If you have a pool, it is going to be important to keep the water sanitary and clean. Many people have heard of putting chlorine or salt in a pool along with running a filter. But another way to keep your water clean and keep the chemicals down is to vacuum your pool. A pool can be vacuumed much in the same way that you vacuum your house. Of course, vacuuming a pool is going to take a special kind of vacuum. I’m going to go over what a pool vacuum is, different types of pool vacuums, reasons for buying a vacuum, considerations, features and more. I hope that this helps you when choosing a pool vacuum.
The Best Pool Vacuum on the Market Today
In the chart below, you will find our top 10 rated pool vacuums. For a more in-depth review of each model, please click on “Read Review.“
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Product Image |
Product Name |
Rating |
Review |
|---|---|---|---|
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The Pool Cleaner Automatic Suction Pool Vacuum |
4.2 out of 5 |
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Hayward AquaNaut Suction Pool Vacuum |
4.0 out of 5 |
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Pool Blaster Catfish Li Pool & Spa Cleaner |
3.5 out of 5 |
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Intex Auto Pool Cleaner |
3.4 out of 5 |
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XtremepowerUS Automatic Suction Vacuum |
3.7 out of 5 |
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BARACUDA G3 Advanced Suction Side Automatic Pool Cleaner |
4.2 out of 5 |
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Pentair Kreepy Krauly Suction-Side Inground Universal Pool Cleaner |
3.9 out of 5 |
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Zodiac Ranger Suction Side Automatic Above-Ground Pool Cleaner |
3.9 out of 5 |
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Hayward 925ADC Navigator Pro Suction Pool Vacuum |
4.1 out of 5 |
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Zodiac MX8 Suction-Side Cleaner |
4.0 out of 5 |
Top Ten Rated Pool Vacuums of 2018
- The Pool Cleaner Automatic Suction Pool Vacuum
- Hayward AquaNaut Suction Pool Vacuum
- Pool Blaster Catfish Li Pool & Spa Cleaner
- Intex Auto Pool Cleaner
- XtremepowerUS Automatic Suction Vacuum
- BARACUDA G3 Advanced Suction Side Automatic Pool Cleaner
- Pentair Kreepy Krauly Suction-Side Inground Universal Pool Cleaner
- Zodiac Ranger Suction Side Automatic Above-Ground Pool Cleaner
- Hayward 925ADC Navigator Pro Suction Pool Vacuum
- Zodiac MX8 Suction-Side Cleaner
Quick Navigation
What Is a Pool Vacuum?
A pool vacuum, also called a pool sweeper, is a tool that can make cleaning the bottom of your pool much easier. It collects the debris that is at the bottom of your pool. There are mainly two different types of pool vacuums: manual vacuums and automatic vacuums.
A manual pool vacuum has a vacuum head attached to a telepole, along with a hose that connects to the skimmer box. Similar to vacuuming the floor, you will need to move the vacuum the pool floor. Most manual pool vacuums are inexpensive, and are easy to use.
An automatic pool vacuum, unlike the manual vacuum, moves itself around the pool floor. It is made to collect debris and sediment from swimming pools. Automatic vacuums will cost more, but it may be well worth the price since hardly any work is involved.
Do I Need a Pool Vacuum?
Of course, a pool vacuum is not necessary in order for you to enjoy your pool. But without one, your pool will quickly become cloudy and will be full of debris. It will also promote algae growth, which can be hard to get rid of. Also, if you don’t use a pool vacuum you will have to add more chemicals into your water. With that being said, you probably get the point that a pool vacuum cleaner is necessary if you want to be able to enjoy your pool without debris and cloudy water.
Different Types
Manual Pool Vacuum
As I mentioned above, a manual pool vacuum has a vacuum head attached to a telepole. The hose connects to the skimmer box. You will need to move the vacuum around in order for it to clean. Manual pool vacuums are cheap, and are very simple and basic to use.
Automatic Pool Vacuum
As I mentioned earlier in this article, automatic pool vacuums run by themselves, without you having to move it around. This is a good option for those who don’t have the time to move the vacuum around. Automatic pool vacuums are made to collect debris and sediment that are in swimming pools. Keep in mind that automatic cleaners will cost more, but it is worth the extra dollars if you don’t have the time to clean your pool.
Robotic Pool Cleaner
Robotic pool cleaners are a type of automatic pool cleaners. It is often considered the best automatic pool cleaner. Robotic pool cleaners have many benefits, including that they are easy to install, and require no tools for installation. It uses 94% less energy than most pressure cleaners, which is another type of automatic cleaners. It uses approximately the same amount of energy as a standard light bulb.
Robotic cleaners handle all types of small and large debris. It is an electric pool cleaner, which means you don’t have to run your filter while this is on. There are also some robotic pool cleaners that are made to clean in-ground pools. In-ground pool cleaners are similar to other pool vacuums, except that they are specifically made to clean in-ground pools. The best in-ground pool vacuum may be high in price, but it is works well for in-ground pools. Keep in mind that robotic pool cleaners will be higher in price, but they are definitely a good option for those who are wanting to easily clean their pool.
Pressure Pool Vacuum Cleaners
A pressure pool vacuum is another type of automatic vacuums. It collects all the debris in a self-contained bag. It can pick up leaves, sticks, acorns, peebles, and other large things that are found of the pool floor. Pressure pool vacuums will not clog up. You can set a timer on this vacuum, and it will clean for that desired time.
