Best Automatic Pool Cleaners in 2024 — Fast Cleaning Times

What robot pool cleaner is worth your money in 2023? This is the most comprehensive article you’ll find on choosing the best automatic pool cleaners — and I sincerely mean that. The first portion of this article discusses everything you need to know about the different types of automatic pool cleaners, how pool circulation works, inground vs above ground pools, advantages and disadvantages of each type of pool cleaners, and so much more. Trust me, this article is packed with advice.

Oh, and did I mention that in the second half of the article we review/discuss 23 of the best automatic pool cleaners worth your hard-earned money. We feel that educating our buyers is imperative, so we’re confident that you’ll make a smart buying decision after reading this article.

Introduction | Automatic Pool Cleaners

If you’re reading this article, then there is a high chance that you either own a pool or plan to buy one anytime soon. Or maybe you just want to know more about how a pool functions, as well as the various measures that need to be taken in order to maintain a pool. Well then, you’ve come to just the right place – we are going to discuss about how a pool functions as well as the most important aspect of pool maintenance, which is cleaning.

Yes, the pool circulation and drainage system is designed to keep the surface clean while also killing pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, etc., but there is a limit to how much your pool drainage system can do in terms of keeping the whole pool clean. A proper pool cleaner, be it automatic or manual, is essential to remove all the dirt, leaves, dust, and foreign objects that lie at the bottom of your pool on the floor, as well as on the steps and walls of your pool.

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Both in-ground as well as above-ground pools tend to get dirty over time, and while the default pool drainage system is normally sufficient to keep the surface free from contaminants or suspended particulate, you cannot expect the pump and drain to pull in all of the larger contaminants lying on the floor of the pool (leaves and twigs, foodstuff, heavier dust particles, etc.).

When you apply sunscreen over your body and decide to take a little dip in the pool, the water rubbing against your skin will tend to dislodge some layers of sunscreen. The sunscreen will float on the water surface if its base is lighter than water, and will go wherever the flow takes it. Some heavier ones will sink and accumulate on the floor or on the walls of your pool. This will result in your pool walls and floors getting discolored, as well as the water appearing slightly murky due to the slight amounts of suspended oily substance.

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The last thing you want to do in the middle of a hot summer day is swim around inside a dirty pool with water that smells and looks like it came out fresh from the municipal drains. Trust us – rotting organic wastes and suspended dirt particles tend to accumulate faster than you think, and these can turn your otherwise beautiful pool into a pit filled with stinking, discolored, and even mildly toxic water that will end up doing more harm than good to anyone who swims in it.

In the forthcoming sections, we shall talk about why it is so important to keep the pool clean and how the pool circulation system works. We shall also take a look at the various types of automatic pool cleaners, and discuss how they work as well as the advantages and disadvantages of each type of automatic pool cleaner. Then you will learn how to select the correct cleaner for your particular pool and finally, we’ll take a look at more than 20 of the most famous automatic pool cleaners currently available on the market. Most of these will be intended for in-ground pool owners.

We shall also discuss about the differences between in-ground pool cleaners and above-ground pool cleaners, so you can easily decide what is right for your pool. Remember that most of the time you will be completely fine with using an in-ground cleaner inside an above-ground pool (but not the other way around).

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Why You Should Keep Your Pool Clean

On is a hot summer day you put on your swimming clothes, prepare your favorite drink, then walk over to the beautiful pool and take a step inside. Then you realize that you haven’t cleaned the pool in a while, and the water looks oddly discolored. Upon a closer look, you find leaves and a sheet of dirt lying on the floor of your pool. Maybe some bird droppings as well (jeez). Then you see the surface of the water covered in a grimy layer of contaminants, including the creamy base substance that is used in your sunscreen and other body lotions which you apply on a daily basis whenever you take a dip in the pool during a sunny day.

If it has been quite a long time since you last cleaned the pool, then there are large chances of algae growth on the water surface – these are basically water weeds that grow on the surface and a bunch of them can pop out of nowhere. Trust us, you don’t want algae in your pool – they can turn the water green, yellow, and even black (depending on the type of algae).

The presence of algae signifies lack of proper sanitation and filtration, and they will suck the oxygen out of the water, while at the same time leaving their microscopic droppings in your pool.

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A dirty pool can also be a breeding ground for bacteria and fungi, which will live and feast on the organic matter lying within your pool waters. This organic matter can include leaves from the trees located above or nearby the pool, bird droppings, particles of food or drink floating around in pool waters, dead microorganisms or insects, etc. Apart from organic material, you also have to worry about the presence of larger waste such as acorns, twigs, leaves, pebbles/stones, sand, etc.

All of this stuff needs be cleared out at regular intervals, or else it will jam the circulation system of your pool by clogging the strainer and pump basket. We shall talk more about the strainer and pump basket shortly, but know that your pool has its own default filtration system which has been designed to remove a certain amount of waste materials from the surface and bottom of the pool. This system can easily get clogged if you let it do all of the cleaning, which is why people use a standalone pool cleaner to do the dirty work.

Algae and oily substrates can often accumulate on the floor and walls of your pool, resulting in permanent discoloration and foul odor. Removing them is a giant undertaking that involves heavy scrubbing, shocking the pool, addition of chlorine, or you might even have to drain the whole pool and scrub them off manually.

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How a Pool Circulation System Works

Just like we have a blood circulation system within our bodies, the pools of today are equipped with their own water circulation systems. At first look, it might seem like a pool is simply a giant pit filled with water — a really nice looking, expensive pit that everybody wants to relax in during the summer.

However, if you take a closer look then the pool doesn’t seem so simple. It is just the basin of the pool that is visible to your eyes, because all of the pipes and drains are embedded underneath the ground, while the pump room is often located away from the poolside. Water is constantly moving out of the pool, and back into it. Some pools are even connected to the municipal water supply so that they can take in water at will in order to compensate for the evaporation that causes water levels to fall during a hot day.

Some pool circulation systems have heaters built into them so that you can use the pool as a hot spa, or take a dip in it even during the winter. Here are the 6 major components of any basic pool system (the heater is optional).

— The Basin

This is the large bank of water which we commonly refer to as the “pool”. It is only one part of the pool system, but is definitely the largest and most expensive part. This is where all the water resides, and it basically acts like a reservoir for the circulation system. The basin can be designed in any shape or size, and its walls can be lined with varying materials, such as plaster, tile, granite, aggregate, etc. Depending on the dimensions of a pool basin, the size of the drainage system and strength of the pump will vary.

Larger pool basins contain more water, which means that the pump will have to transfer more gallons per minute from the basin to the filter, and back to the pool. Different American states have different rules on how long it should take for one complete cleaning cycle, and by cleaning cycle we mean how long it takes to do a complete turnover of all the water in a pool.

Let’s say a certain pool has a capacity to hold X gallons of water. Then, one complete cleaning cycle will involve the pump gradually pulling that many gallons of water in from the pool through the suction side (outlets), through the filter, and back to the basin through the pressure side (outlets). This might take 5 hours, 6 hours, or even 10-12 hours depending on the size of the pool and the strength of the pump as well as the design of the filtration system and drains. But it is generally recommended to complete one cleaning cycle within 5-6 hours.

Any slower than 7-8 hours, and organic wastes as well as dirt will end up accumulating faster than the filtration system can clean it. Too fast, and the pool will be affected by a strong underwater current like in a river, as well as turbulence which makes it difficult for one to stay afloat or relax. After all it is a pool, not a municipal water treatment tank.

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— The Drain

The drain in modern day pools has been modified to contain at least 2 different outlets for the pool water to pass out through. We are referring to the main drain of course, and this assembly is located in the deepest part of the pool. If your pool has a sloping floor, expect to find the drain at the very end of the pool where the water is deepest. If your pool has a flat floor, then the drain might be located at the center.

A pool drain is quite similar in function to the drain you have in your bath tub or kitchen sink. However, the drains (yes, drains) in your pool have been designed in a special manner so as to prevent vortexes or whirlpools from forming underneath the water surface.

Modern pools contain split drains with at least 2, and often 4 outlets. This means that if someone accidentally comes in contact with one of the drain outlets, he or she will not be held down by the massive suction that is generated by several thousand gallons of water trying to escape over to the other side. Instead, the water will pass through any one of the several other outlets into the circulation pipeline.

The drain covers have to be designed in a certain manner according to prescribed guidelines, and the openings in these drain covers cannot be larger than a certain size. Anti-vortex designs prevent whirlpools and vortexes from forming above the covers.

— The Pump

This is the heart of the whole pool circulation system (quite literally). Just like your heart pumps blood through your veins and keeps the circulation going on throughout your body, the pump of a pool circulation system keeps the water flowing through the entire pipeline from the pool into the filter, then into the chlorinator, into the heater, and finally back into the pool.

The pump consists of the following parts – a motor, an impeller, impeller housing, a diffuser, a gasket, and a pump basket. The pumps job is to pull water in through its inlet valve, and push it out through the outlet valve. The speed at which a pump can do this depends on the size of the impeller and its design, as well as the horsepower of the motor inside the pump.

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Normally, most home pools have pump motors that range between 0.5 horsepower to 3 horsepower in terms of power.  More horsepower results in a faster flow rate, and means that larger impurities or waste objects can be sucked in through the drain. The pump motor is attached to an impeller, which is enclosed within a specially designed housing. The impeller is a spinning fan-like disk that pulls water in from one side of the housing, and expels it through the other side.

The impeller housing is connected with the diffuser, which is placed right next to the pump basket. The pump basket is a sort of strainer like structure and its job is to catch leaves, twigs, and other larger waste objects so that they don’t choke the pump. Pump baskets may be metal or plastic, and need to be removed and cleaned every once on a while depending on how dirty your pool gets.

— The Filter

The filter is what comes after the pump, and it can be a DE filter, sand filter, or a cartridge filter. DE stands for Diatomaceous Earth, and it consists of fossilized remains of diatoms. Diatoms are a type of hard shelled algae, and their fossilized shells transform into a highly fine and porous powder, with particle size ranging from less than 3 micrometers to about 200 micrometers.

The Diatomaceous Earth used in pool filters has a particle size of about 10 micrometers, and some of the finest DE pool filters use 5-micron particles. DE is also used as a filtration aid, mild abrasive, and is even used in metal polishes as well as toothpaste.

