Models Considered
Hours of Research
Experts Interviewed
Consumer Reviews Analyzed
K eeping the pool clean can prove to be a real challenge no matter the time of the year because dirt and debris seem to make an appearance in it almost instantly. A lot of time is wasted on this chore, which leaves little time to actually enjoy using the pool. Fortunately, tech advancements have come a long way, providing fast and simple solutions for household chores like cleaning the pool. With the help of a pool vacuum cleaner or a robotic pool cleaner, you will be done with this annoying and time-consuming task in record time and most importantly of all, without much effort on your part.
13. Intex Auto Pool Cleaner – Best for Small Pools

Intex Auto Pool Cleaner
Specifications:
- Type: Suction side cleaner
- Operation: Automatic
- Technology: 4-wheel traction
- Pool size: 24’ L
- Pool type: Above ground
- Pool surface: All types
- Pump compatibility: 1,600-3,500 GPH flow rate
- Cleaning area capabilities: Floors
- Cleaning cycle duration: 4-6 hours
- Power source: main filtration pool pump
- Feed hose length: 24’7”
- Weight: 15.3 pounds
- Warranty: 30 days
By attaching it to an inlet connector, you will enjoy a clean pool within a short period of time. It has the ability to automatically reverse direction to cover the whole surface. Hence, you don’t have to go manually over the areas it has cleaned.
Never Damages Liner
This model will skim as it covers the floor rather than suck, which means that you won’t notice scratching as a result, neither damages to the liner. Some of its design features include:
- Filter Pump – Flow rate must range from 1,600 to 3,500 gallons per hour
- Hose – The 24” hose can easily connect to Intex inlet connectors with 1-1/2” hose fittings
- Wheels – The 4-wheel design prevents it from getting stuck near ladders or stairs
Cleans Sand and Fine Hairs
Even though this model is affordable for all, it doesn’t mean its quality is less impressive. In fact, the thick ABS plastic ensures that the housing maintains quality as the years pass. Moreover, the brush placed at the base sweeps the whole surface of the pool. As well as, it uses the water pressure jet to blow any large debris into the designated net.
What we like:
- Suitable for freshwater or saltwater
- Works for all types of pool surfaces
- It will automatically reverse
- It works with sand pump filters
- All accessories needed for setup are included
What we dislike:
✖ Cannot service in-ground pools
Verdict
If money is rather tight and your pool is an above-ground type, consider this model for your needs. As you can see, even though you won’t spend a lot of money on it, the product still performs on par with the leading models at the moment, so it’s a smart purchase to opt for.
12. U.S. Pool Supply Professional – Best for Above Ground Pools

U.S. Pool Supply Professional
Specifications:
- Type: Suction side cleaner
- Operation: Automatic
- Technology: N/A
- Pool size: 34’ L
- Pool type: In-ground, above ground
- Pool surface: All types
- Pump compatibility: 0.33 HP
- Cleaning area capabilities: Floors, walls, steps
- Cleaning cycle duration: 6-8 hours
- Power source: Main filtration pool pump
- Feed hose length: 35’
- Weight: 13.4 pounds
- Warranty: 1 year
It can remove most debris found in residential, even public pools with ease. As it is made with a durable diaphragm membrane, you can enjoy a quiet operation for many years to come. Perhaps, the reason why it is popular all over the U.S. is that it’s easy to install without tools. Additionally, by considering this model you are covered by a 100% satisfaction guarantee for 1-year. Otherwise, you will receive a refund or it will be replaced.
Versatile Operation
What’s a given is that you will get the most for your money seeing how it can clean the entirety of the pool with ease. It travels across the floor, and even climbs walls and steps to leave the surfaces spotless. Moreover, it’s suited for all types of pools. Some of its design features include:
- Hose – The 35’ premium spiral wound vacuum hose makes it suitable for large pools
- Flow Regulator Valve – The regulator valve adjusts the working speed for a customized operation
- Wheels – The deflector wheels allow it to move across tight corners and prevent it from getting stuck
Efficient and Affordable
You can rely on it to provide efficiency for many years. The convenient construction ensures a proper clean regardless of the pool type you use it for. Furthermore, the strategically designed hose sections allow you to customize the hose length according to your pool specifications. In order to make it operate, it requires a 1/3 HP pump or minimum flow of 8 meters cu./hour.
