Keeping 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 enjoy actually using the pool. Fortunately, tech advancements have come a long way, providing fast and simple solutions to household chores such as cleaning the pool. With the help of a pool vacuum cleaner, for example, you will be done with this annoying and time-consuming task in no time. To help you make the best choice when buying such a product, we have ranked the best models on the market in the comparison table below.
Contents Navigation
8. Zodiac Baracuda MX6
If you feel limited by cleaners that only work with a specific pool pump, you should consider this model. The reason for this is the fact that it has been designed with a smart low-flow. This means that it’s suitable for 2-speed pool pumps or variable pumps. Similarly, to the other models mentioned in this review, you will be backed by a 1-year warranty period. This means that you don’t have to worry about reparation costs.
Less Energy, Powerful Operation
This is without a doubt, one of the best in the class when it comes to cleaning. It will provide a superior clean without too much hustle. Some of its cleaning features are:
- Cyclonic Suction – The cleaner will ensure deep cleaning on the floor or wall regardless of the type of dirt
- Turbine Blade – If your pool is filled with thick or large debris, the blades will cut through them for easy maintenance and fast operation
- Versatile – The cleaner will clean floors, steps, and walls at 90-degree angles
Easy Assembling
The product has been designed with swiveling hoses that are a quick-connect style which means that you can set it up without professional help. What stands out about this product is the fact that it has a flow regulator control so you don’t have to adjust anything when it comes to this model. You can allow this cleaner to operate without babysitting it.
Pro:
- All assembling parts provided
- Works for all types of pool surfaces
- Suitable with a range of pool pumps
- It can climb walls and steps
- Easy to set up by beginners for large pools
Cons:
It’s prone to clog
Verdict:
If you’re looking for a model that requires minimal maintenance, this is the right model for your needs. Even though it can slide through thick debris, you do have to pay attention to what type of dirt it’s travelling through. Regardless, you don’t have to worry about maintenance if you’re not tech-savvy.
7. Hayward PHS21CST AquaNaut
Check Price
This automatic vacuum has been designed with the smart V-Flex technology which will ensure superior power regardless of the flow and it will pick up debris without clogging. The patented tire treads will climb steps and navigate on any surface without getting interrupted by obstacles in the way. By considering this model, you will be covered by 2-years warranty period against any defects. This means that if it requires repairs, you don’t have to pay for the reparation costs.
Smart Technology
Due to the innovative technology integrated into this cleaner, the cleaner will ensure superior power at any flow and it will easily slide through thick debris. Some of its characteristics are:
- Roller Skirt – This helps it to provide constant suction due to the patented adjustable roller skirt. Even if it passes an uneven surface, it can still pick up the debris
- Throats – The interchangeable throats will provide a better suction performance for large debris
Important Features Integrated
- The hose measures 33 ft for pools that measure 16′ x 32′
- The 2-wheel design takes minimal storage space
- It’s suitable for pool pumps with a capacity of 1/2 HP
Conclusion
You can use this cleaner for concrete, gunite, vinyl, fiberglass, tile, and pebble. Even though you’ve never had such product before, you will be able to set it up with ease. In fact, you can do it by yourself without professional help. In addition to this, it has a straightforward operation which means that you can use it even if you’re not tech-savvy.
Pro:
- Can be used in pools measuring up to 16 feet by 32 feet
- Works for all types of pool surfaces
- Designed with numerous pre-programmed steering for full surface coverage
- It can climb walls and steps
- Easy to set up by beginners
Cons:
It doesn’t climb stairs
Verdict:
This 2-wheel drive cleaner has been designed with patented features which means that you will be ensured efficiency for many years. Due to the fact that it has a pre-programmed steering, it can cover deep and shallow ends without too much hustle. In addition to this, it can also avoid obstacles so you don’t have to babysit it whilst it’s operating.
6. VINGLI Pool Cleaner
Check Price
In case you’re looking for a quiet model, this is the right product for you. It has been crafted from materials such as ABS, PVC, and PUR which means that it will maintain high quality for many years to come. What stands out about this product is the fact that it comes with 10 hoses for replacement. Thus, you don’t have to invest further. It has been noted that this company offers one of the best customer services for all customers.
