The different types of pool cleaners on the market today can make pool maintenance easier compared to manual cleaning. But with so many options, how do you know what type of pool cleaner is best for your pool?
This guide provides a detailed comparison of suction-side, pressure-side, and robotic pool cleaners. We’ll explain how each type works and which types of debris they are best suited to clean. Whether you are searching for a budget-friendly pool cleaner or something a little more advanced, you can find what you need for your pool from the experts at ePoolSupply.
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Overview of Pool Cleaner Types
When people talk about automatic pool vacuums, they’re usually referring to one of three main categories: suction-side cleaners, pressure-side cleaners, and robotic cleaners.
Each type offers different strengths in cost, debris handling, and efficiency, making it important to choose the one that best matches your pool’s needs.
How Each Type of Pool Cleaner Works
Suction-Side Cleaners
These cleaners connect to your skimmer or a dedicated suction port, using the pool pump’s suction to move across the floor and walls while vacuuming dirt and debris. They use your pool’s existing pump suction to move around and suck up dirt.
Suction pool cleaners are popular because they’re affordable and easy to install. They are best for handling sand, dust, and other light debris rather than leaves or twigs.
Pressure-Side Cleaners
Instead of suction, these cleaners connect to your pool’s return jets and often use a booster pump for extra power. They collect debris in an attached bag, keeping it out of your main filtration system. Pressure-side pool cleaners are great for pools that get larger debris, like leaves and acorns.
By keeping dirt out of your filter, they reduce system strain, but they can be more expensive to operate due to the need for a booster pump, and aren’t as effective at capturing fine particles.
Robotic Cleaners
The most advanced, robotic pool cleaners run independently from your pool’s pump and filter. With built-in motors, brushes, and internal filters, they scrub and vacuum both floors and walls, often guided by smart navigation technology.
They’re the most thorough and energy-efficient option, handling everything from fine silt to large leaves without taxing your pool system. Even though automated pool cleaners like this come with a higher upfront cost, many pool owners find the convenience and performance well worth it.
Pros & Cons of Each Type
Suction-Side
Pros:
- Most affordable of the three types of pool vacuums.
- Easy installation with minimal setup.
- Works well for fine dirt, sand, and small debris.
- Good for small to medium-sized pools.
Cons:
- Large leaves and twigs can clog the cleaner or filtration system.
- Adds wear to your pool’s pump and filter.
- Not as powerful as pressure-side or robotic options.
- Limited cleaning patterns—may miss corners or steps.
Pressure-Side
Pros:
- Excellent for handling larger debris like leaves and acorns.
- Keeps debris out of your pool’s main filtration system.
- Powerful propulsion thanks to the Venturi effect.
- Long-lasting and durable with proper care.
Cons:
- May require a booster pump, raising costs and energy use.
- More moving parts mean more maintenance over time.
- Not as effective for very fine debris like silt or sand.
Robotic
Pros:
- Most thorough cleaning, covering floors, walls, and waterlines.
- Independent of your pool’s filtration system.
- Smart features like programmable cycles and navigation.
- Highly energy-efficient compared to booster-pump systems.
Cons:
- Highest upfront cost of the types of pool cleaners.
- Requires manual emptying of debris bins.
- Some models can be heavy to lift from the water.
Which Type of Pool Cleaner Is Best for Different Pools?
| Cleaner Type | Best For | Debris Handling |
| Suction-Side | Budget-conscious pool owners | Fine dirt/sand |
| Pressure-Side | Pools near trees/leaves | Large debris |
| Robotic | Large pools, hands-off owners | Fine to large debris |
Choosing the Right Cleaner for Your Pool
Budget-Conscious & Light Debris
If you have a small in-ground pool that collects mostly dirt or sand, a suction-side cleaner is a smart choice. For example, the Hayward The Pool Cleaner 2-Wheel Suction Cleaner by Hayward offers reliable cleaning power at an affordable price.
Pools with Heavy Debris
If your yard has shade trees or you deal with constant leaf buildup, a pressure-side cleaner is your best bet. The Pentair Kreepy Krauly Platinum Pressure Side Cleaner is a strong performer that keeps leaves and twigs out of your filter system.
Hands-Off & High Performance
Robotic cleaners are great for pool owners who prefer minimal effort and maximum results. The Pentair Prowler 930W Robotic In-Ground Pool Cleaner delivers powerful cleaning with energy efficiency. Explore Pentair to see more high-tech pool solutions.
FAQ
What’s the difference between suction, pressure, and robotic pool cleaners?
Suction cleaners use your pool’s pump suction to vacuum dirt into your filter, making them affordable but less effective on large debris. Pressure-side cleaners utilize return jets (and sometimes a booster pump) to push debris into a filter bag, making them ideal for handling heavy leaves. Robotic cleaners run independently on electricity, scrubbing with brushes and internal filters.
Are robotic pool cleaners worth the investment?
Yes, they are worth the investment for many pool owners. While they cost more upfront, robotic cleaners save money over time. They also enhance water clarity with advanced features such as programmable cycles and smart navigation. If convenience and performance are priorities, robotic cleaners are absolutely worth it.
Will an automatic cleaner work for above-ground pools?
Yes, but it depends on the model. Many suction and robotic cleaners are compatible with above-ground pools, while some pressure-side cleaners are designed specifically for in-ground setups. Always check product specifications to make sure the cleaner matches your pool type.
Which cleaner is best if I have lots of leaves in my pool?
A pressure-side pool cleaner is typically best for pools that collect a high volume of leaves and larger debris. The dedicated debris bag prevents your filtration system from clogging, making maintenance easier and extending the life of your filter.
Will robotic cleaners damage my pool filter?
No. Robotic cleaners work independently from your pool’s filter and pump, so they don’t place extra strain on your system. In fact, by handling debris on their own, they actually reduce filter maintenance needs and prolong system life.
How much do robotic cleaners cost to run?
Robotic cleaners are surprisingly energy-efficient. Most consume about the same electricity as a standard lightbulb, making them far less costly to operate than other cleaners.