Which Pool Cleaner is Right For You?

Pool owners essentially have the choice between 3 types of pool cleaners; suction, pressure or robotic. In Australia, suction and pressure cleaners were the two most common types found in residential pools until advances in technology made robotic cleaners an affordable and effective option for many pool owners. There are advantages and disadvantages of each form of cleaner, but you'll generally find that all three types will get the job done. So, which one is right for you?

To accurately distinguish the cleaner best suited to your pool and lifestyle, let's first get the run-down on all three:

Suction Cleaners

Suction cleaners work similarly to vacuum cleaners. Operating when the pool pump is active, the cleaner attaches to the pool's skimmer box and moves about the pool, collecting dirt and debris by suctioning it into the skimmer basket. A suction cleaner is ideal if:

   -   You don't have many trees or leaves
   -   Heavy debris rarely enters your pool

Suction cleaners are a solid option for those who are budget-conscious, as they are typically cheaper to install than pressure cleaners.

Pressure Cleaners

Pressure cleaners work from a dedicated return line and run by water pressure from the pump; either the main circulation pump or a dedicated booster pump. This water pressure drives the cleaner around the pool and forces debris into the bag. The advantages of a pressure cleaner are:

   -   Capable of collecting large debris such as gum nuts, twigs and heavy leaf litter
   -   Ability to clean most pools in less than 3 hours
   -   Cleaner sucks leaves into a bag instead of your filter/pump basket, taking the load off your filtration system

Robotic Cleaners

Robotic cleaners work independently from the filter and pump and are driven by an electric motor inside the unit. They are self-contained cleaners, collect dirt and debris in a bag or cartridge within the cleaner. Robotic pool cleaners have built-in intelligence that ensures they don't get stuck in corners or on steps. While they are slightly more expensive, they do provide a more thorough and complete clean than any other cleaner.

If you're still unsure about which cleaner will best suit your pool, we encourage you to speak to your local pool professional for guidance around selecting a cleaner with your budget and situation in mind.