The common misconception that many of us often believe in of any pool owner is all they have to do is enjoy their summer afternoons and weekends swimming however that is not true. A lot of effort goes on in maintaining a pool. Nobody would like to swim in a dirty pool filled with dirt, debris, and algae and to keep it clean you either need to spend your weekend cleaning it by yourself or you can buy a pool cleaner and lessen your burden. But again, buying a pool cleaner is no Childs play either. The various question crosses one’s mind “what are different types”, “what to keep in mind before buying a pool cleaner” But no need to worry, in this article we have covered all the points and bring you the ultimate pool cleaners guide.
What are Pool Cleaners?
Many people aren’t aware of pool cleaners and are oblivious to the existence of the varieties of pool cleaners that exist to make their job easier. To explain in brief, just like you have a vacuum cleaner to clean the dust and dirt around your house similarly, you can imagine a vacuum cleaner but the kind which cleans your swimming pool. It is designed to make your job of cleaning the pool less burdensome by collecting dirt and debris from the surface of the pool. One can find various types of pool cleaners depending on their requirement.
What are different types of pool Cleaner?
The variety of all the pool cleaners mainly come under the basic four categories
- Manual
- Suction side,
- Pressure, and
- Robotic
Each of these has its distinctive features and share of merits and demerits. Depending on your usage and other requirements you can choose the right fit for your pool. Let us look at each of them in detail.
Manual Cleaners
One looking for the most straightforward and uncomplicated cleaner can go for these. These are the most basic handheld vacuums. They come in the form of brushes, skimmers, and scrub brushes, which are attached to a pole for accessing the deepest stretches of the pool. This allows one to scrub the sides and bottom of a deep pool and remove off all the algae and sediments stuck at the bottom. However, this is suitable for those who have the fitness level and time to use on cleaning their pool. It can be a great workout and be an inexpensive way to clean their pool at the same time. Other kinds of manual pool cleaners are handheld pool vacuums, as the name suggests it is just like a vacuum cleaner that needs to be operated by maneuvering over the pool’s surface quite similar to vacuuming your floor in the house. The vacuum has no mechanical parts and is an inexpensive way to filter your pool. However, bigger pools will be quite time-consuming and the cleaning of filters will add more to your work.
But if you are someone who is looking for an economical way and have enough time and energy on your hand to clean the pool then manual pool cleaners are the best choice for you.
Suction side
If manual pool cleaners aren’t what you are looking for then there are suction side pool cleaners. The suction side pool cleaners just need to connect to the filtration system’s water intake and they utilize the pool’s pump section to collect the debris. Suction-side pool cleaners require that the pool pump should be functioning during the operation, that is why they end up using more electricity than other modes of pool cleaners. They also require more-frequent filter cleaning. These pool cleaners are suitable for people who have pools with already existing pumps and filters, which are in good working condition. Someone who is considering buying a suction side pool cleaner must be willing to clean and backwash their filters frequently as the unit gets added with more than the usual amount of dirt.
Pressure Side Pool Cleaners
Pressure side pool cleaners are another option of pool cleaner for the pool owners not wanting to spend their time and energy on manual cleaners. These cleaners utilize the pump’s power for their movement on the surface of the pool. accelerate their movement along the surfaces of the pool. They are independent of the circulation system of the pool and function under their own power. They have wheels to make the movement easier. With pressure side pool cleaners, no stress is supplemented to the pool filter as they come with their own filter bags. Adding a booster pump to a pressure side pool cleaner can enhance its performance even more. Pressure side pool cleaners are best suited for pools that have larger particles in them such as leaves and twigs. These cleaners also require a pressure line to function. However, the pressure cleaners aren’t able to scrub the pool’s surface and the filter bag requires regular cleaning to work effectively. This cleaner considering other cleaners is quite expensive and the installation can be complex, but despite these shortcomings, it works well.