Yes, you can eat Diatomaceous Earth — food grade only

Sand filters are composed of a tank that is filled with specially sourced sand. Usually this is #20-silica sand with particle size ranging between 45 to 55 microns. Sand filters are not as fine as DE filters, but cost less and are much easier to maintain.

Normally, a simple backwash is often enough to clear up all of the accumulated impurities in a sand filter. Silica particles in a sand filter are square shaped, and the sand layers often tend to get “channeled”, which means that water flowing through the sand has created several pathways which let it bypass most of the filtration and flow straight through the sand.

Cartridge filters are the easiest to maintain, and they mainly consist of a container tank that has a removable cartridge inside. This cartridge is comprised of planar elements which provide resistant to the water as it flows from the inlet port to the outlet port. The filtering element is usually corrugated paper or fine polyester cloth. You can remove the cartridge and spray it with water to clean the elements, or do a simple backwash on the filter to clear it up.

Clogged filters will cause the pressure difference between inlet and outlet ports to be much higher. This also means that the pump will need to work harder in order to maintain flow rates, and the pool will be emptied faster than it is refilled. The extra pressure on the inlet side will also stress the drainage pipes and will shorten the lifespan of your pump motor. It is recommended that you check and clean the pool filters every 5 years or so, depending on the amount of impurities and waste material that is found in your pool.

— The Chlorinator

The chlorinator is installed to keep your pool water free from microbes and pathogens such as bacteria, algae, fungi, etc. Chlorine is known for its strong antimicrobial properties, but is seldom added in its natural gaseous form. This is because it is very hard to store pure chlorine, since it is somewhat poisonous and can kill people if inhaled in sufficient quantity. Besides, pure chlorine tends to react with sunlight. This is why you often purchase pool chlorine in tablet or liquid form from the stores to add into your pools.

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The tablets consist of chlorine salt (Clorox Chlorine Tablets), while liquid pool chlorine consists of chloric acid. Chlorinators can be obtained and fitted to the pool circulation system in order to free you from the task of manually measuring and adding chlorine. Basic chlorinators are attached to the return pipeline and run purified water that comes out of the filter on top of chlorine rods. Advanced chlorinators have smart sensors and circuits that detect the pH of water and also add carbon dioxide to it or some type of acid to normalize pH and keep it within 7.2 to 7.6.

Advanced chlorinators also use metal electrodes to synthesize chlorine from salt water. They do this by adding salt to the return pipeline and running current through two electrodes that tough the salt water. This results in electrolysis, which splits the water into hydrogen and hydrochloric acid (HCL), which is basically liquid pool chlorine.

— The Heater

This is an optional attachment which may be attached depending on the climate in your particular locality. It also depends on the location of your pool, and whether or not you have an attached spa. Heaters are basically like geysers – they heat the returning water supply, and come after the filter and chlorinator.

You can control the temperature and flow rate of the hot water, depending on your personal preferences. If you wish to double up your existing pool as a hot water spa, or if you wish to enjoy a little swim in the pool even during the winter, consider installing a heater in your pool circulation system.

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✓ Note: Make sure you hire a professional pool technician to install your pool heater otherwise you may void your warranty.

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Different Types of Automatic Pool Cleaners

An automatic pool cleaner refers to any standalone pool cleaning device that does not need to be controlled manually by an operator. It does not have to be robotic, although the best automatic pool cleaners are robotic. There are three types of automatic pool cleaners – suction side (cheapest), pressure side (great at cleaning up larger objects), and robotic (most efficient and fastest). In this section we shall discuss what each one of these does, and how they function. In the coming sections, we shall discuss about the pros and cons of each one of these pool cleaner types.

— Suction Side Pool Cleaners

These are the cheapest and easiest to maintain out of all the three types. A suction side pool cleaner runs off your existing pool drainage and filtering system, so it does not have its own propulsion or filtering. Instead, a suction cleaner sweeps the floor of your pool and sucks away all of the dirt and leaves which are then transferred to your pump basket and filter tank. This is basically like a mobile drain, since it has wheels or tracks on the base that allow it to move around inside the pool in a random pattern.

Geared suction side cleaners are costlier and move in a less randomized pattern, meaning that they are less likely to clean the same spot twice. The suction side cleaner gets its name from the fact that it is always connected via a hose to the suction side of the pool wall outlets. Some pools have dedicated suction cleaner fittings preinstalled in the wall, and these are connected to the pump while the hose of the suction cleaner is fitted with vacuum seal rings to prevent air from seeping into the system.

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Suction side cleaners do not require any additional pumps to drive them, which is why they are so easy to install and use. They do however have a bunch of drawbacks. The way a suction cleaner works, is it utilizes suction generated by the pool pump to vacuum in all of the dirt, leaves, droppings, etc. that is present on the pool floor. These inexpensive cleaners are propelled by the motion of the suction hose, as well as the geared wheels inside that are driven by the flow of water through the hose.

There is no intelligent path detection or smart navigation built into a suction cleaner, hence it will take longer to clean a pool in comparison to a pressure cleaner or robotic cleaner.

— Pressure Side Pool Cleaners

Pressure side pool cleaners are connected to the pressure side of the pool, i.e. the outlets which lead into the pool from the filtration circuit. These have no self-contained propulsion system either, and are more expensive than suction side cleaners because they have more moving parts and are often outfitted with larger inlets for waste material.

Another reason for the higher costs is the presence of a built-in waste capture bag that holds all the leaves and contaminants which is captured by the cleaning port on the bottom. Pressure side pool cleaners are attached via a hose to the outlet jets in the walls of a pool.

Some pressure side cleaners can be attached straight to the outlet jets, while others need special wall fittings and separate plumbing in order to operate. Some pressure side cleaners can operate via the pool pump power, while others need you to install a separate pump to feed the pressure into the cleaner.

The pressure side cleaners utilize jets of water to sweep and dislodge waste material from the walls and floor of the pool, and these wastes are then swept into the collection bag via a vortex that is generated from the swirling water currents in front of the cleaning port. There is often a scraping brush attached to the base of these cleaners, and it serves as an added means for ensuring that no waste is left behind.

The wheels are attached to a specially designed gear assembly, and this geared system makes sure that the cleaner moves around in a certain manner, just like a keyed toy mouse. Pressure side pool cleaners have a jet port on the back, and this jet is fed by the water pressure which comes into the cleaner from the circulation system. The thrust generated by this jet, as well as the motion of the geared wheels allows the pressure cleaner to move around inside the pool.

— Robotic Pool Cleaners

Robotic pool cleaners are among some of the most expensive automatic pool cleaners in the market and their prices can range from as “little” as 300 dollars, to as high as 3000 dollars. But the reason these units are priced so high is because of the fact that they are simply the fastest and most efficient pool cleaners out there. Unlike the “dumb” automatic pool cleaners that we discussed before, robotic cleaners will not move around in a random and uncontrollable manner.

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They have self-driving wheels and don’t rely on the pump system to drive power for cleaning and movement. Robotic cleaners are loaded with advanced circuitry that includes navigational and path optimization components to ensure that the cleaner uses the most efficient path possible. Just like the robotic vacuum cleaners which clean your house, a robotic pool cleaner can detect obstructions and walls inside the pool. It can also climb walls and clean as well as scrape vertical surfaces such as steps.

Robotic vacuum cleaners usually operate via an external step-down transformer which converts the 110V AC supply from your wall into a more “pool friendly” 24V DC supply that is then transferred to the robot cleaner. It doesn’t require any hoses, and has its own waste collection bag. Some robotic cleaners can even be controlled manually via remote for a more precise and personalized cleaning experience.

On some robotic cleaners, there are special path location and monitoring systems installed that cause the robot to automatically turn back, climb out of the pool, and roll into the charging dock whenever the battery gets really low. Yes, there are both corded as well as cordless robotic pool cleaners.

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How Does an Automatic Pool Cleaner Work?

An automatic pool cleaner has one basic task – to sweep the pool floor and/or walls, and to collect as much unwanted materials as possible. Waste is comprised of small, medium, and large sized materials. Dust, dirt, tiny food particles, suspended particulate, sand, etc. fall into the “small” category. These can cause skin and eye irritation, as well as clog the fine filters in the pool filtration system. Medium sized waste material consists of larger food pieces, small leaves, tiny pebbles and stones, dead insects and other small organisms, as well as bird droppings, etc. Large sized waste consists of leaves, twigs, acorns, stones, and other stuff which can damage or jam the pool drain and filtration system, including the pump basket.

Skimmers on the pool walls are tasked with removing all of the waste material on the surface of the pool, and it is often said that more than 90% of suspended or floating pool waste lies on the surface of the water. Skimmers are equipped with strainer baskets and skin the first couple inches of water for large waste materials.

An automatic pool cleaner in its most basic form is any pool cleaning device that does not require human intervention or control in order to operate. Yes, you will need to connect a few hoses and cables and put it into the pool, but that is about it. The cleaner will do the rest, slowly maneuvering itself around the pool and cleaning up waste as it goes across the pool.

Some automatic pool cleaners (suction & pressure side) don’t have their own self-contained propulsion system and rely on the pool circulation pipelines for provision of motive force, while some automatic pool cleaners (suction side) are devoid of any waste collection bags and rely on the pump basket as well as pool filtration system to trap the collected waste.

Some automatic pool cleaners (robotic pool cleaners) are a complete all-in-one solution with intelligent navigation, built-in waste collection, and self-contained propulsion. In the forthcoming sections, we shall discuss about the differences between in-ground and above-ground pool cleaners as well as the pros and cons of each type of automated pool cleaner.

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In-Ground Pool Cleaners vs. Above-Ground Pool Cleaners

In-ground pool cleaners are optimized for cleaning in-ground pools (duh), and are fully capable of cleaning larger pools (more than 50 feet in length) and hence they come with longer hoses as well as wall-climbing capabilities. Above-ground pool cleaners are often designed for smaller pools (as most above-ground pools are smaller in area than an average in-ground pool), and they also lack proper wall-cleaning abilities since the walls of above-ground pools are much easier to clean manually, and are often not as high as the walls of in-ground pools.

In-ground suction/pressure side pool cleaners are designed to operate with more powerful pumps and often have larger waste collection ports on the bottom. Most above-ground pool cleaners are cheaper than their in-ground counterparts, and while it is possible to use an in-ground pool cleaner in an above-ground pool, optimal results cannot be assured when using an above-ground cleaner to clean an in-ground pool.

