You’ll find a few robotic cleaners for less than $500, but most cost between $500 and $1,000. While the inexpensive models will get the job done, premium models have convenient features like waterline scrubbing, remote controls, and programmable cleaning cycles.

But how do pool owners choose the best robotic pool cleaner? What features do you need to look for? What do you need to know before you buy one?

The Best Robotic Pool Cleaner for Inground Pools

Our Top Pick

Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus Robotic Pool Cleaner

Ideal for swimming pools up to 50 feet. Cleans large pools in just 2 hours. Includes dual scrubbing brushes and a built-in schedule using 3 settings: every day, every other day, or every 3rd day.

Buy Now On Amazon

If you click this link and make a purchase, we earn a commission at no additional cost to you.

This cleaner continues to dominate and remains the king of robotic pool cleaners in our opinion.

Instead of relying on random patterns to navigate your pool, this robotic cleaner scans your pool to optimize its path around your pool floor and walls.

The Dolphin Nautilus has dual scrubbing brushes which provide more friction to pick up both large and small debris. It works best in pools up to 50 feet long, and the cord has swiveling technology to keep it from getting tangled. The filters are also simple to remove, empty, rinse, and reload.

The Best Robotic Pool Cleaner for Above Ground Pools

Our Top Pick

Dolphin E10 Automatic Robotic Pool Cleaner for Above Grounds

$599.00

Designed for above ground swimming pools up to 30 feet. It takes less than 2 hours to clean your pool with built-in water filtering and scrubbing.

Buy Now on Amazon

If you click this link and make a purchase, we earn a commission at no additional cost to you.

01/28/2023 03:02 am GMT

The Dolphin e10 pool cleaner not only looks cool, but it’s also affordable too!  It takes all the power of an inground robotic pool cleaner and puts it in a smaller package that’ll clean your entire pool in two hours or less.

And Dolphin cleaners are super energy efficient. The average operating costs are about $0.05 an hour.

NOTE: These automatic robotic pool cleaners are available to buy on either Amazon and InTheSwim.com. Check both sites for availability. All the links are affiliate links which means if you click a link and make a purchase, we earn a commission at no additional cost to you. It helps us keep the lights on

Frustrated by adding chemicals and trying to keep your pool clear all the time?

We cut out all the confusion of pool maintenance in this easy-to-read illustrated ebook and video course. It'll help you save $100 right away on pool care!

Click Here to Learn More

How Does A Robotic Pool Cleaner Work?

These powerful little machines pick up debris of all sizes. Even better, they don’t attach to your pool circulation system at all, so they don’t rely on your pool filter. They run on good, old electricity. That’s right—you plug them in, and then put them in the water. Sounds counterintuitive, right?

They run on very low voltage, so they’re submersible. They have very long power cords that can only be plugged into ground-fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlets. Those are the outlets that will automatically shut off if any electrical imbalance is detected, so you won’t get shocked.

Some models are also “double insulated,” which means they’re designed to work safely without the grounding prong plug. However, for safety’s sake, it’s best if you plug those into a GFCI outlet too.

A robotic pool cleaner drives around your pool, scrubbing the walls and floor with little brushes and vacuuming up everything from silt to acorns. Most models will clean your pool floor and walls, while some can even scrub the waterline around your pool. Because they’re not hooked into your filter system. Robotic cleaners have a filter bag or built-in cartridge for debris collection.

BONUS: Robotic Pool Cleaners also improve water circulation and act as a second filter to your pool. As water is pulled into the cleaner, debris is collected into a bag that can filter the water down to 2 microns for a really clean pool.

Why Robotic Cleaners Are Better Than Pressure-Side and Suction-Side Pool Cleaners

Suction-Side Pool Cleaners attach to your pool skimmer. It uses the suction of your pump and filter to power the cleaner around your pool and pick up debris from the floor. These are the least expensive of the automatic pool cleaners. But because they rely on your filter system, a lot can go wrong if you’re not around to watch it.

Pressure-Side Pool Cleaners (like a Polaris 360 or Polaris 65) attach to one of the return jets in your pool. They use water pressure from your pump and filter to move the cleaner around your pool. It also creates a water vortex vacuum to pull debris into its own filter bag. This cleaner also relies on your filtration system, but at least it has its own filter bag, so a lot less can go wrong.

Robotic pool cleaners are the best of both cleaners. They clean your pool without the use of your filter system. And they use suction instead of pressure and collect dirt and debris in its own filter bag inside.

If you wanna learn more about all the different types of automatic pool cleaners, when you use them, and which one will work best for your pool, invest in our pool maintenance video course. Not only does it include lessons on automatic pool cleaners, but it’ll also show you how to master pool chemistry, cleaning, and troubleshooting.

The 10 Best Features to Look For in a Robotic Pool Cleaner

1. Lightweight

While the size of a pool cleaner doesn’t matter, the weight does. Sure, the bigger the pool the bigger the robot, but you need to make sure you can lift it to get it in and out of the pool. If the pool cleaner is too heavy, you’ll have a hard time caring for it—and your pool—without a little help.

2. Wide Tires and Four Wheel Drive

No, you won’t be taking it off-roading. But a pool cleaner can’t do its job if it can’t get around your pool. We recommend four-wheel drive and wide tires made of rubber—not plastic—so the cleaner can easily get over bumps and won’t have any trouble navigating slippery surfaces along the sides and bottom of your pool.

3. Swivel Cord

Unfortunately, you can’t escape the need for cords with a pool cleaner. Because it’ll be moving around your pool and climbing vertical walls and even stairs, the cord can easily tangle, keeping the cleaner from moving. A swivel cord can help prevent tangles and give your robotic pool cleaner the freedom of movement it needs.

4. High-Quality Brushes

Removing the dirt and debris from your pool is hard work, and pool cleaners accomplish it with brushes. We recommend hard-bristle brushes or rotating rubber brushes that can scrub dirt from almost any surface in your pool.

5. Programmable Timer

The whole point of a pool cleaner is to make your life easier. If you have to go out and start it every time you want it to run, it takes away the automation and ease of use. The best cleaners come with programmable timers so you can set it and forget it. Just don’t forget to clean it out once in awhile. Even a cleaner needs to be cleaned!

6. Climbing Ability

Ideally, you want a robotic pool cleaner that’s good at climbing. The best ones can easily climb the sides of your pool, clean the waterline, and even climb your pool’s stairs (if you have them) to do a thorough job.

7. Deflecting Features and Sensors

One of the most frustrating things about robotic pool cleaners is that they can get stuck in corners from time to time. Some of them come with deflecting features that help prevent the robot from getting stuck in a corner or on other obstacles.

8. Efficient Pool Cleaning Cycles

Every pool cleaner has a different pool cleaning cycle, with some lasting longer than others. Ideally, you want one that can clean your pool as quickly and efficiently as possible while still doing a good job. Some cleaners come with multiple cycles for different levels of pool cleaning.