What we like:
- Simple assembly for beginners
- Compatible with all pool surface types
- It can climb walls and steps
- It requires minimal maintenance
- Manufacturer offers a 1-year warranty for it
What we dislike:
✖ Customer service could be improved
Verdict
If you’re a beginner, you are sure to love this product as it is easy to set up and doesn’t require much in the way of maintenance. Moreover, the wheels ensure it won’t get stuck during the process so that you don’t have to keep a permanent eye on it while it runs.
11. F2C Advanced – Budget Pick

F2C Advanced
Specifications:
- Type: Suction side cleaner
- Operation: Automatic
- Technology: N/A
- Pool size: 31.5’ L
- Pool type: In-ground, above ground
- Pool surface: All types
- Pump compatibility: 0.5 HP
- Cleaning area capabilities: Floors, walls
- Cleaning cycle duration: 6-8 hours
- Power source: Main filtration pool pump
- Feed hose length: 31.5’
- Weight: 15 pounds
- Warranty: 1 year
Even though it produces minimal sound, you will be thoroughly impressed by its ability to get rid of dirt and grime. As it is a tool-free task, you can install it within minutes without professional help. This is the perfect choice to remove gunk that include twigs, sand, and debris.
Rubber Skirt
The soft yet thickened skirt can take whatever form it needs to take. The high elasticity and recovery allow you to use it in tight or awkward-shaped places, thus, giving you the most for your money. Its design features include:
- Hose – Length can be customized according to your particular needs
- Automatic – Automatically climbs walls. Not compatible with right-angled walls
- Diaphragm – High wear-resistance granted by the high-durability TPU plastic
Water Flow Divert
A flow diverter will adjust the flow to help it move and turn as needed. Moreover, it will help it avoid getting stuck. Its particularities include:
- Sectional Hose – Inside the package, you find twelve 31.5″ sectional hoses
- Seal Cup – Can clean pools deeper than 3’
- Versatile – It can clean small dirt, dust, mulch, or algae, but should not be used for big leaves or stones
It is suitable for home and hotel pools. To grant optimal performance at all times, it’s important that you do not leave it inside the pool when it’s not cleaning. You must also give it time to eliminate the air that is trapped in the hoses. When it’s all out, it automatically starts to work.
What we like:
- Automatic drive system
- Suitable for in- and above-ground pools
- It can climb walls
- Ideal for all surfaces and shapes
What we dislike:
✖ It requires maintenance
Verdict
Even though it isn’t suitable for pools with stairs, it is suitable for square pools. Due to the drive system, you can allow it to operate by itself without babysitting it. Thus, it is suitable for home and hotel pools. The cleaner will ensure that it doesn’t get stuck in awkward-shaped places.
10. VINGLI Pool Cleaner – Best for Leaves

VINGLI Pool Cleaner
Specifications:
- Type: Suction side cleaner
- Operation: Automatic
- Technology: N/A
- Pool size: 16’ x 34’
- Pool type: In-ground
- Pool surface: Concrete, tile, vinyl
- Pump compatibility: 0.75 HP
- Cleaning area capabilities: Floors, walls, steps
- Cleaning cycle duration: 6-8 hours
- Power source: Main filtration pool pump
- Feed hose length: 30’
- Weight: 6.5 pounds
- Warranty: 1 year
In case you’re looking for a quiet model, this is the right product for you. It has been crafted from materials like ABS, PVC, and PUR, which means that it maintains high quality for many years to come. What stands out is the fact that it comes with 10 replacement hoses so that use costs are reduced to a minimum.
Superior Capacity
It can remove dirt, leaves, debris, and bugs, as well as clean an area of up to 16” x 34”. For it to run, it needs a pool pump with a capacity of 0.75HP/550W or a minimum flow of 6m3/hr. or 16000 gal/hr. Some of its particularities include:
- Rubber Disks – Wide cleaning path enables to pick up all types of dirt
- Floor – You can use it for concrete, tile, or vinyl surfaces
- Practical – It can clean every corner even if it’s awkward-shaped, as well as the floor, wall, and steps
Important Features Integrated
- It has a low-noise operation
- It’s suitable with pool pumps with a capacity of 3/4
- You can attach it to more than 10 hoses
Easy to Assemble
You will enjoy the fact that it’s easy to set up as it implies there is no need for professional help in the matter. Moreover, it doesn’t require electricity to function, which means that running costs are inexpensive.