Suction Pool Cleaners
Suction pool vacuums can handle small to medium sized debris including fine sand and dirt. It is very affordable, and is easy to use. Once again, this is a type of an automatic cleaner. It uses an existing filtration system to operate. The best suction pool cleaner should be very simple to use, and should make cleaning the pool very easy. This is a great option for those who are wanting an affordable and simple vacuum.
Advantages / Reasons for Buying
There are many advantages to buying a pool vacuum. Not only does it quickly clean your pool, but most are also very affordable. I’ll go over a few advantages and reasons why you may want to buy a pool vacuum.
Environmentally Friendly
Most pool cleaners are environmentally friendly. Even robotic vacuum cleaners are environmentally friendly, unlike other robotic products.
Low Maintenance
Pool vacuums are very low maintenance. One of the most low maintenance vacuum is the pool vacuum robot. Any pool cleaners that have built-in filtration are very low maintenance.
Considerations When Buying
What Is Your Budget?
All pool vacuums are different, and therefore have different prices. Some pool cleaners are around $20, while others are thousands of dollars. Before you shop for a pool vacuum, consider your budget. Can you afford a robotic pool cleaner? Or do you want to start with a manual cleaner, since they are less expensive? Think about your budget, and decide what will fit your needs.
How Much Debris Needs to Be Removed?
A pool vacuum’s job is to get rid of the debris that is found at the bottom of your pool. Because that is its main purpose, you will want to make sure that you get a vacuum that can handle the job. If you have a lot of debris, you will want to get a large and heavy-duty vacuum. If there is hardly any debris in your pool, you should be able to get a smaller and more simple pool vacuum.
Do You Have an In-ground Pool?
If you have an in-ground pool, which most people do, then you will want to get an in-ground pool vacuum. In-ground pool vacuums are similar to other pool vacuums, but are specifically made for in-ground pools. If you have an above ground pool, make sure that the pool vacuum is made for it.
Do You Want a Manual Vacuum or an Automatic Vacuum?
When deciding which pool vacuum you want, think about what kind of vacuum you want. Decide if you want to buy a manual pool vacuum, or if you want to buy an automatic pool vacuum. If you want an automatic pool vacuum, then decide what kind you want. A robotic pool cleaner is a good choice, but you will have to pay more. If you want a more affordable automatic cleaner, a suction pool vacuum is a good choice. There is also the pressure pool vacuum, which is not too expensive, but not the cheapest. Before you buy a pool vacuum, decide if you want a specific pool vacuum.
Pros
- Will keep pool clean
- Cuts down on chemicals needed
- Easy to use
Cons
- Cost (another pool expense)
- Can be safety hazard if not used properly
- Learning curve/set up time
Features
Head Size
The best pool vacuum will have a wide head size, which means it will be able to clean more areas. If the vacuum head is small, it won’t be able to clean as quickly. Thus, you should look for a pool cleaner that has a wide head size.
Long Lasting Brush
Since the pool vacuum will be cleaning your pool a lot, it is important to find a pool vacuum that has a good, durable brush. You may want to invest in a pool cleaner that has side brushes and locking clips.
What Else Do I Need Besides a Pool Vacuum?
A pool vacuum can keep your pool very clean, but there are still other products that you will need in order to have a clean pool. In this section I’ll go over different items that you will need in your pool.
Pool Skimmer
A pool skimmer lets you easily remove leaves, dirt, and bugs that are floating around in the water. Pool skimmers are inexpensive, usually around $10 to $20.
Water Test Kit
A water test kit is a good tool to have around so that you know what is in the water. Most water test kits are around $100. You could, however, be able to find some that are as cheap as $20. Keep in mind that some are made to test drinking water, but it should work the same in your pool.
Chlorine Tablets
Chlorine is used in most pools, and works well for keeping your pool clean. They are easy to add, since all you do is add the tablets into the water.
Pool Brush
A pool brush can be a handy tool when dirt and algae get stuck on the sides of your pool. It is very cheap, and very easy to use. Although your pool vacuum should be able to clean most of your pool, a pool brush is still good to have around in case the vacuum doesn’t clean all of it.
Pool Vacuum Safety Tips
No One Should Be in the Pool While Vacuum Is Running
Many pool vacuums run on electricity. Even though all safety precautions are made when manufactured, there is always a chance of electrical shock when you have an electrical appliance around water. It’s better to always be safe than sorry. Do not be in a pool while the vacuum is turned on and running.
Exercise Caution Around the Cord
When the vacuum is plugged in, the cord becomes a safety hazard. Make sure that the cord that is not in the pool is not laying water while plugged in. Take care to examine the cord before each use, to make sure that it is not damaged. At the slightest sign of cord damage, throw the cord away. Anyone touching the water where a live cord is, could get a lethal shock if an electrical current were to run through the appliance to you. This can happen in a blink of an eye, so it is always better to be safe and routinely examine the cord for damage.
Our Top Pick
Our pick for the best pool vacuum is The Pool Cleaner Automatic Suction Pool Vacuum.
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Conclusion
I hope that this helped you for getting started to choose a pool vacuum for your individual pool needs. Not every vacuum will be right for each pool situation. Make sure to account for pool size and your budget. Then take look at our top 10 pick for pool vacuums. Pools can be a social and physical outlet for people during the hotter months. I hope that this article helps you to get out there and enjoy the good life in the water.
Related Articles:
- The Ins and Outs of a Pool Vacuum: Manual or Automatic?
- Swimming Pool Care: Maintenance, Cost, Accessories, and More
- How to Choose a Low Maintenance Pool for Your Yard
- Pool Cleaning Equipment Every Pool Owner Should Have
Last update on 2023-03-24 at 02:05 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API