Ah, the pool. It’s fantastic for relaxing, cooling off, or working out. It’s a place where priceless memories are made. Like everything else that needs some care and attention, however, pool maintenance isn't easy! Unless you want to spend every other day collecting leaves and debris, an automatic pool cleaner is the way to go. You'll have more time to enjoy your sparkling, clean pool!
Have you heard of Dolphin's Nautilus pool cleaner? Reviewers say that this thing is a beast and can take away the stress of cleaning a pool. Continuing on the train of thought, we’ve gone on ahead and scavenged for Amazon’s bestselling automatic pool cleaners. There’s even a buying guide further down to help you choose the perfect product!
Quick List - Top Automatic Pool Cleaners
Dolphin
A Hassle-Free Robot Cleaner That Cleans Quickly
Polaris
A Pressure Pool Cleaner That Doesn't Need a Separate Booster Pump
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We’ve broken down pool cleaners by type, function, and other vital details in this buying guide. You'll learn about these essential inventions, so you can make a confident decision when giving one a try!
There are three main types of pool cleaners: suction, pressure, and robot. They work with varying input sources, yet all lead to the same output: a clean pool. Take a look at their descriptions below so you can pick one that pairs seamlessly with your pool and expectations.
Suction pool cleaners work by being attached to the suction of your pool's plumbing system or the skimmer. Using a hose attached to the skimmer, the end of the machine moves the cleaning attachment around the pool and sucking up any debris into the base.
The collected dirt passes through the hose and into a filter pump strainer basket. Smaller debris can be passed directly through the pool filter, with the suction cleaner simply assisting in the cleanup process. These types of cleaners are the most cost-effective option.
However, one downside to a suction pool cleaner is the tendency to put too much strain on the pool's filtration system and cause it to clog. This is especially true if the pool cleaner doesn't have a built-in strainer basket for the hose mechanism.
Suction pool cleaners also require the full attention or capacity of your pool skimmer. So, when it is operational, most skimming action focuses on the cleaner. You will need to put the cleaner away once done and set it up again unless your pool has two skimmers.
When it comes to care and maintenance, the fewer moving or electronic parts and straightforward operation of a suction cleaner makes it a stress-free option.
On the other hand, pressure-side cleaners, or booster pump-type cleaners, are attached to the pressure side (output) of a pool's water circulation process.
They don't solely focus on vacuuming or sucking up fine debris. Instead, a pressure cleaner stirs up debris from the walls and floor, making it easier for the pool to filter them out.
These machines have a pressure pump that uses water to propel them around the area.At the same time, they also distribute clean, filtered water throughout the pool. Pressure pool cleaners also have their own filtration system, which eases the load for the pool skimmer.
This type of cleaners are great at picking up leaves and larger outdoor debris. They're more versatile than suction cleaners since they can access other areas of a pool aside from the floor.
Lastly, you have robotic pool cleaners. As the name suggests, these automatic machines are smarter in their capabilities. They have a system of their own, so they don't rely on your pool's circulation system or skimming equipment. This reduces the wear and tear on your existing pool equipment.
You simply plug them in and go! There no complicated set up required, although these machines do use home electricity to operate. Their built-in filtration system can handle any size of debris, from dust to leaves. Best of all, robot cleaners can sweep the floor, wipe the walls, or clean the stairs!
Given the number of electronic parts, one downside to robot cleaners is care and maintenance. You might need to repair or replace parts after continued use.
Because pool cleaners rely on a hose to operate, the length might not be compatible with your pool size. Having a hose that's too short will result in an incomplete job, while using one that's too long could lead to tangles while the machine is at work.
Take a look if the hose length to see if it matches the size of your pool. Some are even adjustable, wherein you attach them to one another, so you may be able to purchase more just in case.
If you have a larger pool, it may be challenging to find one that can cover all the space you need without using a ton of energy. It's recommended to choose robot cleaners for large pools since they don't need to rely on your pool's system to get the job done.
Let's cover the essential and added features to look for when it comes to automatic pool cleaners. These machines can do so much more and make pool maintenance easier!
Can the cleaner climb or accommodate walls and stairs, or is it just limited to the floor? Algae and debris can build up on the walls, so these areas must also be covered.