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Pros and Cons of Each Type of Automatic Pool Cleaner

Automatic pool cleaners sure do make our lives a lot easier by removing several hours of manual pool cleaning and skimming from our daily schedules. However, depending on the type of pool that you own and the budget you have, you will have to make some compromises on features, speed, ease of usability, etc. Every decision or choice we make is a compromise, with the goal being to end up with the least detrimental or most valuable result out of any given number of choices. With so many designs and types of pool cleaners to choose from, you need to know about the strengths and weaknesses of each type of pool cleaner.

— Suction Side Pool Cleaner

A suction side pool cleaner is cheap, easy to maintain, and readily available. However there are some things that you need to know about this type of cleaner before you go out and buy one for your pool-

PROS:

• Does a great job of removing small particles such as dust, sand, dead insects, etc.
• Very cheap, readily available.
• Requires no additional plumbing or pump in order to operate, will attach to your pool filtration system via suction side inlets.

CONS:

• Not the best when it comes to removing larger waste materials such as leaves, twigs, pebbles, foodstuff, etc.
• Does not have a built-in waste collection bag, hence more pressure is put on the pump motor due to accelerated waste buildup in the pump basket and external pool filter system. Could potentially result in decreased pump and filter life.
• Tends to get clogged at times while trying to suck larger waste materials, and often jams while traversing corners, steps, or walls.
• Moves in a random fashion, might clean same spot multiple times, resulting in unnecessarily long cleaning cycles. It will not spend more time on dirtier areas of the pool floor, results in very unpredictable and inefficient cleaning performance.
• Most of them fit into the skimmer box, so the skimmer will not operate while the cleaner is running. This means that the pool surface will not be cleaned properly, even though the floor is being cleaned.

— Pressure Side Pool Cleaner

A pressure side pool cleaner is the next best thing after a robotic pool cleaner, but the fact that it might require additional wall fittings and a dedicated pump to drive the unit means that you will end up spending more on the extra plumbing than you did on the actual cleaner itself.

PROS:

• Much better at sweeping up larger waste material such as leaves, acorns, twigs, pebbles, etc. Has a larger waste collection port and the suction force is much more powerful than a suction side cleaner because of high pressure jets on the bottom that create a swirling, cyclone-like vortex action that pulls up waste into the waste collection passage.
• Built-in waste collection bag on the top, means that your pump and external pool filter will have a much easier time when this cleaner is running. All of the leaves, twigs, foodstuff, dirt, etc. is trapped inside the waste collection bag, and nothing goes to the pump basket or the pools own filtration system.
• Less likely to get clogged on the walls or steps, because of the combine wheel plus jet propulsion system that utilizes the thrust of pressurized water to push the cleaner forwards through the water.
• Takes less time to clean up the pool compared to a suction side cleaner, because it moves faster and packs more cleaning power.

CONS:

• You almost always need a 1 horsepower motor or above in order to use a pressure side cleaner, since it relies on external pressurized water supply in order to operate.
• Most of the models will require you to install extra wall fittings in order to feed the pressure side cleaner.
• Some of the larger units require you to install a secondary pump in order to feed the cleaner.
• While the actual pressure side cleaner itself does not cost much more than a suction side cleaner, the added plumbing costs and extra motor mean that the overall installation costs turn out to be much greater than the cost of the cleaner itself. Besides, you will obviously need a professional to come over and inspect the site as well as install the new plumbing/motor. That is even more additional costs, which bring the total cost up by quite a large margin over suction side cleaners.

— Robotic Pool Cleaner

A robotic pool cleaner is high on initial cost, but extremely efficient to operate because it consumes very little power and cleans quicker meaning that you don’t have to leave it running for half a day to clean the whole pool. It moves in a pre-programmed manner, and the expensive ones can even “learn” the optimal paths around your pool floor, and can adapt their instruction set to better cope with the size and shape of your specific pool.

PROS:

• Self-contained propulsion system (electric motors), driven by the 110V AC from your wall. It does not rely on your pool plumbing system to operate.
• Built-in waste collection bag that captures all of the leaves, twigs, dirt, etc. and this means that there is less work for the pump basket and external pool filters.
• Intelligent navigation and collision detection system allows the robotic cleaner to automatically track where it is going, and it never cleans the same spot twice. This results in faster and more efficient pool cleaning.
• Waste concentration detectors at the collection ports monitor the amount of waste coming in, several times each second. This allows the robotic cleaner to automatically increase suction power and cleaning passes while rolling over an area that has a higher amount of waste accumulated on it.
• Some expensive robotic cleaners come with programmable/adjustable timers that let you set a schedule for when the robotic cleaner should begin cleaning, and when it should stop. You can even select the days of the week on which you want the pool to be cleaned. Depending on the location and size of the pool, adjustable timers allow you to very flexible and efficient with your pool cleaning sessions.
• Some smart robotic cleaners have built-in path learning modules that will map the perimeters of the pool walls and create a virtual rendition of the layout. This allows the robot to modify its default cleaning instructions in order to better match the layout of your pool.
• e) Most models consume less than 0.5 kW/h of power, and this is much less what it takes to run the pool pump (while using a suction or pressure side cleaner).

CONS:

• Some of the more compact models are not very good at collecting larger objects (tiny pebbles, leaves, twigs, etc.)
• High initial cost.
• Some of the larger models tend to be pretty heavy.
• Complex construction and circuitry means that if something malfunctions and you’re robotic cleaner is not under warranty, it will cost a hefty amount to get the cleaner repaired.

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Choosing the Right Automatic Cleaner for Your Pool

There are tons of models and designs to choose from, but remember that an automatic pool cleaner is a long term investment. Always put more importance on value and needs. Decide how much you can afford to spend on maintenance, since robotic cleaners > pressure side cleaners > suction side cleaners in terms of maintenance.

With larger pools, you might need to attach a secondary pump in order to feed your pressure side cleaner.  Make sure that the warranty is for at least 2 to 3 years, and ensure that it covers parts as well as labor. Also factor in the running costs as those can have a significant impact on your electricity bill. Pressure and suction side cleaners can consume up to 2 or 3 kWh of energy per day, while robotic cleaners consume only 0.5 kWh of energy on average.

— The Size of Your Pool

First, you need to size up your pool for the pump. To find the average depth of the pool, add the shallow measurement with the deepest measurement and divide the result by two. This is for a rectangular swimming pool, although there are different formulas for different types of swimming pools.

For calculating the number of gallons that your pool can hold, measure the length (L), width (W), and average depth (A). Then use this formula — (L x W x A) x 7.5, to obtain the number of gallons.

For calculating the holding capacity of a rectangular swimming pool, use the following formula – Diameter x Diameter x Average Depth x 5.9 = Number of Gallons.

For oval pools, it is : Longest Diameter x Shortest Diameter x Average depth x 6.7 = Number of Gallons.

For kidney-shaped pools, use the following formula – (Longest width + Shortest width) x Length x Average depth x 3.38 = Number of Gallons.

Remember that the entirety of the water in the swimming pool must be circulated through the filtering system within 8 hours. Otherwise it will cause pollutants and waste material to accumulate. Once you have determined the total number of gallons your pool holds, divide the number by 8. This will give you the amount of gallons that your pump needs to pull per hour from the pool. This is also called GPH (Gallons per Hour).

To convert it into GPM, which is what most pumps use to indicate their flow rate, you just have to divide the GPH by 60. The result will give you the minimum GPM that your pool pump should be capable of. Why does it matter? Well, it is recommended that you have a pump which is capable of generating 20 to 25% more flow rate than is required to keep circulation cycle time under 8 hours.

If you connect a pressure side pump or suction side pump, it will put additional pressure on the pump and will slow down overall circulation speed. The larger the pool, the more powerful the motor needs to be in order to power the cleaner. However, all of this doesn’t matter that much if you have a robotic cleaner since it does not depend on the circulation system of the pool.

— The Surroundings of Your Pool

If there are trees over the pool, it means that your pool will often be contaminated with dead leaves and broken twigs. If the surrounding ground is sloped inwards towards the pool, it means that in the case of heavy rain, all of the water falling onto the ground will roll into the pool and this means that leaves, dirt, and twigs will also be deposited inside the pool on a rainy day.

You might want to install covers on your pool or call in a construction crew to raise the ground surrounding your pool. Also, you might need a powerful pressure side cleaner attached to a secondary pump in order to clear all of the larger debris (large quantities of twigs, leaves, etc. are best cleared by large pressure cleaners). A typical suction side cleaner will prevent the skimmer boxes from working, and the last thing you want to do when there is a bunch of leaves floating around inside your pool, is shut down the skimmer box.

How Frequently the Pool is Used?

If the pool is frequently used by a 4-5 member family (or guests/friends), it will mean that you need to clean the pool almost on a regular basis in order to keep it free from algae, bacteria, etc. since the amount of organic waste generated when so many people use the pool on a daily basis is pretty high. In this scenario, you would want to buy the most efficient automatic pool cleaner that you can. The solution is most obviously a robotic pool cleaner.

Yes the initial costs might be a little high, but remember that on average, a robotic pool cleaner consumes 1/5^th the energy of a pressure side or suction side cleaner. If you use the pool on a daily basis, then this will clearly pay off in the long run in the form of gradual energy savings.

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Important Things to Focus on Before You Buy an Automatic Pool Cleaner

The thing with automatic pool cleaners is that they can vary wildly in terms of the features offered, efficiency, and speed of cleaning. Just because a cleaner is “automatic”, does not mean that it is good at cleaning all types of pools. Often times, you will find that a manually operated vacuum pole is better suited for cleaning pools in comparison to a cheap automatic cleaner. So before you buy an automatic cleaner, take a look at the following questions-

— Does it scrub walls?

If a pool cleaner cannot scrub walls or steps, then it is most definitely not intended for an in-ground pool. Even above-ground pools have walls, and you should never buy a pool cleaner unless it is capable of cleaning walls of multiple types (tiled, plaster, fiberglass, etc.). In order to clean walls, the cleaner must be able to both climb as well as scrub walls.

