• Home
  • About Us
  • Contact Us
  • Privacy Policy / Disclaimer

Chainsaw Journal

Home Tools, Power Equipment, & Toys — Expert Advice

  • Blog
  • Outdoor Tools
    • Lawn Mower
    • Leaf Blowers
      • Miter Saws
        • Miter Saw Comparison
    • Portable Table Saw
    • Outdoor Cooking
    • Log Splitter
    • Wood Chippers / Shredders
    • Hedge Trimmer
    • Snow Blowers
  • Chainsaws
    • Chainsaw Reviews
    • Battery Chainsaws
    • Gas Chainsaws
    • Electric Chainsaws
    • Chainsaw Comparisons
    • Education / How-to
  • Generators
    • Stand-By Generators
    • Gas Generators
    • Inverter Generators
    • Dual-Fuel Generators
    • Generator Education
    • Propane Generators
  • Pools
    • Robotic Pool Cleaners
    • Pool Pumps
    • Pool Heaters
  • Indoor Tools
    • Portable Air Conditioner
    • Air Compressors
  • Indoor Home
    • Air Conditioners
    • Vacuum Cleaners
  • Informative
  • Kids
  • Money / Pandemic
    • Business
You are here: Home / Baracuda G3 / Zodiac Baracuda G3 | Pool Cleaner Review

Zodiac Baracuda G3 | Pool Cleaner Review

Last Updated on January 16, 2016 By Chainsaw Journal

Zodiac-Baracuda-G3-pool-cleaner

Zodiac G3 pool cleaner

The Zodiac Baracuda G3 automatic pool cleaner is an effective and inexpensive automatic pool cleaner that does a fantastic job of cleaning your entire pool, including walls, bottom floor, steps, lights and other fixtures and pool features. Most pool owners will appreciate how simple the Baracuda G3 is to setup and use.

This model is known as suction-side pool cleaner and has a patented FlowKeeper Valve – which is essentially an automated variable flow control valve capable of regulating water flow to maintain peak performance at all times — even with low-speed pumps.

Table of Contents view
Zodiac Baracuda G3
Inexpensive, Competent and Durable
Four Key Features of the Barracuda G3:
Optimizing Your Baracuda G3
Features:
Watch the Baracuda G3 Cleaning:
How to set-up your Zodiac Baracuda G3:
Pentair GW9500 Great White | Worth your Consideration
Zodiac Baracuda G3 Parts:
Baracuda Pool Cleaner | W60050 | Flowkeeper Valve
Baracuda Pool Cleaner | W83247 | Hose Weight
Baracuda Pool Cleaner | W70329 | 36 Finned Disc
Baracuda Pool Cleaner | W20460 | Vacuum Replacement Hose
Baracuda Pool Cleaner | W69526 | Bumper Fin
Baracuda Pool Cleaner | W69698 | Long-Life Diaphragm
Baracuda Pool Cleaner | W70328 | Foot Flange
Baracuda Pool Cleaner | W70345 | Cassette Chamber w/Compression Ring
Baracuda Pool Cleaner | W70327 | Foot Pad
Baracuda Pool Cleaner | W83278 | Wheel Deflector
Baracuda Pool Cleaner | W69542 | Main Body, Right Side

Zodiac Baracuda G3

This Baracuda G3 pool cleaner does an excellent job of scrubbing and vacuuming your pool — the floor, walls, steps, lights and other variable surfaces. It’s not a perfect automatic pool cleaner; and not as thorough or as ‘intelligent’ as the other pool cleaners we’ve recently reviewed, but in all fairness, it’s comparatively inexpensive and still does a great job of maintaining a clean swimming pool.

Here’s a list of pool cleaners we’ve recently reviewed. The Barracuda G3 is the least advanced automatic pool cleaner of the group but it’s significantly cheaper as well so keep that in mind. I felt it was important to give my readers a more affordable option for cleaning their inground pool without breaking the bank.

If you can afford to spend a little more money, I would highly recommend the Hayward Tigershark QC or the Dolphin Triton Plus. Why? Well, because they’re exceptional cleaners with more advanced technology powering them and they truly are automatic pool cleaners because they don’t need to be watched and babysat. They’re smart and sophisticated. And yes, they’re quite a bit more expensive.

The best robotic pool cleaner that’s situated in-between the Barricuda G3 and either the Tigershark QC or the Dolphin Triton Plus is the timeless classic — the much beloved, and reasonably priced: Dolphin Nautilus.