Robotic Pool Cleaners
Out of all the different types of pool cleaners, robotic pool cleaners are the most efficient. Robotic pool cleaners are self-contained units that include an in-built filter and motor. These robotic cleaners can grab even the minute particles from the pool surface. Various models also come with added features such as a remote controlling option. These cleaners are fully automatic robotic cleaner and fully independent it doesn’t even require any connection to the pool filtration system. The only task that one needs to do is to plug it in the GFCI outlet near the pool and then put the cleaner in the pool. In terms of suitability, this is best suited for people who do not want any sort of hassle in cleaning their pool and just want the cleaner to handle everything. Out of the other pool cleaners, this will cost the most but prove worth the money spent on it. After putting the cleaner in the pool your work is done and the cleaner does the rest of the work. It is also able to scrub the pool’s surface as it has a brush on the bottom providing a deep clean to the pool. The filtration bag that comes with the robot cleaner collects all the debris and requires cleaning after each use. As the robotic cleaner has its motor within it, it is very energy efficient. One will be able to see the difference in their electricity bills after switching to a robotic pool cleaner.
How does Pool Cleaner work?
After getting to know the different varieties of pool cleaners, getting to know their working is also quite important to know what suits your requirement the best. Different pool cleaners work differently, the suction side pool cleaners work after they are connected to the filtration system of the pool and use the pump action of the filters to collect all the dirt and debris. Therefore, during the entire cleaning procedure, these cleaners require the pump system to be operational. As the pool pump has to run the entire time these pumps end up utilizing more power than other types of pool cleaners. The Pressure side vacuum cleaners are independent of the pool’s circulation system.
They make use of the pumps of the pool to accelerate their movement along the surface of the pool. They also have wheels for the easy movement of the cleaner. The pressure from the water propels these cleaners. The robotic pool cleaners are automatic and are powered independently of the pool circulation system. Out of all the pool cleaners available, these are considered to be the most efficient as they do not make use of the pool pump system and have their inbuilt motor and so consume the least amount of energy.
These cleaners have inbuilt filters and will automatically clean even the smallest of particles from the pool surface. Throughout the entire cleaning procedure, the robotic pool cleaner is in contact with either the floor or wall of the pool thus giving the pool a thorough cleaning that you would normally only associate with manual or contact cleaning. These are the only cleaners that completely steer clear of the pool pump system and do not meddle with their functioning. It does not need the pool pump to be running during the cleaning process.
Things to keep in mind before buying a pool cleaner?
There are various things to keep in mind while buying a pool cleaner and determining the type of swimming pool you have is one of the most vital things to keep in mind. Mainly, there are only two types of swimming pools, the above-ground swimming pools, and the inground swimming pools. An aboveground swimming pool is built and assembled in one’s lawn by someone who doesn’t have an inground swimming pool. These can be easily portable.
Whereas, the inground pool is built within the ground and is permanent. The choice of pool cleaners will differ based on the type of pool you own. To clean an inground pool one needs to buy a pool cleaner that specializes in cleaning the inground pool and similarly for the above ground pool. Another factor that affects the decision of buying a pool cleaner is the size and number of debris that falls on your pool.
One cannot just get a suction side pool cleaner that is meant for fine particles to deal with larger contaminants. Having the right type of pool cleaner will create a huge difference in terms of the expected result you are looking for and the actual cleaning. Another factor is the type of pool surface that the pool has as most pool cleaners are made to deal with particular pool surface types and may not be suitable for use on all pool surfaces.
Depending on the type of surface of your pool it is always advisable to research whether the particular pool cleaner will be effective on your pool surface or not. Another major factor to pay close attention to while buying a pool cleaner is the cost and efficiency of the product. Different features affect the price of the cleaners, buying the one which has the features most suitable for your needs is appropriate. Spending money on the design of the product when it isn’t an essential need for you is just pointless. Factors like the amount of time that you can spend on cleaning also help in determining the correct cleaner for your pool.
Top 3 Pool Cleaners
Here are the three pool cleaners that we consider to be the most effective.
Dolphin Sigma Robotic Pool Cleaner
The Dolphin Sigma Robotic pool cleaner with a dimension of 23 x 19.5 x 13.5 inches and a weight of 35 pounds comes with a feature of Bluetooth connectivity. It is ideal for pools up to 50 feet in height. This cleaner ensures hassle-free cleaning of your pool and is quite easy to use. The anti- tangling swivel cable ensures the easy movement of the cleaner. Instead of the messy mesh bags, this comes with a huge top load cartridge filter, which makes it easy to clean. The top-load cartridge can also capture the fine debris particles and leaves the pool clean.