What we like:
- Can be used in pools measuring up to 16” by 34”
- Works for all types of surfaces
- It comes with numerous accessories
- Automatic operation means that you don’t have to babysit it
- Easy to set up by beginners
What we dislike:
✖ It doesn’t climb stairs
Verdict
This model is excellent for various surfaces. Moreover, it’s easy to set up, so you can use it straight out of the box without wasting too much time meaninglessly.
9. XtremepowerUS 75037 – Best for Algae

XtremepowerUS 75037
Specifications:
- Type: Suction side cleaner
- Operation: Automatic
- Technology: One moving part technology
- Pool size: 16’ x 34’
- Pool type: In-ground
- Pool surface: All types
- Pump compatibility: 1 HP
- Cleaning area capabilities: Floors, walls, steps
- Cleaning cycle duration: 4-6 hours
- Power source: Main filtration pool pump
- Feed hose length: N/A
- Weight: 12 pounds
- Warranty: 90 days
Products and appliances that are made in the U.S.A. generally excel when it comes to raw power and performance, this being easy to see when you look at this product. It takes only minutes to follow through with the installation process and start using it. Due to its superior suction and moving capability, it can remove even bacteria. If you don’t like its quality when it arrives, you have 90 days to send it back for a full refund or product exchange. Otherwise, the 1-year manufacturer’s assurance for parts means that you don’t have to pay a cent for repairing needs.
Ideal for Deep Cleaning
The 30-foot hose enables it to clean in-ground pools that measure up to 16 feet by 34 feet. Some of its cleaning features are:
- Versatile – Cleans all types of pool surfaces. Effectively cleans the floors and walls
- Cleaning Cycle – Takes between 4 to 6 hours
- Practical – No assembly tools required as it attaches to the filtration system that it already set in place
Important Features Integrated
- It’s able to clean algae, small dirt particles, and dust
- You can attach more hoses if you need to
- Requires a 1 HP pool pump or 1,600 GHP flow rate
Customizable Operation
The one moving part technology eliminates the need for flappers, wheels, or gears, allowing a silent and low-cost operation that you will definitely enjoy. Some of its particularities include:
- Adjustable Diverter – You can decide the cleaning pattern. In fact, this is suitable for indoor or outdoor pools
- Removable Flapper – If you don’t have time for thorough maintenance, you can remove the flapper to prevent debris from getting lodged inside
- Hose – 10 hoses are included at no extra price
- Material – It can be utilized on surfaces like tile, fiberglass, concrete, and vinyl
What we like:
- Suitable for pools measuring up to 16’ by 34’
- Compatible with all pool surfaces
- Can even clean the steps
- Automatic operation makes your life a lot easier as you are not needed all that much in the cleaning process
- Weighs only 12 pounds – easy to carry in and out of storage
What we dislike:
✖ Not as feature-rich as other products in its niche
Verdict
An automatic product that makes your life easier as it ensures you won’t be needed all that much in the pool cleaning process, it is one of our favorites as it delivers powerful suction and great stability, being able to even clean sensitive areas like the steps.
8. Pentair GW7900 – Best for Low-Pressure Pump

Pentair GW7900
Specifications:
- Type: Suction side cleaner
- Operation: Automatic
- Technology: Two-way cleaning action
- Pool size: 32’ L
- Pool type: In-ground
- Pool surface: All types
- Pump compatibility: 1.5 HP
- Cleaning area capabilities: Floors, walls
- Cleaning cycle duration: 6 hours
- Power source: Main filtration pool pump
- Feed hose length: 32’
- Weight: 14 pounds
- Warranty: 2 years
Designed with SmartTrac navigation technology, it smartly maneuvers around tight corners, ladders, and obstacles. Thus, you can rely on it to not get stuck as it travels throughout the surface.
Spring-loaded Cover
To ensure safety at all costs, the cover can only be removed with the help of a tool. Thus, you are ensured that all of the dirt removed is held inside at all times. Its design features include:
- Wide Body – Due to its size of 13” x 13” x 13”, it creates a wide cleaning path to remove a large quantity of dirt
- Climb – It covers the floor and climbs the walls to remove all type of dirt regardless of stubbornness
- Adjustable Regulator Valve – Set the right speed to ensure the right clean for your particular pool size
Scrubs and Vacuums
To ensure a proper clean, it features a two-way footpad. This means that it will scrub harshly to dislodge the stuck debris. Then, the vacuum whisks everything away regardless of size. Nonetheless, it’s important to mention that it is suitable for all pool surfaces from tiles to concrete, and it won’t damage or scratch the materials in the process either.
