What is suction pool cleaners

A suction pool cleaner is a simple device that helps keep your pool clean by using your pool’s existing filter system. Here’s how it works:

  • It attaches to your actual pool through the suction line, whether it’s actually a dedicated port that you have already installed in your pool or you can use the skimmer in your pool.
  • The cleaner moves around the pool, sucking up dirt and debris, which then go to the pump’s filter basket and the pool filter.

Every pool has a system that filters and cleans the water. The key part of this system is the pump. The pump pulls water into the skimmer, where a filter catches dirt and debris. Then, the pump pushes the clean, filtered water back into the pool.
In simpler terms, the suction pool cleaner uses the pool’s pump to suck in dirty water, clean it, and return clean water to the pool.


Why choose a suction side?

Because it has a low upfront cost: 

  • It is less expensive than those big fancy robotic pool cleaners because it’s actually simple in design. The part in design is very easy to replace as opposed to electronic components in robotic cleaners.
  • The suction side doesn't use electricity. It doesn’t plug in any electricity outlet at all. It uses the suction from your actual pool, for your skimmer. This means that whenever your pool is on and moving, that’s when the actual suction is on and moving as well, there is no extra electricity cost to it. 

Our top picks

There are numerous pool cleaners available, but not all offer good value. Therefore, we’ve thoroughly researched to find the best reviews for pool cleaners:

Overall pick: Hayward Poolvergnuegen Suction PoolCleaner

Hayward “The PoolCleaner” has two versions: 2 wheel version and 4 wheel version. The 4 wheel version is designed for a larger pool up to 8 ft in depth. The 2 wheel version is the same but its size is for the smaller and medium sized pool. 

This type of product stands out on Amazon as the overall pick because of its convenience. This pool cleaner can climb walls, making it an outstanding overall pool cleaner. It has self-adjusting turbine vanes, allowing it to remove even bigger dirt and debris without clogging. The Hayward pool cleaner's adjustable roller skirt allows it to retain good suction power while moving around the pool's varied surfaces.

Product Specifications

The 2 wheel version

  • Style: In-ground
  • Cleaner type: Automatic Turbine Suction Cleaner
  • Weight: 4.9 pounds
  • Hose length: 33 feet
  • Pool Size: Up to 16' X 32'

The 4 wheel version

  • Style: In-ground
  • Cleaner type: Automatic Turbine Suction Cleaner
  • Weight: 6.6 pounds
  • Hose length: 40 feet
  • Pool Size: Up to 20' X 40'

Pros:

  • Durable
  • Easy to assemble, easy to use
  • Works well, cleans the wall better, doesn't get stuck (in 15 seconds it will rotate and choose a new direction)
  • Consumes little energy, no booster pump required

Cons: 

  • Makes a terrible noise in the middle of the night as it climbs the wall and reaches the surface.
  • The cycle takes a lot of time

I've been using the Poolvergnuegen PoolCleaner for a while now, and it's truly impressive how efficiently it operates. This pressure pool cleaner is a game-changer, significantly cutting down the time needed to clean the pool compared to traditional suction cleaners.

The four-wheel drive system is particularly notable. It gives the cleaner the strength to navigate around obstacles that would typically hinder other pool vacuums. Whether it's small debris or larger objects, this cleaner handles it all with ease.

One feature that stands out is the deep tread on the tires, which provides excellent traction, especially in concrete pools. The self-regulating turbines with adjustable paddles optimize water flow, ensuring the cleaner runs efficiently at 11 to 15 psi. The rear pressure relief valve ensures even flow, maintaining optimal pressure without the need for a booster pump.

Another advantage is the large filter bag, which helps reduce wear and tear on your pool’s internal filtration system and pump. This means less maintenance and longer-lasting equipment.

The patented steering system is also worth mentioning. It expertly navigates the pool's curves, walls, and stairs, making slight left turns to cover every inch of the pool. With programmed angles ranging from 90 to 540 degrees, the cleaner moves effectively and efficiently.

Maintenance is straightforward, thanks to the tire treads' external marks that indicate when they need replacement. The extra-large treads on the front tires enhance traction, allowing the cleaner to roll over larger obstacles effortlessly.