Robotic-Pool-Cleaners-Reviews-Hayward-Polaris-Dolphin-

Some of the Pool Cleaners reviewed here at Chainsaw Journal.

  • Dolphin Nautilus | Robotic Pool Cleaner
  • Hayward Tigershark QC | Robotic Pool Cleaner
  • Dolphin Triton & Triton Plus | Robotic Pool Cleaner
  • Polaris 280 | Automatic Pool Cleaner

I want to be clear on one thing — The Baracuda G3 is a very good pool cleaner overall, but it does have some issues; like getting stuck randomly on pool surfaces. For example, it seems to consistently get caught on raised anti-vortex drain covers, which if you don’t already them installed, you definitely should as they are much safer and prevent injury from entrapment; especially if you have children.

Read more about pool safety by reading: Swimming Pool Safety – Guidelines for Entrapment Hazard.

Inexpensive, Competent and Durable

The Zodiac G3 pool cleaner delivers efficient, effective cleaning performance. Zodiac recommends that you use a low speed pump for maximum efficiency.

The G3 quickly inhales small and medium debris while thoroughly cleaning your pool floor, walls and steps. The Baracuda G3 cleaner includes robust hoses that are durable and scuff-resistant; appropriate for all pool surfaces, along with a FlowKeeper Valve. This proprietary valve automatically regulates water flow, maintaining peak performance even with low-speed pumps.

Zodiac-Baracuda-G3-connecting-your-hose-pool-cleaner


Four Key Features of the Barracuda G3:

  1. Long-Life Diaphragm provides superior and reliable performance since it only has one moving part driving the cleaning mechanism. You don’t have to worry about gears, wheels or flippers. Simple, silent operation and low-cost maintenance.
  2. 36-Fin Disc: This disc is the point of contact with your Baracuda G3 and it’s been designed to ensure maximum connection and adhesion to all pool surface; eliminating hang-ups on lights, drain covers and fittings.
  3. Wheel Deflector: Enables enhanced agility for negotiating tight corners.
  4. Patented Quick Release Cassette: Quick and easy access to the diaphragm for basic maintenance.
Zodiac-Baracuda-G3-suction-side-pool-cleaner-side

Quick and easy access to the diaphragm for simple maintenance.

"Buy from Amazon" button


Optimizing Your Baracuda G3

When using the Barracuda G3 make sure you check the cleaning positioning of the pool cleaner and then make the necessary adjustments if it’s out of alignment. It should clean perpendicular (flat) to the pool surface. If it’s positioned on an angle then correct it before allowing it proceed, otherwise your pool won’t be be sufficiently cleaned at the end of its cycle.

A return line can be used to guide the cleaner away from steps or areas with V-shaped corners,
and reduce patterning. Direct the return to gently push the cleaner hose by positioning the return directional so it aims towards the wall on the opposite side of the pool, and surface movement is visible 8 feet out from the return.

The hose weight is positioned to compensate, and balance out, for the buoyancy of the hose. A properly balanced hose will create a 45-degree angle between the cleaner and the bottom of your pool. In pools 8.5-feet or deeper, an extra hose weight (Part#: W83247) is recommended. Just position the weight 5 to 8 feet from the Baracuda G3 pool cleaner.

baracuda-g3-pool-cleaner-proper-balance

In just three simple steps, the Baracuda G3 cleaner is ready to clean your pool. Simply attach the disc, wheel deflector, and hose, and connect to the skimmer or dedicated suction line. No tools or special plumbing required.

Baracuda G3 Documents | View or download

  • MANUAL for the Zodiac Baracuda G3 automatic pool cleaner.
  • INSTALLATION Baracuda G3
  • QUICK START GUIDE for the Baracuda G3.
  • WARRANTY: Zodiac Pool Cleaners.
  • BROCHURE: Zodiac Baracuda G3.
  • BROCHURE: Full Line of Zodiac Baracuda Pool Cleaners.

Learn more about the Baracuda G3 at Amazon.

