20 Best Pool Cleaners: The Must-Haves For Effortlessly Clean Pool

The best pool cleaner is, of course, a matter of both personal choice and the specific needs of your pool. As such, this can come in a wide variety of technologies and innovative approaches for pool cleaning.

For your reference, we have included what we felt were the best suction pool cleaner, the best pressure side pool cleaner, the best inground robotic pool cleaner, and the best above ground pool cleaner that were currently in the market.

We’re confident that these reviews will help you decide what is the best pool cleaner for you.

Best Pool Cleaner Reviews on the Market: Our Top Picks!

1.  Zodiac Baracuda G3 Advanced Suction Side Automatic Pool Cleaner

The Zodiac Baracuda G3 suction cleaner is extremely versatile, quiet, and powerful and is compatible even with low-speed pumps. This compact cleaner is quick to set up and can effectively suction small to medium-sized debris. It thoroughly cleans every surface of the floor, walls, and steps of your pool.

2.  Pentair Kreepy Krauly Suction-Side Inground Pool Cleaner

The Kreepy Krauly has been around for decades and is extremely popular, with over 3 million customers around the world. Redesigned for greater cleaning coverage, its powerful suction removes dirt and debris without intervention. With only a single moving part, it is designed for years of dependable service and low maintenance costs. As it operates without a booster pump, it saves on utility bills. It’s also quick and easy to install.

Installing the NEW Kreepy Krauly Automatic Pool Cleaner

3.  Zodiac MX8 Suction-Side Cleaner

The Zodiac MX8 is an efficient, low-flow pool cleaner. Its dual cyclonic suction enables powerful vacuum cleaning, faster mobility, and greater maneuverability while requiring 30 percent less flow for better energy savings. Its twist locking hose attaches securely to the cleaning head. The Zodiac MX8 can be used with solar, 2-speed, and variable-speed pumps.

4.  Hayward Navigator Pro Suction Pool Vacuum

The Navigator Pro features its SmartDrive programmed steering system that drives the cleaner in an alternating series of turns to ensure the best coverage and most efficient cleaning path, resulting in a 3 to 4-hour cleaning time for the average pool. The filtration system captures all debris, without the added expense of a powered booster pump.

How to use the Hayward Navigator Pro Swimming Pool Cleaner

5.  Polaris Vac-Sweep 360 Pressure Side Pool Cleaner

The Vac-Sweep 360 is an efficient cleaner for your in-ground pool. It’s a cleaner that is pressure-side and readily connects to an available pressure line. It also operates without requiring a separate booster pump. With an iconic all-wheel drive, the 360 sweeps, scrubs, and suctions the surfaces of your in-ground pool with breakthrough cleaning technology enhanced with triple jets. Its unique filter features a single chamber bag that captures large debris, reducing maintenance considerably.

How To Install A Pressure Pool Cleaner

6.  Pentair Kreepy Krauly Legend Pressure-Side Pool Cleaner

The Legend cleans your in-ground pool with an energy-efficient booster pump at a value price. The Legend Series innovative design hallmarks are its hydrodynamic body and treaded wheels which give excellent traction and stability in any in-ground pool. Its powerful vacuum is designed to easily remove large debris, such as twigs and pebbles.

Installing a Kreepy Krauly Legend Pressure Side Pool Cleaner

7.  Zodiac F5B Polaris Vac-Sweep Pressure Side Pool Cleaner

The Vac-Sweep 280 is another cleaner from Polaris for your in-ground pool. It’s a cleaner that is pressure-side, but unlike the Vac-Sweep 360, this model does require a separate Polaris booster pump. With an iconic 3-wheel drive, the 280 sweeps, scrubs, and suctions the surfaces of your in-ground pool. Connects readily to a 1.5” dedicated pressure cleaner line and comes with 31 feet of feed hose.

8.  Hayward TVP500C TriVac Pressure Cleaner

The TriVac 500 Pressure Cleaner operates with a booster pump and is equipped with its patented Aqua Drive Technology, which allows its low-friction wheels to gently traverse the area of your pool as its wide vacuum inlet suctions up dirt and debris. Its advanced sweep hose helps to navigate corners and crevices, while a unique short back-up sequence keeps it on track more efficiently. It features a large debris bag and unique float, keeping maintenance worry-free.

Hayward TriVac™ 500 Pressure Side Cleaner Reviews

9.  Hayward W900 Wanda the Whale Above-Ground Pool Vacuum

Wanda the Whale sports a kid-friendly design, but comes with a few warnings from the manufacturer. The product is meant to be used on permanently installed above-ground swimming pools only. They describe a permanently installed pool as installed in or on the ground such that it cannot be readily disassembled for storage. Wanda the Whale is also not recommended for use on Intex or other soft-sided pools.