Connecting the hoses is a breeze with the 6-foot interlocking sections. They snap into place quickly, preventing kinking and tangling during the cleaning cycle. This design also helps prevent leaks, ensuring maximum pressure from the pump.

This pressure tank cleaner is only suitable for concrete pools using the included tire, but you can purchase tape tires separately for a smoother surface such as vinyl or fiberglass.

Editor’s verdict:
The product is suitable for customers who want to find a product that is easy to use, easy to install, convenient, and can clean many corners of your swimming pool.

Best seller: Gosvor Pivot Robotic Pool Cleaner

Gosvor Pivot pool cleaning robot is a top 1 Best Seller product, truly an impressive pool cleaning device with many outstanding features. It provides comprehensive cleaning for both the pool floor and walls, ensuring no nooks and crannies are affected.

The high-capacity battery allows the cleaner to operate continuously for extended periods without needing a recharge, making it ideal for larger pools. Its user-friendly design includes a large debris filter bag, lightweight construction, and self-parking technology, making operation easy and convenient. 

With high durability and ability to withstand harsh pool environments, it ensures reliable performance season after season. Additionally, Gosvor offers premium service with a 2-year warranty and a 30-day return policy, providing absolute peace of mind for users.

Product Specifications
Product Dimensions    14 x 12 x 16 inches
Item Weight    11.77 pounds
Special Feature    Wall and Floor Cleaning, Cordless and Lightweight

Pros:

  • Fast and simple plug
  • Lightweight
  • Compact wireless design
  • Strong capacity
  • Climb well with the wall
  • Inexpensive


Cons: 

  • Must recharge quickly
  • Doesn't clean well with stairs

After testing it for over 6 months, now I will tell you everything that I love and not love about it. It does the bottom and wall of the pool well. It’s super lightweight, I think it’s under 10 pounds. It is designed for small pools up to 1076 square feet. It's a full run cycle of 100 minutes. It has a scrubber on the bottom, it sucks everything right up into the inside. It can clean the curve of my pool and also the walls, it sucks the water up into the inside. It’s not actually the stairs. Just 5 seconds to make this pool empty water. Remember to always clean and wash the filter tray after each use. Another good point is its full run cycle of 10 minutes. The special thing is inexpensive. It’s a simple plug and play cleaner, it takes 3 hours to fully charge. 

But there are also some disadvantages, you can not put too much on a lightweight pool cleaner. This is for a smaller pool. It does not actively scrub water lines. 

Editor’s verdict: This product is suitable for small pools, and can clean pool walls well.

Most ratings: XtremepowerUS Climb Wall Pool Cleaner

This pool cleaner includes: Pleated seal, dive float restrictor, roller bumper strap, 3 hose weights, eyeball diverter, auto regulator valve, hose cone, main body, 9 female/male hoses, 1 male/female hose. 

The XtremepowerUS Automatic Suction Vacuum Pool Cleaner is a reliable option for pool maintenance with specific considerations. It doesn't operate in shallow areas less than 3 feet deep, and the hoses should remain loosely connected to allow free movement and access to various spots in the pool. Minor air leaks from the connections are normal. This cleaner isn't designed to pick up leaves or large particles. For optimal performance, it should be connected to a pool pump of at least 3/4 HP or 1600 GPH. 

Additionally, a filter should be connected and cleaned weekly for better results. The yellow seal clips act as weighted stabilizers, helping to maintain balance during cleaning, with one clip recommended for every 3 feet of pool depth. Adjusting the eyeball divert ensures proper water flow direction.

Features

  • Eco-friendly design: High efficiency and low maintenance.
  • Automatic operation: Self-navigates on set patterns for thorough cleaning from top to bottom.
  • Soft, thickened pleated seal: Gently and thoroughly cleans pools of all sizes and shapes.
  • Effective debris removal: Removes algae, bugs, small dirt, and dust.
  • Simple design: No wheels, gears, or diaphragms that frequently need repair or replacement.
  • Versatility: Suitable for in-ground or above-ground pools up to 16 ft. x 34 ft. (544 sq. ft. maximum).
  • Filtration system: Operates by attaching to the pool's filtration system, functioning as a moving drain.
  • Power requirement: Needs a minimum of 3/4 HP or 1600 GPH pool 
    pump.
  • User-friendly: No tools or electricity required for operation.