Superior Capacity
This product can remove dirt, leaves, debris, and bugs. It can clean an area of up to 16 ft x 34 ft. It requires a pool pump with a capacity of 0.75HP/550W or a minimum flow of 6m3/hr/16000 gal/hr. Some of its particularities are:
- Rubber Disks – The disks will offer a wide cleaning path for all type of dirt including sand
- Floor – You can use this cleaner for concrete, tile, or vinyl surfaces
- Practical – The unit can clean every corner of the pool even if it’s awkward-shaped. It will also clean 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 HP
- You can attach it to more than 10 hoses for larger pools
Easy Assembling
You will enjoy the fact that it’s extremely easy to set up so you don’t have to call a professional for help. In addition to this, it doesn’t require electricity to function so you don’t have to worry about your electricity bill going up.
Pro:
- Can be used in pools measuring up to 16 feet by 34 feet
- Works for all types of pool surfaces
- It comes with numerous accessories
- Automatic operation means that you don’t have to babysit it
- Easy to set up by beginners
Cons:
It doesn’t climb stairs
Verdict:
This model is excellent for various surfaces. Therefore, you can purchase in confidence. As well as, it also comes with 60-days warranty period so if you’re not happy with its efficiency, you can send it back. It’s also easy to set up so you can use it straight out of the box without wasting too much time meaninglessly.
5. Hayward PV896584000-020
Check Price
This 4-wheel vacuum has been engineered for numerous pools such as large-sized ones, diving pool, lap pool, and the one in your back garden. It has been engineered with self-adjusting turbine vanes which means that it will ensure superior power at any kind of flow. Thus, they will be able to glide smoothly even though thick debris and dirt. Perhaps, what stands out about this product is the fact that it has been made in the US after US standards. Thus, it will meet your high-expectations with ease.
Maximized Pool Coverage
This model has been engineered with patented tire treads. This feature will allow you to climb on top of obstacles. Therefore, you can use it regardless of the pool surface or shape of the pool. Some of its particularities are:
- Steering System – The steering system is pre-programmed in order to ensure full coverage of the pool
- Throats – The 3 interchangeable throats will provide efficient suction at a low flow yet a large amount of debris
- Versatile – This cleaner is able to deep clean floors, walls, and coves in pools that measure 20′ x 40 ft
Important Features Integrated
- The hose measures 40 ft
- It requires a pool pump with a capacity of 1/2 HP or 35 GPM
- The drive sequence will turn the cleaner every 8 ft to 10 ft
It Covers Shallow End
Similarly, to other models mentioned in this review, you don’t have to worry about going over the places where this product has cleaned as it will ensure a superior cleaning process regardless of how deep your pool is. Some of its features are:
- Obstacles – When it comes to obstacles, the cleaner will automatically avoid them so you don’t have to babysit it while it’s operating
- Travel – The cleaner will travel between 11 to 14 feet before turning
- Wheels – The wheels have been designed with superior quality treads to ensure easy climbing. As well as, the tread markers will let you know when to replace the tires
Conclusion
This cleaner has been made in order to provide you with practicality. Similarly, to the other models, you don’t have to babysit the product. It can avoid obstacles such as the main drain. Above all, it won’t get stuck in corners even if you have an awkward-shape pool. This is ideal for any type of pool shape or surface.
Pro:
- It has the ability to cover floors, walls, and coves
- Easy to use by beginners
- Suitable for pool surfaces such as Gunite, Vinyl, Fiberglass, Pebble, and Tile
- It has the ability to travel up to 14 feet before turning
- Suitable for pools with different shapes
Cons:
The user manual doesn’t have a troubleshooting section
Verdict:
The reason why we recommend this model is due to the fact that it has been made in order to provide you with convenience and practicality. You will enjoy the fact that you don’t have to wait and babysit it whilst it’s operating. As well as, it doesn’t require thorough maintenance which means that it’s easy to use by beginners.
4. XtremepowerUS 75037
Check Price
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 the 75037. It is easy to set up, taking only minutes for you to be done with its installation and start using it. Due to its superior suction and moving capability, it will be able to remove even the bacteria that lay on the surfaces of your pool. 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 warranty for parts means that you don’t have to pay a cent for repairing needs.