10.  Dolphin Escape Robotic Above Ground Pool Cleaner

The Dolphin Escape departs from conventional wheel drives, replacing these with continuous rubber tracks that eliminate slipping and lost efficiency. Its low voltage DC motors are 90% more efficient than conventional cleaners. The Dolphin Escape features an active scrubbing brush to augment its vacuum and a massive top-load filter can handle large debris easily. More importantly, the Dolphin Escape employs navigation and scanning software to clean your above-ground pool more efficiently.

11.  Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus Automatic Robotic Pool Cleaner

Like the Dolphin Escape, the Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus features continuous tracks in lieu of a wheel-drive design. The Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus is “set and forget” – you can schedule it to clean for you every day, every other day, or every 3^rd day. It features 8 times the energy efficiency of conventional suction and pressure cleaners, no booster pump required. Its CleverClean Technology scans your pool for efficient cleaning, and its dual scrubbing brushes remove tough dirt. A large top access cartridge captures fine debris and large objects such as leaves.

Dolphin Nautilus Plus quick user guide

12.  Dolphin Triton PS Plus Automatic Pool Cleaner

The Dolphin series of automatic pool cleaners feature continuous tracks, and this product is no exception. Featuring PowerStream mobility, the Dolphin Triton PS Plus provides a constant grip on vertical surfaces and the front active brush spins twice as fast as conventional brushes, dislodging even the most difficult contaminants. The cleaner also can be controlled via the MyDolphin App using Bluetooth to go over problem areas. This cleaner also comes with a weekly cleaning scheduler and a top-access filter basket that traps fine and ultra-fine debris.

13.  Dolphin Premier Robotic Pool Cleaner

The Dolphin Premier also features continuous tracks, in lieu of an all-wheel drive. Featuring efficient Twin DC motors, the dual scrubbing brushes clean surfaces of hard dirt and use 90% less energy than the typical suction and pressure cleaners. Multi-Media is introduced with the Dolphin Premier and includes 3 media types: micro-cartridges, standard cartridges, and oversized leaf/debris bags. This cleaner also comes with a weekly cleaning scheduler and Smart Nav software for optimized scanning and coverage.

14.  DOLPHIN Oasis Z5i Robotic Pool Cleaner

The Dolphin Oasis Z5i features continuous tracks for a better grip and features a Dual Drive motor for precise 360-degree pinpoint turning. Powerful scrubbing brushes remove tough dirt and debris, dislodging even the most difficult contaminants. The cleaner also can be controlled via the MyDolphin App using Bluetooth to go over problem areas. This cleaner also comes with a powerful suction rate and oversized cartridge filters to trap leaves and fine debris.

15.  Hayward TigerShark Robotic Pool Vacuum

The TigerShark features intelligent microprocessor-based technology, and this robotic cleaner can scan and cover all pool surfaces quickly and efficiently. The TigerShark boasts strong but energy-efficient vacuum power and the reinforced polyester filter cartridges are easy to clean. The TigerShark doesn’t require any additional pumps, hookups or hoses and because they run independent of the pool’s filtration system, less water is used for backwashing.

16.  Hayward SharkVac Automatic Robotic Pool Cleaner

The SharkVac is a member of the TigerShark family of robotic pool cleaners. SharkVac integrates two fine porosity filtration elements in a sleek floor-specific design. With its unique top access debris chamber and filtration cartridges, there is less fumbling with cumbersome and messy bags. The SharkVac is compatible with all types of pool surfaces and its hardworking scrubbing brush gets rid of stubborn dirt. This cleaner is one of the most economical pool cleaners to operate.

17.  Pentair Kreepy Krauly Prowler 830 Robotic Inground Pool Cleaner

The Prowler 830 gives you excellent power and energy-efficient cleaning for your in-ground pool. It’s breakthrough design can scrub, suction, and filter-clean most pools in under 2.5 hours. There is also a 1-hour quick clean option for just the surface floor. A wireless remote gives you easy control of the cleaner for quickly going over problem areas. It also features a weekly timer to schedule cleanings.The Prowler 830 is a green, eco-friendly choice because its low-voltage operation drastically reduces energy consumption —it cleans most pools for as little as 15 cents a session.