Features:

  • Suction-side cleaner pool cleaner.
  • Works in a all shapes and sizes of inground pools.
  • Connects directly to your skimmer or dedicated 1.5″ vacuum line
  • Includes 39 ft. of feed hose
  • Long-Life Diaphragm :  Only one major moving part.
  • Quiet operation.
  • 36-Fin Disc: Optimal adhesion on all pool surfaces. Prevents getting caught on lights, drain covers and other pool surfaces.
  • Wheel Deflector: Designed for negotiating tight corners.
  • Easy to access the diaphragm when it’s time for maintenance.
  • Simple, quiet, automatic pool cleaner.
  • Includes a long lasting hose.
  • Shipping weight: 19.7 lbs.
  • 1-year warranty on manufacturer defects and wear and tear; 2-year warranty on hose.

Watch the Baracuda G3 Cleaning:

How to set-up your Zodiac Baracuda G3:

The Baracuda G3 is quite simple in its design and has been around for many years which means the design has been improved upon and refined over the years. Customer satisfaction is exceptionally high on this pool cleaner so if you decide to purchase it you should be confident in your decision knowing that it has a strong reputation for reliability.

Zodiac-Baracuda-G3-automatic-pool-cleaner

The Baracuda G3 is one of the most popular pool cleaners available.

Specs (Baracuda G3 Pool Cleaner):

  • Pool Type : In-Ground
  • Cleaner Type : Suction-side
  • Connection : Skimmer or 1.5-inch Vacuum Line
  • Warranty : 1 Year
  • Hose Type : Long-Life, 39 ft. of Feed Hose
  • Diaphragm : Long-Life
  • Pool Surface(s) : tile, vinyl, gunite, and fiberglass
  • Model #: W03000

Pentair GW9500 Great White | Worth your Consideration

Pentair-GW9500-Kreepy-Krauly-Automatic-Pool-Cleaner

Handles tight spots. Built to navigate complex areas.

"Buy from Amazon" button

The Kreepy Krauly GW9500 Great White is an advanced robotic pool cleaning device that scrubs dirt and vacuums pool debris as it travels across your pool surfaces. This Pentair GW9500 is engineered for the most challenging pools. Its bristle-drive mechanism has the power to knock loose the most difficult and stuck-on dirt, while the powerful vacuum removes both small and large debris.

This model is a step up from the Baracuda G3 but not as fast or thorough as a robotic pool cleaner.

This pool cleaner will cover the majority of spots in the pool within a six (6) hour period but it’s not specifically programmed for your pool, and cannot see the dirt you are seeing so don’t get mad at the device when it misses a spot. It uses a random motion pattern to clean your pool. It’s not perfect.

As I said earlier, if you want an intelligent cleaner then you need to buy a robotic pool cleaner which is programmed to calculate the fastest and most efficient path to clean your specific pool. The Barracuda G3 or the Pentair GW9500 are “automatic pool cleaners” and are not that sophisticated. But the Hayward Tigershark QC or the Dolphin Triton Plus use sophisticated technology and powerful motors to quickly clean your pool — and I mean fast — between 1.5 to 3 hours, depending on the cleaning cycle.

The Pentair GW9500 cleaner was designed to spend the majority of its time in the deepest part of the pool, where most of the floor and wall area exists. During a six (6) hour period, the cleaner will visit the shallow end a few times.

The Kreepy Krauly GW9500 comes with everything you need, which includes: ƒ

Pentair-GW9500-Kreepy-Krauly-Automatic-Pool-Cleaner-parts

Cleaner, Swivel Assembly, Handle Adapter, Reducer Cone, Hose: Twelve 4’ lengths, Vacuum Regulator, Regulator Cap, Vacuum Port Fitting, Flow Gauge.

Tip: Sometimes the pool cleaner will pick-up large debris which may jam it. If that happens, stop the pump and remove the debris from the oscillator, or the swivel assembly.

If you need to order parts then visit the Pentair site.

Documents:

  • View or download the MANUAL for the Pentair GW9500 Great White.
  • View or download the BROCHURE for the Kreepy Krauly GW9500 Great White.

Features:

  • Bristle drive easily dislodges dirt and debris from your pool.
  • Cleans gunite, fiberglass, vinyl and other specialty pool surfaces.
  • Designed to clean thoroughly and efficiently, leaving your pool spotless.
  • Programmed steering easily navigates around pool obstacles for uninterrupted cleaning.
  • Wide 15″ cleaning path for optimal clean cycle.
  • Free Vac-Port door fitting for easy fitting into dedicated vacuum line.
  • Adjustable regulator valve and free flow gauge allows you to set the cleaning speed to match your needs.
  • No assembly required. Plug and play!

