What’s the Best Pool Cleaner for My Pool?Updated a month ago
Choosing the right pool cleaner can save you hours of scrubbing and skimming. From budget-friendly suction cleaners to high-tech robots, each type has its perks and quirks. Here’s how suction, pressure, and robotic cleaners stack up—and how to pick your perfect match.
1. Suction Cleaners
How they work: Attach to your pool’s skimmer or dedicated suction line, using the pump’s power to vacuum debris.
Pros:
Affordable: Lowest upfront cost.
Low maintenance: No extra parts or bags—debris goes into the filter.
Simple setup: Plug and play with existing suction lines.
Cons:
Strain on equipment: Relies on your pool pump, which can increase wear.
Misses fine debris: Best for leaves and larger dirt (25–50 microns).
Limited coverage: May get stuck on steps or tight corners.
Best for: Small to medium pools, budget-conscious owners, or light debris (e.g., suburban backyards).
Browse suction pool cleaners here
Our recommended suction pool cleaner is the Water TechniX Matrix/Conch
Our best budget suction pool cleaner is the Water TechniX Rapid Automatic pool cleaner
2. Pressure Cleaners
How they work: Use water pressure from a booster pump or return jet to drive the cleaner, scrubbing and collecting debris in a mesh bag.
Pros:
Strong scrubbing: Brushes loosen algae and dirt from surfaces.
Handles heavy debris: Great for pools near trees or in dusty areas.
Self-contained bag: Reduces strain on your main filter.
Cons:
Booster pump needed: Adds upfront cost (if not already installed).
Complex setup: Requires plumbing adjustments.
Higher energy use: Booster pumps increase power bills.
Best for: Large pools, concrete surfaces, or leafy/dust-prone areas (e.g., rural properties).
Note: We no longer carry nor recommend pressure cleaners as their prices have skyrocketed recently and we find that for the price of standard pressure cleaners, you can already get full-fledged robotic pool cleaners.
3. Robotic Cleaners
How they work: Self-powered units with built-in motors, brushes, and filters. Operate independently of your pool’s pump.
Pros:
Superior cleaning: Captures debris as small as 2 microns (dust, pollen).
Energy-efficient: Uses less power than pump-dependent cleaners.
Smart features: Programmable schedules, app controls, and wall-climbing ability.
Cons:
High upfront cost: An expensive option.
Regular maintenance: Clean filters and brushes after each use.
Cable tangling: Requires careful placement during operation. (For non-wireless models)
Best for: All pool types, tech lovers, or those prioritising convenience and water clarity.
Our recommendation: The Water TechniX Hydro4 Robotic Pool Cleaner
Our wireless recommendation: The Water TechniX Poolmate DTB Cordless Robotic Pool Cleaner
Quick Comparison Guide
| Feature | Suction | Pressure | Robotic |
|---|---|---|---|
| Upfront Cost | $ | $$ | $$$ |
| Energy Use | Moderate | High | Low |
| Debris Handling | Medium | Heavy | Fine to heavy |
| Ease of Use | Simple | Moderate | Very easy |
| Maintenance | Low | Moderate | Moderate |
Which Cleaner is Right for You?
Suction: “Set and forget” for small pools or light maintenance.
Pressure: “Hardworking helper” for stubborn dirt and leafy areas.
Robotic: “Luxury time-saver” for sparkling results with minimal effort.
Australian climate tips:
Bushfire-prone zones: Robotic or pressure cleaners handle ash and fine debris best.
Saltwater pools: Opt for corrosion-resistant models (check specifications).
Above-ground pools: Lightweight suction or compact robots work well.
Need a Pool Cleaner?
Browse our Pool Cleaners Collection for top-rated suction, pressure, and robotic models. Pair with a pool cover to keep debris out and cleaning time down.
Final Tip: Match your cleaner to your pool’s size, debris type, and your patience for maintenance. Whether you’re battling gum leaves or backyard dust, there’s a cleaner that’ll make your life easier. Now, sit back and let the robot do the work! 🤖 (hint hint)