The days of manually vacuuming your pool are over. Automatic pool cleaners and pool cleaner robots allow homeowners to enjoy their swimming pool with less hassle! Here, we dive into the different types of automatic pool cleaners and their benefits.
Types of Automatic Pool Cleaners
There are 3 main types available:
- Suction cleaners (pool vacuums) – the most popular and least expensive.
- Pressure pool cleaners – priced in the mid-range.
- Robotic cleaners– the most expensive but definitely the most convenient!
Automatic Suction Cleaners
Suction pool cleaners come with approximately 40 ft of 3 ft hose sections that are joined together. The quantity used depends on the pool size. It works like a manual vacuum in that the hose end is connected to the skimmer or vacuum port.
Automatic Pressure Cleaners
Pressure pool cleaners are attached to the pool’s return fitting. The water pressure picks up the dirt and deposits it in a net or bag. This type of cleaner is often the best choice if your pool gets a lot of leaves. Suction models can plug up in excessively leafy environments.
Pool Cleaner Robots
With a pool cleaning robot, you get the best of both worlds. They do not need hoses and run independently of the pool’s filtration system, making them more environmentally friendly as all the dirt, leaves etc., are caught in the cleaner. This can drastically reduce the need for backwashing or cleaning cartridge cleaners.
What is the best automatic pool cleaner?
The answer for you will depend on your specific needs but we generally love the robotic models here! That’s because they offer the most convenience and generally come with the most advanced features.
Benefits of Robotic Pool Cleaners
These are what make the latest generation of robotic cleaners the pool owners’ choice. Although they have a higher price point than suction-type cleaners, prices have dropped considerably in recent years. They also have superior features, including the following:
- Work independently of the pool’s filtration system
- Separate hose system not required
- Saves on backwashing & cartridge filter cleaning
- Some may be programmed for customized cleaning
- Some models capable of remote control
- Most clean a typical pool in 4 hours or less
Although robotic pool cleaners have been available for over 30 years, it’s just in the last 10 or so years that their popularity has exploded.
This is mainly due to much lower prices and advanced performance. They are also very easy to set up and require no professional installation. Any pool owner can have them up and running in less than five minutes.
As robotic cleaners have their own motor and filter, they can operate independently from the pool equipment. They are also very user-friendly and economical to operate. Although they may cost more to purchase than a suction cleaner, they make up for it in the low cost of operation as they do not need the pool pump running to work.
Go, robot go!
Most robotic cleaners can clean a complete pool in under 4 hours. Some models can even be programmed for customized cycles and with an automatic shut-off timer. Some models, such as Hayward’s AquaVac, are so energy efficient, the cost of electricity to operate is equivalent to a standard 100w light bulb.
The AquaVac also has quick clean technology, so it can calculate the size and shape of the pool and program itself for the most energy-efficient cleaning cycle. This model is suitable for all pool types, such as vinyl liner, fibreglass and concrete.
Happy Swimming!