Zodiac Baracuda G3 Parts:

The Baracuda G3 comes with everything you need to get started. Below is a diagram of all the parts, accessories and components that you’ll find in the box — before getting started make sure all of the parts are in the box. There’s nothing more annoying than assembling a new product with enthusiasm in your heart, only to realize that something is missing.

Looking for parts? You can use the online interactive parts catalog to find all of your Baracuda pool cleaner parts.

Click the images below for more details.

Baracuda-G3-pool-cleaner-parts-list

Find your missing or broken parts.


Baracuda Pool Cleaner | W60050 | Flowkeeper Valve

Baracuda-G3-W60050-Flowkeeper-Valve-Automatic-Pool-cleaner

Baracuda Automatic Pool Cleaner G3.

Baracuda Pool Cleaner | W83247 | Hose Weight

Baracuda-G3-W83247-Hose-Weight-Automatic-Pool-cleaner

Baracuda Automatic Pool Cleaner G3.

Baracuda Pool Cleaner | W70329 | 36 Finned Disc

Zodiac-Baracuda-G3-W70329-36-Finned-DiscAutomatic-Pool-cleaner

Baracuda Automatic Pool Cleaner G3.

Baracuda Pool Cleaner | W20460 | Vacuum Replacement Hose

Zodiac-Baracuda-G3-W20460-1-Meter-Pool-Vacuum-Replacement-Hose--Automatic-Pool-cleaner

Baracuda Automatic Pool Cleaner G3.

Baracuda Pool Cleaner | W69526 | Bumper Fin

Zodiac-Baracuda-G3-W69526-Bumper-Fin-Automatic-Pool-cleaner

Baracuda Automatic Pool Cleaner G3.

Baracuda Pool Cleaner | W69698 | Long-Life Diaphragm

Baracuda-G3-Long-Life-Diaphragm-Replacement-W69698-Automatic-Pool-cleaner

Baracuda Automatic Pool Cleaner G3.

Baracuda Pool Cleaner | W70328 | Foot Flange

Baracuda-G3-Foot-Flange-W70328-Automatic-Pool-cleaner

Baracuda Automatic Pool Cleaner G3.

Baracuda Pool Cleaner | W70345 | Cassette Chamber w/Compression Ring

Zodiac-Baracuda-G3-W70345-Cassette-Chamber-Assembly-Automatic-Pool-cleaner

Baracuda Automatic Pool Cleaner G3.

Baracuda Pool Cleaner | W70327 | Foot Pad

Zodiac-Baracuda-G3-W70327-Foot-Pad-Automatic-Pool-cleaner

Baracuda Automatic Pool Cleaner G3.

Baracuda Pool Cleaner | W83278 | Wheel Deflector

Zodiac-Baracuda-G3-w83278-Wheel-Deflector-Automatic-Pool-cleaner

Baracuda Automatic Pool Cleaner G3.

Baracuda Pool Cleaner | W69541 | Main Body, Left Side

Zodiac-Baracuda-G3-W69541-Main-Body-Left-Side-Automatic-Pool-cleaner

Baracuda Automatic Pool Cleaner G3.

Baracuda Pool Cleaner | W69542 | Main Body, Right Side

Zodiac-Baracuda-G3-W69542-Main-Body-Right-Side-Automatic-Pool-cleaner

Baracuda Automatic Pool Cleaner G3.

Readers who liked this article, also liked these pool related articles:

  • Hayward Tigershark QC RC9990GR | Review
  • Dolphin Nautilus
  • Polaris 280 Side-Pressure Pool Cleaner | Review
  • Polaris Booster Pump PB4-60
  • Hayward H400FDN H-Series Pool Heater | Review
  • Pentair 011018 Variable Speed Pump | Review
  • Dolphin Triton / Triton Plus | Review
  • IntelliChlor IC40 | Chlorine Generator

👁️ What are you looking for?

✨ Westinghouse, since 1886

Exceptional! Read our Review.

🐷 Editors’ Picks —

🌳 Firewood GUIDE…

2021 : How Much is a Cord of Wood? — & More Firewood Facts.

We cover a lot of territory in this article. The question : … Read More

🌳 Chainsaws Worth Buying —

2021 Reviews : TOP 5 Chainsaws for Homeowners

The world has changed a lot since March of 2020 when the pandemic … Read More...