What we like:
- Suitable with low-pressure pumps
- Designed with smart navigation technology
- It can climb walls
- It provides an energy-efficient clean
- Wide path to clean fast
What we dislike:
✖ Not the cheapest option
Verdict
You can rely on it to provide optimal performance even when you’re not around. The navigation technology ensures it doesn’t get stuck in tight corners or around the steps. Furthermore, it has the ability to remove all debris regardless of size and keep it inside.
7. Hayward PHS21CST AquaNaut – Best for Gunite Pools

Hayward PHS21CST AquaNaut
Specifications:
- Type: Suction side cleaner
- Operation: Automatic
- Technology: V-Flex
- Pool size: 16’ x 32’
- Pool type: In-ground
- Pool surface: Concrete, gunite, vinyl, fiberglass, tile, pebble
- Pump compatibility: 0.5 HP
- Cleaning area capabilities: Floors, walls, steps
- Cleaning cycle duration: Approximately 6 hours
- Power source: Main filtration pool pump
- Feed hose length: 33’
- Weight: 16 pounds
- Warranty: 2 years
It has been designed with the smart V-Flex technology which ensures superior power regardless of the flow and picks up debris without clogging. The patented tire treads climb steps and navigate on any surface without getting interrupted by obstacles. By considering this model, you are covered by a 2-year warranty period against any defects so that if it requires repairs, you don’t have to pay for the costs.
Smart Technology
Due to the innovative technology, it ensures superior power regardless of the flow and it easily slides through thick debris. Some of its characteristics include:
- Roller Skirt – Provides constant suction due to the patented adjustable roller skirt. Even if it passes an uneven surface, it can still pick up the debris
- Throats – Provide a better suction performance for large debris
Important Features Integrated
- The hose measures 33’, which means that you can use it for pools up to 16′ x 32′
- The 2-wheel design takes minimal storage space
- It’s suitable for pool pumps with a capacity of 0.5 HP
Use Conditions
Can be used on various surface types, including concrete, gunite, vinyl, fiberglass, tile, and pebble. Easy setup and straightforward operation make it usable even by those who aren’t tech-savvy in the slightest.
What we like:
- For pools up to 32’ in length
- Works for all surfaces
- Pre-programmed steering for full surface coverage
- Climbs walls and steps
What we dislike:
✖ It doesn’t climb stairs
Verdict
This 2-wheel drive model is designed with patented features to grant efficiency for many years. Due to the steering tech, it can cover deep and shallow ends without too much hustle.
6. Pentair 360042 Kreepy Krauly – Best for Vinyl Liner

Pentair 360042 Kreepy Krauly
Specifications:
- Type: Suction side cleaner
- Operation: Automatic
- Technology: One moving part technology
- Pool size: Any size
- Pool type: In-ground
- Pool surface: Vinyl, gunite, fiberglass, tile, plaster
- Pump compatibility: 0.95 HP
- Cleaning area capabilities: Floors, walls, waterline
- Cleaning cycle duration: 4-6 hours
- Power source: Main filtration pool pump
- Feed hose length: 40’
- Weight: 17 pounds
- Warranty: 1 year
While it does come at a more reasonable price, this doesn’t imply that it sacrifices performance in turn. It comes with a 40’ hose that provides it the capability to clean large-size bodies of water regardless of how dirty they are. Best of all, a 1-year backing is provided so that any defects that appear are repaired free of charge within this period of time. Just make sure to use it as instructed and not inflict direct damage as you void the agreement.