Pick a pool cleaner with capabilities that suit your pool's cleaning needs. This is often based on the environment or backyard. It's recommended for those with trees to get a cleaner that can make easy work of leaves and branches. If dust and dirt are a common issue, ensure that the cleaner's filter and suction can handle fine particles.
Meanwhile, stairs are often not cleaned by suction or pressure-side pool cleaners and will require manual scrubbing or a robot cleaner.
Given the artificial intelligence that most robot pool cleaners are equipped with, you can expect more features and customization capabilities. These are usually programmable with a timer and can be set to follow a particular route around the pool. Some can even be controlled via Bluetooth for a more wireless experience!
You want your automatic cleaner to last! The reviews are an excellent place to look if you want to know more about the durability, efficiency, and effectiveness of the product. Reviews can also let you know if the warranty is worthwhile and of the customer service is responsive and accomodating.
Speaking of the warranty, you should probably get a cleaner that includes one. If you don't live in an area where it's pool season year-round, something like a two-year warranty would make more sense than a one-year one (in case it suddenly stops working that second year).
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | |
---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus Automatic Robotic Pool Cleaner | ![]() | A Hassle-Free Robot Cleaner That Cleans Quickly | |
2 | Polaris Vac-Sweep 360 Pressure Side Pool Cleaner | ![]() | A Pressure Pool Cleaner That Doesn't Need a Separate Booster Pump | |
3 | Paxcess Automatic Pool Cleaner | ![]() | A Robot Pool Cleaner With a Large Filter | |
4 | Poolvergnuegen Hayward Pool Cleaner|W3PVS20JST | ![]() | Suction Pool Cleaner for a Thorough Clean | |
5 | Pentair Kreepy Krauly Great White Cleaner|GW9500 | ![]() | A Pool Cleaner With a Big Appetite | |
6 | Dolphin Automatic Robotic Pool Cleaner|E10 | ![]() | Robot Pool Cleaner for Above-Ground Pools | |
7 | Zodiac Baracuda G3|W03000 | ![]() | A Suction Cleaner Compatible With Low-Speed Pumps | |
8 | XtremepowerUS Climb Wall Pool Cleaner|75037 | ![]() | No Tools or Electricity Needed for This Pool Cleaner | |
9 | Zodiac In-Ground Suction Side Pool Cleaner|MX6 | ![]() | A Compact Yet Efficient Pool Cleaner |
This robotic pool cleaner does everything for you. It can clean a 50-foot pool clean in just two hours! It's equipped with dual scrubbing brushes for heightened cleaning efficiency on the floor and walls. You can even set a schedule for when you want the machine to clean.
A few reviewers noted that the robot cleaner sometimes acted on its own or needed extra attention to ensure it continued cleaning. However, those that experienced technical glitches were contacted by the manufacturer.
Overall, many reviewers loved how efficient this Dolphin cleaner was. It saved them so much time and gave a deep, thorough clean regardless of their pool's shape. It even picked up dog hair from their pools! Users observed that there were times when the cleaner would get stuck on a corner, but it was able to work its way out.
Attach this cleaner to the pool's circulation pump, and this machine will sweep, scrub, and vacuum the floor and walls of your pool - no booster pump required. It has a large opening to capture bigger debris, such as leaves, pebbles, or acorns, which then get placed in the attachable filter bag.
Troubleshooting was an issue among a few reviewers who experienced stuck wheels or the cleaner floating instead of rolling at the bottom. Responsive customer support reached out to them for assistance, however.
Those who've purchased the pool cleaner recently weren't disappointed. Professional pool cleaning services actually recommended the brand and model!
Reviewers also said that the installation was easy thanks to the illustrated instructions. Many reviewers also expressed loyalty to this brand, stating that they have used this type of cleaner for years without any major issues.
It might be small and look like a cooler, but this is one powerful pool cleaner! The machine has a large capacity filtration system, which eases the burden on your pool equipment. What's more, it has a total of four PVA sponge roller brushes to give your pool a deeper clean.
A few reviewers commented that the pool cleaner didn't pick up finer debris like sand, while some felt like theirs had difficulty climbing up walls due to the foam wheels. Thankfully, those with defective models quickly got a replacement.
