Clear, clean pool water ensures that your swim time is fun and pleasant. It lets you cool down on a hot day, get exercise, or make memories with your friends and family. However, maintaining a clean pool can take a lot of time and effort if you are not using the right tools.
Having the suction side pool cleaner helps to ensure that your pool is clean and ready for a swim anytime. We analyzed multiple suction-side pool cleaners by comparing the features, specifications, and experiences of those who have used the product.
This allowed us to show you the most viable options on the market today. Learn more about these pool cleaners, why they are necessary, and how to pick the best one for your pool. By the time you complete this guide, you will be ready to make your purchase.
Best Suction Side Pool Cleaners:
1. Zodiac MX6 Automatic Suction-Side Pool Cleaner Vacuum for In-ground Pools
The Zodiac Baracuda Inground Pool Automatic Suction Cleaner uses an innovative low-flow design. This makes it a good choice for pools that use either a variable-speed pump or a two-speed pump. The vacuuming power that you get from this cleaner is powerful because it uses cyclonic suction. It also climbs the walls of your pool due to its articulating turbine blade.
This combination of features ensures that it cleans every inch of your pool so that impurities cannot build up. You get a variety of hoses with this pool cleaner. They are a swiveling type so you can connect them quickly and do not have to worry about the hoses tangling during use.
According to this suction side automatic pool cleaner reviews, many customers are very happy with the overall efficiency of this pool cleaner. It tackles a variety of debris types to prevent any accumulation of dirt and other impurities.
Other customers made comments about the overall quality of this cleaner. The components are made from durable materials that ensure that you do not have to deal with the premature breakdown of the elements.
This pool cleaner has a variety of advanced features that allow it to work efficiently. You can use it for multiple inground pool types, so it is a versatile option.
Pros
- It keeps the pool water crystal clear
- This cleaner works to remove multiple debris types
- You can set it up fast and easy
Cons
- It may slow down prematurely
2. Hayward W3PVS20GST Poolvergnuegen Suction Pool Cleaner for In-Ground Pools
The Hayward Poolvergnuegen Automatic Suction Pool Cleaner uses two-wheel drive. This ensures that it has solid power and that it can navigate with ease around a variety of pool shapes and sizes. It is ideal for use in pools up to 16 by 32 feet.
The turbine vanes are self-adjusting. This ensures that the tool allows for the highest level of power no matter how much flow is present. Even the biggest of debris can pass through this cleaner so that they are removed from your pool.
The patented tread on the tires allows this cleaner to get around obstacles easily. It also makes it possible for the cleaner to climb without effort.
The roller skirt on this tool is adjustable. It can maintain a high level of suction for optimal cleaning even on uneven surfaces. This pool cleaning uses an internal sequence steering that is pre-programmed so that it does not miss any area of your pool when it is cleaning.
Many customers said that this pool cleaner was more effective and efficient than the other ones they have used. Since it can maneuver on stairs, it can clean every inch of your pool. Other customers talked about the tires. They said that the cleaner maintains a high level of suction so that everything is as clean as possible.
This pool cleaner is easy to use and gets installed. When it is moving around, it can effectively pick up a variety of impurities to ensure that your pool remains as clean as possible.
Pros
- This cleaner does not get stuck at odd angles
- It effectively removes even small debris
- The cleaner can climb up onto pool steps
Cons
- Sometimes it may stop moving
3. Pentair 360042 Kreepy Krauly® Suction-Side Inground Universal Pool Cleaner
The Pentair Kreepy Krauly Inground Pool Universal Suction Side Pool Cleaner has a drive float directional system. This feature allows this tool to provide a better cleaning experience because it will work on every inch of your pool, from the floor to the waterline.
The automatic valve allows for the water flow regulation to occur automatically. This ensures that the tool is working at the ideal travel speed necessary to adequately clean your pool.
The roller strap component moves around ladders and stairs with ease so that no area of your pool is left uncleaned. There are also cleaner wings that ensure that debris and dirt are put right into your pool’s filtration system.
Many customers talked about how well this pool cleaner works. They say that it prevents any impurities from accumulating so that their pool is always ready to use. Others talked about how it operates. It gets every inch of your pool so that you will not have to go in and manually clean any spots.
This pool cleaner has a variety of innovative features that make it easy to use and efficient. You can install it quickly. It also moves around different obstacles without getting stuck.