Smart Design
It lacks a filter bag as it uses the main filtration pump to suck up the debris, meaning that there is less maintenance work involved. It does not feature parts like wheels, gears, or diaphragms that need continuous replacement or repair, making it the perfect choice for those who tend to be forgetful and negligent with their appliances. Some of its features include:
- Installation – Procedure takes only a few minutes and doesn’t require you to use any tools
- Automatic – The regulator valve automatically adjusts the flow to set the ideal speed, ensuring maximum cleaning performance at all times
- Wings – The wings are specially designed to channel the dirt collected during the cleaning process to ensure perfect results
Important Features to Remember
- Dive float helps it navigate with ease
- Cost-free maintenance as it doesn’t feature wheels or gears that you normally would have had to later replace
- Takes a few minutes to follow through with the installation and professional help is not required
- It has more than sufficient suction power to tackle large or small debris
Cleaning Performance
As you can rely on it to tackle vinyl, tile, plaster, gunite, or fiberglass pools in approximately 4-6 hours, it won’t take long before you can dive into the pool and use it for its intended purpose. What stands out is that it consumes a small amount of power. Thus, it cleans everything without actually adding to the electric bill so that you won’t end up with a hole in your wallet after using it. The regulator valve it comes with automatically sets the speed, which grants ease of use even for those who have not used a product of this kind before.
Interesting Details
If you want a powerful product yet you don’t want to spend hundreds of dollars, you should consider purchasing this model. It has an automatic function, so you can tend to your own chores while it cleans. Since it has one operational part, you are sure to enjoy the same quality efficiency on its part for years to come.
What we like:
- Maintains quietness in its operation to not pose a nuisance
- Does not tip over when it encounters obstacles as it can maneuver around them on its own
- It features wings that channel dirt and debris inside it
- Is able to clean the waterline
- Backed by a 1-year warranty
What we dislike:
✖ Can take as much as 6 hours to finish cleaning
Verdict
It might take a while for it to finish cleaning, but considering the results it provides at the end, it’s worth the wait as you likely wouldn’t have done as great of a job yourself. Due to features it integrates like the wings that gather dirt and debris, and the roller strap that prevents it from tipping over, it is hands-down among the best options performance-wise.
5. Zodiac Baracuda MX6 – Best for the Money

Zodiac Baracuda MX6
Specifications:
- Type: Suction side cleaner
- Operation: Automatic
- Technology: X-Drive with X-Tracks
- Pool size: Any size
- Pool type: In-ground
- Pool surface: Concrete, vinyl, tile, fiberglass
- Pump compatibility: 1.5 HP
- Cleaning area capabilities: Floors, walls, waterline
- Cleaning cycle duration: 6 hours
- Power source: Main filtration pool pump
- Feed hose length: 30’
- Weight: 17.5 pounds
- Warranty: 1 year
If you feel limited by cleaners that only work with a specific pool pump, you should consider this model. The reason for this is that it comes with a smart low-flow, which means that it is suitable for 2-speed or variable pumps. When it comes to backing, a 1-year warranty is provided so that you don’t have to worry about repair costs.
Less Energy, Powerful Operation
It will provide a superior clean without too much hustle. Some of its cleaning features include:
- Cyclonic Suction – Deep cleaning of the floor or walls
- Turbine Blade – If you are dealing with thick or large debris, the blades will cut through them for easy maintenance and fast operation
- Versatile – It cleans floors, steps, and walls at 90-degree angles
Easy Assembling
It features quick-connect style swiveling hoses so that you can set it up without much effort, professional help not being needed for this task. This, in turn, means that costs related to it are reduced as opposed to what other systems require. Moreover, it features a flow regulator control so you don’t have to adjust anything as it tends to this aspect on its own.
What we like:
- All assembly parts provided
- Works for all types of surfaces
- Suitable with a range of pumps
- It can climb walls and steps to ensure all surfaces are clean
- Easy to set up by beginners for large pools
What we dislike:
✖ It’s prone to clog
Verdict
What you are evidently interested in with this acquisition is for as little effort on your part to be needed as possible, and with this product, that’s exactly what you will enjoy as it doesn’t require much in the way of maintenance, and it evidently takes all the load off of your hands when it comes to pool cleaning. However, do pay attention to it if you know the debris gathered is stubborn as, while it does indeed slide through thick debris quite easily, it might at times encounter issues.
4. Baracuda G3 W03000 – Best for Fiberglass Pools

Baracuda G3 W03000
Specifications:
- Type: Suction side cleaner
- Operation: Automatic
- Technology: One moving part technology
- Pool size: Any size
- Pool type: In-ground
- Pool surface: Tile, vinyl, fiberglass, gunite
- Pump compatibility: 0.5 HP
- Cleaning area capabilities: Floors, walls, waterline
- Cleaning cycle duration: 6 hours
- Power source: Main filtration pool pump
- Feed hose length: 39’
- Weight: 19 pounds
- Warranty: 1 year
Rely on it to perform a more than thorough job at cleaning all the dirt and debris on the floors, walls, and waterline of in-ground pools of any size that are made from tiles, vinyl, fiberglass, or gunite.