Ideal For Deep Cleaning
The 30-foot hose that it features enables it to clean in-ground pools that measure up to 16 feet by 34 feet. Some of its cleaning features are:
- Versatile – Specially designed to clean all types of pool surfaces. As well as, you can rest assured as it will effectively clean the floors and walls of your pool
- Cleaning Cycle – A full cleaning cycle takes between 4 to 6 hours, a time during which you can tend to other tasks and leave it to do its job unsupervised
- Practical – There are no assembling tools required as you can attach it to your existing filtration system
Important Features Integrated
- It’s able to clean algae, small dirt particles, and dust
- You can attach it to more hoses if you need to
- It requires 1 HP pool pump or 1600 GHP for a proper cleaning process
Customizable Operation
The one moving part technology that it boasts eliminates the need for flappers, wheels, or gears, allowing a silent and low-cost operation that you will definitely enjoy. Some of its particularities are:
- 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 – Inside the package, you will find 10 hoses at no extra price
- Material – The product can be used on surfaces such as tile, fiberglass, concrete, and vinyl
Summary
This cleaner is an investment that you will enjoy for many years. Unlike the majority of the models that are currently on the market, you can adjust this product according to your needs. If you’re looking for a cleaner that will provide a deep clean, this is the right model for your needs.
Pro:
- Can be used in pools measuring up to 16 feet by 34 feet
- Works for all types of pool surfaces
- Can even clean the steps of the pool
- Automatic operation makes your life a lot easier as you are not needed all that much to clean the pool
- Weighs only 12 pounds – easy to carry in and out of storage when needed
Cons:
Not as feature-rich as other products in its niche
Verdict:
An automatic vacuum that makes your life easier as it ensures you won’t be needed all that much when it comes to cleaning the pool, it is one of our favorites as it delivers powerful suction and great stability, being able to even clean sensitive areas like the steps of the pool.
3. Pentair 360042 Kreepy Krauly
Check Price
While it does come at a more reasonable price than the previous two models we talked about, the 360042 Kreepy Krauly does not sacrifice performance at all. This automatic suction-side cleaner comes with a 40-foot long hose that enables it to clean in-ground pool of all sizes. Best of all, it is covered by the manufacturer for one year, during this period of time any defects that appear being repaired free of charge.
Smart Design
It lacks a filter bag because it uses the main filtration pump of the pool to suck up the debris, meaning that there is less maintenance work to worry about. It does not feature parts such as 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 are:
- Installation – It installs in minutes and the set-up itself does not require any tools, so you will have an easy time with this procedure
- Automatic – The regulator valve that it features automatically adjusts the water flow in order to set the ideal speed, thus ensuring maximum cleaning performance at all times
- Wings – The wings that it comes with are specially designed to channel the dirt and debris into the cleaner, making sure that every inch of the pool will be spotless
Important Features To Remember
- Another impressive feature of this model is the dive float that helps it navigate through the pool with ease
- By considering this model, there are no wheels or gears to replace
- You can install the product within minutes without the help of a professional
- It has sufficient suction power in order to remove large or small debris
Cleaning Performance
Due to the fact that it is designed to tackle vinyl, tile, plaster, gunite, or fiberglass pools in only 4-6 hours, it won’t take long before you will be able to finally jump in the pool to swim and cool off. Even though it doesn’t have a pump, you will notice that it has the same cleaning capacity as the one with a pump. What stands out about this product is the fact that it’s one of the most efficient on the market whilst consuming a small amount of electricity. This means that even if it cleans everything, you don’t have to worry about your energy bill going up. Due to the fact that it has a regulator valve, the machine will automatically set its speed so you can use it even if you’ve never used such a product before.
Summary
The reason why we recommend this product is because it has been in order to help you with pool maintenance at a convenient price. If you want a powerful product yet you don’t want to spend hundreds of dollars, you should consider purchasing this model. In addition to this, it has an automatic function which means that you can do other stuff whilst the cleaning machine is operating. Since it has one operational part, you will be able to enjoy the same efficiency for numerous years to come.
Pro:
- Silent operation is granted by its one moving part technology
- It can maneuver around obstacles without tipping over due to the roller strap it features
- It features wings which are specially designed to channel dirt and debris into the vacuum
- Can be used to clean the waterline of the pool
- Backed by a 1-year warranty
Cons:
Can take as much as 6 hours for it to complete the cleaning cycle
Verdict:
Even though it takes a bit longer for it to finish cleaning a large-sized pool, this Pentair vacuum is still a great option to go for as it ensures a thorough cleaning. Due to features like the wings which gather debris and dirt, or the roller strap that ensures it doesn’t tip over during the cleaning cycle, it is one of the best performing products you will encounter.