Pros
- This tool cleans the pool efficiently
- It is very easy to operate
- The pool cleaner works just as well as more expensive options
Cons
- It may get stuck in areas without awkward angles
4. VINGLI Automatic Pool Cleaner in-Ground Suction-Side Vacuum-Generic Climb Wall Pool Sweeper
The VINGLI Automatic In-Ground Pool Suction Cleaner can tackle almost all types of debris, including hair and sand. This ensures that you do not have small debris accumulating. You can set this pool cleaner up very quickly. Within about 30 minutes, you will have everything in place, and it will start cleaning your pool.
The variety of hoses lets you connect the cleaner to multiple pump types. This also ensures that you can use this cleaner for larger pools without any problems. Since the hoses connect closely, there is little to no risk of air leaks happening.
Many customers talked about how quiet this pool cleaner is. They said that when it is operating, they did not even notice, so it will not disturb anyone. It does not have that weird hammer noise that other pool cleaners do.
Other customers said that the variety of hoses is a nice feature. They enjoy having options so that they can ensure that they are using the best hoses for their pool.
This pool cleaner comes with everything that you need to start using it right away. The installation is easy, and you can maintain this cleaner with minimal effort.
Pros
- This pool cleaner operates very quietly
- It is very efficient
- There are multiple hose options
Cons
- It may stop working prematurely
5. XtremepowerUS Premium Automatic Suction Vacuum-generic Climb Wall Pool Cleaner Sweeper In-Ground Suction Side + Hose Set
The XtremepowerUS Automatic Suction Vacuum features an eco-friendly design that keeps your pool clean without creating a major carbon footprint. Due to its design, it requires little maintenance while being very efficient. Your pool remains clean and you only need to worry about emptying the filter basket on occasion.
This pool cleaner works with your pool’s filtration system so that you do not have to install anything special to make it work. It allows more debris to get through the filtration system to keep your pool cleaner with less effort.
This cleaner moves around your pool by itself. It works to gently clean your pool’s floor and will not cause any damage. You can use it for a variety of pool floors without problems. You need no tools or electricity to use this pool cleaner.
The cleaner works for multiple debris types, including twigs, algae, leaves, and a variety of other impurities. This ensures that debris is not able to accumulate and cause damage to your pool.
Some customers said that this pool cleaner lasted when others could not handle the job. This was especially true for pools that did not have a perfectly smooth bottom. It was able to navigate and clean without failing.
It does not clog easily, according to many reviewers. The cleaner was able to handle a variety of debris types without experiencing issues or requiring manual removal of clogs.
This is the pool suction vacuum cleaner because it has a simple design that is easy to use and maintain. It tackles a variety of debris so that your pool remains clean with minimal effort.
Pros
- This pool cleaner is eco-friendly
- You do not need any tools to operate it
- It is easy to maintain
Cons
- The metal weights may become exposed and leave marks on the pool’s floor
6. Hayward W3500 Aquabug Above-Ground Suction Pool Cleaner
The Hayward Aquabug Above-Ground Pool Cleaner ensures a constant balance of water due to its turbine/gearing system. This feature also makes sure that the cleaner is working quietly so that you and your neighbors are not disturbed by the noise. It uses a gentle movement that works its way across the bottom of your pool without any issues.
The design of the head has an advanced contour. This makes it possible for the right steering pattern. When the steering pattern is proper, your pool gets cleaner in less time. You can use this pool cleaner for multiple surface types, including concrete, tiles, vinyl, and fiberglass.
It has a bumper ring. This feature allows the cleaner to get away from pool walls easily so that it gets back into a proper steering pattern. The ring also ensures minimized friction when this cleaner is operating.
You can install this pool cleaner in about 10 minutes, according to several customers. It is easy to get going and as soon as you have it installed, it goes to work cleaning your pool. Other customers said that it works very efficiently. They stated that they noticed a difference within a day or two regarding how clean their pool was becoming.
This pool cleaner works well and starts working right away once you install it. You only need to perform minimal maintenance, so it helps to keep your pool clean with minimal effort.
Pros
- This pool cleaner works for most above-ground pool types
- It has a bumper ring to protect the walls of your pool
- You can install it very quickly
Cons
- It may cause a tear in the pool liner
7. Pentair 360100 Kreepy Krauly Lil Shark Above Ground Pool Cleaner
The Pentair Kreepy Krauly Lil Shark scrubs away debris due to its dual band of bristles. This ensures that debris does not get to accumulate inside your pool. It also will not miss spots because it has programmed cleaning.
It cuts through a 10-inch wide area at a time. This will speed up how quickly this pool cleaner works. The cleaner only has a single moving part. This means that there is not much to maintain or replace, making this cleaner easy to maintain.