9. Durability

Pool cleaners can be expensive, so you’ll want one made from high-quality materials that will last. Eventually, you may have to repair it, but you shouldn’t need to do that for at least a few swimming seasons. Read your warranty before using your cleaner so you know what to do if it fails.

10. Energy Efficiency

The size of your pool cleaner will determine how much energy it uses. You can expect smaller cleaners to consume around 200 watts of power per hour. Larger units will use more, but try to avoid models that use more than 1,000 watts per hour as they’ll cost more to operate over time.

How Long Do Robotic Pool Cleaners Last?

Once you find the best pool cleaner for you, make sure to take good care of it. It’s the only way to avoid an eventual robot uprising. Oh, wait—different kind of robot.

But taking care of your machine will keep it running well so it can do its job for a good, long time. Always read any instructions that come with the device before you let it loose in your pool. At the very least, perform some general care to keep it functioning well.

• Take the cleaner out of your pool once its cycle is complete. It’ll help preserve the motor and make your pool a safer place to swim.
• Drain the cleaner of water according to manufacturer instructions.
• Wash your pool cleaner after every use. That means checking the brushes and wheels for debris as well as emptying and rinsing the filter.
• Keep an eye on the wear of your brushes, and replace them when they get worn down. Think of it as getting a new toothbrush for your swimming pool.
• Store your cleaner out of direct sunlight.
• If you notice the cord becomes kinked over time, wrap it in the opposite direction than you usually do when storing.
• Replace worn brushes promptly to ensure optimal cleaning power.

Caring for your cleaner doesn’t have to be hard. Some minor maintenance pales in comparison to the hours of cleaning it’ll save you.

Are Robotic Pool Cleaners Worth It?

Bottom Line: Yes! Robotic pool cleaners are 100% worth the investment. It’ll be the best money you ever spent on your swimming pool.

Any automatic swimming pool cleaner should be able to clean your pool within about three hours, depending on your pool’s size. Its performance can be affected significantly by routine maintenance, such as keeping filters clean and valve settings optimized.

Even if you check every element of your cleaner after every use, the time and work involved in keeping it in tip-top shape will be insignificant compared to the time you’re currently spending bent over your poolside, scrubbing with a brush.

The only thing you’ve got to lose by investing in an automatic pool cleaner is that pain in your back.

Happy Swimming!

The post The Best Robotic Pool Cleaners appeared first on Swim University®.

You can usually buy a suction-side cleaner for somewhere between $100 and $400. While they cost a little less to own and operate, remember they rely on your pool filter to clean the water. This means you may find yourself spending a bit more time cleaning your filter.

NOTE: The following automatic suction-side pool cleaners are available to buy on either Amazon and InTheSwim.com. Check both sites for availability. All the links are affiliate links which means if you click a link and make a purchase, we earn a commission at no additional cost to you. It helps us keep the lights on

The Best Suction Pool Cleaner for an Inground Pool: Kreepy Krauly

Our Top Pick

Kreepy Krauly Suction-Side Automatic Inground Pool Cleaner

$328.49

It connects directly to your pool filter system and includes 32 ft. of hose. It's powerful, balanced, and doesn't have any hammering noises (common in other suction-side pool cleaners) for quiet operation.

Buy On Amazon Buy On InTheSwim.com

If you click this link and make a purchase, we earn a commission at no additional cost to you.

01/27/2023 06:43 pm GMT

The Kreepy Krauly is a well-known and highly respected automatic vacuum in the pool industry. Its unique cleaning function was invented by a South African hydraulics engineer named Ferdinand Chauvier. The first version of the cleaner was launched in 1976 and was an immediate success.

This modern automatic pool cleaner has a built-in navigation system that guides the unit throughout the entire pool – from the water line to the wall and to the bottom of the pool. And an automatic valve regulates water flow control the travel speed for thorough cleaning.

It’ll even clean around steps and ladders. And the wings help grab leaves, dirt, and large debris.

The Best Suction Pool Cleaner for an Above Ground Pool: Kreepy Krauly

Our Top Pick

Pentair Kreepy Krauly E-Z Vac Suction-Side Above Ground Pool Cleaner

$246.07

This Kreepy Krauly pool vacuum attaches directly to your pool skimmer line and is powered by your pool’s pump, using an internal free skimming valve to automatically regulate water flow, ensuring the unit is cleaning at the proper speed.

Buy Now On Amazon Buy Now on InTheSwim.com

If you click this link and make a purchase, we earn a commission at no additional cost to you.

01/27/2023 09:30 pm GMT

The Kreep Krauly E-Z Vac is the little brother and more affordable version for above ground and some Intex pools. It works exactly the same way as in the inground version.

It has only moving part (the flapper). No wheels or gears to fix over time. And it has the same valve to automatically regulate water flow to control speed for a more thorough, but random cleaning pattern.

And while there are a lot of brands to choose from including Hayward and Zodiac, we feel that the Pentair cleaners will be the best bang for your buck!

How Do Suction Pool Cleaners Work?

An automatic suction pool cleaner works the same way as your manual vacuum. It connects to your skimmer to create a siphon that sucks up dirt and large debris from the bottom of your swimming pool.

The cleaner moves on its own randomly around the pool. This is possible because it has a device that creates a start-and-stop pulsing effect which helps the cleaner to move.

Dirt and large debris are sucked up through the cleaner and into the hose which is connected to your skimmer.

What is the Difference Between a Suction and Pressure Pool Cleaner?

Pressure-Side Pool Cleaners attach to the return jet instead of the skimmer. So it uses the water flow coming from your filter system to power the cleaner.

They have a lot of moving parts including a drive belt, wheels, and a net to catch debris. It’s a self-contained cleaning unit and keeps the debris in a filter bag and doesn’t use your filter to clean. It only uses the clean water pressure from your pump.

Pressure-side cleaner tends to be a bit more expensive (especially if you need to add a booster pump) and can break more often because of all the moving parts. However, they’re better because they don’t require your filter to collect debris.

The best of both worlds is a robotic pool cleaner that runs completely independent of your filter system, uses suction instead of pressure, and collects all the dirt and debris into its own filter bag located inside the cleaner.

Buying Guide: What We Looked For In A Suction-Side Pool Cleaner

We put lots of automatic suction pool cleaners to the test over the years. And we’ve read thousands of customer reviews. Ultimately, we narrowed down our top picks to these key features.

Wall Climbing Ability

This was a must-have feature, especially for fiberglass, vinyl, and concrete inground swimming pools. With the price of a suction side cleaner being as high as even a robotic pool cleaner, this was important to nail down at this price range. We ruled out all cleaners that struggled with this.

Suction Power

Suction cleaners function identically to your manual vacuum. And with a manual pool vacuum, you have control over getting large debris at the bottom of your pool. So we made sure our top picks had this ability.

How Long Is The Hose And Can It Be Extended?

Another important feature for both inground and above ground pools so that our top picks would work for everyone. Even if the hose that comes with the cleaner isn’t long enough, we wanted to make sure you could easily add extensions. This also makes it easier to store.