2. Baracuda G3 W03000
Check Price
The G3 W03000 is our favorite model on the market for a good reason, this amazing automatic suction-side cleaner doing a great job at removing all the dirt and debris that it encounters on the floors, walls, and waterline of the pool. It is designed to clean in-ground pools of all sizes that are made from tiles, vinyl, fiberglass, or gunite.
Highly Powerful
It sucks up the debris and dirt that it finds by using the main filtration pump of the pool, all that you have to do to set it up is to attach the disk, the wheel deflector, and the hose, and connect them to the dedicated suction line. Some of its particularities are:
- Wheel Deflector – The wheel deflector that we have mentioned earlier enables it to have a superior coordination when it comes to cleaning corners
- Fin Disc – The 36-fin disc that it features has the role of ensuring maximum adhesion no matter the surface of the pool
- Moving Technology – The reliable one moving part technology that it boasts eliminates the need for wheels, gears, or flappers to accommodate a silent and low-cost operation
User-friendly Design
No tools are required for this set-up, making it easy even for those who are not handy at all to do this task. Also, 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 – It features an impressive quick-release cassette that provides quick and easy access to the diaphragm for easy maintenance
- Flow Control – The self-adjusting flow control valve will automatically regulate water flow, in order to ensure performance even with lower horsepower pumps
- Quiet-operation – You can allow it to function throughout the day and morning as it has a whisper-quiet operation
Conclusion
This model is one of the most efficient models even if it has been designed with one moving part. This means that there are no gears, wheels, or flappers. Thus, the maintenance is minimal. In addition to this, it cleans automatically which means that it will remove dirt, debris, bugs, and twigs. Due to the fact that it’s pre-assembled, it doesn’t require any tools to install or to operate. When it comes to warranty, you will be pleased to know that you will be covered by a 1-Year warranty period.
Pro:
- Features a 36-fin disc which ensures it will adhere to any pool surface without a problem
- Can be used in pools of all sizes and shapes
- Wheel deflector enables it to easily clean tight corners
- Can be used to clean the waterline of the pool
- Quick-release cassette ensures easy maintenance
Cons:
One of the highest priced products in this niche
Verdict:
Although it does come at a rather spicy price, this vacuum is hard to surpass in terms of suction power. One of its main highlights is the fact that it can even be used for the waterline of the pool, as well as the floors and walls, which means that it provides a thorough and complete cleaning of the water body.
1. Polaris Vac-Sweep 360
Check Price
This is automatic vacuum receives the power that it needs to operate from the main circulation pump of the pool. It is easy to connect it to the dedicated pressure line, meaning that you won’t have a hard time setting it up. The 31-foot long hose allows you to clean the pool with ease, no matter how big it is. The all-wheel belt drive mechanism that it features ensures that it will have an easy time crossing the surfaces of the pool and vacuuming them. It also features triple venturi jets and an advanced cleaning technology that allow it to do an amazing job at removing even bacteria from these surfaces. In addition, the frame of the product is covered by a 10-year warranty, while the parts are backed up for one year by the manufacturer.
Cleaning Action
There are three cleaning tasks to which this pool cleaner tends to, more precisely sweeping, scrubbing, and vacuuming the surfaces of the pool. Thus, you are ensured that regardless of what type of gunk or debris is littering the pool’s water and surfaces, it will be removed by the cleaner. To function, it draws its power from the pressure of the clean 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.
Pool Type Compatibility
Is your pool round or square shaped? This is a question you usually have to ask before buying a pool cleaner to eliminate the possibility for it to not be able to tackle cleaning the surfaces as the shape and corners present an impediment. With the 360, you needn’t worry about this aspect, however, as it is designed to clean all types of pools, regardless of their shape or surface type. It isn’t limited when it comes to pool size either, so regardless of how large the water body is, this cleaner will be able to handle it.
Mention Worthy Details
- Features a unique filter bag that helps prolong the lifespan of the filtration system by removing the debris it encounters before it reaches the filter or basket of the pool.
- 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 this cleaner 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.
Pro:
- Perfect for use in 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
- Can clean the steps of the pool as well
- Backed by a lengthy 10-year warranty for the frame, and a 1-year warranty for parts and labor
Cons:
Customer service could be better
Verdict:
As it is our top pick, our opinion on the Vac-Sweeop 360 is more than obvious. Compatible with all types of inground pools of all sizes, and boasting a more than reliable operation as it thoroughly clean the pool in only 3 hours, this vacuum is a must-have for any pool owner who wants to swim in sanitary conditions without putting too much effort into keeping the water and surface of the pool clean.