Several customers said that compared to other swimming pool suction cleaners, this one worked with greater precision. Many stated that their pools had odd angles, but the cleaner did not miss these. Other people talked about how simple it was to install this cleaner. They were able to set it up and get it working in under an hour.
This pool cleaner moves easily across the floor of your pool. It navigates well so that it does not miss any areas.
Pros
- This tool can clean more surface area in a shorter amount of time
- Since it has one moving part, maintenance is minimal
- You do not have to assemble it
Cons
- The bristles on similar models were more efficient
8. Zodiac Ranger Suction Side Automatic Above-Ground Pool Cleaner
The Zodiac Ranger Automatic Suction Pool Cleaner is a good choice if you have an above-ground pool. Since it only has a single moving part, it is quiet, and you will not have to perform a lot of maintenance to keep it working.
The deflector wheel ensures that it can get around ladders, steps, and corners without getting stuck. It glides effortlessly due to the AG disc component. This ensures that your entire pool gets clean. The flow control is self-adjusting to make sure it is always operating at peak performance.
Numerous customers said that this pool cleaner works fast. They put it in their pool and by the next day, there is a noticeable difference in how clean their pool is. Other people said that it is easy to operate it. The owner’s manual provides clear details so that you know how to get the most out of it.
This pool cleaner starts working right away once you install it properly. It moves efficiently and does not leave behind any dirty areas.
Pros
- It starts working quickly
- The cleaner can pick up debris of varying sizes
- You can install it fast
Cons
- Sometimes you need help to guide it
9. Hayward W3PHS21CST AquaNaut 200 Suction Pool Cleaner for In-Ground Pools
The Hayward AquaNaut Suction Pool Vacuum has variable vanes that are self-adjusting. This allows the cleaner to pick up large debris and get maximum power at nearly any flow. You will not have to worry about any clogging when it picks up big debris from your pool’s floor.
The tires are large, allowing this pool cleaner to navigate with ease. It also has climbing abilities so that it can get around the main drains and any other obstacles on the floor of your pool.
The roller skirt on this cleaner is adjustable. This is important because when the tool is going over uneven surfaces, it will not lose suction. It will keep moving along and picking up debris without any interruptions.
This pool cleaner gets strong suction performance due to the interchangeable throats. It comes with three options that you can switch out depending on your cleaning needs. When the flow is lower, the bigger debris can still get through due to this feature.
Multiple customers say that the pool cleaner continues to work efficiently over the long term. They stated that they had no issues with it after running it for a whole pool season.
Several people talked about how easy it was to install this pool cleaner. The instructions that come with it are easy to read. It hooks into your existing setup so that you do not have to make any alterations to get the tool to work.
This pool cleaner sets up quickly so that you can start cleaning your pool right away. It has strong components that can withstand frequent use.
Pros
- It operates efficiently on multiple pool floor types
- This pool cleaner works well
- The cleaner does not stick to drains
Cons
- Rear wheels may break prematurely
10. VINGLI Pool Vacuum Cleaner Automatic Sweeper Swimming Pool Creepy Crawler Vacuum
The Vingli Automatic Pool Cleaner Vacuum provides high-efficiency cleaning for pools of various sizes. It can even remove very small impurities, such as hair and sand from your pool.
It has universal suction that allows it to pick up debris and not lose suction no matter the material of your pool. The cleaner also stays in contact with your pool’s surface even at angles.
12 hoses come with this pool cleaner. This allows you to keep some for replacement and use the rest to get more reach out of your pool cleaner
Multiple customers said that it started working quickly. They put this cleaner into their pool and by the next day, they noticed a difference in how clean their pool was. Other people said that it does not miss any spots. Even if your pool is big or oddly shaped, this cleaner will get the job done.
This pool cleaner can tackle a wide array of debris types. It starts working as soon as you get it into your pool, providing a superior clean on all surfaces.
Pros
- You get 12 hoses with this pool cleaner
- It is ideal for even large pools
- This pool cleaner assembles and installs quickly
Cons
- It may be less efficient in an above-ground pool
Tips on Choosing
When you are ready to buy a suction-side pool cleaner, there are some tips that you can use to make sure that you pick the best one. It is important to keep all of these considerations in mind while you are shopping to simplify the process.
Consider Your Pool Size
Your pool cleaner must be able to work with your pool. When you look at the specifications for these pool cleaners, you will notice pool size requirements. Certain ones can only operate up to specific water depths.