Highly Powerful
It sucks up the debris and dirt using the main filtration pump. Some of its particularities are:
- Wheel Deflector – Provides superior coordination to clean corners
- Fin Disc – Offers maximum surface adhesion
- One Moving Part Technology – Long gone are wheels, gears, or flappers. It accommodates a silent and low-cost operation
User-friendly Design
Tool-free setup makes it easy even for those who are not handy at all to do this task. It eliminates hang-ups on drain covers, fittings, or lights, allowing you to tend to other tasks while it does its job without worrying that it might encounter problems along the way. Some of its features:
- Quick-release Cassette – Grants easy access to the diaphragm
- Quiet-operation – Can run either during daytime or nighttime as it won’t be a nuisance
- Flow Control – Grants compatibility with low HP pumps
What we like:
- Adheres to all types of surfaces due to the 36-fin disc it comes with
- Full compatibility regardless of the size and shape of the water body
- Tight corners are cleaned as well thanks to the wheel deflector
- Rely on it to clean the waterline as well
What we dislike:
✖ Among the more expensive entries on the market
Verdict
Even though it does take somewhat of a financial effort to acquire it, seeing how it is unmatchable in terms of suction power, it is worth every cent. Among its main highlights stands the fact that it can clean the floor, walls, as well as the waterline, so you can rest assured knowing that it is likely to do a better job than you ever would.
3. Hayward The Pool Cleaner – Editor’s Choice

Hayward The Pool Cleaner
Specifications:
- Type: Suction side cleaner
- Operation: Automatic
- Technology: N/A
- Pool size: 16’ x 32’
- Pool type: In-ground
- Pool surface: Gunite, vinyl, fiberglass, pebble, tile
- Pump compatibility: 0.5 HP
- Cleaning area capabilities: Steps, floors, walls
- Cleaning cycle duration: 6-8 hours
- Power source: Main filtration pool pump
- Feed hose length: 33’
- Weight: 6.6 pounds
- Warranty: 1 year
It uses self-adjusting turbine vanes that maximize flow power for it to work at a consistent rate even with low-pressure pumps. Moreover, large debris is easily passed through it. The patented tire tread provides a continuous clean as it climbs and avoids obstacles in its way.
Patented Roller Skirt
It features a unique roller skirt to provide optimal suction even on uneven surfaces. Thus, it will cover the whole surface so it doesn’t leave any uncleaned spots or grime. Among its design features are included:
- Versatile – Pool shape and size do not pose an issue
- Interchangeable throats – The 3 interchangeable throats imply compatibility with any variable speed pumps
Smart Steering System
This specific part is pre-programmed to help it periodically reverse for a more thorough cleaning process. Inside, there are 5 different programmed turns that help it clean at the deep, as well as shallow ends. Please note that the hose length is 33’ so it’s suitable for pools that measure 16’ x 32’.
What we like:
- Relies on a 2-wheel drive system
- It turns every 8’ to 10’
- Complete cleaning provided by the fact that it can walls and stairs
- Wide cleaning path due to 36-finned disc
What we dislike:
✖ Not suitable for above-ground pools
Verdict
As it features multiple smart features, you are sure to get the most for your money. Even though it features wheels, they feature tread wear markers so that you know when the time comes to change them. Furthermore, the frontal humps enable it to avoid obstacles so that your assistance won’t be required at any point in the cleaning process.
2. Polaris Vac-Sweep 360 – Best for In-Ground Pools

Polaris Vac-Sweep 360
Specifications:
- Type: Pressure side cleaner
- Operation: Automatic
- Technology: All-wheel belt drive
- Pool size: Any size
- Pool type: In-ground
- Pool surface: All types
- Pump compatibility: 1.5 HP
- Cleaning area capabilities: Floors, walls, steps
- Cleaning cycle duration: 3 hours
- Power source: Pressure from the main circulation pump
- Feed hose length: 31’
- Weight: 15.6 pounds
- Warranty: 10 years for the frame, 1 year for parts
The 31’ long hose enables it for use in large-size bodies of water, while the all-wheel belt drive mechanism ensures it will have an easy time crossing the surfaces and vacuuming them. It also features triple venturi jets and advanced cleaning technology that allow it to do an amazing job at removing even bacteria from these surfaces. Moreover, the frame is covered by a 10-year warranty, while the parts are backed up for 1 year.
