Types of Pool Cleaners

Aug 23, 2022

Hello there again fellow ePoolSupply supporters! Today I want to talk to you about the different types of pool cleaners. I also want to talk about how they work,the pros, and the cons of each type of cleaner. To start, there are three different types of pool cleaners: robotic, pressure-side, and suction-side. Keep reading to learn more about the different types of pool cleaners and which one would be best for you and your application!

Robotic Pool Cleaners

Robotic pool cleaners do not use your pump and filtration system. They use a low voltage transformer that you plug into an outlet. Because it is automatic, it can work on its own without the need for your constant assistance. The cleaner has its motor that will map your pool to drive the wheels where to go and has its pump to lift the debris off the ground and into a filter basket.

When thinking about buying a robotic cleaner you want to keep in mind how big your pool is. Each robotic cleaner comes with a fixed cable length, your cleaner needs to have enough cable to reach the farthest point from the power supply and you have to factor in how deep is your pool. It is always better to have extra cable than not enough. Another thing you would want to keep in mind is what you want it to clean. You will have to find your most problematic areas and find a cleaner that is good in those areas.

Pros and Cons of a Robotic Pool Cleaner?

Robotic Pool Cleaner Pros

Has it's own built-in pump and filter, which means it is entirely self-contained.
Most of the cleaners vigorously scour the walls, waterline, sides, and floor of your pool.
There is no assembly just have to plug it in.
Low maintenance, simply take the cleaner out of the pool and empty the debris canister and rinse off the filter.
Energy efficient since you don't have to run the pump and filter system

Robotic Pool Cleaner Cons

Expensive because it is robotic and has more technological advancements so if it needs any repairs then it will be.
The cord can get tangled up.
They cannot suck up floating debris.
It can only reach as far as its electrical cord allows.

Pressure Side Pool Cleaner

A pressure side cleaner attaches to the pressure side return of your pool’s circulation system and generates pressure the device needs to move around the pool. A pressure side pool cleaner helps distribute clean filtered water around and have their debris bag means that they don't compromise the filter system by bringing dirt into the pump basket and filter. Even if the bag gets full, it will still fully operate stirring up the debris, it just won't suck up more debris into the bag until it is empty.

The water flow splits into three separate streams, the thruster, venturi, and the tail. The thruster is the component that propels the unit around the bottom of the pool. The venturi creates a vacuum that sucks up the debris and deposits them into the bag. The tail scrubs the floor which makes it easier for the pool’s filter to capture it.

There are two types of pressure cleaners, high pressure, and low pressure. The high-pressure cleaners usually require a booster pump and this means the cleaner will go faster and will have a stronger suction. The low-pressure cleaners are not intended for use with a booster pump and the cleaners work in the same way, this is also a cheaper option. However, not all cleaners need a booster pump.

Pressure Side Pool Cleaner Pros

Can pick up most of the debris, good for large debris.
Low maintenance
Durable
Replacement parts are easy to find

Pressure Side Pool Cleaner Cons

Needs your pool pump to be on which can cause your electric bill to go up
You may need a booster pump if your pool pump is not strong enough on its own

High-Pressure Cleaners

Low-Pressure Cleaners

Suction Side Pool Cleaner

Suction side pool cleaners use the main filtration system to suck up debris which is then returned to your pump basket. The cleaner's hose is connected to either a dedicated suction line or directly to your skimmer. The suction causes them to move randomly around the bottom surface of the pool.

The cleaner has a “throat” mechanism that allows dirt, sand, and other debris to pass right through it. Because these cleaners rely on the power of your pool pump, they have no electronics and few moving parts which means they will be less likely to break down and is relatively easy to repair. This is best if you have a budget and do not have time to do it manually for it is a basic cleaner. This type of pool cleaner is well-suited for small to medium-sized pools.

Suction Side Pool Cleaner Pros

Inexpensive
Easy maintenance
Simple to Install and operate

Suction Side Pool Cleaner Cons

Does not have a scrubber to detach dirt and algae
Can clog if it sucks up large debris
Needs the pool’s pump and filter system which can cause stress on the pump
Footpads need constant changing

Cleaners

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