Very Few Moving Parts

We tested a bunch of cleaners with a lot of moving parts. And even though they worked fine, they didn’t pass this test. Suction-side cleaners should be simple. And the simpler they are, the easier they are to fix and maintain.

Durability and Build

You don’t wanna spend upwards of $400 for an automatic pool cleaner just to have it break all the time. And besides the important factor of few moving parts, we looked for cleaners that we felt were made well and durable. Our goal is to recommend cleaners that will stand the test of time and hold up in even the harshest conditions.

How Do You Connect a Suction Pool Vacuum?

The setup comprises several steps, but once you’ve done it a few times, it’ll become second nature.

1. Turn off your pump.
2. Vacuum your pool, then clean your filter and pump basket.
3. Run your pump for five minutes to clear the lines after cleaning, then shut it off again.
4. Close your pool main drain line.
5. Aim the return lines downward.
6. Install the wall fitting to your return line or valve assembly inside the skimmer suction port.
7. Lay the hose across your pool from the return line or skimmer to the farthest pool wall. Trim or remove sections of the hose to eliminate excess length.
8. Attach the leader hose to the pool cleaner end of the hose.
9. Submerge the hose, allowing it to fill with water.
10. Submerge your automatic pool cleaner, so it will also fill with water.
11. If your model has a flow regulator valve, install it on the hose now.
12. Attach the leader hose to your pool cleaner.
13. Allow your cleaner to sink to the pool floor, then turn on your pool pump and let your suction-side cleaner get to work.

Once your suction-side cleaner is hooked up to your skimmer, the power of the water being sucked through it will help it amble around your pool floor. Some suction-side cleaners will also climb walls, and some have wheels, while others have rubber disks that lay flat against your pool floor.

You can use your cleaner daily if you wish, but you’ll at least need to use it several times a week to keep your pool clean.

Suction-Side Pool Cleaner Maintenance

In addition to their bargain prices, the simple construction of suction-side cleaners makes them easy to care for.

• Empty your filter canister frequently, as it fills with debris from the vacuum.
• Some suction-side cleaners have in-line canisters to trap larger debris before it fills up your filter canister. If yours has one, be sure to empty it often as well.
• Check all inlets, brushes, and wheels for trapped debris after every use. Remove anything you find junking up the works. In some models, this will mean opening the body to access the engine, but don’t worry. It’s not like a car engine, just some little paddles that help suck up debris.
• Check and replace cleaning parts on your suction-side cleaner as needed. Depending on the design of your model, this could mean brushes, foot pads, and filters.
• Always store your pool cleaner hoses flat so they don’t develop kinks.

Note: Due to wide variations in design of suction-side cleaners, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the parts diagram and maintenance recommendations in your manual.

Suction Pool Vacuum Troubleshooting Tips

Something not quite right with your cleaner? You should be able to fix most issues on your own.

• The cleaner isn’t sitting on the pool floor correctly: Check the pressure. Hold your cleaner just below the pool surface with pump running. Depending on the model, you’ll either count wheel rotations or use a flow gauge. Adjust pressure if necessary per your pool cleaner’s specifications.
• The hose becomes kinked: Lay the hose in the sun for a day, or flush it with hot water to soften the plastic. Once it’s lying flat, store it flat so it doesn’t develop kinks again.

Storing an Automatic Swimming Pool Cleaner

When you close your pool, winter storage is a breeze. Disassemble all hoses and connectors. Drain all the water from the cleaner and hoses, then lay the hoses flat.

If you have a disc cleaner, lay the disc flat, too. Store the hoses and the cleaner out of direct sunlight.

Lifetime Extra Large Deck Storage Box

$149.98

Perfect for storing pool maintenance equipment like cleaners, nets, brushes, hoses, and more. Also great protecting your pool gear from the sun and critters all year long.

Buy Now On Amazon

If you click this link and make a purchase, we earn a commission at no additional cost to you.

01/27/2023 02:55 pm GMT

Are Suction Pool Cleaners Any Good?

Like we said at the beginning, they’re the best automatic pool cleaner for anyone on a budget.  While they have their drawbacks, using a suction side pool cleaner is better than not having an automatic pool cleaner at all.

Bottom line: we highly recommend investing in an automatic pool cleaner. And if you’re looking just to get started or have a tight budget to work with, we think you’ll be happy with our top picks for suction side pool cleaners for inground and above ground swimming pools.

Happy Swimming!

The post The Best Suction Pool Cleaner appeared first on Swim University®.

NOTE: The following automatic pressure-side pool cleaners are available to buy on either Amazon and InTheSwim.com. Check both sites for availability. All the links are affiliate links which means if you click a link and make a purchase, we earn a commission at no additional cost to you. It helps us keep the lights on

The Best Pressure-Side Pool Cleaner for an Inground Pool: Polaris 360

Our Top Pick

Polaris Vac-Sweep 360 Pressure Side Inground Pool Cleaner

$579.00

The Polaris 360 automatic pool cleaner improves water circulation and helps mix chemicals and heat while it cleans the bottom and walls of your pool. It’s powerful enough to pick up larger items like leaves and pebbles, catching the debris in its own filter bag.

Buy Now On Amazon Buy Now On InTheSwim.com

If you click this link and make a purchase, we earn a commission at no additional cost to you.

01/28/2023 12:58 am GMT

Polaris Cleaners are a trusted brand in the pool industry. And the Polaris 360 is the gold standard in pressure-side automatic cleaners. We chose this one specifically because it DOES NOT require a booster pump and perfect for all inground pools of any size and shape.

The Polaris 360 includes three jets to create the water vortex that vacuums up medium and large debris (see diagram below). It comes with a 31-foot hose and single chamber filter bag. Plus a backup valve that automatically frees the pool cleaner if it gets cornered so it keeps cleaning without interruption.

The Best Pressure-Side Pool Cleaner for an Above Ground Pool: Polaris 65

Our Top Pick

Polaris Vac-Sweep 65 Pressure Side Pool Cleaner for Above Ground Pools

$288.99

Connects to the pressure side of your pool and uses a patented jet sweep assembly to loosen and remove dirt and other particles from hard-to-reach places. It also has a trailing all-purpose debris bag that scoops up some of the larger items that are blasted loose from the pool floor.

Buy On Amazon Buy on InTheSwim.com

If you click this link and make a purchase, we earn a commission at no additional cost to you.

01/27/2023 11:50 pm GMT

Again, Polaris tops our list for above ground pools. The Polaris 65 is the most unique cleaner on the market. This simple floating spaceship design moves back and forth across the surface of your pool. Then, using water pressure, it has a long 6-foot hose attached to a filter bag that descends to the bottom of your pool sweeping medium and large debris.

You’ll be surprised by how well and fast this cleaner works. And it has very few moving parts, so it’s easy to fix and maintenance when needed — which is rare.

How Do Pressure Pool Cleaners Work?