Cleaning Action
There are 3 cleaning tasks to which it tends, more precisely sweeping, scrubbing, and vacuuming the surfaces. Thus, you are ensured that regardless of what type of gunk or debris is littering the water and surfaces, it will be removed. To function, it draws its power from the pressure of the water which returns to the pool, thus protecting the skimmer and the filter as no contaminants enter into contact with them anymore. Its cleaning action is obviously boosted by the all-wheel belt drive mechanism it uses, a mechanism which ensures not only a high efficiency when it comes to coverage, but when it comes to cleaning cycle duration as it delivers a high amount of torque.
Mention-Worthy Details
- It isn’t limited when it comes to pool size or type either, so regardless of how large the water body is, it will be able to handle it.
- Features a unique filter bag that removes the debris it encounters before it reaches the filter or basket.
- Performs three cleaning actions at once for optimal results – sweeps, scrubs, and vacuums.
- Ensures an uninterrupted cleaning session due to the in-line backup valve it features.
Design
Lightweight and compact in size, you will have an easy time getting it out of storage when the time comes to get rid of debris found in the pool. It weighs only 15.6 pounds, so you don’t need anyone’s help when putting it inside the pool or taking it out. Furthermore, as it measures only 20 inches in length, 10 inches in width, and 22.8 inches in height, you won’t have any trouble finding a storage space for it.
What we like:
- Use it for any type of in-ground pool, regardless of its size
- Cleaning cycle only takes about 3 hours
- Built-in back-up valve helps free it when it is cornered
- Rely on it to clean the steps as well
What we dislike:
✖ Customer service could be better
Verdict
It doesn’t take long for it to finish the cleaning cycle, in only 3 hours ensuring a safe body of water to swim in, all without any effort on your end. The sanitary conditions it grants for swimming ensure that the whole family can have fun in summer without worrying about skin infections, water cloudiness, or other issues of the sorts.
1. Hayward PV896584000-020 – Best Overall

Hayward PV896584000-020
Specifications:
- Type: Suction side cleaner
- Operation: Automatic
- Technology: 4-wheel drive
- Pool size: 20’ x 40’
- Pool type: In-ground
- Pool surface: Gunite, vinyl, fiberglass, pebble, tile
- Pump compatibility: 0.5 HP
- Cleaning area capabilities: Floors, walls, coves
- Cleaning cycle duration: 6 hours
- Power source: Main filtration pool pump
- Feed hose length: 40’
- Weight: 6.6 pounds
- Warranty: 1 year
It features self-adjusting turbine vanes that grant superior power at any flow rate, gliding smoothly even though thick debris and dirt. Furthermore, it is made in the U.S. following U.S. standards to meet your high expectations and ensure long-lastingness.
Maximized Coverage
It features tire treads that allow it to climb on top of obstacles. Therefore, you can use it regardless of the surface or shape of the water body. Some of its particularities are:
- Steering System – Pre-programmed so that it grants full coverage without requiring your interference
- Throats – The 3 interchangeable throats provide efficient suction at a low flow
- Versatile – Complete cleaning from one end to another of pools that measure 20′ x 40’
Highlights
- Obstacles – It will automatically avoid them
- Travel – It travels from 11’ to 14’ before it turns
- Wheels – Designed with superior quality treads to climb easily. Moreover, the tread markers indicate when replacement is due
- It won’t get stuck in corners even if you have an awkward-shape pool.
What we like:
- It has the ability to provide a full cleaning as it cover floors, walls, and coves
- Suitable for surfaces like gunite, vinyl, fiberglass, pebble, and tile
- It can travel up to 14’ before turning
- Suitable regardless of what pool shape you employ it for
What we dislike:
✖ User manual lacks the useful troubleshooting section
Verdict
We view it as the best selection at the moment and recommend it to all homeowners who seek to have clean pools without actually putting any effort into the task themselves as it comes with the latest features and tech, and doesn’t have any limitations when it comes to the pool types it can be used in. Moreover, it doesn’t require you to keep a constant eye on it as it won’t tip over, and it doesn’t need much it the way of maintenance either.