Those who have tried other pool cleaners noted this did a splendid job while being less expensive. It cleaned well and rolled across the floor seamlessly - all without too much effort exerted by the user.
This pool cleaner has tire treads that can climb any pool wall surface and shape with ease. It also has multiple steering sequence options for better coverage and efficiency. While this model has two wheels, there is a four-wheel-drive model for maximum power.
While a few users noted their cleaner did not have a very strong suction power, many shared that the pool cleaner works flawlessly. It travels all over the pool and cleans well.
Whether it's leaves, grass, or debris, this cleaner vacuumed up any dirt from the reviewer's pools. It may move slower, but it gets the job done, they noted. Assembly and installation was also a breeze.
This vacuum pool cleaner has bristles that scrub off dirt and grime, unlike other machines. Regardless of the surface material of your pool, dirt has no place to hide! Its programmed steering capability lets you leave the machine in the pool to do its job.
According to a few reviewers, leaves and larger debris can get stuck in between the hose attachments (the hose is made of four shorter hoses connected to each other). However, many had no issues and loved the simple installation process.
Reviewers noted that, performance-wise, this cleaner did the trick. It also requires less maintenance, making it a convenient purchase. It may not be a robot, but users said that it could climb up walls, especially rounder ones, with ease.
This lightweight pool cleaner works in a plug-and-play manner. It generally only consumes five cents worth of energy per hour, making it energy efficient too. Furthermore, it scans the area to ensure that it's spotless.
A few reviewers were disappointed with the performance of the product, saying it didn't clean well. Reviewers recommended purchasing the fine filter (sold separately) for a more thorough clean. However, countless others noted the machine cleaned their pools without any issues.
Many reviewers said the product was easy to use and cleaned both the floor and walls thoroughly. They liked that the machine opens at the top so the filter could be taken out and cleaned with little effort. Plus, it cleaned their pools in less than two hours!
This Baracuda is a beast when it comes to sucking up small and medium-sized debris off your pool. It comes with a wheel deflector to avoid getting stuck in corners and crevices. Plus, it works whether you have a single, two-speed, or variable-speed pump.
A few users had problems with leaves or twigs getting in the way and clogging the machine. Others commented the instructions were vague. Luckily, customer support responded to their concerns with technical assistance.
Loyal customers loved the product and mentioned that it lasts for years. They would purchase another one instead of changing to a different brand! The latest model is even better than its predecessors, they added. From the installation to usage and maintenance, this pool cleaner was given a thumbs up.
Attach this pool cleaner to your filtration system, and you're good to go. It can clean algae, dirt, and dust without the need for an additional electricity source or tools. The provided hose is adjustable as well, so it can fit your pool size and avoid tangles.
A few reviews noted that the cleaner takes a while to clean and sometimes avoided the center of the pool area. However, recent customers raved about how powerful this pool cleaner is. It can even pick up leaves along the way!
Satisfied reviewers said that the machine was easy to assemble had no problems while it cleaned. It's not too difficult to maintain, they added.
Whether it's in-ground or above-ground, this cleaner will clean the floor and walls of your pool. It's ideal for pools with 2-speed or variable speed pumps. The cleaner is also able to thoroughly clean walls, thanks to the turbine blade.
A few reviewers had issues with the cleaner not climbing walls or getting stuck on the stairs. The manufacturer reached out to them and helped with the process of proper installation to ensure the machine works as intended.
Overall, reviewers said that the pool cleaner has great coverage. They were especially grateful for the videos and instructional manuals provided that helped them set up the machine properly. They were left with pools that looked like a professional just finished cleaning!
Want to enjoy your pool even more? Check out these swimming essentials to for some extra fun in the sun!
No. 1: Dolphin|Nautilus CC Plus Automatic Robotic Pool Cleaner
No. 2: Polaris|Vac-Sweep 360 Pressure Side Pool Cleaner
No. 3: Paxcess|Automatic Pool Cleaner
No. 4: Poolvergnuegen|Hayward Pool Cleaner|W3PVS20JST
No. 5: Pentair|Kreepy Krauly Great White Cleaner|GW9500
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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