Best Pool Vacuum
Having a swimming pool in your backyard is fun and has many benefits. However, pool cleaning isn’t as fun and is often what prevents people from getting a pool.
Swimming pool maintenance is essential, but we can all agree that it’s not the simplest task. On top of that, hiring a person to clean your pool can also be a bit expensive, depending on the type of pool maintenance you need.
However, there’s a solution, and it’s called the pool cleaning vacuum. Finding a swimming pool vacuum can be a bit tricky, especially since there are as many different robotic pool cleaners on the market.
Take a moment to discover some of the best pool cleaners and how to buy one. We tried to keep our list versatile so that there’s a robotic pool cleaner for every size and type of swimming pool. Some of these vacuums may be better for your swimming pool than others, so make sure to consider them all.
Best Pool Vacuums To Buy
VINGLI Pool Vacuum Cleaner
This is an automatic pool cleaner that’s easy to use once you set it up. It’s also quiet, which is especially important in order not to disturb your household or neighbors when cleaning an in-ground pool.
One thing to keep in mind is that this automatic pool cleaner requires a 3/4hp pool pump and a low flow of 6.5m3/hour. You should adjust its weights and the valve to set up the robotic pool cleaner before the first use.
It’s a great robotic pool cleaner that picks up all kinds of large debris that end up in your in-ground pool. It removes debris like pine needles and other similar dirt with ease.
Because it’s an automatic pool cleaner, it requires very little assistance on your part. All you have to do is assembly and set it up. From there, the vac cleans your in-ground pool on its own.
Specifications
- Warranty: 1-year
- Type: automatic sweeper
- Pool Pump Requirement: 3/4hp
Pros
- Automatic and quiet
- Easy to clean
- Great for large pools
Cons
- Might be a bit tricky to set up
XtremepowerUS Automatic Suction Pool Vacuum 75037
This automatic pool vacuum cleaner works similarly to the one we reviewed above. However, this automatic pool cleaner requires at least a 1hp swimming pool pump or 1600 gallon/hp in order to work well.
The automatic suction vacuum comes with a set of hoses included for up to 30′ pool. The set should be enough to cover all pool surfaces including the bottom of the pool. However, this automatic pool cleaner cannot clean pool stairs.
It’s made of durable plastic, featuring a more flexible design. It never gets stuck because there are fewer parts that could jam, causing breakage or unnecessary maintenance.
This automatic pool vacuum attaches to your filtration system and acts as a moving drain. It moves the water through the system so that the filters catch small and large particles. It’s recommended for pools up to 16′ x 32′.
Pros
- Excellent filters
- Navigates on its own
- Cleans twigs, algae, pine needles, and other particles
Cons
- The weights need constant re-positioning
Zodiac MX6 In-Ground Pool Cleaner
MX6 in-ground pool cleaner works in in-ground pools that have two-speed or other speed pumps. It’s one of the most popular swimming pool vacuum cleaners that provide enough flow to pick up small debris and dirt commonly found in your in-ground pool.
This in-ground pool cleaner features cyclonic suction that provides powerful cleaning and scrubbing. On top of that, the robotic pool cleaner has an articulating turbine blade that helps it climb swimming pool walls more aggressively. It comes with swiveling hoses that are quick to connect and disconnect for easier use on different surfaces.
Another thing worth noting is the automatic Wier Valve. This robotic pool cleaner also has a 90° twist-lock elbow, flow regulator valve, 7×1.2m twist lock hose, hose float, protector, and a warranty card.
Pros
- Picks up small and large particles
- Swivel hoses
- It cleans pool walls and stairs
Cons
- Not for pools bigger than 15K gallons
Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus Automatic Robotic Pool Cleaner
This Dolphin is a robotic pool vacuum that automatically cleans your swimming pool as scheduled. You can schedule and set it up to whatever time works the best for you.
This robotic cleaner has two scrubbing brushes that clean dirt from walls as well as the pool floor. These are ideal for scrubbing as they’re quite aggressive and can tackle even the toughest dirt.
Its top-load cartridge filtration system holds the captured chunky and fine debris. This helps to complete most pool cleaning tasks in less than two hours.
This is an automatic pool vacuum that uses advanced algorithms to clean your swimming pool. The cleaner works in pools up to 50′ in size as it’s energy sufficient and convenient. It’s one of the best robotic pool cleaners thanks to its anti-tangle swivel that allows it to move through the swimming pool without tangling in the cord or hose.
Pros
- Excellent traction
- Dual scrubbing brushes
- Plenty of suction power
Cons
- Not the best for steps
Looking for the Dolphin Escape Robotic pool cleaner? Read our complete review.
Poolmaster 28316 Swimming Pool Vacuum
Poolmaster 28316 looks a bit unusual, but it’s highly efficient, effective, and simple to use. It has a 15-inch ABS body that features eight pressure jets that allow ease of use and powerful suction.
This robotic pool cleaner is equipped with four multi-directional swivel wheels that help the pool cleaner not get stuck. It also has replaceable perimeter brushes that cover the entire area of your swimming pool, cleaning even the toughest dirt.
