Keeping your pool clean doesn’t have to feel like a never-ending chore. With the right pool cleaner, you can spend more time swimming and less time skimming. But with three main types of pool cleaners to choose from —robotic, pressure-side, and suction-side—how do you decide which is the best fit for your pool?
Let’s break down the pros and cons for each type, so you can make an informed decision.
Robotic Pool Cleaners
How They Work: Robotic cleaners are self-contained units powered by electricity. They don’t rely on your pool’s filtration system. Instead, they plug into a power source and move independently across your pool floor, walls, and sometimes even steps.
Pros:
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Extremely energy efficient
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Superior cleaning performance
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Reduces strain on your pool’s filter and pump
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Easy to set up and operate
Cons:
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Higher upfront cost
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Requires access to a nearby power outlet
Best For: Pool owners who want a hands-off, high-performance clean and are willing to invest more upfront for long-term convenience.
Pressure-Side Pool Cleaners
How They Work: These cleaners attach to the return jet of your pool’s circulation system. Water pressure propels them around the pool while a separate bag collects debris.
Pros:
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Great for picking up larger debris like leaves and twigs
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Doesn’t clog your pool filter
Cons:
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Most pressure cleaners require their own pump (booster pump), adding to energy use
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Not as effective on fine particles
Best For: Pools with a lot of large debris or those surrounded by trees. Ideal if you want a cleaner that works in tandem with your existing system.
Suction-Side Pool Cleaners
How They Work: These cleaners connect to your pool’s skimmer or a dedicated suction line. They use your pool pump's suction to move around and collect debris, which is then sent to your pump’s skimmer basket.
Pros:
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Most affordable option
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Easy to install
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Uses existing pool equipment
Cons:
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Adds wear and tear on your pool pump and filter
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Less effective for larger debris
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Can get stuck on drains or tight corners
Best For: Budget-conscious pool owners with light to moderate debris levels who don’t mind a bit of manual oversight.
Final Thoughts
When choosing a pool cleaner, consider your pool’s environment, maintenance preferences, and budget. Robotic cleaners are hard to beat if you’re seeking an energy-efficient, low-maintenance solution. For heavy debris and large leaves, pressure-side cleaners might be just what you need. And if you’re keeping costs down, suction-side cleaners can get the job done with a bit of help.