⚡️ Flexible Power

Westinghouse WGen7500DF Dual Fuel Portable Generator

2021 Review — Westinghouse WGen7500DF : Dual Fuel Generator

Do you want the most VALUE for your money? Do you need (or want) a dual-fuel? — If yes, the Westinghouse WGen7500DF should be at the top of your list.

⚖️ Which Brand is Better?

Bosch vs Dewalt : historical tools and new tools

Bosch vs DeWalt : German Design vs American Design / Who Wins?

Everyone has their own idea of which tool brand is the best. So deciding on Bosch vs DeWalt tools

🌿 Powerful Compact Mowers

Best lawn mower for a small yard.

2021 Reviews | Best Lawn Mower For A Small Yard

What's the Best lawn mower for a small yard? We discuss and review a wide range of push lawn mowers … Read More

👂 Quiet is Beautiful —

best inverter generator

2021 Update : Best Inverter Generators : Reviews & Opinions

Thankfully, inverter generator prices have been coming down over the past couple years due to the … Read More

💦 Pool Energy Savings

2021 Update : Best Inground Pool Pump Reviews : Buying Guide

In 2021, should you buy a pool pump online? The short answer is … Read More...

🐍 Customer Favorites…

Man holding the Oregon Cordless CS300 chainsaw, on a log.

2021 Favorites — Best Chainsaws For Homeowners

In this article we paint the full landscape and show you a diverse range of recommended chainsaws. Safety should ALWAYS be your top priority.

❄️ Frozen Pipes

How Long Does it Take for Pipes to Freeze

Q&A : How Long Does it Take for Pipes to Freeze? Thawing Frozen Pipes?

Winter presents us with a new set of challenges. When pipes freeze, they will often burst…

🐘 Elegant POWER

Westinghouse iGen4500 Review — Beautiful Silence

Well, the Westinghouse Electric Company built their first commercial electric power station in 1886 to supply Great Barrington, Massachusetts. Since then…

☄️ Indoor Generators —

Energizer PPS240W01 portable battery power station

Reviews 2021 : Best Portable Power Station — Safe to Use Indoors

We live in a time where battery power is the underlying currency of our lives, making it a necessary step in finding the right model to ensure you’re prepared for any disruption in power.

🍂 Keep A TIDY Yard

2021 Reviews : Best Gas-Powered Wood Chipper for Homeowners

In 2021, What's the best gas-powered wood chipper for Homeowners? … Read More

💡 Keep the Lights on

display product Duromax XP12000EH

Review 2021 — DuroMax XP12000EH — 12000W Dual-Fuel Generator

The DuroMax XP12000EH is a proven winner in every area, including : overall VALUE, durability, reliability and cost per watt.

🔥 Stay Warm…

best garage heater

Best Garage Heater for 2021 : Buying Guide

Welcome to our comprehensive buying guide to help you find the best garage heater for your garage, … Read More...

🐘 What’s the Difference?

alternator vs generator

Alternator vs Generator : What’s the Difference?

Alternator vs Generator — What are the differences? This is a … Read More

😄 Interesting Facts

Who Makes Craftsman Chainsaws

Who Makes Craftsman Chainsaws? & Other Major Brands

Who Makes Craftsman Chainsaws? Makita? Husqvarna? … Read More

✨ Instant Power Transfer

Westinghouse ST Switch

Westinghouse ST Switch Review | No Electrician Required

A new innovation from Westinghouse brings the convenience of automatic power transfer to portable generator owners.

📣 — A Classic Debate

Makita vs Milwaukee : Power tool brand comparison

Makita vs Milwaukee ǀ Which is the Top Power Tool Brand?

Most American tool aficionados will say, without hesitation, that Milwaukee is the true leader in this race. Though, I can’t help thinking…

💡 Questions Answered…

where are husqvarna chainsaws made?

Where Are Husqvarna Chainsaws Made? Brand History

Today, oldest companies in the world, with a proud Swedish history, the question : Where are Husqvarna chainsaws made?

💨 Good to Know…

What size air compressor do i need? DEWALT DCC2560T1

What Size Air Compressor Do I Need? Choosing the Right Air Compressor

In this article we answer a common question : What size air … Read More

  • Home
  • About Us
  • Contact Us
  • Privacy | Disclaimer
Copyright 2020  |   Chainsaw Journal  |   Affiliate Disclaimer