Top 5 Comparison
| 1. Polaris Vac-Sweep 360 | 2. Baracuda G3 W03000 | 3. Pentair 360042 Kreepy Krauly | 4. XtremepowerUS 75037 | 5. Water Tech Pool Blaster Speed Vac | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
|
|
|
 |
|
BEST MODEL |
OUR CHOICE |
||||
| Check Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price | |
Product Specifications |
|||||
| Manufacturer | Zodiac | Zodiac | Pentair | XtremepowerUS | Water Tech |
| Dimensions (L x W x H) | 20″ x 10″ x 22.8″ | 18″ x 8″ 41.5″ | 17″ x 7″ x 41.5″ | 18″ x 6″ x 41″ | 8.4″ x 8.4″ x 18.3″ |
| Weight | 15.6 Lbs | 19 Lbs | 17 Lbs | 12 Lbs | 5.9 Lbs |
| Type | Pressure Side Cleaner | Suction Side Cleaner | Suction Side Cleaner | Suction Side Cleaner | Cordless Cleaner |
| Operation | Automatic | Automatic | Automatic | Automatic | Manual |
Performance |
|||||
| Power Source | Powered by the pressure from the main circulation pump | Sucks up debris by using the main filtration pump of the pool | Sucks up debris by using the main filtration pump of the pool | Sucks up debris by using the main filtration pump of the pool | Powered by nickel metal hybrid battery |
| Pool Size | All Sizes | All Sizes | All Sizes | Up to 16′ x 34′ | All Sizes |
| Pool Type | In-Ground | In-Ground | In-Ground | In-Ground | In-Ground and Above Ground |
| Pool Surface | All Surfaces | Tile, Vinyl, Fiberglass, Gunite | Vinyl, Gunite, Fiberglass, Tile, Plaster | All Surfaces | All Surfaces |
| Cleaning Cycle | 3 Hours | 6 Hours | 4-6 Hours | 4-6 Hours | N/A |
| Cleaning Areas | Floors, Walls, Steps | Floors, Walls, Waterline | Floors, Walls, Waterline | Floors, Walls, Steps | Floors, Walls, Waterline, Steps |
| Technology | All-Wheel Belt Drive | Diaphragm with One Moving Part Technology | One Moving Part Technology | One Moving Part Technology | Battery Operated |
Features & Accessories |
|||||
| TailSweep PRO Compatibility | 36-Fin Disc | Dive Float | Superior Suction and Moving | Cone Technology | |
| 3 Venturi Jets | Wheel Deflector | Roller Strap | Crevice Corner Nozzle | ||
| Classic Tires | Quick-Release Cassette | Automatic Regulator Valve | 45-Minute Runtime | ||
| Single Chamber Filter Bag | 1.5″ Valve Inlet | Wings | Smart Charger | ||
| 2.25″ Valve Inlet | Reusable Multilayer Filter | ||||
| Automatic Back-Up | Ergonomic Handles | ||||
| Push-Button Start | |||||
| 225W Power Rating | |||||
Warranty&Suppport |
|||||
| Product Warranty | 10-Year Warranty for Frame; 1-Year Warranty for Parts | 1 Year | 1 Year | 90-Day | 1 Year |
| Customer Support | |||||
| User Manual | |||||
As the Polaris Vac-Sweep 360 pressure side cleaner did best on our tests, we had to prize it with a well-deserved number 1 spot in our top. Its automatic operation takes all hassle off of your hands when the time comes to clean the pool, while the 3-hour cleaning cycle ensures you won’t have to sit inside all day long waiting for it to finish so that you may swim and cool off in the swimming pool. There are more than enough upsides to this product to list, something that we have covered in the previous reviews section of the article. Another noteworthy product is the Baracuda G3 W03000 that we personally prefer the most as it comes at a reasonable price and delivers a hard to top performance. It is designed to work in pools of all sizes, and a complete cleaning cycle lasts for approximately 6 hours. Sure, it might take a while for it to finish, but considering the thorough cleaning it provides, it is worth the wait. Of course, we must mention the Water Tech Pool Blaster Speed Vac once more as this high-end manual cordless pool cleaner comes at an affordable price and eases your work when it comes down to cleaning the pool. For those who are on a budget, it is the ideal option.