Pressure-side pool cleaners hook up to a return jet in your pool and use water pressure from the filter system to propel itself through your pool and vacuum using a water vortex.

Pressure-side pool cleaners have wheels, a filter bag, a sweep hose, and a return-jet hose. They’re great at picking up medium and large debris.

The cleaner moves on its own randomly around the pool. If it gets stuck anywhere, most come with a backup valve. The valve kicks on every so often, stopping water flow to the cleaner and instead, blasting all the water through a tiny jet on the side of the valve. This produces a burst of force that shoves the cleaner to a new location so you can get on with your life and not worry about whether your pool cleaner is doing its job.

What’s the Difference Between Pressure-Side and Suction-Side Pool Cleaners?

Suction-Side Pool Cleaners attach to the skimmer. And it uses the suction power of your filter system to move the cleaner and pick up debris from your pool.

Pressure-Side Pool Cleaners attach to the return jet. They use the water pressure from your filter system to power the cleaner and create a water vortex to pull debris into its own filter bag.

A robotic pool cleaner is the best of both cleaners. They clean your pool without the use of your filter system. They use suction instead of pressure and collect dirt and debris in its own filter bag inside.

Buying Guide: 5 Key Features We Looked For In A Pressure-Side Pool Cleaner

We put lots of automatic pressure pool cleaners to the test over the years. And we’ve read thousands of customer reviews. Ultimately, we narrowed down our top picks to these features.

1. Wall Climbing Ability

This was a must-have feature for fiberglass, vinyl, and concrete inground swimming pools. We even noted if it climbed and cleaned stairs.

2. Does It Require A Booster Pump?

Some pools won’t have quite enough water pressure to run certain pressure-side cleaners. If you choose a cleaner that needs a lot of oomph, you may also need a booster pump that hooks into your pool’s filter system boosts the water pressure.

Note: If you must use a booster pump, we recommend having a professional install it. It’s a little more complicated than just the pool cleaner.

3. Does It Have a Backup Valve?

Many pressure-side automatic pool cleaners have this simple-looking little doodad that helps redirect your pool cleaner so it will clean the entirety of your pool, rather than spend a few hours stuck by your stairs.

4. How Long Is The Hose And Can It Be Extended?

Another important feature for both inground and above ground pools so that our top picks would work for everyone. Even if the hose that comes with the cleaner isn’t long enough, we wanted to make sure you could easily add extensions. This also makes it easier to store.

5. Durability and Build

You don’t wanna invest in an automatic pool cleaner just to have it break constantly. We looked for cleaners that we felt were made well and durable. Our goal is to recommend cleaners that will stand the test of time and hold up in even the harshest conditions.

Plus, many local pool dealers have the ability to repair Polaris pool cleaners since they’re so popular. You won’t have trouble finding any parts to keep your cleaner for a very long time.

How to Install and Use a Pressure-Side Pool Cleaner

Once installed, your pool pump pushes water through a hose to jets located underneath the pool cleaner and along with the sweep hose. These concentrated streams of water work to move the cleaner along while also loosening debris and pushing it up into the filter bag. Fine particles will flow through the filter bag and get cleaned out in the pool filtration system.

This process is very similar to the installation and use of a suction-side cleaner, just opposite in some ways as it works at the end of the circulation cycle rather than the beginning.

1. Clean your pool filter.
2. Flush your return line by turning your pump on for five minutes, then back off again.
3. Install a universal wall fitting into your dedicated return line or a return jet.
4. Trim the leader hose so its length equals the deepest part of your pool.
5. Screw the leader hose into the wall fitting. Note: The leader hose is installed on the opposite end from suction-side pool cleaner installation.
6. Attach the leader hose to the feed hose.
7. Extend the feed hose across the pool surface to the farthest pool edge from the return line. If it extends far past the pool edge, follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for trimming the hose. Typically, you’ll cut equal amounts from each section when making adjustments.
8. Ensure all feed hose floats are evenly spaced.
9. Connect the feed hose to the pool cleaner.
10. Secure the filter bag per the instructions for your model.
11. Prime your pool pump. If you’re using a booster pump, turn it on next.

Important: Measure rotations per minute (RPMs) of the cleaner’s wheels to ensure they’re within the range recommended for your model. If your pressure-side pool cleaner’s wheels rotate too slowly, the cleaner won’t get around the pool well. If they’re rotating too quickly, the cleaner will lift off the floor, and won’t be able to vacuum properly. Ideal RPMs vary by model, so consult your manual before continuing.

• Using a marker, put a small line on one tire.
• Turn the cleaner on, and submerge it just below the pool surface.
• Set a timer for one minute.
• Count one tire rotation each time your mark passes the starting point.
• When the minute is up, compare the RPMs you counted to the manual to ensure the total falls somewhere within the recommended range.
• If it doesn’t, adjust as necessary, and repeat the test until you achieve a good number of RPMs.

Now your pressure-side cleaner is ready to roll! Use it at least twice a week, or as often as needed.

How to Maintain a Pressure-Side Pool Cleaner

Though they save you a lot of manual labor, you’ll still need to take a few practical steps to ensure your pool cleaner lives a full life. Keeping it clean is pretty simple, and routine maintenance will keep your pressure-side pool cleaner operating at peak performance.

• Carefully remove the filter bag, and allow it to dry out of direct sunlight. Once the debris inside has fully dried, you can easily dump it out.
• If the filter bag looks clogged up, give it a good spray with a hose before reattaching it to the pool cleaner. Tip: Alternate between two bags for hassle-free cleaning.
• Open the filter assembly. Remove the in-line filter, and wash it out with water.
• Secure the filter back inside the assembly.
• Check your sweep hose for debris, and hose it down when necessary.
• Clear the openings on the end of your sweep hose and in the body of the cleaner as needed. It’s a good idea to check these areas after each use.
• Ensure snug hose connections by gently hand tightening, if possible. Avoid over-tightening, which can strip the connectors.

Pressure-Side Pool Cleaner Troubleshooting Tips

Every once in a while, your pool cleaner may not work exactly the way it’s supposed to. You can fix most problems pretty easily.

• RPMs are outside the optimal range: Make adjustments per the manufacturer’s specifications. This may involve removing or adding flow restrictors, adjusting the in-line flow, cleaning your in-line filter, or cleaning your pool filter system components.
• The pool cleaner isn’t getting around the pool the way it should: Most models let you adjust the thrust jet to add or remove some power.
• The pool cleaner is spraying water outside your pool, or moving too rapidly: Adjust your sweep hose per your model’s specifications. The sweep hose should gently swish back and forth behind your pool cleaner, not flail wildly like a tube man.
• The backup valve isn’t working properly: Lift the cleaner out of the water. Wait to see if water sprays out of the valve every few minutes. If it doesn’t, you may need to replace the valve, or have your cleaner professionally serviced.

Storing a Pressure-Side Pool Cleaner

Closing your pool for the winter? Rinse the cleaner off, clean the filter and filter bag, then allow everything to dry. Store the pool cleaner and all its parts and accessories out of direct sunlight.