It comes with 3-year quality assurance. The dual scrubbing brushes can thoroughly and efficiently attack the tough algae and bacteria from the floor, walls, and waterline. And can deep clean in a period of 2.5 hours. You can also set the Sigma’s weekly scheduler to automatically clean for you it can be set daily, or twice per week, or thrice per week. You just require to connect your Sigma to your smartphone using Bluetooth to clean when needed. It also uses Smart Navigation which ensures your pool is cleaned using the most efficient route without letting obstructions get in the way. All this for a price of approximately $1300.
Dolphin Premier Robotic Pool Cleaner
The dolphin premier robotic pool cleaner with dimensions of 23.5 x 19.5 x 14 inches and a weight of 37.2 pounds comes with dual scrubbing brushes and multiple filter options and is ideal for In-ground Swimming Pools up to 50 feet in height. Easy to use the cleaner with the single button plug and play system. Comes with 3-year quality assurance. Uses the navigation system of CleverClean and delivers a smart and efficient clean by using advanced algorithms to complete pool coverage. Anti-tangle patented swivel cable allows the robotic cleaner to move around the pool with ease. It requires a time of 3 hours to exceptionally clean the pool of any dirt and debris.
The Premier comes with three filter options of bottom-load fine cartridge filters, ultra-fine cartridge filters, and an oversized fine filter bag. Also includes a weekly scheduler to automatically clean for you either every day, every other day or every 3rd day. The included full filter indicator lets you know when it’s time to clean the filter. All this is available for a price of approximately $1100.
Hayward PoolVac XL Pool Vacuum
The Hayward PoolVac XL Suction Pool Cleaner with the dimensions of 38.4 x 11.6 x 9.9 inches and a weight of just 18 Pounds comes with the feature of patented AquaPilot technology for systematic coverage of the pool floor as well as walls and coves. The wide vacuum inlet and unique wing design help in delivering constant suction power. The entire installation process requires less than 10 minutes. It also comes with a 40 feet hose. The absence of debris bags reduces the time for frequent maintenance. The cleaning is quite advanced and efficient for the price of $300 approximately.
FAQs (Must Read)
Q. Which pool cleaner is the most energy-efficient?
A. The most energy-efficient pool cleaners are robotic pool cleaners as they have their in-built motor.
Q. Which is easier to use – Robotic pool cleaners or suction side pool cleaner?
A. When it comes to less effort involved robotic pool cleaners just require a plug-in and play system whereas a suction side pool cleaner requires a connection to the filtration system’s water intake and they also use the pool pump section to collect the debris.
Q. Do robotic pool cleaners require maintenance?
A. The only maintenance required by a robotic pool cleaner is the cleaning of the pool cleaner’s filter after every use.
Q. Can you leave the power supply out in the weather?
A. The power supply is water-resistant but not waterproof. You need to cover the power supply if inclement weather approaches. Never leave the power supply in standing water as this can damage the internal mechanisms. Also, do not allow the power supply to be submerged in the pool.
Q. Can you use pool cleaners in hot tubs or ponds, etc.?
A. No, the pool cleaners are not designed to clean hot tubs or ponds.
Q. What is the typical life span of a robotic pool cleaner?
A. Robotic pool cleaners are designed to last many seasons. However, the lifespan differs from one product to another. Many different factors influence this such as the amount of use, pool chemistry, and pool surface.
Q. What if my cleaner stops working midway?
A. First step should be to check the cable and ensure that it is not in the way of the wheels or tracks. Knotting is the main problem in non-swivel cables. If the cord is fine then it could be a mechanical problem inside the cleaner.
Conclusion
To conclude, a lot of thinking is required to maintain a pool. One can find various pool cleaners in the market and finding the perfect fit for your pool’s maintenance is a tough job. After reading the detailed guide on pool cleaners the task must not seem as hard as it did in the starting.