There has to be a dedicated scrubbing brush on the bottom in order to scrub the debris accumulated on wall surfaces. In order to climb walls, the propulsion system must be powerful enough, and the body must not be too heavy. Tracks are better than wheels for climbing walls and steps, and contact adhesive drives are better than simple plastic wheels for maintaining traction on walls.

— How energy-efficient is it?

Some of the older suction and pressure side cleaners put more pressure on the pool pump, and can cost you several kilowatt hours of energy per day.  Robotic cleaners feature energy efficient, variable speed 24 V DC motors that barely consume 0.5 kWh of energy even if you run them for 8-10 hours per day. The latest robotic cleaners barely consume 100-200 watts of power daily, which is about the same as a single light bulb.

— Do the cables get twisted?

Twisted hoses and cables will often trap pets like dogs and cats, and they can also prove to a complete nuisance whenever you want to pull the cleaner out of the pool and put it back in your garage for storage. Besides, twisted cables and hoses will cut the overall reach of the cleaner and will prevent it from sweeping every nook and cranny of your pool. Get a model with an underwater cable swivel so that the cable line doesn’t tangle with itself while the cleaner is operating.

— Does it have a multi-year warranty?

Sometimes, the motors of robotic pool cleaners can cost up to half as much as a new cleaner. And robotic pool cleaners are not cheap in the first place, costing upwards of 300 bucks for even a semi-decent model. When you invest that kind of money into a piece of pool maintenance equipment, you need to make sure that it will last you for at least 2-3 years.

You can minimize losses in two ways – look for a model that has an easily replaceable motor, or you can select a pool cleaner with a minimum of a 24-month non-prorated warranty. Expensive models often justify their costs by carrying a 3-year non prorated warranty. The length of the warranty often signifies the amount of trust a particular manufacturer has in the quality of their product.

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Must-have features in a Robotic Pool Cleaner

Robotic cleaners are not cheap, and that is a fact. But often times you might want to ease your grip on that wallet, because certain features that are absolutely crucial to the functionality of a robotic cleaner might be absent from the cheap models. With those models you might enjoy the first few days of your purchase, but as problems gradually begin to creep up you will regret your purchase decision greatly as the maintenance and running costs for a cheap model usually turns out to be higher than the price of the cleaner itself over a period of 1 or 2 years.

That said, here are five must-have features which are well worth the extra price.

— Swivel Cords

Robotic cleaners often climb vertical walls and they keep turning all the time. Unless a 360° swivel is attached to the power cord, this will cause the cord to tangle and restrict the movement of the cleaner. A heavily entangled cable might even get damaged when the cleaner tugs at it, causing the insulation to wear off quicker than it should. And we all know what a poorly insulated cable does when placed in water.

Yes, it is only carrying 24 volts because the robotic cleaners have a low power motor inside and there is an external transformer that steps down the wall current. It never hurts to be safe, which is why you must always invest more for a cleaner that comes with a 360° swivel. Unless you plan on underwater drag racing with your robotic pool cleaner…

— Intelligent Navigation

Intelligent navigation could mean a lot of things from a technical perspective, but what it means generally is smart directional awareness and path remapping done autonomously by the robot to select the optimal route around the pool floor/wall based on the inputs that it gets from its various sensors. Yes, that is a lot to comprehend but know that a robotic pool cleaner is an extremely smart machine and it constantly senses its surroundings to know what lies ahead in its path. Based on the input that it gets from its sensors (pressure, infrared, temperature, etc.), a robot can map out a virtual representation of the pools interiors and automatically correct its path in order to clean the pool as quickly and efficiently as possible.

— Programmable Timers

Programmable timers allow you to choose when the cleaner should go and clean the pool. You will find 7 day timers on good robotic cleaner models, and this means that you can schedule cleaning operations on a day-by-day basis depending on the season and frequency of usage of the pool.

You can also tell the robotic cleaner which time of the day it should start cleaning, and program it to automatically stop cleaning after a certain amount of time has passed. Simple as operating a microwave, except this time you have a 7 day timer to work with. Life has truly become convenient, hasn’t it?

— Adjustable Filter Media

Don’t want to spend more on a DE filter? Want an easily replaceable cartridge filter instead which is both cheap and easy to flush? Or maybe you decide one day that your pool doesn’t have a lot of macro impurities lying around, and you need a filter which is capable of trapping even the smallest suspended particulate and organic wastes. Well then, get a robotic cleaner that lets you choose which filter you wish to use, instead of forcing you to stick with a certain type of proprietary filter design. There is no such thing as too much versatility.

— Contact Adhesive Drive

Cheap cleaners come with plastic wheels and tracks which will slip while trying to climb on certain surfaces (fiberglass, tiles, etc.). Instead, get a contact adhesive drive – it is made from a soft rubbery substance that generates a ton of traction even when you put it under water. This allows the robotic cleaner to climb and scrape walls and steps much more effectively, so that you don’t slip and fall the next time you try to put your feet on the stairs of your pool.

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Some of the Best Automatic Pool Cleaners Available:

Dolphin Quantum | Best Automatic Pool Cleaner

Features:

• Navigation: Microprocessor controlled SmartNav learns your pool
• Logic: Calculates optimal pattern for faster cleaning & improved efficiency
• Propulsion: PowerJet 3D Mobility for superior wall climbing and cleaning
• Capabilities: Vacuums leaves, debris, pollen & green algae
• Energy efficiency: Reduces energy costs up to 90% over AC powered cleaners
• Surfaces:  Power scrubs and vacuums doors, steps, walls, and water line
• Micron rating: 2 micron NanoFilter that captures even the smallest particles like fine algae
• Filtration rate: Micro filters 75 gallons per minute for remarkable water quality
• Motor type: Dual 24-volt 3,000 RPM Ultra energy-efficient DC motors
• Multi-media:Variable Micron Filtration with two options included
• Drive type: Direct drive means no belts to replace, ever
• Brush type: HyperBrush spins two times the speed of ordinary brushes to dislodge the most difficult, stuck-to-the-wall contaminants
• Bi-directional: Vacuums even when in reverse for superior efficiency
• Installation: Plug and play. Simply plug into a wall outlet and you’re done.
• Smart timer:  Integrated multi-function timer allows daily, 3x or 2x per week cycles
• LED alerts: Lets you know when the media should be emptied
• Plug & Play : No installation required. Simply plug in and turn on.

Overview

The Dolphin Quantum is regarded by several review sites as well as professional pool maintenance organizations to be one of the best robotic pool cleaners currently available on the market. This is a relatively new model, having been released sometime in 2016, less than a year ago (as of the time of this writing). Why is the Quantum so popular then? What is the reason behind this hype? Is the praise justified?

Well, once you learn about the features of this robotic cleaner, we believe you will definitely want to own a Quantum, despite its somewhat steep price tag. To begin with, it comes with dual scrubbing brushes underneath unlike most other robotic cleaners that only come with one scrubbing brush. Dual brushes means that the scrubbing action is doubled up, and debris is half as likely to be left behind. This comes in handy if your pool floor is lined with algae or oily deposits that are hard to remove by suction alone.

Talking of suction, there is plenty of that as well thanks to a powerful vacuum pump that sucks in even the toughest of debris and sends it to the waste collection bag. But before anything reaches the waste collection bag, it has to pass through a series of filters. These variable micron filters are capable of trapping even the smallest of waste materials, including fine grains of sand, algae, etc.

The filters are extremely easy to clean and replace which makes maintenance less of a chore. The 60 foot long anti-tangle cord allows this cleaner to cover even the largest of pools, while the water jets allow this robotic cleaner to plunge deep and roll off steps with ease without breaking upon landing.

With its SmartNav 2.0 smart navigation system, the Dolphin Quantum knows where it should go next and which areas have already been cleaned. A built-in reprogrammable weekly timer ensures that you are always in control of when you want the pool to be cleaned. Despite boasting one of the most powerful 24V DC motors in the business, power consumption is surprisingly low at just 180 watts.

Learn more on the Dolphin Quantum site.

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Dolphin Nautilus (99996323) & Nautilus Plus (99996403-PC)

The advantages of the Dolphin Nautilus Plus (over the regular Nautilus) are as follows:

• Faster cleaning time : 2.5 hours
• Extra large filter
• 3-point turning capacity
• Rapid water release : filterd water exits in under 6 seconds
• Heavier : 22 lbs.
• Longer warranty (and bumper-to-bumper) : 2 Years

I definitely feel that the Nautilus Plus (99996403-PC) is worth the little extra money it costs over the regular Nautilus.

Features (Nautilus — 99996323):

• Scrubs, vacuums and filters all pool surfaces in just 3 hours.
• Easy to clean cartridge filter with spring clean up filter included.
• Patented swivel cable helps prevent tangling.
• Incredibly efficient and costs less than 15 cents to clean the pool.
• Plug-n-play – no pre-installation needed, no connections to pool system.
• Self-programmed for optimal pool scanning.
• Weight: 18.75 lbs.
• 12 month warranty on spare parts and labor.

✓ View or download the Maytronics Dolphin Nautilus (and Plus) Quickstart Guide and General Guide. Read the online manual at the Maytronics site.

Overview | Dolphin Nautilus

Affordable, easy to maintain, and easy to carry around – all of these are characteristics which are absent from the average robotic pool cleaner. However, the dolphin Nautilus is one of those products that takes the convention and turns it around on its head. For example, this is one of the few robotic cleaners that comes in for less than 700 bucks and is equipped with Dolphins smart navigation systems.

Dolphin Nautilus Plus | Best Automatic Pool Cleaner

Maytronics has made these excellent Nautilus automatic pool cleaners very affordable, which  is an achievement in itself, even more remarkable is the fact that it only weighs 18.75 pounds – considering the fact that most similarly sized robotic cleaners weigh at least 30-40% more, this is a great bonus point that makes the Nautilus even more purchase-worthy. It also comes with a handle so you can conveniently lift it out of the pool, and put it back inside. The light weight means that climbing walls will be super easy for this cleaner, and it is also equipped with a 60-foot tangle free swivel cord.

A spring clean-up filter has been included, so you can use this robotic cleaner to sweep up all the acorns, leaves, and twigs lying at the bottom of your pool. The Nautilus is capable of running for up to three hours until it powers down automatically, and then you just have to pull it out of the pool and clean up the filters before putting it back inside. It will cost you only 15 cents per 3-hour pool cleaning cycle, and there is a programmable 7-day timer so you can schedule when you wish the pool to be cleaned.