18.  Polaris F9550 Sport Robotic In-Ground Pool Cleaner

The Polaris 9550 is a typical robotic cleaner that runs on a 4wheel drive. The cleaner features Aqua-Trax tire for pool surfaces and features ActivMotion Sensor Technology to promote better navigation. It has swinging brushes that remove stubborn stains and contaminants its proprietary Vortex Vacuum Technology picks up even large debris quickly. Pool debris is readily accessed from the top of the cleaner which sports a large filter canister – no need to fuss with messy bags. The 9550 also features a weekly programmable timer, which includes built-in cleaning patterns, and a handheld motion-sensing remote. The 9550 also features a durable alloy caddy for transport and storage.

19.  Aquabot Turbo T2 Plus Pool Cleaner

The Aquabot Turbo T2 Plus has many innovations from the original Aquabot T. Featuring Scrub technology, DeepClean™ Power Wash technology, as well as Vacuum, Microfilter and Circulate technologies, the Aquabot Turbo T2 Plus can even climb 90° angles to effectively remove dirt from seams, corners, and even porous surfaces while reaching those difficult areas that are inaccessible to other cleaners.

20.  Solar Breeze – Automatic Pool Cleaner NX2 Cleaning Robot

The Solar-Breeze is unique in our roundup in that it is a free-standing skimmer, and doesn’t have any scrubbing or vacuuming functions. This product is 100% solar powered so it may be the most eco-friendly cleaner in this review.

Which Type of Pool Cleaner Do You Need?

There is a variety of automatic pool cleaners available that will clean your pool independently once you install them in the pool. They are divided into three categories: suction-side and pressure-side cleaners operate using power from the pool’s systems while robotic cleaners operate using their own power.

Suction-Side Pool Cleaners

This type of cleaner is essentially a vacuum that is powered by the main pool pump. It consists of a hose and a cleaning unit with a filter bag. The hose is connected to the skimmer of the pool pump directly or to a dedicated suction line. Once the cleaner unit is operating, it moves in a random pattern across the sides and bottom of the pool. It sucks up debris and collects it in the filter bag.

Suction-side cleaners are best used in pools that are screened in and the debris is mainly sand or dirt with just a few leaves. In addition, if the filter suffers from low flow rate, the pool cleaner may not work as effectively. You may have to contact the manufacturer if your filter’s horsepower is 3/4-hp or less to determine if the system meets the required flow rate.

Pressure-Side Pool Cleaners

This cleaner also consists of a hose and filter unit. The hose is connected to the filter system either through the side intake that is attached to the pump filter or through the skimmer. The cleaner is propelled by the pressure of the water being pumped back into the pool. The unit’s hose sucks in debris and dirt, with large pieces being captured by the pump basket or skimmer basket, while the filter captures finer debris. The tail acts as an agitator to stir up small debris from the floor so that it can be vacuumed.

If you choose this type of cleaner, you may need to consult with the manufacturer to see if your pool’s pump can handle the additional load; otherwise, a booster pump may need to be added. However, this will require that you install a separate hose connection.

Robotic Pool Cleaners

These cleaners have their own internal motor, control unit with processor and pump; thus, their operation is independent of the pool’s filtration system. The cleaner can also learn the shape and size of your pool, allowing it to clean more efficiently than other types. The cleaner may be powered from an outlet or run on rechargeable batteries.

The robots are programmed to move across the pool in a predetermined cycle, and then automatically shut off. Some models also include a remote so that you can control its movements during the cleaning process. The cleaner sucks in water as it moves and filters it of dirt and debris, and then pumps it out again from the top. The debris is trapped in filter bags for later disposal.

The Importance of Keeping Your Pool Clean

There are a lot of reasons why pool owners prefer to have their pools clean all the time. If your pool has dirty water, it is not inviting and not ideal for use. Aside from the enjoyment purposes, swimming pools should be maintained clean for hygienic reasons. Since pools contain water all the time, it is an ideal place for bacteria to breed. Germs and viruses may also manifest in the dirty water of your pool.

The usual complaint about pools is that they get green most of the time. The green pool is a result of not cleaning your pool regularly. It is very alarming when your pool turns into green since mosquitoes would love to breed in dirty waters of the pool. Mosquitoes are very undesirable insects since they can transmit diseases like malaria and dengue.

Cleaning your pools regularly is also essential to avoid spending too much money for repairs and pool draining. For cloudy pools, it is recommended to use a pool test kit to determine the levels or amount of chemicals used in the pool since it is usually a result of too many chemicals.

Pool experts would usually recommend having pool covers to keep debris from getting inside the pool.