Product Specifications

  • Product Type: Automatic Suction Pool Vacuum
  • Cleaning Area: Pool Walls / Pool Floor
  • Pool Type: In Ground / Above Ground
  • Cleaner Type: Suction Side
  • Product Weight: 10 lb.
  • Dimensions: 41" L x 6" W x 18" H
  • Tools/Electricity: No

Pros

  • Affordable price
  • Eco-friendly
  • Easy to control

Cons

  • Unable to clear leaves
  • Easy to get stuck

After testing it, I'll give my thoughts. It works particularly well at the pool's deep end. This is designed for in-ground pools. The hose is sufficient for about 42 inches in height and 14 feet in diameter. To run effectively, it needs a ¾ horsepower swimming pool pump or 1600 gallons per hour. Simply connect it to your existing filtration system, set the vacuum head and hose in the pool, and begin cleaning. Pool vacuums are not meant to clean steps, although this is a typical drawback. However, its agility makes it simple to operate overall.

Editor’s verdict: The product is suitable for medium and small debris, affordable, good vacuum cleaner, easy to install but cannot suck leaves. 

How we pick and test

We reviewed many standout products on Amazon and selected the top 3 to purchase and test on various types of pools, including in-ground and above-ground pools. The tests were conducted carefully and objectively to provide you with the most accurate evaluations. We examined the suction power, dirt collection capability, and wall-climbing ability of each product in different environments to ensure fairness.


To simulate real-world conditions, we placed debris of various sizes, from sand grains to dry leaves, into the pools. After cleaning, we measured the remaining debris to assess the efficiency of each vacuum. For vacuums with wall-climbing capabilities, we tested them in pools of different depths, including 3ft, 5ft, and 7ft. We also checked the actual operating time of the batteries to provide the most precise assessments of the products' performance.


Why should you trust us

Our team of authors has many years of experience in the pool cleaner industry. They have personally tested each product and provided the most honest and objective reviews. Their extensive background includes working with various types of pool cleaning equipment, troubleshooting common issues, and staying updated with the latest technologies and trends in the market.

Suction pool cleaners’ buying guides

To select the right pool vacuum cleaner, you need to consider the following key factors:


Pool Type and Size:

  • In-ground or Above-ground: Ensure the cleaner is compatible with your pool type.
  • Pool Size: Some cleaners are better suited for larger pools.


Compatibility with Pool Surfaces: Different models work better with specific surfaces like vinyl, fiberglass, concrete, or tile.


Filtration System Compatibility: Check if the cleaner is compatible with your pool’s filtration system (e.g., single, dual, or variable speed pumps).


Hose Length: Ensure the cleaner comes with enough hose to cover the entire pool.


Cleaning Efficiency: Look for models that efficiently clean walls, floors, and steps.


Debris Handling: Consider the type and size of debris the cleaner can handle. Some are better for small debris, while others can handle larger leaves and twigs.


Ease of Use and Maintenance: Opt for models that are easy to set up, operate, and maintain.


Durability and Warranty: Check the build quality and the warranty provided by the manufacturer.


Cost: Suction pool cleaners come in various price ranges. Set a budget and find the best option within that range.


FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) about the best suction pool cleaners of 2024:

How often should I use a suction pool cleaner?
For optimal results, use your suction pool cleaner regularly, typically once or twice a week. Adjust the frequency based on the amount of debris in your pool.


What maintenance does a suction pool cleaner require?
Regular maintenance includes cleaning the filter bag or canister, checking the hoses for cracks or leaks, and inspecting the cleaner’s parts for wear and tear.


Are there any specific models recommended for large pools?
Yes, some models are designed for larger pools and offer enhanced suction power and longer hoses. Look for brands like Hayward or Pentair for high-performance options.


What is the typical lifespan of a suction pool cleaner?
The lifespan can vary based on the model and usage, but most suction pool cleaners last between 3 to 5 years with proper maintenance.


Are there any additional costs associated with suction pool cleaners?
Apart from the initial purchase, you may need to budget for occasional replacement parts or repairs, as well as the cost of electricity and water used by the filtration system.


These FAQs should help clarify any doubts you may have about suction pool cleaners and guide you in choosing the best model for your needs in 2024.