Dolphin Nautilus | Best Automatic Pool Cleaner

Tech Specs (Nautilus):

• Cycle time: 3 hours
• Cable length: 60 ft.
• Filter: Fine porosity
• Suction rate: 4,233 gal (USA) per hour
• Unit weight: 18.75 lbs.

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Dolphin Premier | Best Automatic Pool Cleaner

Features:

• Navigation : Microprocessor controlled SmartNav learns subject pool
• Logic : Calculates optimal pattern for faster cleaning & improved efficiency
• Propulsion : HyperGrip rubber tracks improve power delivery and control
• Capabilities : Vacuums leaves, debris, pollen & green algae
• Energy efficiency : Reduces energy costs up to 90% over AC powered cleaners
• Surfaces : Power scrubs and vacuums doors, steps, walls, and water line
• Dual ballasts :  Delivers superior agility, maneuverability & climbing performance
• Micron rating :  2 micron – removes the smallest particles, even green algae
• Air sensor : Learns water line elevation for superior water line cleaning
• Filtration rate : Micro filters 75 gallons per minute for remarkable water quality

Overview

The Dolphin Premier is packed to the brim with innovative design features that boost productivity while keeping maintenance to a minimum. For example, it features the ability to use multiple filter cartridge mediums and sizes. You can use any of the following – micro cartridges, standard cartridges, oversized debris bag, and even disposable debris bags. Besides, the compact design and use of lightweight fiberglass as well as plastics for the shell means that the overall weight is kept very low – just 14 pounds!

The cable is equipped with a 360° swivel, and is about 40 feet in length. Even though the cable is about 33% shorter than the ones that you will find on most in-ground pool cleaners, it will more than suffice for any pool that is less than 30 to 35 feet long. Cleaning cycle time is just 1.5 hours, which is a huge plus if you use the pool several times a day and can’t afford to have a cleaner running around inside for 3-5 hours when there are people in the pool.

Even though the Dolphin Premier is advertised as an above ground pool cleaner, you should be easily able to clean smaller in-ground pools with it, thanks to the powerful suction motor and wide scrubbing brush on the bottom. It comes with a best-in-class 3 year warranty, which should cover you on everything including the motor. The smart navigation system and HyperGrip tracks will ensure that no corner of your pool goes untouched, while the ultra-efficient DC motors consume up to 87% less energy than regular cleaners.

Thanks to its innovative collection of features and reliability the Dolphin Premier is one of the best automatic pool cleaners available today.

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Dolphin Triton / Triton PLUS | Best Automatic Pool Cleaner

The Triton Plus is basically an improved version of the base Triton model, as is indicated by the name. While the original Triton was extremely popular because of its compact design, light weight (made this cleaner perfect for cleaning walls), smart navigation system, and interchangeable filters, the new Triton Plus adds several new features and also improves on some old ones. For example, the scrubbing brush at the front is now split into two independently rotating sections that clean surfaces more efficiently.

A delayed start timer has also been included, and this will give you even more flexibility in terms of when you want to clean your pool. The IntelliScan diagnostics system is a brand new addition to the Triton Plus, something which the cheaper and lighter Triton lacks. With IntelliScan diagnostics the Triton Plus cleans more efficiently since it allows the cleaner to calculate the most efficient path for cleaning the pool based on the pools size and shape, as well as the paths that the cleaner has followed previously.

Dolphin Triton (99996356) | Cleans pool floor, cove and walls

One more really cool thing about the Triton Plus is the addition of a remote control so that you can achieve picture perfect spot cleaning. The free carry caddy on the Triton Plus allows for easy transportation while the 60 foot long 360° swivel cable has been carried over from the original Triton. Suction power and speed underwater is similar between the two, although the Triton Plus gives you more options in terms of choosing when you want to clean, and the added remote control feature is a great thing to have in case you wish to take manual control of the cleaner in order to better clean a certain spot.

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Dolphin Escape | Best Automatic Pool Cleaner

Features:

• Navigation: Microprocessor controlled SmartNav 2.0 maps your pool
• Logic: Calculates optimal pattern for faster cleaning & improved efficiency
• Capabilities Vacuums leaves, debris, pollen & green algae
• Energy efficiency:  Reduces energy costs up to 90% over AC powered cleaners
• Surfaces: Power scrubs and vacuums doors, steps, and walls
• Micron rating: Easy clean, oversized filtration cartridge
• Filtration rate: Filters 75 gallons per minute for remarkable water quality
• Operating cost:Approximately 5 cents per hour
• Electrical input: 115 volts, plugs into a standard wall outlet
• Cycle time: 1.5 hours. Faster cleaning for improved energy savings
• Warranty:  1 yr limited warranty -not pro-rated – not limited to hours/cycles
• Cable: 40 feet thermoplastic rubber cable reduces frictional drag
• Compatibility:  Gunite, concrete, tile, fiberglass or vinyl-lined up to 55 in long
• Service type: DIY serviceable in 10-15 minutes by the dealer or owner

Overview

The Dolphin Escape is one of the most well optimized above-ground pool cleaners. In fact, its design is so focused on above-ground cleaning that we dare say you would be making a big mistake by trying to use this in an in-ground pool. Normally, you don’t really see any difference in terms of performance when you use a good above ground pool cleaner inside an in-ground pool, provided the in-ground pool is smaller and shallower than most of its kind.

However, the Escape features uniquely designed tracks and specialized front-scrubbing brushes which are best used on above-ground pools. It utilizes the next generation smart navigation system called SmartNav 2.0, and is equipped with ultra-fine filters that have been optimized to catch small and medium sized debris, as larger debris is somewhat uncommon in most above ground swimming pools.

The rubber tracks feature directional control and pack more traction then wheels, and wall climbing abilities are further augmented by a high grip, water-optimized tread and streamlined geometric shape that helps this pool cleaner maintain a low center of gravity at all times.

Tech Specs:

• Wattage : 180 watts
• Dry weight : 14 lbs.
• Motor type : Dual 24-volt 3,000 RPM energy efficient DC motors
• Drive type : Direct drive means no belts to replace, ever
• Brush type : HyperBrush spins twice the speed of ordinary brushes to dislodge difficult contaminants
• Bi-directional: Vacuums even when in reverse for superior efficiency
• Installation : Plug and play. Simply plug into a wall outlet and you’re ready to go.

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Dolphin Cayman | Best Automatic Pool Cleaner

Maytronics has done a fantastic job in reinventing their Dolphin lineup of robotic pool cleaners for the modern age. Not only is the Dolphin Cayman packed with practical features like SmartNav 2.0, which is essentially an advance pool mapping system much like a GPS system. The Cayman is designed with intelligent software that enables the automatic pool cleaner to vacuum and scrub your entire pool, which is what you should expect.

The list of features can be found below but what I find impressive is that the cost of the Dolphin Cayman is very affordable when compared to other pool cleaners on the market, so clearly, Maytronics has made a firm commitment to manufacturing pool cleaners that won’t break your bank account. I applaud them for that and you should as well as a consumer.

Features:

• Operating cost : Approximately 5 cents per hour
• Electrical input :  115 volts, plugs into a standard wall outlet
• Cycle time : 2 hours. Faster cleaning for improved energy savings
• Warranty : 1 yr limited warranty; not pro-rated, not limited to hours/cycles
• Cable: 60 feet thermoplastic rubber cable reduces frictional drag
• Compatibility : Gunite, concrete, tile, fiberglass or vinyl-lined up to 55 in long
• Service type : DIY serviceable in 10-15 minutes by the dealer or owner
• Wattage :  180 watts
• Dry weight : 14 lbs.
• Motor type:Dual 24-volt 3,000 RPM energy efficient DC motors
• Drive type: Direct drive means no belts to replace, ever
• Brush type: HyperBrush spins twice the speed of ordinary brushes to dislodge difficult contaminants
• Bi-directional: Vacuums even when in reverse for superior efficiency
• Installation: Plug and play. Simply plug into a wall outlet and you’re ready to go.
• Smart timer: Integrated multi-function timer allows daily, 3x or 2x per week cycles

Learn more at the Maytronics Dolphin Cayman site.

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Hayward RC9990GR TigerShark QC | Best Automatic Pool Cleaner

Three Different Models:

• Hayward RC9955 — TigerShark Plus
  • 3 hour cleaning time (with remote control)
• Hayward RC9990GR — TigerShark QC
  • 90 minute cleaning time
• Hayward RC9950GR — TigerShark Standard
  • 3 hour cleaning time

Features (QC Model):

• Efficient cleaning programs
  • All TigerShark models come with a standard 3-hour complete cleaning cycle for full floor, walls, coves and waterline.
  • Patented Quick Clean technology (TigerShark QC model) provides a fast 90 minute cycle.
• Powerful vacuum strength
  • On-board pump for intense vacuum power to suck up dirt and debris.
  • Built with an efficient 24-volt motor designed to use less energy and lower cost.
• Unique cartridge filter system
  • Makes emptying easy, just open the cleaner, remove the cartridge and rinse with a hose. Easy to use.
  • No extra hoses, hookups or pumps required.
  • Runs separately from the pool’s filtration system reducing the frequency of filter backwash cycles.

✓ View or download the MANUAL for the Hayward Tigershark RC9990GR (all models).

The Hayward TigerShark is a pretty recent automatic pool cleaner and is currently available in 3 different models – Standard, Quick Clean, and Standard Plus. So what does each one of these robotic cleaners offer in terms of cleaning performance and features, and what is it that separates one from the other? Well, to put it simply, the standard is the cheapest version while the Standard Plus is basically the Standard version with remote control for manual spot cleaning.

The QC in “QC Edition” is short for Quick Clean. Basically, the TigerShark QC is equipped with an additional cleaning mode that enables it to complete a cleaning cycle within 90 minutes (1.5 hours). That is insanely fast, and is half of what it takes in the standard cleaning cycle (3 hours). All models use the same 24V motor as well as vacuum technology, and each one is equipped with advanced microprocessor control for more efficient and accurate cleaning.

