Guide for Automatic Pool Cleaners

Choosing an automatic swimming pool cleaner can be a tough decision. You can be better prepared to make the right choice if you understand how each type of pool cleaner works.To best decide which type cleaner will work in your situation, let’s discuss the capabilities of each type.

Automatic Suction Side Pool Cleaners

This type cleaner is connected to the suction side of the swimming pool pump (usually at the skimmer). Water is sucked in through the cleaner as it moves along the pool floor and is ran through the pool filtration system to remove any debris the cleaner has picked up.

Pros of a suction side pool cleaner: It will remove small debris such as sand and silt effectively.Since it operates off the pool filtration suction it will help circulate the pool water more effectively.

Cons of a suction side pool cleaner: Larger debris will fill skimmer basket quickly requiring frequent cleaning. Traps debris removed in pool filtration system. Losses efficiency as filter becomes contaminated, requiring frequent back washing or filter servicing.

Automatic Pressure Side Pool Cleaners

Pressure side pool cleaners. like the suction side cleaners use the pool pump to power them. They use water pressure instead of suction and jets located in the cleaner forces water up and through the cleaner bag. This water flow creates a suction on the bottom of the cleaner to allow it to pick up trash from the pool.

Some of the advantages of a pressure side pool cleaner are it is capable of picking up relatively large debris such as leaves and it stores the debris in a bag on board instead of in the swimming poo filter.

Some of the disadvantages are it will allow smaller debris to pass right through the bag and back into the swimming pool.

Robotic Pool Cleaners

If you’re looking for a self contained cleaning system that doesn’t rely on the pools filtration system the robotic cleaner is the way to go. It is powered from household current and has an on board computer to help make it very efficient at cleaning the swimming pool.

Pros of a robotic pool cleaner: It scrubs the walls and floor of the pool. Has it’s own motors so it doesn’t add to the wear of the pool filtration system. It has it’s own containment system so it doesn’t contribute to the filter contamination.

Cons of a robotic pool cleaner: Cost, they are the most expensive type of automatic pool cleaner. Expensive to repair.

Mike Burke has been building swimming pools in S.C. since’98. Today he enjoys writing informative articles to help homeowners better understand proper pool maintenance. We hope this article on automatic pool cleaners will assist you in making a wise decision on your choice of pool equipment.