The robotic pool cleaner has a mar-proof rubber bumper that’s durable and resistant. It features an aluminum metal pole that allows you to control it easier than ever.
Keep in mind that this pool vacuum works to pick up bigger debris as it’s what it was primarily made for. It may not be the best for algae and other such debris commonly found in pools.
Pros
- For quick cleanups
- Weighs less than two pounds
- Powerful suction
Cons
- Not for algae
Need more help in dealing with leaves? See our full guide of top leaf mulchers and blowers.
Poolmaster 28300 Big Sucker Swimming Pool Leaf Vacuum
At first glance, it looks very similar to the Poolmaster we reviewed above. It’s equally as effective, but its operation quality varies depending on the dimensions and shape of your swimming pool.
This is specifically designed to remove larger debris from the swimming pool. It works for picking up smaller ones as well, but some could be left behind.
Keep in mind that this pool vacuum is somewhat big, measuring 15 inches in diameter with an ABS handle. It’s easy to use and simple to store away for when you’re not using it.
It features eight high-pressure water jets and a multi-directional four-wheel-drive that allow it to swivel freely and easily through the swimming pool. You’ll need a standard pool pole and a garden hose in order to use the pool vacuum.
Pros
- Lightweight and simple to use
- Comes with an extra leaf bag
- Easy to clean
Cons
- Not the quickest pool cleaning process
Zodiac Mx6 Automatic Suction Side Pool Cleaner Vacuum
This Zodiac automatic pool cleaner is one of the best pool vacuum cleaners for aggressive wall-climbing. It’s equipped with bi-directional navigation that allows it to climb and clean the waterline as well as pool floor and walls.
The robotic pool vacuum automatically controls the excess water in order to provide the best performance. It’s energy-efficient and long-lasting, providing years of quality performance. Keep in mind that this robotic pool vacuum is best when paired with two-speed, variable speed pumps, and solar.
Its articulating turbine blades do all the work of removing different dirt from your swimming pool. This helps the robotic pool cleaner to remove the tough and persistent grime that often shows up in tile pools.
On top of that, this robotic pool cleaner has a cyclonic leaf catcher that creates a dynamic flow to attract the leaves, picking them up and trapping them inside the canister.
Specifications
- Canister Type: cyclonic
- Water Flow Control: automatic
- Weight: 3.17 lbs
Pros
- Automatic water flow control
- Powerful turbine blades
- Cyclonic leaf canister
Cons
- It works with two-speed or variable speed pumps
POOLWHALE Portable Pool Vacuum Jet Underwater Cleaner
This is a mini pool vacuum cleaner that’s suitable for small pools, Jacuzzi baths, and spas. It’s not a suitable choice for larger pool types as it would take it too long to complete the task.
Still, this is one of the most efficient automatic pool cleaners since it removes everything from leaves and stones to stains. It can only operate on the bottom of your swimming pool, so don’t expect it to clean the sides.
This pool cleaner comes with five poles that measure 48”, allowing you to assemble them for some additional reach. It also comes with bottom brushes for more convenience and versatility. It attaches to a standard garden hose that’s not included in the package.
Poolwhale portable pool cleaner is easy to assemble and use. It comes with a nylon mesh filter bag for all the collected pine needles and large debris.
Specifications
- Pole Length: 48 ft
- Dimensions: 4.7 x 10.4 x 47.2 in
- Weight: 1.2 lbs
Pros
- Convenient filter bag
- The bottom brush removes stains
- Compact and easy to use
Cons
- Not for smaller debris
Water Tech Pool Blaster Max Li Pool & Spa Cleaner
This robotic pool vacuum is cordless and among the best pool vacuum cleaners used for quick cleanup jobs. It’s battery-powered, featuring a rechargeable lithium-ion battery that lasts some sixty minutes in total.
In most cases, sixty minutes should be enough to cover most pools, depending on the dimensions and shape. It has a conveniently-placed push-button for switching on and off. This adds a bit to its overall ease of use and simplicity.
This robotic pool cleaner comes with a reusable X-Treme Multilayer filtration system that traps both tiny and large debris. As such, it’s suitable for different pools and quantities of water.
Dirtier pools could be trickier to clean due to the dimensions of this robotic pool vacuum, but its efficiency should make up for that. Plus, this robotic pool vacuum cleaner weighs only 5 pounds, so you probably won’t have any trouble using it.
Specifications
- Battery Time: 60 min
- Dimensions: 15.5 x 6.5 x 7.5 in
- Weight: 5.5 lbs
Pros
- Efficient filtration system
- Rechargeable battery (no cord)
- Reusable filtration system
Cons
- Not for rounded corners
Buying Guide
As you noticed, the market is packed with different automatic pool cleaners. Although it’s great to have as many to choose from, such a vast number can make it a bit challenging to choose the best pool vacuum.
Read the information below if you need some additional help in picking one of these manual and automatic pool cleaners.