All of the three TigerShark models are designed to clean pools up to 20’ x 40’ in size, and all three of them have similar cleaning performance with the exception of the QC edition that does its job at twice the speed (not necessarily a better job, only faster) when you select the Quick Clean mode. If your pool has a lot of tight spaces or sharp corners that a robot cleaner is unable to clean properly in automated drive mode, you should go for the Standard Plus edition so that you can manually spot clean a part of your pool that is more dirty or hard to access.

If you need super-fast cleaning so that you can keep using the pool even on cleaning days, go with the QC edition. All three versions are programmed to clean the following areas – pool floor, waterline, walls, and covers. The cord length is 55’ for each one of these models, and they all carry 1-year warranties.

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Hayward RC9740 SharkVac | Best Automatic Pool Cleaner

Features:

• Uses smart steering technology that provides an efficient cleaning pattern, scouring pool floors and coves in just about 2 hours
• For full pool coverage including walls and waterline, try the SharkVac XL.
• Top-access filter allows quick debris removal and easy cleanup
• 2 fine porosity filter elements – just remove and rinse with garden hose, no need to turn cleaner over to empty
• Easy to use
• Requires no hoses or hookups nor additional pumps, just let it clean
• Runs separately from the pool’s filtration system reducing filter backwashing and water usage
• Features : SharkVac XL only
  • Out-of-water sensor protects the motor by preventing cleaners from running out of the water.
  • Beach-entry sensor reverses direction when pool cleaner starts climbing out of the water
  • Covers the floor, walls, coves and waterline

Documents:

• ✓ View or download the MANUAL and BROCHURE for the SharkVac XL.
• ✓ View or download the MANUAL for the Standard SharkVac.

Overview

The Hayward RC9740 SharkVac robotic vacuum cleaner was designed with one purpose in mind – get the pool cleaned as efficiently and quickly as possible, with minimal intervention from the user. After all, that’s what an automated cleaning device is supposed to do right? Finish all of your dirty work, without you ever having to step in between the machine and its job. However it is not easy because pools often come in different shapes and sizes, with each user having varying requirements as well as expectations from the product that he/she purchases.

Well, here is where the Hayward RC9740 SharkVac sets itself a notch above the rest – once you drop this 46 pounder into your pool, you can pretty much forget about the rest. It will automatically detect the perimeters and terrain variations inside your pool, making a virtual map of your pools interiors within mere seconds of deployment.

Once the RC9740 SharkVac has computed your pool size and shape, it will use every single tool in its arsenal to deliver the most efficient and satisfactory cleaning experience of any robotic pool cleaner in its price on the market. This model also comes with a Quick Clean feature that gets the cleaning cycle completed within just 60 minutes. That is nearly 1/3^rd the time taken by a standard robotic cleaner.

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Hayward Aquanaut 200 & 400 | Best Automatic Pool Cleaner

Apart from the TigerShark series of robotic pool cleaners, Hayward also manufactures the renowned Aquanaut suction pool cleaners. There are a total of three Aquanaut models – the Aquanaut 200 (2-wheel drive), the Aquanaut 400 (4-wheel drive), and the Aquanaut 450 (a version of the 400 model that is designed for slightly smaller pools).

• Aquanaut 200 — Model : PHS21CST — 2 wheel drive
• Aquanaut 400 — Model : PHS41CST — 4 wheel drive

The Aquanaut 450 is more of a specialized product and is a part of the Hayward Expert Line of pool cleaners. It can be retrofitted with an optional steering can in order to clean pools as large as 20’ x 40’, but that requires the services of a pool cleaning professional. We shall focus on the 200 and 400 models in this section, both of which are equipped with pretty much everything that you could ask for in an affordable automatic pool cleaner.

The Aquanaut lineup of robotic cleaners feature self-adjusting variable vanes that allow the vanes to automatically widen up when larger debris needs to pass through. This means that cleaning power is never compromised, even when the flow rate becomes lower.

This variable vane technology is called V-flex, and it eliminates clogs almost entirely. If you happen to have a variable speed pool pump, then the Aquanaut is the perfect suction cleaner for you. The extra deep tire treads allow the Aquanaut to conveniently climb walls or steps, while the patented adjustable roller skirts allow this suction cleaner to maintain consistent suction force even on uneven surfaces.

To ensure complete coverage and compatibility across a wide variety of pools, the Aquanaut series is equipped with multiple pre-programmed steering sequences. Three interchangeable throats allow you to select the perfect balance between debris passage width and suction power.

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Hayward Poolvergnuegen ThePoolCleaner | 2x / 4x

Features:

• Made in the USA
• Great Coverage- Spends more time in the shallow end than other cleaners due to
• Programmed Steering .
• Patented Power Adjusting Turbine maximizes the suction from your pump. This allows the
  cleaner to run at lower suction.
• Patented Tire Tread Design allows the PoolCleaner ™ overcome obstacles such as main
  drains etc
• Robust- Internal gears never wear.
• Wide vacuum path with substantial clearance under the cleaner.
• Comes in two models: 2 Wheel and 4 Wheel.
• Installs quickly and easily with no tweaking necessary.
• Highest quality hoses.

Documents for The Pool Cleaner (2 wheel & wheel next generation model):

• MANUAL : Pool Cleaner | Poolvergnuegen
• RESET BYPASS VALVE : Poolvergnuegen Pool Cleaner
• SUCTION PARTS : Poolvergnuegen Pool Cleaner
• PARTS : Poolvergnuegen Pool Cleaner
• CHANGING TIRES : Poolvergnuegen Pool Cleaner
• REMOVE OBSTRUCTION OR TURBINE VALVE REPLACEMENT : Pool Cleaner
• FEATURES : Poolvergnuegen Pool Cleaner
• BROCHURE : Poolvergnuegen Pool Cleaner

Overview

The Hayward Poolvergnuegen (Pool-fair-gnyoo-gen) has an original and “impossible to get it right the first time unless you’re German” type name, however that is not what we are concerned with. Hayward purchased Poolvergnuegen back in 2013, and they also received the rights to manufacture what is arguably one of the most iconic suction side pool cleaners ever made. So iconic in fact, that it is simply known as “The Pool Cleaner”. Yeah, that’s what they call it.

This is no robotic pool cleaner with advanced location mapping and split bristles and rubber tracks and variable high speed suction etc. Instead, the Poolvergnuegen is based on a simple, yet highly reliable design that just never gets old. The Poolvergnuegen is available in two models-2x (2-wheel), and 4x (4-wheel). Both of these require no additional attachments or modifications to your existing pool circulation system, as they will be powered by your pool pump and use the pool filter to trap all of the collected waste.

Just like the Hayward Aquanaut, the Poolvergnuegen is equipped with self-adjusting vanes that allow this cleaner to perform efficiently with variable speed pumps. It does so by adjusting the width of the opening which is created by the folding vanes in order to increase or decrease flow rate depending on available suction power from the pool pump.

The left wheel is geared to periodically reverse so that the Poolvergnuegen keeps on turning every once in a while. For the 2x model, there are a total of 5 different programmed turns, ranging from 90 to 450 degrees. For the 4x model, this range is increased from 90 to 540 degrees. The Poolvergnuegen is designed with self-adjusting roller flaps so that it doesn’t get stuck on a main drain or corner.

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Pentair Kreepy Krauly Prowler 820 & Prowler 830

Unique Features for the Prowler 830 Only:

• Remote control functions allow you to override automatic cleaning modes to perform quick spot clean-ups
• Built-in weekly timer allows for scheduled cleanings

Shared Features for the Prowler 820 & 830:

• Auto-reverse feature helps prevent hang-ups in corners and near steps for uninterrupted performance
• Costs less than 20 cents per day to operate
• Includes convenient caddy for easy handling and storage
• Vacuums all types of debris and helps remove algae
• Plug-in convenience requires no installation, booster pump or hoses
• Full cartridge indicator lets you know when cleaner needs attending

Overview

The Kreepy Krauly pool cleaner series is extremely old, and has been holding its own against much newer and highly advanced tech until now. But with the release of the Prowler 820 and Prowler 830 models, it seems like the Kreepy Krauly brand of pool cleaners isn’t just surviving, rather it seems to be thriving and on the rise to achieve its former glory.

Video | Prowler 830 and 820 Automatic Pool Cleaners

While the old Kreepy Krauly used to be a suction side cleaner that looked somewhat like a prop from an underwater monster movie set, the new ones are designed to keep up with the times, which is why the entire Prowler lineup consists of robotic pool cleaners. The Prowler 820 is one of the best affordable automatic pool cleaners money can buy, and is fully reprogrammable. It comes with an auto-reverse feature so that the cleaner doesn’t get stuck in corners or at the base of steep pool walls.

There is a full cartridge indicator which lets you know when the filter should be cleaned, and a convenient carry caddy is provided for easy handling and storage. The powerful suction will sweep algae and bacteria into the ultra-fine micro mesh filters, keeping you and your loved ones safe from diseases. No booster pumps or hoses are needed, just plug it into the wall and drop it into the pool.

The Pentair Kreepy Krauly 830 is basically a remote controllable 820, suitable for manual spot cleaning. It also features an added weekly timer for infinite scheduling options, something that is absent from the 820.

Documents:

• ✓ View or download the MANUAL for the Pentair Prowler 820/830.
• ✓ View or download the BROCHURE for the Pentair Prowler 830.
• ✓ View or download the BROCHURE for the Pentair Prowler 820.

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Polaris Vac-Sweep 280 / 360 / 380 / 3900 Sport

4 Different Vac-Sweep Models:

• Polaris Vac-Sweep 280
• Polaris Vac-Sweep 360
• Polaris Vac-Sweep 380
• Polaris Vac-Sweep 3900

*All models require a booster pump to run, like the Zodiac PB4-60.

Overview

The Polaris lineup of pressure side pool cleaners is arguably the most popular pressure side cleaner series in the entire Unites States. The reasons for this are pretty simple – it has been there since like forever, and the Polaris models are all well refined pieces of machinery that are built like tanks and designed to clean almost any pool, irrespective of size and design. They are also one of the few pressure side pool cleaners that don’t require the installation of specialized plumbing, wall fittings, or secondary pumps in order to operate.

You just have to connect the hose to the pressure side ports of your pool, the Polaris will work off the existing pool pump. And its cleaning power is almost unrivaled for the price – leaves, twigs, acorns, and algae will all get wiped off the pool floor as the Polaris rolls over them with its extra wide scraping brush and large waste collection inlets. The Polaris 280 features 2 venturi jets for sweeping up debris, and has a 2.25” vacuum inlet.