Lifetime Extra Large Deck Storage Box

$149.98

Perfect for storing pool maintenance equipment like cleaners, nets, brushes, hoses, and more. Also great protecting your pool gear from the sun and critters all year long.

Buy Now On Amazon

If you click this link and make a purchase, we earn a commission at no additional cost to you.

01/27/2023 02:55 pm GMT

Are Pressure-Side Pool Cleaners Any Good?

Bottom line: we highly recommend investing in an automatic pool cleaner. And if you’re not ready to invest in a robotic pool cleaner, a pressure pool cleaner is your next best option. You’ll be happy with our top picks for inground and above ground swimming pools.

Happy Swimming!

The post The Best Pressure Side Pool Cleaner appeared first on Swim University®.

NOTE: The following above ground pool vacuums are available to buy on either Amazon and InTheSwim.com. Check both sites for availability. All the links are affiliate links which means if you click a link and make a purchase, we earn a commission at no additional cost to you. It helps us keep the lights on

The Best Robotic Above Ground Pool Vacuum

Our Top Pick

Dolphin E10 Automatic Robotic Pool Cleaner for Above Grounds

$599.00

Designed for above ground swimming pools up to 30 feet. It takes less than 2 hours to clean your pool with built-in water filtering and scrubbing.

Buy Now on Amazon

If you click this link and make a purchase, we earn a commission at no additional cost to you.

01/28/2023 03:02 am GMT

The Dolphin E10 not only looks really cool, but it’s also affordable for a robot that cleans your above ground swimming pool. Dolphin pool cleaners have been around for more than 35 years and they’re a trusted name in the pool industry.

After testing a bunch of different robotic pool cleaners over the years, we’ve switched our favorite from Aquabot to Dolphin. They’re extremely innovative and their goal is to provide affordable cleaners that save energy and help you keep a clean pool. Gotta love it.

What is a Robotic Swimming Pool Cleaner?

Robotic pool cleaners combine the best parts of other automatic vacuums. For example, suction-side cleaners (which we’ll get to later) are inexpensive but a pain to get set up. Mainly because they connect to your pool skimmer the same way a manual vacuum does. And if the cleaner sucks up any rocks, it can cause damage to your filter system.

Pressure-side cleaners use the water pressure from your return jet to power the vacuum along the bottom of your pool in a random cleaning pattern. What’s great about this is they have their own mesh filter bag that picks up the debris instead of your filter system. So it won’t cause any potential damage.

Robotic cleaners have a mesh filter bag inside them and are powered by water pressure from your pump and pool filter. But that pressure comes from a motor within the unit powered by electricity. So even better, it doesn’t require running your entire filter system to power the vacuum. You can clean your pool while the pool filter system is off! It even improves water circulation!

NOTE: If you’re worried about putting an electric vacuum in your pool, don’t be. They’re perfectly safe. Also, check out our favorite robotic pool cleaners specifically for inground and above ground swimming pools.

The Best Pressure Side Above Ground Pool Vacuum

Our Top Pick

Polaris Vac-Sweep 65 Pressure Side Pool Cleaner for Above Ground Pools

$288.99

Connects to the pressure side of your pool and uses a patented jet sweep assembly to loosen and remove dirt and other particles from hard-to-reach places. It also has a trailing all-purpose debris bag that scoops up some of the larger items that are blasted loose from the pool floor.

Buy On Amazon Buy on InTheSwim.com

If you click this link and make a purchase, we earn a commission at no additional cost to you.

01/27/2023 11:50 pm GMT

I was blown away when I first started using the Polaris 65 automatic pool cleaner. It’s a bit weird because there’s the spaceship looking part that floats on top of the water while it drags a mesh bag along the bottom of the pool floor.

What is a Pressure Side Above Ground Pool Cleaner?

It connects to your return jet and uses the water pressure from your pool pump and filtration system to power the spaceship along the top of the water (both backward and forward). At the same time, it sends water pressure to the mesh bag pushing debris into it in a random cleaning pattern.

One of the best things I like about this cleaner is that it’s incredibly easy to repair. It only has a few parts that can go wrong. And you can fix it just by looking at it.

It works surprisingly well. And it’s fun to swim with it! Check our favorite pressure-side pool cleaners for inground pools.

NOTE: Even though the spaceship looking thing floats on the top of the water, it doesn’t skim debris off the pool surface. Also, the better your water flow rate, the more quick and efficient this vacuum will clean your pool bottom.

The Best Suction Side Above Ground Pool Vacuum

Our Top Pick

Pentair Kreepy Krauly E-Z Vac Suction-Side Above Ground Pool Cleaner

$246.07

This Kreepy Krauly pool vacuum attaches directly to your pool skimmer line and is powered by your pool’s pump, using an internal free skimming valve to automatically regulate water flow, ensuring the unit is cleaning at the proper speed.

Buy Now On Amazon Buy Now on InTheSwim.com

If you click this link and make a purchase, we earn a commission at no additional cost to you.

01/27/2023 09:30 pm GMT

The Pentair Kreepy Krauly suction cleaner will quickly and effectively clean any above ground swimming pool, even pools with dished out bottoms up to 72 inches with the help of the flapper. With just one moving part, it’s exceptionally easy to maintain and provides remarkably quiet operation while vacuuming.

What is a Suction-Side Swimming Pool Cleaner?

As the name implies, it uses the power of suction to vacuum your pool from your pool pump and filtration system. It actually works exactly like your manual vacuum cleaner by connecting to your pool skimmer either with just a hose or a vac plate. The only big difference is that it moves around on its own in a random cleaning pattern.

Check out our favorite suction-side pool cleaners for above grounds.

All The Best Above Ground Cleaners For Any Pool Size (Including Intex Pools)

Our Top Pick

Dolphin E10 Automatic Robotic Pool Cleaner for Above Grounds

$599.00

Designed for above ground swimming pools up to 30 feet. It takes less than 2 hours to clean your pool with built-in water filtering and scrubbing.

Buy Now on Amazon

If you click this link and make a purchase, we earn a commission at no additional cost to you.

01/28/2023 03:02 am GMT

Our Top Pick

Polaris Vac-Sweep 65 Pressure Side Pool Cleaner for Above Ground Pools

$288.99

Connects to the pressure side of your pool and uses a patented jet sweep assembly to loosen and remove dirt and other particles from hard-to-reach places. It also has a trailing all-purpose debris bag that scoops up some of the larger items that are blasted loose from the pool floor.

Buy On Amazon Buy on InTheSwim.com

If you click this link and make a purchase, we earn a commission at no additional cost to you.

01/27/2023 11:50 pm GMT

Our Top Pick

Pentair Kreepy Krauly E-Z Vac Suction-Side Above Ground Pool Cleaner

$246.07

This Kreepy Krauly pool vacuum attaches directly to your pool skimmer line and is powered by your pool’s pump, using an internal free skimming valve to automatically regulate water flow, ensuring the unit is cleaning at the proper speed.

