Automatic Pool Cleaners for Dummies

If you’re considering an automatic pool cleaner, you must already recognize the need for regular pool maintenance. Taking proper care of your pool can save you so much time and money down the line. When your pool system is optimally functioning, the life of your pool equipment will extend and your average chemical costs will lower.

All of this to say: automatic pool cleaners can do a lot more than just keep your pool looking spic and span.

Why Should I Buy? What Are the Benefits?

An automatic pool cleaner is a more useful version of a manual vacuum. Its purpose is to clean the underwater surfaces of your pool, but you can expect a lot more than just that.

People want a clear and functioning pool, simple as that. With a good filtration system, you can rest assured that your pool’s surface will be crystal clear. But what about heavier debris, like twigs and leaves, that pile up at the bottom? Cue the automatic pool cleaner. Without the powerful suction of an automatic pool cleaner, this debris would throw your water’s pH levels completely off balance and eat away at your expensive pool chemicals.

So what I’m saying is automatic pool cleaners keep your pools clean and ensure the chemical levels stay in check, all without you breaking a sweat. An automatic pool cleaner does all the work of a manual vacuum so you can kick back, grab a drink, and watch poolside as your pool self-maintains its pristine quality and look.

Still not sold?

Here’s a list of more beneficial features that can be expected of automatic pool cleaners:

• Self-contained debris, keeping the filter and pump clean
• Automatic scrubbing power on floors, walls, and seats
• Programmed to clean more efficiently
• Improves pool water circulation

Now that you’re on board, here is a breakdown of each type.

Types of Automatic Pool Cleaners

1. Suction Side Pool Cleaner

   As you may have guessed, this type relies on the suction pressure of your skimmer line. With that pressure, the cleaner can slide across the floor of your pool, picking up most debris in its path. The majority of these cleaners are outfitted with a rubber vacuum head instead of wheels. This flat piece allows the cleaner to keep a constant suction pressure which helps it move across your pool’s surfaces.

   Suction-side cleaners are the most affordable because of their simple, yet effective, design.

   Suction Side Pool Cleaner Overview

   • Uses suction from a skimmer
   • Sends debris to your pump/filter
   • Cleans floor and walls
   • Price = $

2. Pressure Side Pool Cleaner

   Pressure-side cleaners are slightly enhanced versions of its suction-side cousin. Both are powered by the suction of your pump/filter, but pressure-side cleaners use wheels to move around.

   Another key difference to note— these pressure-side cleaners self-contain the debris it collects! Outfitted with a mesh vacuum bag, your filter and skimmer basket will remain clean and clear of the mess collected on your pool’s surfaces. These bags are durable making them ideal for taking care of the larger debris often found at the bottom of pools.

   Pressure Side Pool Cleaner Overview

   • Self-containing bag for debris
   • Uses wheels to move
   • Ideal for large debris
   • Price = $$

3. Robotic Pool Cleaner

   If you’re looking for the big daddy of automatic pool cleaners, you’ve found him.

   Robotic pool cleaners are “self-powered,” which means they run independently from your pump/filter. If you have a pool especially susceptible to collecting large debris, cleaners relying on the suction power of your skimmer line may not be powerful enough, making a robotic cleaner your best bet.

   Other features include:

   • Scrubbers to brush your pool’s surfaces
   • Self-containing bag for debris
   • Wheels to travel
   • An electric motor and pump (within the unit)
   • Powered from an outdoor outlet
   • Contribute to healthy pool water circulation

   With a list of benefits that long, it could be worth your extra money.

   Robotic Pool Cleaner Overview

   • Vacuums and scrubs pool surfaces
   • Runs on electrical power
   • Price = $$$

Decisions, Decisions…

There is no wrong choice when it comes to automatic pool cleaners. Regardless of your decision, you’ll be guaranteed a clean and vacuumed pool. Kelly’s Pools is happy to help you with any questions you may have.