Polaris 280 Vac-Sweep

The Polaris 360 has 3 venturi jets for 50% more suction power, and comes with an all-wheel belt drive for greater wall climbing capabilities. The Polaris 380 is basically a 360 which has been modified to use a booster pump. It features more suction power than the 360 and comes with a similarly sized debris bag too. All of the Polaris models feature single chamber debris bags that are large enough to hold lots of leaves, and they can clean a medium sized swimming pool within 3 hours.

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Zodiac MX6 / MX8 | Automatic Pool Cleaner

Both the Zodiac Barracuda MX6 and MX8 are powerful yet compact suction side pool cleaners that require no additional hosing, pipes, or pumps in order to operate. They are suitable for all types of in-ground pools, and will clean floors as well as walls (up to the waterline). Both the MX6 and MX8 feature textured rubber tracks on the wheels for extra grip on slippery surfaces such as tile or fiberglass (often used in above-ground pools).

The MX8 is a more expensive version of the MX6, and comes with a 36’ foot long hose instead of a 30’ long hose. There are twist-locking hose sections on both of these models, so attaching the cleaner to your skimmer box via an adapter is extremely easy.

Video | Polaris MX6 vs MX8 Pool Cleaners

Air leaks are minimized thanks to the extra flexible and toughly built plastic hoses, and the patented Flex Power Turbine technology (basically a fancy name for variable vane width) allows this cleaner to perform extremely well even on weaker pumps that have flow rates as low as 20 GPM.

There is a removable inlet assembly on both the MX6 as well as the MX8 that allows the cleaner to pick up both small as well as large debris (leaves, peels, twigs, etc.).

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Polaris 9350  / 9550 | Automatic Pool Cleaners

✓  View or download the MANUAL for the Polaris 9350/94450/9550.

Overview

Remember the Polaris Vac-Sweep pressure side cleaners from a while ago? Well, Polaris also makes robotic pool cleaners for the more tech-savvy folk who can justify spending a little extra for a much more refined and hassle free cleaning experience. There are two robotic cleaner models in the Polaris lineup – the 9350 and the 9550. There are a few major differences between the two, even though they might look very similar in terms of size and shape.

To begin with, the 9550 comes with built in remote control functionality for precise manual spot cleaning. This allows you to pick up on the spots which the computer left out, or did not clean properly. The 9550 is also equipped with 4 wheel drive, meaning that it is less likely to get jammed on a corner, step, or wall. There is a 7-day programmable timer a well on the 9550, and this lets you choose exactly when you wish your pool to be cleaned, including day of the week and time of the day. Just set the timer, and forget about your pool cleaning for one whole week!

Comparison Chart | Polaris Sport Series

Both the models are programmed with customizable cleaning cycles which let you choose exactly the type of cleaning that you want (thorough and slow, quick and light, etc.). While the 9350 can clean pools up to 50’ in length, the 9550 is capable of handling pools that are 60’ long. Both the models come with ergonomic lift up handles and vortex vacuum technology which is said to deliver 25% more vacuum power than conventional vacuum cleaners. Also, the automatically adjustable debris intake port can handle up to 4 times more debris than some cheaper cleaners).

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Polaris P955 | Automatic Pool Cleaners

Features:

• Motion-Sensing Remote – Responsive cleaning control in the palm of your hand.
• Easy Lift System – With the touch of a button the P955 surfaces to a desired location and waits for you to grab it, then automatically evacuates water for effortless removal from the pool.
• Vortex Vacuum Technology – 25% more vacuum power and 4x more debris capacity than other cleaners.
• Easy Clean Filter Canister – debris can easily be emptied with a simple shake and spray convenience.
• 7-day programmable timer – fully customizable set it and forget it cleaning modes.
• ActivMotion Sensor – automatically controls robot’s position at all times, allowing complete cleaning coverage without any hang ups.
• 4-Wheel Drive Technology – cleans pool floor, walls, and scrubs tile line with pleated scrubbing brush.
• Waterline Only Cleaning Cycle – for isolated tile line scrubbing.

✓  View or download the MANUAL for the Polaris p955.

Overview

The P955 is very similar to the 9550, with a few changes here and there that do not bring about a whole lot of difference as far as end user experience and cleaning performance is concerned. One noticeable change though, is the specially designed front scrubbing brush. It is a dual-section brush, just like the one on the P9550, but this time it is designed specifically for scrubbing tile, fiberglass, and other ultra-smooth pool interior surfaces. This is pretty useful to those who have oily deposits or algae on their pool walls and steps.

Just like the 9550, the P950 has an easy lift setting, in which the cleaner will automatically surface close to the pool side in a predetermined location as soon as you call it out via the remote. Then, it will flush out all of the water to decrease weight, so you can comfortably grab it by the top handle and lift it out. A transport caddy is also provided, which can be assembled within minutes without having to use any tools.

Some other notable features of the P950 which can also be found on the 9550 include – Motion sensing remote control, Vortex Vacuum technology, easy-clean filter canisters, 7-day programmable timers, and an ActiveMotion sensor for intelligent path selection and efficient navigation.

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Polaris 9450 Sport | Automatic Pool Cleaner

Features:

• Easy Lift System – With the touch of a button the 9450 surfaces to a desired location and waits for you to grab it, then automatically evacuates water for effortless removal from the pool.
• Vortex Vacuum Technology – 25% more vacuum power and 4x more debris capacity than other cleaners.
• Easy Clean Filter Canister – debris can easily be emptied with a simple shake and spray convenience.
• 7-day programmable timer – fully customizable set it and forget it cleaning modes.
• ActivMotion Sensor – automatically controls robot’s position at all times, allowing complete cleaning coverage without any hang ups.
• 4-Wheel Drive Technology – cleans pool floor, walls, and scrubs tile line with pleated scrubbing brush.
• Top access, large filter canister has four times the capacity of other similar cleaners

✓ View or download the MANUAL and BROCHURE for the Polaris 9450 Sport automatic pool cleaner.

Overview

There is a reason Polaris calls this robotic pool cleaner the 9450 “Sport”. It looks like the racing car of pool cleaners thanks to its streamlined body and sleek, understated curves that have been implemented to cut down on water resistance. Every little bit counts when it comes to saving on energy, even the resistance generated by water.

The weight is also pretty low, at just 16 pounds. One of the main attractions of this particular cleaner is its all-purpose filter canister that is capable of holding up to 4 times more debris than similarly sized filter canisters. Polaris claims that you seldom need to clean the filter, since it is less likely to get jammed after one or two runs through the pool.

One complete cleaning cycle requires less than 3 hours, and the Quick Clean mode allows you to further speed up the cleaning process if you have guests/friends coming over on short notice. The 9450 Sport can clean pools up to 50’ in length, and it is backed by a 2-year limited warranty which covers all the parts, including the all-important motor.

It also features a 4-wheel drive so you don’t have to worry about waiting for 3 hours (which may seem like an eternity on a hot day) to take a dip in the pool, only to find that your cleaner has been stuck on a corner for the last 2 hours.

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Aquabot ABTRT2R1 Turbo T2 | Automatic Pool Cleaner

Features:

• In-ground automatic pool cleaner designed for all pool shapes and surfaces except tile
• Cleans pool floor, walls and waterline; filters 75 gallons per minute
• Never Stuck rollers to overcome main drains and other obstacles
• Patented Dual Clutch system enables unit to turn on a dime
• Includes a 60′ cable and an Aqua buggy for transportation and storage
• Not suitable for tile swimming pools.

Overview

When you first take a look at it, the Aquabot ABTRT2R1 Turbo T2 may seem like an inverted shopping basket mounted atop the chassis of a RC tank. However, try picking up this funny looking pool cleaner and you will immediately realize that it is no toy. Weighing in at a massive 45.6 pounds despite featuring a plastic body, the Aquabot ABTRT2R1 Turbo T2 utilizes one of the best drive systems yet to be seen on a robotic pool cleaner.

This automatic pool cleaner packs a ton of performance, and can filter up to 75 gallons of water per minute when the fastest cleaning mode is activated. The ginormous front brushes are designed to scrape even the toughest of debris off your pool floor, while a dual-clutch transmission ensures that this cleaner is able to switch directions in the blink of an eye without getting jammed.

An aqua buggy is provided for transportation and storage (because lord knows you can’t hope to carry this monstrosity for more than 10 yards in your bare hands, unless you are physically fit). It seems like the creators of this bizarre looking pool cleaner really hate the idea of things getting stuck. Which is why, they added another anti-jamming system in the form of the “Never Stuck” rollers that power the high-traction rubber tracks on which this cleaner rolls.

It almost seems like Aquabot is challenging you to find a pool that can cause this unit to get stuck while cleaning. In fact, we wouldn’t be surprised if some wisecrack decided to mod one of these into an all-terrain vehicle for his local remote controlled vehicle racing contest.

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Aquabot ABREEZ4WD Breeze 4WD

Features:

• For in-Ground Pool
• 4WD runs on a true 4 wheel drive system. The drive system powers all 4 wheels as well as a rotating brush underneath the cleaner itself.
• Shape: Rectangle, Lap, Kidney, L-Shape, Round, Oval
• Surfaces: Vinyl, Gunite/Concrete, Fiberglass, & Tile
• Profile: Sloped
• Pool to Wall Transition: 90 Degree Angle
• Aquabot No Tangle Swivel NEW
• Top Loading Filter baskets
• 60′ Cable
• 3 Hour Cleaning Time
• Plug and Play
• Electrical Requirements: 120VAC / 60Hz
• Power Consumption: 180W
• Non-Marring Wheels
• Cable Length: 60′
• Dimensions: 20″ x 18″ x 21″
• Shipping Weight: 17 lbs.

✓ View or download the MANUAL for the Aquabot ABREEZ4WD Breeze.

Overview:

Aquabot claims that their BREEZE 4WD robotic pool cleaner is capable of cleaning just about any pool surface, including tiles, fiberglass, plaster, gunite, etc. We don’t own 6 pools with each one featuring a different material for the inner surface of the basin, but what we can do is analyze the specifications, features, user reviews, etc. to give you a definitive opinion on how this unusually cute looking little robot is supposed to perform. First of all, it looks really compact and features a design which keeps the base close to the ground resulting in a low center of gravity. There are two benefits to having a low center of gravity.