Buy Now On Amazon Buy Now on InTheSwim.com

If you click this link and make a purchase, we earn a commission at no additional cost to you.

01/27/2023 09:30 pm GMT

Buying Guide: Learn More About Automatic Swimming Pool Cleaners

There are a lot of other brands out there that make great above ground pool vacuums for smart pool owners like Dolphin. But after much debate, testing, and evaluating the pool cleaning process, we decided these were our picks.

If you’re confused at all between all the different types of pool vacuum cleaners there are on the market, I recommend you check out our more detailed guides on suction-side, pressure-side, and robotic pool cleaners. when you get a chance. It’ll explain everything you need to know.

Happy Swimming!

The post The Best Above Ground Pool Cleaners appeared first on Swim University®.

NOTE: The following inground pool cleaners are Amazon affiliate links. If you click a link and make a purchase, we earn a commission at no additional cost to you. It helps us keep the lights on.

The Best Robotic Pool Cleaner

Our Top Pick

Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus Robotic Pool Cleaner

Ideal for swimming pools up to 50 feet. Cleans large pools in just 2 hours. Includes dual scrubbing brushes and a built-in schedule using 3 settings: every day, every other day, or every 3rd day.

Buy Now On Amazon

If you click this link and make a purchase, we earn a commission at no additional cost to you.

The Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus scans your pool to optimize its path around your pool floor and walls for the perfect cleaning cycle. Very few cleaners do this and it’s one of the main reasons we picked it.

The Dolphin Nautilus also has two scrubbing brushes that help scrub and climb walls. Plus, it’ll scrub the floor of your pool while picking up small and large debris. It’ll work on all pool surfaces including vinyl liner, concrete, and fiberglass pools.

The built-in filters that collect the debris are easy to remove, empty, rinse, and reload.

What is a Robotic Swimming Pool Cleaner?

Robotic pool cleaners are our favorite type of automatic pool vacuum. They combine the best parts of suction-side and Pressure-side cleaners and they fall right in the middle when it comes to price.

They have a built-in motor with drives the cleaner around the pool. And inside, they have a mesh filter bag that collects debris via an internal water pump.

It’s a completely self-contained cleaner that doesn’t require running your entire filtration system to power the vacuum. And pool cleaning can take place when the filter system is off! It even improves water circulation and filters the water through the mesh bag down to 2 microns!

NOTE TO POOL OWNERS: If you’re worried about putting an electric cleaner in the pool water, don’t be. They’re safe. Also, check out our best robotic pool cleaners specifically for both inground and above ground pools.

The Best Pressure-Side Pool Cleaner

Our Top Pick

Polaris Vac-Sweep 360 Pressure Side Inground Pool Cleaner

$579.00

The Polaris 360 automatic pool cleaner improves water circulation and helps mix chemicals and heat while it cleans the bottom and walls of your pool. It’s powerful enough to pick up larger items like leaves and pebbles, catching the debris in its own filter bag.

Buy Now On Amazon Buy Now On InTheSwim.com

If you click this link and make a purchase, we earn a commission at no additional cost to you.

01/28/2023 12:58 am GMT

Polaris Cleaners (now owned by Zodiac Pools) one of the most trusted brands in the pool industry. And the Polaris 360 is the gold standard in pressure-side automatic cleaners for inground pools.

We chose this one specifically because it DOES NOT require a booster pump (or extra pool pump) and works for any size pool.

What is a Pressure Side Pool Cleaner?

We’re huge fans of Pressure-side pool cleaners because they connect to your return jet and use water pressure from your pool filter system. They do not suck debris into your filter system like suction-side cleaners (more on those later).

Instead, the water flows through the cleaner powering the wheels with a turbine and also sprays the water upwards into a filter bag attached to the unit. This creates a water vortex that lifts dirt and debris up into the bag making it a complete self-contained cleaning unit.

Every once in a while, water is diverted into what’s called a backup valve which lifts the cleaner off the bottom of the pool and sends it to a different part of your pool. This is awesome just in case your cleaner gets stuck and stops it from cleaning the same spot over and over again.

As far as pricing goes, they’re usually cheaper than a robotic cleaner. However, some inground pressure-side cleaners require a booster pump to be installed and they can be pretty expensive. If your pool requires a booster pump to run a pressure-side cleaner, we recommend just going with a robotic pool cleaner instead.

Frustrated by adding chemicals and trying to keep your pool clear all the time?

We cut out all the confusion of pool maintenance in this easy-to-read illustrated ebook and video course. It'll help you save $100 right away on pool care!

Click Here to Learn More

The Best Suction-Side Pool Cleaner

Our Top Pick

Kreepy Krauly Suction-Side Automatic Inground Pool Cleaner

$328.49

It connects directly to your pool filter system and includes 32 ft. of hose. It's powerful, balanced, and doesn't have any hammering noises (common in other suction-side pool cleaners) for quiet operation.

Buy On Amazon Buy On InTheSwim.com

If you click this link and make a purchase, we earn a commission at no additional cost to you.

01/27/2023 06:43 pm GMT

The Kreepy Krauly by Pentair has a built-in navigation system that guides the cleaner from the water line to the wall and to the bottom of the pool. And an automatic valve regulates the flow control and travel speed for thorough cleaning.

It’ll clean around steps and ladders and the flapper help grab leaves, dirt, and large debris.

What is a Suction-Side Swimming Pool Cleaner?

Suction-side pool cleaners use the suction power to vacuum your pool from your pump and filter. It works exactly like your manual vacuum cleaner by connecting to your pool skimmer. The big difference is that it moves around on its own in a random pattern.

These are the most inexpensive automatic pool cleaners on the market. And while they work, they’re not our favorite type of pool cleaner.

This is simply because it requires the full power of your filter system to work. Plus, we worry about the cleaner getting stuck or collecting large debris and clogging the filter system when we’re not home which can cause a lot of long-term damage.

We recommend to only run a suction pool cleaner while you’re home and can monitor its activity.

The Best Inground Pool Cleaners Recap

Here’s a recap of what we recommend when it comes to automatic pool cleaners for inground swimming pools of all shapes and sizes.

Our Top Pick

Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus Robotic Pool Cleaner

Ideal for swimming pools up to 50 feet. Cleans large pools in just 2 hours. Includes dual scrubbing brushes and a built-in schedule using 3 settings: every day, every other day, or every 3rd day.

Buy Now On Amazon

If you click this link and make a purchase, we earn a commission at no additional cost to you.

Our Top Pick

Polaris Vac-Sweep 360 Pressure Side Inground Pool Cleaner

$579.00

The Polaris 360 automatic pool cleaner improves water circulation and helps mix chemicals and heat while it cleans the bottom and walls of your pool. It’s powerful enough to pick up larger items like leaves and pebbles, catching the debris in its own filter bag.

Buy Now On Amazon Buy Now On InTheSwim.com

If you click this link and make a purchase, we earn a commission at no additional cost to you.