Type of Pool
Even the best pool vacuum can only do so much and is pre-programmed with a specific limitation and range. It won’t clean your pool if it’s programmed with a range that’s smaller than your swimming pool.
The liner material is another critical aspect to think about. Some robotic pool cleaners are best for tile while others operate best on pebble tech or vinyl, so make sure to check this in time.
You want a pool vacuum that can clean the walls of your swimming pool equally as well as the bottom of the pool. For this, the cleaner needs traction in order to maintain a good grip on the wheels.
Power
Power is equally as important as when buying a pool vacuum to use on carpets. It’s what gets the job done, so make sure that the pool vacuum of your choice has enough of it.
Your vacuum cleaner of choice should have enough power to pick up the type of dirt and debris you’re often dealing with. In most cases, a robotic pool cleaner is the most powerful.
Wheels & Climbing
Some pool vacuum cleaners have a pair of swivel wheels, while others have four. The difference is in how quickly and easily they move across the floor and the entire pool.
You should also think about if the robotic pool cleaner of your choice can climb the walls. As we mentioned, it should have enough traction to do that.
What Kind of Pool Vacuums Are There?
It’s needless to say that there are many different pool vacuum types out there. The market is packed with different manual and robotic pool cleaners, which can make it a bit tricky to opt for the best pool vacuum, especially if it’s your first time doing this.
Robotic
Much like carpet-cleaning robots, robotic pool vacuum cleaners don’t need any assistance for pool cleaning. It’s the opposite of manual, handheld cleaners for pools. Robotic pool vacuum cleaners work the same way, which means you’re supposed to program them before use so that they can do the job without your help.
Robotic pool vacuum cleaners are completely automatic, and they’re also a bit pricier than the rest vacuums for pool cleaning.
Pressure-Side
The best pressure-side cleaner needs your swimming pool’s filter and pump for water pressure. Still, it uses the water on the pressurized side where it’s being forced from the pool’s pump.
The water then powers its wheels and creates suction as it moves through the swimming pool cleaner. In most cases, the best pressure-side cleaners have their own filters and filter bag variations and are resistant and durable.
Suction-Side
A suction-side pool cleaner needs your pool’s pump to provide suction. It’s a robotic pool cleaner that usually comes with a long hose that you connect to the skimmer where the intake to the pump is.
These are simple to use and usually clean the sides of the pool. Pretty much every suction-side pool vacuum has its own filter bag or other types of filters.
In-ground
In-ground pool cleaners are great for larger pools that tend to get very dirty. These cleaners can handle higher volumes of water, climb walls, and navigate curves.
Keep in mind that in-ground pool vacuum cleaners are also more expensive than above-ground pool cleaners. In-ground pool vacuums come with longer hoses and cords as well, which is another reason why they’re more costly.
Above-Ground
Although many pool owners think that in-ground pool vacuum cleaners are easier to use than the above-ground pool cleaners, that’s not really the case. Above-ground pool vacuum cleaners are designed in a different way, which is why they perform differently as a whole.
In most cases, they come with shorter hoses and cords and are a bit more affordable than most in-ground pool vacuums.
Automatic
There are only a few types of best automatic pool cleaners. These don’t require any assistance on your part or need very little of it. Suction pool cleaners and pressure side pool cleaners are the best-known types.
We already discussed the difference between these robotic pool cleaners, so make sure to think carefully when choosing between pressure side pool cleaners and suction pool cleaners.
FAQ
Q:
How to vacuum a pool manually?
A: Manual pool cleaning is a bit time-consuming, but shouldn’t be too challenging. You’ll need a pool vacuuming head, telescoping pole, hose, and a skim vac. Assemble the parts and attach the pool vacuum to a skimmer inlet in the pool circulation pump.
Before you do this, you should remove the strainer basket and then plug the vacuum hose into the suction port. At this point, you can simply move the pool vacuum head back and forth until the pool surface is clean.
Q:
How to get rid of pool algae?
A: The best way is to use chlorine as it’s among the best products to remove algae. You should brush the walls as well as the floor and then check the pool chemical safety.
Make sure also to adjust the pH and test the pool again after some 24 hours. Some robotic pool cleaners can also remove algae, but these are typically a bit pricey.
Conclusion
Choosing between a lot of pool cleaners can be a bit challenging, especially if you’re a first-time pool owner. Best pool vacuum cleaners are versatile, easy to use, and efficient, so these are the only ones you should consider.
Look for pool cleaners that are efficient for the particular pool you have. Consider what is the water pressure that it requires, and how you can use it. Also, make sure to decide between in-ground pool cleaners and above-ground pool cleaners as well.
Use our buyer’s guide to help you choose if you haven’t already picked the best pool cleaner. Consider the kind of wheel drive you need and whether you want an in-ground pool cleaner or another type. Follow these guidelines as you go through our reviews as it’s the easiest way to buy the best pool vacuum.
Sources and Resources
- How to Get Rid of Algae in Your Pool
– https://www.swimuniversity.com/pool-algae/
- A Study of Bacterial Flora in Swimming Pool Water Treated with High-Free Residual Chlorine
– https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1551361/