• It is less likely to tip over when one side rides over an uneven terrain, or if it is rolling around on the walls in a tilted position.
• It is much easier to store because of the compact nature, and weight is also reduced by keeping only the parts which are essential to the functionality of the pool cleaner.

Parts like the large debris basket which is designed to capture large amounts of small to medium sized waste.

The rotating scrubber brush on the underside is removable for convenient maintenance, and the wide nylon bristles do a great job of removing stubborn dirt and algae from the walls and floor of your pool.

The 4 wheel drive further improves the mobility and reliability of this unit so you can rest assured that no wall, step, crevice, or corner will be able to jam or trap this little robot while it is busy cleaning your pool.

Despite its small size, the Aquabot ABREEZ4WD Breeze 4WD features a powerful suction system and high capacity, which can combine to filter up to 70 gallons of water per minute.

Power consumption is only 180 watts, which combined with the super-fast 3-hour cleaning cycle allows you to save a ton of money on your power bill in the long run. Overall weight is less than 17 pounds (you don’t need a caddy to move this thing around or to float it into the pool).

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Aquabot APRVJR | Automatic Pool Cleaner

Features:

• For Above-Ground Pools
• 2 and 3 hour timer.
• For cleaning flat bottomed floors of 24’ diameter pools in as little as 30 minutes.
• Shape: Rectangle, Lap, Kidney, L-Shape, Round, Oval
• Surfaces: Vinyl, Gunite/Concrete Fiberglass, Tile
• Profile: Flat Bottom
• Input Electrical Requirements: 120 VAC/60Hz
• Power Consumption: 180 Watts
• Dimensions: 21″x 19″x 18″
• Shipping Weight: 28lbs
• Non-Marring Wheels
• Cable Length: 40′

Aquabot has fondly named this little pool cleaning machine the Pool Rover “Junior”. It also boasts a rather attractive price tag of just below 300 bucks, meaning that size is not the only thing that has been reduced. It has not been designed to clean larger pools, as is evident from the 40 foot long 360° swivel floating cable.  A single 24V DC motor provides vacuum suction as well as jet-drive propulsion.

The jet drive propulsion enables this tiny 28 pounder to zip along the floor and walls of just about any pool with ease. It can filter up to 70 gallons of water per minute, which is nothing short of impressive given the small form factor of this cleaner. The Aquabot Junior has been designed to clean above-ground pools only, which is why it lacks the necessary driving mechanisms to ride the walls of in-ground pools, and also comes with a smaller power cord.

The filters on this little pool cleaner are really fine, with a spacing of just 2 microns – enough to even trap bacteria! The adjustable axel pin lets you maximize pool cleaner coverage and minimize cord tangling.

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Smartpool NC22 | Automatic Pool Cleaner

Features:

• Floor-Specific Cleaning
• Revolutionary Lightweight Design
• Designed Specifically for Above-ground and Smaller Inground Pools
• Intelligent Navigation – Does Not Require Walls to Change Direction
• Direct-Drive Motor for Greater Traction
• Brush-to-Port Suction for Thorough Vacuuming of Acorns, Leaves and Fine Debris
• All Surface Cleaning for Vinyl Liner, Fiberglass and Concrete Pools
• Quick-Drain System for Lightweight Removal From Pool
• 40’ Power Cord
• Extra-Large Filter Bag Capacity
• 2-Hour Auto Shut-Off
• Two Year Limited Warranty
• ETL, CSA and CE Approved

✓ View or download the MANUAL for the Smartpool NC22 SmartKleen.

Overview

The NC22 robotic pool cleaner from Smartpool has been designed to clean above ground pools as well as smaller in-ground pools, as is evident from the low lying chassis and small wheels. It is not meant to climb walls, which would be a Herculean task given those tiny wheels and wide base. It is loaded with a smart navigation system, and does not need to collide with walls in order to change direction, as is the case with several cheaper robotic pool cleaners (and some robotic vacuum cleaners as well, like the Roomba).

Video | Smartpool NC22 SmartKleen

https://youtu.be/05UhZvuWuAQ

The quick drain system assists with removal from the pool, as it will instantly drain out all of the water upon the press of a button. There is brush-to-port suction for thorough vacuuming of acorns, leaves, and other debris that cannot be picked up by suction alone. The filter bag is easily removable for snappy maintenance and cleaning purposes, while the 40-feet long 360° swivel power cord keeps things smooth no matter how many turns this robotic cleaner makes.

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Pentair LL505G Kreepy Krauly Legend

Features:

• Front-wheel drive for maximum traction on inclined surfaces for total pool coverage
• Four wheel design prevents tipping (common with 3 wheel cleaners) for uninterrupted and unattended performance
• Large intake throat and high-capacity bag handle large debris with ease
• Heavy-duty, large-capacity collection bag extends time between cleanings; twist lock mechanism makes bag removal a cinch.
• Available in Grey/White or all Grey
• Cleans most pools in just 1-3 hours

Documents

• ✓ View or download the MANUAL for the Kreepy Krauly Legend.
• ✓ View or download the BROCHURE for the Kreepy Krauly Legend.

The Pentair Kreepy Krauly Legend is a special edition model of the original Kreepy Krauly. If you’re thinking that the Legend is simply a beefed-up base model with stuff like larger wheels, larger waste inlet ports, etc. then you are most definitely wrong. While the original Kreepy Krauly was a suction side cleaner, the Legend is actually a pressure side cleaner.

And it is not like the Polaris pressure side cleaner that did not require any booster pump in order to work – this Pentair Kreepy Krauly needs a booster pump in order to function properly, so account for the extra plumbing, professional installation fees, and the cost of the booster pump itself, when you’re allocating the budget to purchase this seemingly simplistic pressure side cleaner.

Video | Pentair LL505G Legend

So, if overall cost including pump installation, plumbing, etc. ends up costing as much or even more than a medium-range robotic cleaner, why should you pay the extra cash for this cleaner? After all, it is just another pressure side cleaner right?

The simple answer is – depending on the location and size of your pool, a pressure side cleaner might sometimes prove to be more viable than a robotic cleaner. One such example would be when you have no power outlets nearby since your pool is located at a fairly large distance from the main building. Another reason why you might want a pressure side cleaner is because there are a bunch of trees around or on top of your pool, and leaves fall into your pool by the thousands on a weekly basis.

Cleaning up large debris like leaves or twigs is not what a robotic cleaner is mean to do, since it has a rather small waste storage bag as well as very fine mesh filters which are designed to trap algae, bacteria, sand, etc. instead of leaves and twigs. Besides, the Legends is much more powerful than the Polaris in terms of suction power, thanks to the use of a separate booster pump.

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Pentair 360228 | Automatic Pool Cleaner

Features:

• Built-in front rotating brush deep cleans stubborn dirt
• Cleans continuously in both forward and reverse modes
• 40% larger vacuum intake to take on debris of all shapes and sizes
• Nearly 1/3 more cleaning power
• Exclusive, self-powered Night Cruize LED lights add ambiance and intrigue to nighttime cleaning

✓  View or download the MANUAL or the BROCHURE for the Pentair Kreepy Krauly Racer (360228).

Overview

The Pentair model 360228, aka the Pentair “Racer” is a compact pressure-side pool cleaner that operates without the need for a booster pump. You could attach a booster pump unit to the pool circulation system, but the Racer is more than capable of generating great suction even without a dedicated pump. It features a built-in front scrubber that spins several times per minute to scrape away dirt and algae from the sides and floor of your pool, while the vacuum intake is claimed to be 40% larger than the ones found on competing pressure side pool cleaners.

One of the really cool little features that this cleaner packs which no other competitor has, is the self-powered “Night Cruize” LED lamps that illuminate the path of this cleaner during night time. Pentair says that these lights add “ambience and intrigue” to night time cleaning. Do you want an underwater light show during night time? Well then, go ahead and buy one of these.

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Pentair GW9500 | Kreepy Krauly Great White

Features:

• Bristle drive dislodges tough dirt and debris for quick and thorough cleaning
• Programmed steering easily navigates around pool obstacles for uninterrupted cleaning
• Cuts a wide 15 in. path for quick cleaning
• Free Vac-Port door fitting for installation into dedicated vacuum line
• Adjustable regulator valve and free flow gauge let you set just the right cleaning speed to assure the most effective cleaning
• No assembly required, Just hook to hose and go

✓ View or download the MANUAL for the Pentair Great White.

Overview

It is no surprise by now that Pentair Kreepy Krauly cleaners are among some of the most affordable, yet high-performance pool cleaners out there. They are so popular that Pentair keeps on piling new and more improved models upon the existing lineup, with each passing year. One such addition is the GW9500 “Great White” cleaner. It is named after the Great White species of shark, although it is neither white nor “great” in the true performance sense.

Any good robotic cleaner will do the job twice as efficiently and at least twice as fast as the Great White. However, you need to remember that this is a behemoth of a suction side cleaner and easily beats any other suction side cleaner out there in terms of raw performance per dollar. The geared steering is programmed to periodically steer the cleaner in random directions, allowing for a more thorough cleaning experience than is possible with a suction cleaner that is steered by suction hose power alone.

The cleaning path is a super-wide 15”, and you also get a free Vac-port door fitting so you can install this inexpensive suction side cleaner into a dedicated vacuum line.

Finally, after all of that, an exhaustive look at some of the best automatic pool cleaners currently on the market. If you have any other suggestions  or recommendations for other automatic pool cleaners that you are fond of then please contact us.

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What’s the Best Automatic Pool Cleaner?

Well, we intentionally set out to create a comprehensive guide covering many of the the best automatic pool cleaners available for homeowners. We believe there’s a pool cleaner here for everyone who owns an inground swimming pool. Obviously we can’t possibly cover every single automatic pool cleaner on the market but these are some of the best automatic pool cleaners available right now.

As you probably know, automatic pool cleaners come and go, many models that are successful get update, like the Dolphin Nautilus series. We’ve done our best to make this a comprehensive buying guide because we feel that knowledge is empowering and knowing the facts will help you make a smart buying decision.

We put a lot of effort into making sure you have the information you need to choose wisely so at the very least we hope you are confident in making an intelligent buying decision and that fits your budget.

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