01/28/2023 12:58 am GMT

Our Top Pick

Kreepy Krauly Suction-Side Automatic Inground Pool Cleaner

$328.49

It connects directly to your pool filter system and includes 32 ft. of hose. It's powerful, balanced, and doesn't have any hammering noises (common in other suction-side pool cleaners) for quiet operation.

Buy On Amazon Buy On InTheSwim.com

If you click this link and make a purchase, we earn a commission at no additional cost to you.

01/27/2023 06:43 pm GMT

Learn More About Automatic Swimming Pool Cleaners

There are a lot of other brands out there that make great inground pool cleaners including Hayward. But after testing and evaluating the cleaning process, we decided these were our picks.

If you’re confused at all between all the different types of pool cleaners there are on the market, I recommend you check out our guides on suction-side, pressure-side, and robotic automatic pool cleaners when you get a chance. It’ll explain everything you need to know. And if you happen to know someone who owns an above ground pool, check out our favorite above ground pool cleaners too.

Happy Swimming!

The post The Best Inground Pool Cleaner appeared first on Swim University®.

Polaris is an industry leader in pool-cleaning technology with a reputation for quality products and attentive customer service. But before you choose just any Polaris model, take a look at how each of the three types of automatic pool cleaners—pressure-side, robotic, and suction-side— would work for you.

Pressure-Side Pool Cleaners

Some of the most popular automatic cleaners available, pressure-side pool cleaners readily pick up medium and large debris. They’re great for grabbing leaves and other rubbish in pools surrounded by trees.

How Pressure-Side Pool Cleaners Work

The name comes from the way they’re powered—the return jets in your pool. That side of your system is where clean water is pumped back into your pool after being filtered. The opposite side is the suction side, where water is pulled into the skimmer and through your pool filter.

In these models, the body of the cleaner is hooked up to a hose attached to your water return jet. Water pressure drives the floating cleaner around the surface of your pool. A sweep hose wags along underwater, behind the cleaner, blasting the floor and walls of your pool with jets of water that loosen debris.

A skimmer bag at the end of the jet sweep hose collects larger debris, while small debris and sediment kicked up by the sweep hose is captured by your pool filter system. This is a big advantage because it lightens the load on your pool’s filter system.

Backup Valve

Sometimes your automatic pool cleaner will get stuck by your stairs or in a corner of your pool. To fix this problem, Polaris pressure-side cleaners have a cool feature called a backup valve.

Every so often this valve kicks on, diverting all the water from driving the cleaner through a small jet on the side of the valve. The force of the water blasting through the backup valve thrusts the pool cleaner to a new position so it can continue cleaning your pool.

If this valve malfunctions, it can prevent your cleaner from working properly, so be sure to check it regularly.

Booster Pumps

Some pressure-side pool cleaners require a booster pump. The addition of this little secondary pump to your pool filtration system increases the water pressure to your pool cleaner so it can move around your pool more easily and clean more effectively. This is an important addition for larger pools.

Note: If you choose a cleaner that needs a booster pump, we recommend having a professional install it.

Polaris Pressure-Side Cleaners for Above Ground Pools

Polaris offers three automatic cleaners for above ground pools, and vinyl or fiberglass inground pools.

Polaris Vac-Sweep^® 165

An affordable, basic cleaner designed specifically for inground pools with vinyl or fiberglass surfaces. The Vac-Sweep^® 165 can clean a pool up to eight feet deep in three hours or less.

For optimal cleaning, trim the 32-foot hose to four feet shorter than the pool edge farthest from the return jet. Adjust the length of the sweep hose to two feet longer than the deepest part of your pool. Use the pressure relief valve to obtain water pressure between five and ten pounds per square inch (psi).

Zodiac 6-120-00 Polaris Vac-Sweep 165 Pressure Side Pool Cleaner

Buy Now

If you click this link and make a purchase, we earn a commission at no additional cost to you.

Polaris Vac-Sweep^® 65

If you have an above ground pool no deeper than five feet, this basic pressure-side cleaner will work for you.The Vac-Sweep^® 65 is otherwise the same as the 165 model. You’ll even adjust the hoses and pressure relief valve in the same manner.

Our Top Pick

Polaris Vac-Sweep 65 Pressure Side Pool Cleaner for Above Ground Pools

$288.99

Connects to the pressure side of your pool and uses a patented jet sweep assembly to loosen and remove dirt and other particles from hard-to-reach places. It also has a trailing all-purpose debris bag that scoops up some of the larger items that are blasted loose from the pool floor.

Buy On Amazon Buy on InTheSwim.com

If you click this link and make a purchase, we earn a commission at no additional cost to you.

01/27/2023 11:50 pm GMT

Polaris Pressure-Side Pool Cleaners for Inground Pools

The models in this category roll around the floor and walls of your pool on large wheels. They work in any type of inground pool. They’re also powered by your return jets, but some require a booster pump to provide optimum water pressure.

These cleaners feature small water jets that create a vortex which pulls debris up into the filter bag on top. These models also have sweep hoses, some with a little scrubber on the end, to really deep clean the walls and floor of your pool—all in under three hours.

Polaris Vac-Sweep^® 3900 Sport

Easily the most impressive pressure-side cleaner Polaris makes, the Vac-Sweep^® 3900 Sport boasts all-wheel drive with 50% more torque to its three Wide Trax^® wheels. It has the largest vacuum inlet at two and a half inches. It’s the only model that comes with the TailSweep Pro, a premium sweep hose that minimizes water spray out of the pool.

It has three jets and a dual-chamber bag to maximize debris collection. It has an automatic backup valve to keep it from getting stuck long. It’s so powerful, it even picks up small rocks and acorns. The Polaris 3900 Sport requires a booster pump.

You’ll need to measure and trim the leader hose, so it’s as long as the deepest part of your pool. When you have the whole line put together, it must be within six inches of the farthest point from your return jet. You can make further adjustments to the length if necessary.

You’ll also want to check the revolutions per minute (RPM) of the wheels, thrust jet, and sweep hose, making adjustments as needed. Optimizing these settings will keep your cleaning moving around the entirety of your pool.

Polaris Vac-Sweep 3900 Sport Pressure Side Pool Cleaner

Buy Now

If you click this link and make a purchase, we earn a commission at no additional cost to you.

Polaris Vac-Sweep^® 380

The second-most powerful cleaner in the Vac-Sweep^® family, the 380 pressure-side cleaner has three jets and a two-and-one-quarter-inch inlet. Its all-wheel belt drive keeps the three standard wheels moving along.

It has a single-chamber debris bag. While it comes with a standard sweep, it’s compatible with the TailSweep Pro. You’ll also need a booster pump to run this model.

Polaris Vac-Sweep 380 Pressure Side Pool Cleaner

Buy Now

If you click this link and make a purchase, we earn a commission at no additional cost to you.