Functions of an Automatic Pool Cleaner

An automatic pool cleaner is very useful for people who have a bad back which finds it hard to manually operate the pool cleaner throughout the pool area. This type of pool cleaner can move along the various areas of a pool automatically. Its main function is to suck up dirt and other debris in the pool. It functions as a vacuum.

Automatic pool cleaners may also come in different types and styles. These include automatic pressure-driven cleaners, automatic suction side-drive cleaners, and robotic pool cleaners.

The Difference Between In-ground and Above-ground Pool Cleaners

The difference between in-ground and above-ground pool cleaners is basically the structure and the features. The In-ground pool cleaners are basically designed to clean deep levels of the pool since in-ground pools have a submerged nature.

On the other hand, the above-ground pools are designed simpler than in-ground ones. Above-ground pools usually have the usual 90-degrees corners wherein the floor directly meets the wall that they are specifically designed to clean corners and hard-to-reach parts. Most above-ground pool cleaners aren’t designed to climb walls or maneuver onto inclined floors, pool steps, and curves.

The suction and pressure pool cleaners for both in-ground and aboveground also differ from each other. The above-ground suction and pressure pool cleaners are designed to operate with less water as compared to those in-ground pool cleaners.

With regards to the price, the above-ground pool cleaners are cheaper as compared to the in-ground ones.

How to Choose the Appropriate Automatic Cleaner for Your Pool

An automatic pool cleaner is an ideal option for those who are tired of cleaning their pools manually. However, one should consider lots of things before choosing the best pool cleaner. It should be suitable to your pool cleaning needs. So, what should we do to choose the appropriate automatic pool cleaner for our pools? Here’s how.

First, you have to consider the style of your pool. Is it in-ground or above-ground? What about the depth? Does it have inclined floor or lots of curves and steps? What about the materials of your pool? Is it vinyl or not? All of these things matter since there are pool cleaners that can only be used for in-ground pools or above-ground ones. If you have a vinyl pool, make sure that you choose pool cleaners that do not leave undesirable marks on the vinyl linings. It would be undesirable to ruin the pretty aspects of your vinyl pool if it is already full of dark marks and scratches.

One should also consider the features of their pool. It is important to consider if your pool is a salt water pool or a hydro pool hot tub.  One should also take note if their pools contain a pool heater because there are cleaners that may react to too much heat or chemicals.

One should also consider the type of debris that is usually found in their pools. There are pool cleaners that are only ideal for collecting small debris. There are also those that can collect big debris like leaves and acorns.

Automatic Pool Cleaners Buying Guide

There are lots of automatic pool cleaners out in the market. But which one should you buy? Well, here is a buyer’s guide for automatic pool cleaners.

The basic rule is: If you have an in-ground pool, then you should use in-ground pool cleaners. If you have an above-ground pool, then choose above-ground pool cleaners.

Automatic pool cleaners have different types with different features. They also offer different manners of cleaning a pool. One of these is the pressure-driven cleaning, which requires automatic pressure-driven pool cleaners that are powered by the pressure from the pool pumps. Another is through suction. This calls for automatic suction side-driven pool cleaners that are powered by the pool’s filter circulation pump. Last, but not the least, is cleaning the pool using electric-driven robotic pool cleaners.

Important Features of Robotic Pool Cleaners

The innovation to pool cleaning products is the robotic pool cleaner. It includes lots of features that are very useful and can save time in cleaning the pool. These features include the following:

Conclusion

So, there you have it. You are already presented with the 20 best pool cleaners in the market and the necessary information about different types of pool cleaners. Also, please bear in mind these factors that should be considered when choosing the best pool cleaner appropriate for you pool. Hence, it is now time for you to choose the best and appropriate pool cleaner that suits your pool cleaning needs.

Personally, the DOLPHIN Oasis Z5i Robotic Pool Cleaner is in our opinion the best pool cleaner.

With its technology firmly rooted in modern robotics and its Bluetooth-powered mobile app, it provided the best solution for busy pool owners, who would rather spend time enjoying their pool rather than maintaining it.

While no cleaner is perfect, it did an able job in navigating even the most irregular pools, with just the occasional hitch encountered on drain covers (most cleaners also had trouble with this obstacle). Even so, you have the choice of manually controlling the cleaner via mobile app – which is a far cry from having to wait upon the random actions of cleaners, which have little hope of correcting themselves on their own.

The navigation and mobility of this cleaner are second to one, with its 360-degree pinpoint turning and non-slip continuous tracks. Its dual brushes also make quick work of any dirt and contaminants on your pool.

So that’s it! Thank you so much for spending time reading this article. I hope this review has been useful to you. Please do share this with others who are struggling in cleaning their pools.