and may require manual handling when removing them from the pool
• Limited Repair Options - Repairs or replacements may require specialized parts, and not all components may be user-serviceable.

In-Floor Cleaning Systems
These built-in systems with pop-up nozzles on the pool floor help circulate water and push debris toward the drain.

Manual Pool Cleaners
These traditional tools require manual cleaning effort, such as pool brushes, skimmers, and vacuum heads.

Solar Pool Cleaners:
Solar-powered pool cleaners use energy from the sun to operate and move around the pool, collecting debris.

When choosing a pool cleaner, consider factors such as the size and shape of your pool, the type of debris it typically collects, your budget, and personal preferences. Each type of pool cleaner has its advantages and limitations, so it's essential to select the one that best suits your specific needs.