Polaris Vac-Sweep^® 360

If you like the looks of the Vac-Sweep^® 380, but you don’t want to purchase and run a booster pump, the Vac-Sweep^® 360 will do the trick. It’s got three jets and the same generous inlet, but you won’t need a booster for it. You can also upgrade to a TailSweep Pro on this model.

Our Top Pick

Polaris Vac-Sweep 360 Pressure Side Inground Pool Cleaner

$579.00

The Polaris 360 automatic pool cleaner improves water circulation and helps mix chemicals and heat while it cleans the bottom and walls of your pool. It’s powerful enough to pick up larger items like leaves and pebbles, catching the debris in its own filter bag.

Buy Now On Amazon Buy Now On InTheSwim.com

If you click this link and make a purchase, we earn a commission at no additional cost to you.

01/28/2023 12:58 am GMT

Polaris Vac-Sweep^® 280

Don’t let the modest features fool you. The Vac-Sweep^® 280 is a capable little pool cleaner. It has two jets, plus a two-and-one-quarter-inch inlet. It requires a booster pump.

Polaris Vac-Sweep 280 Pressure Side Pool Cleaner

Buy Now

If you click this link and make a purchase, we earn a commission at no additional cost to you.

Polaris Booster Pumps

Exactly as its name suggests, this piece of equipment serves to boost the power and efficiency of your automatic cleaner. If you get a Polaris pool cleaner that needs a booster pump, select a Polaris booster pump as well so you can be certain they’re compatible.

Note: Remember, if the cleaner you choose needs a booster pump, it’s best to have a professional install it.

Polaris PB4-60 Booster Pump

This ultra-high efficiency, three-quarter-horsepower booster pump provides all the power necessary for Polaris Vac-Sweep^® 180, 280, 380, and 3900 Sport pressure-side cleaners to work their magic.

It has low flow requirements, so you can even use it with your two-speed pump on low or with a variable speed pump. If you want to retain your manufacturer warranty, you’ll need to have a professional install the pump.

Polaris PB4-60 OEM Booster Pump - 3/4 HP - for Pressure-Side Pool Cleaners PB460 180-480

Buy Now

If you click this link and make a purchase, we earn a commission at no additional cost to you.

Robotic Pool Cleaners

If pressure-side cleaners take the work out of vacuuming your pool, robotic pool cleaners make it fun. The biggest difference between the two is the former is propelled by water pressure, while robotic cleaners are powered by electricity.

But wait a minute. How can you plug something into an outlet, then safely drop it into your pool?! Robotic pool cleaners are plugged into a ground-fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlet (the kind with the little reset button on it) and run on such low voltage, they’re completely safe. The snazzy features you get with robotic pool cleaners do come with a slightly larger price tag.

How Robotic Pool Cleaners Work

When you see one of these in action, you’ll undoubtedly be impressed. Robotic cleaners are smart, durable, little workhorses. They drive around inground pools, sucking debris into a built-in filter canister. Not only will they scrub and vacuum your pool floor, they’ll drive up stairs, and climb your pool walls. They also scrub your waterline and tile.

Polaris Robotic Pool Cleaners

With a feature called the Easy Lift System, you can drain the water out quickly, so removing the cleaner from your pool is a breeze. When the canister is full, you just pull it out, shake the debris out, then give it a quick spray. Polaris robotic pool cleaners work on any surface and come with a convenient transport caddy.

Polaris 9550 Sport

One of the coolest features available on this cleaner is the motion-sensing remote, which lets you gesture to any spot in your pool to direct the cleaner where you want it to go. Choose between four cleaning modes: floor, floor and wall, waterline only, and custom. You can even program a seven-day cleaning cycle.

The 9550 has four-wheel drive, a solid-blade scrubbing brush, and a dirty canister indicator. It will clean pools as large as 60 feet long.

Polaris F9550 Sport Robotic In-Ground Pool Cleaner

Buy Now

If you click this link and make a purchase, we earn a commission at no additional cost to you.

Polaris 9450 Sport

If you want the power and flexibility of a robotic cleaner, but you don’t need bells and whistles like a motion-sensing remote, the F9450 Sport may be right for you. It has a seven-day programmable cleaning cycle and two cleaning modes.

This model has four-wheel drive, a pleated brush, and a large filter canister. It’s capable of cleaning of 50-foot pool.

Polaris F9450 Sport Robotic In-Ground Pool Cleaner

Buy Now

If you click this link and make a purchase, we earn a commission at no additional cost to you.

Polaris 9350 Sport

This entry-level model is perfect if you’re on a budget, but still want the perks of a robotic cleaner. Dual cleaning cycles and floor, or floor-and-wall cleaning modes offer just enough flexibility.

It has two-wheel drive, a pleated brush, and large filter canister. It can also clean a 50-foot pool.

Polaris F9350 Sport Robotic In Ground Pool Cleaner

Buy Now

If you click this link and make a purchase, we earn a commission at no additional cost to you.

Suction-Side Pool Cleaners

If you’ve got a small budget, but you need an automatic cleaner, suction-side is the way to go. They’re not as powerful as pressure-side cleaners, nor do they have the high-tech features of robotic cleaners, but they’ll get the job done.

How Suction-Side Pool Cleaners Work

These cleaners are so named because you hook them up to the suction side of your filter system at the skimmer, or a dedicated suction line. As your cleaner works its way around your pool, it vacuums up debris, sending it to your skimmer, and through your pools filter system. This means less work for you, but more work for your pool filter.

You won’t find any suction-side pool cleaners under the Polaris brand name. However, their parent company, Zodiac, manufactures suction-side pool cleaners, so you can be assured of the same quality Polaris is known for.

Note: Be aware that because a suction-side cleaner attaches to your pool skimmer and creates a siphon to your filter system, it can potentially damage your filter by picking up rocks or other larger debris.

Should You Buy a Polaris Pool Cleaner?

You can certainly get by cleaning your pool manually. But investing in an automatic or robotic cleaner can save you a lot of work, not to mention precious time.

Most automatic cleaners will also help extend the life of your pool filter by scooping up debris before it cycles through your system. Plus, it’s much easier to stick to your pool maintenance schedule when you can program your pool cleaner in advance.

Before you make your purchase, ask yourself three questions:

1. Do I have an inground or above ground pool? This should be a pretty easy question to answer. At least, we hope it is!
2. How big is my pool? If you have a big pool you might want to think about buying a Polaris pool cleaner with a booster pump. If you don’t know your pool’s size off the top of your head, measure before you make your purchase.
3. What is my budget? If you have a small budget, don’t go for the smaller, less expensive model right away. Your budget may be small, but your pool may be large, requiring a bigger, better cleaner with a booster pump. Save up if you have to. There’s no sense in buying something that won’t be effective. You’ll just be wasting your money.

Now, what are you waiting for? Get an automatic pool cleaner, and spend less time cleaning and more time swimming!

Happy Swimming!

The post Polaris Pool Cleaners: Everything You Need to Know Before You Buy appeared first on Swim University®.