Top 13 Comparison
Photo | Products | Price |
---|---|---|
![]() Best Overall |
1. Hayward PV896584000-020
|
Check Price at Amazon |
![]() Best for In-Ground Pools |
2. Polaris Vac-Sweep 360
|
Check Price at Amazon |
![]() Editor’s Choice |
3. Hayward The Pool Cleaner
|
Check Price at Amazon |
![]() Best for Fiberglass Pools |
4. Baracuda G3 W03000
|
Check Price at Amazon |
![]() Best for the Money |
5. Zodiac Baracuda MX6
|
Check Price at Amazon |
![]() Best for Vinyl Liner |
6. Pentair 360042 Kreepy Krauly
|
Check Price at Amazon |
![]() Best for Gunite Pools |
7. Hayward PHS21CST AquaNaut
|
Check Price at Amazon |
![]() Best for Low-Pressure Pump |
8. Pentair GW7900
|
Check Price at Amazon |
![]() Best for Algae |
9. XtremepowerUS 75037
|
Check Price at Amazon |
![]() Best for Leaves |
10. VINGLI Pool Cleaner
|
Check Price at Amazon |
![]() Budget Pick |
11. F2C Advanced
|
Check Price at Amazon |
![]() Best for Above Ground |
12. U.S. Pool Supply Professional
|
Check Price at Amazon |
![]() Best for Small Pools |
13. Intex Auto Pool Cleaner
|
Check Price at Amazon |
Frequently Asked Questions
Step 2 – Connect to the pump.
Step 3 – If the vacuum cleaner is manual, move it back and forth along the surface. Watch out for the hose not to get tangled.
Conclusion
Eliminating the effort you put into cleaning the pool is what you are provided with when you acquire a vacuum specialized in this task. Automated systems that take the load off your hands so that you get more time to relax and give your back a break, these pool cleaners are a must for pool owners.
Best pool cleaner vacuum on the market: Hayward PV896584000-020
Designed for large-sized pool and featuring the latest technologies to scrub surfaces clean regardless of how dirty these are, this Hayward model is a costly acquisition, but one you’ll surely appreciate once it starts operating. The steering system ensures it covers the whole surface so that no corner is left unattended, while the throats provide high suction to pick up large amounts of debris with ease.
Editor’s choice: Hayward The Pool Cleaner
Just like the top pick, it comes with 3 interchangeable throats that make it usable for varying speed pumps, which adds to the versatility of this Hayward product. Of course, what we like most about it is that it works for different surfaces, which include vinyl, fiberglass, tile, pebble, and even gunite. Moreover, to provide thorough coverage and really sweep up the grime, it turns every 8’ to 10’.
Best pool cleaner vacuum for the money: Zodiac Baracuda MX6
A smart option budget-wise is the Baracuda as it provides top performance at a fair price. To leave the pool clean and safe to swim in, it employs cyclonic suction that doesn’t fail, regardless of how stubborn the dirt is. Furthermore, when it tackles large or hard debris, it uses the turbine blades to cut through and pick everything up with ease.
Best pool cleaner vacuum for leaves: VINGLI Pool Cleaner
A common gunk in pools, especially during autumn, are leaves. Woefully, not all pool vacs are able to suck them up, but this isn’t the case with the Vingli, a reliable pal for those who have trees in the proximity of their pools. It is suitable for pools up to 34’ in length, an aspect you must take into consideration when you make the purchase. When it comes to compatible surfaces, it can be used to clean tile, vinyl, and concrete.
Best pool cleaner vacuum for in-ground pools: Polaris Vac-Sweep 360
Although most models featured are designed for in-ground pools, none do a better job than the Polaris 360 as it uses the reliable triple venturi jets to remove all bacteria and viruses lingering on the surface. As it features 3 cleaning actions, it is a steal considering the asking price, the action it performs including vacuuming, scrubbing, and sweeping.
Best pool cleaner vacuum for fiberglass pools: Baracuda G3 W03000
Another reliable model that we thoroughly recommend is the Baracuda G3 W03000 as it has been designed with advanced moving techniques to ensure that it covers the whole surface of the pool regardless of what it is. However, we do give special mention to the fact that it performs exceptionally well on fiberglass, a surface with which other cleaners have difficulties. What makes it so performant is the high adhesion provided by the 36-fin disc it features.