Owning a pool can be a lot of fun but
cleaning it sure isn't. One of the biggest challenges of pool maintenance is
vacuuming all the gunk out when opening the pool for the season. Fortunately,
once that hard work is finished, you can outsource the job to a
robot—specifically, an
automatic pool cleaner. Here's
everything you need to know about these time-saving pool maintenance heroes.
Types of Pool Vacuums
Before letting a robot take charge of
your pool's pristine appearance, you need to know which auto cleaner is the
best. There are three primary types available: suction, pressure, and robotic.
Here's a quick breakdown of each option and how it works.
Suction Cleaner
Inground suction cleaners are beloved
automatic cleaners thanks to their reliability and performance. However, these
cleaners can be tricky to set up because you need to ensure maximum suction by
removing all air from the hose. This process can be time-consuming, and if you
use the pool often, you must do it regularly.
That said, suction cleaners can easily
remove most dirt and debris from your pool, allowing you to kick back and enjoy
the season. However, they are not suitable for pools with lots of algae and
environmental debris (i.e., leaves).
Pressure Cleaner
Another issue with suction cleaners is
that they can disrupt the flow of water within your pool. If the hose gets
clogged or there's too much debris, water won't go into the pump correctly.
Pressure side pool
cleaners alleviate this problem by connecting to the output port,
not the input. This way, the pressure of the outcoming water powers the device
and creates a vacuum to collect debris.
These cleaners have their own collection
bags, so they're often more effective than suction cleaners because they don't
get clogged easily. Plus, the water coming out of the back end of the device
can dislodge dirt and algae on the pool floor, giving you a double dose of
cleaning power.
Robotic Cleaner
Robotic cleaners are like Roombas for
your pool. They're much easier to set up than a suction cleaner, and they have
the speed and accuracy of a pressure cleaner. What does that mean for you? You
get the best of both worlds! However, such convenience and performance come at
a price, considering
robotic cleaners are often 30
to 50 percent more expensive.
That said, having a robot navigate your
pool and clean any debris it finds can add a bit of whimsy and innovation to
your backyard. Plus, it works for a lot cheaper than a local pool boy.
How To Choose an Automatic Pool Cleaner
Knowing the types of pool vacuums is just one factor to consider when
picking a pool cleaner. Here are some other elements to pay attention to during
your search:
- Price - Some
automatic pool cleaners can be expensive, but if they last for several years,
consider the time and money you could save on cleaning the pool yourself (or
hiring a professional)!
- Pool Size - Larger pools
typically accumulate more debris and require a cleaner that can handle the
load. In some cases, you may even need two cleaners to get the job done.
- Pool Shape - Suction
cleaners are best for square or round pools with few twists and turns. Pressure
cleaners can move up and down inclines more easily, and robotic cleaners are
the best at navigating awkwardly-shaped pools.
Automatic Pool Cleaner FAQs
Do I Still Have to Clean My Pool
Manually?
Yes, you will still have to clean your
pool when opening it for the season, as automatic cleaners are designed for
maintenance and upkeep. Also, they don't clear the surface of the pool, so
you'll still have to skim the top for leaves and dead bugs.
How Often Should I Run My
Automatic Cleaner?
Since these devices use the pool's pump
to work, you could have them working whenever you're not splashing around in
the water. Realistically, you don't have to worry about a higher utility bill
since you won't be running the pump any longer than usual.
Which is the Best Auto Pool
Cleaner?
The best auto pool cleaner is
the one that can clean every corner of your pool and is relatively easy to set
up. For some, pressure cleaners are the best option, while others may prefer
suction models for their affordability. Robotic cleaners are often better at
maneuvering but can be expensive.
Find Your New Pool Cleaner at
Pool Supply Unlimited Today
Now that you know all
about the different types of automatic pool cleaners and how to choose the
right one for your pool, it's time to take action! Head over to Pool Supply
Unlimited today to find the perfect pool cleaner for your needs. With a wide
range of options at competitive prices, you'll be sure to find a device that
makes maintaining your pool easier and more convenient than ever before. Don't
wait any longer to enjoy a sparkling clean pool all season long. Shop today!