Take measurements of your pool. Make sure to get the depth, length, and width. Narrow down your search by only looking at the pool cleaners that can accommodate your pool size.
Installation
When you are picking a pool cleaner, you want one that you can install easily. This will prevent you from having to spend time and money on getting a professional to install it for you. You can find the installation information with the features.
For example, several of these cleaners can be installed without any tools, making the process quick and easy.
The Hoses
These pool cleaners often come with a variety of hose options. Make sure that the hoses will work with your existing pump and filtration system. The hoses should also be the proper length for the size of your pool.
Ideally, you want to find hoses that are scuff-free. This is imperative for ensuring that the hoses will not leave marks on your pool floor when the cleaner is working. The right hoses will also glide over drain covers and lights without any issues or damage.
Noise Level
Some of the pool cleaners are a lot louder than others when they are working. If you have neighbors nearby or plan to operate your cleaner when you are sleeping, you want one that is relatively quiet. You can find information about the loudness by looking at the specifications and reviews for the product.
Horsepower
Most of these pool cleaners operate at relatively low horsepower. They do not have to be very powerful to get the job done. Consider how much cleaning your pool needs and go from here to choose the right power level. Ideally, you want to go for a higher horsepower when you have a larger pool that needs a lot of extra cleaning.
Check the Pump Compatibility
Certain suction-side pool cleaners only work with certain types of pool pumps. You can find this information in the specification section. Check out the owner’s manual for your pool’s pump to get information about the type that it is.
Then, all you have to do is narrow down your search to the pool cleaners that can function with that type of pump so that you do not run into problems.
Factors to Consider
There are several factors to consider when it comes to picking the suction-side pool cleaner. Having this information will simplify the shopping process once you are ready to buy one of these tools.
Sub-Type Options
There are two primary sub-types that you can choose from. These include:
Inertia-driven suction cleaners: These types use a random pattern for cleaning. Eventually, they will cover the entirety of your pool’s floor.
However, compared to other cleaner sub-types, this can take longer due to the random traveling pattern that they use. This type is ideal for a pool that does not have sharp corners, but curved walls.
Geared suction cleaners: This type operates using a pre-determined pattern. The pool cleaner is more efficient and works faster than the inertia type of cleaner. They are a good choice when you have a smaller pool that has tight corners.
This sub-type is also an ideal choice for a pool with sharp ledges and multiple steps.
Brushes or No Brushes
If you want a cleaner that is as simple as possible, skip those that have brushes on them. However, if your pool needs a little extra cleaning, it is ideal to choose one that does have brushes. These will help to loosen debris that is fine so that it can be sucked up and removed from your pool.
Debris Abilities
Certain types of suction-side pool cleaners are for large debris while others are more diverse and able to pick up debris of all sizes.
If your pool is near a tree where leaves fall infrequently, it is important to choose one that can suck up larger debris without experiencing frequent clogs.
This will help to keep your pool cleaner with less effort.
Look at Maneuverability
Some of these cleaners are more maneuverable than others. For example, some can navigate the stairs while others are better for flat surfaces only.
Think about the type of pool that you have to make the best choice in this area.
Explore the Wheels
The number and quality of the wheels an important factors to consider. You need the wheels to maintain contact with your pool’s floor at all times so that you are getting optimal suction.
Those that are made of rubber are generally the best choice.
Regarding the number of wheels, the best option depends on your pool. If the shape of your pool is abnormal, more wheels may allow for better navigation so that every inch of your pool gets cleaned without any issues.
Check Out the Back-Up Valve
If you want to make sure that your pool cleaner does not experience frequent interruptions, it is ideal to look for one that has a backup valve. This component ensures continuous cleaning.
You can use a cleaner with this element for any type of pool, no matter the overall shape and size.
It helps to keep your pool cleaner and moving along without clogging or other disruptions.
FAQ
Before you start shopping for a suction-side pool cleaner, you want to make sure that you understand all of the associated factors. Having this information ensures that you pick the right one for your pool.
How Does a Suction Side Pool Cleaner Work?
This type of pool cleaner essentially functions as an underwater vacuum. It moves around your pool’s floor to remove debris, leaves, dirt, and other impurities that are present. The tool uses multiple hoses and puts the impurities into a filter basket. In most cases, they work along with your existing filtration and pump setup.
How Do You Maintain This Tool?
These pool cleaners are relatively easy to maintain. Make sure to follow the instructions in the owner’s manual to ensure that you do it properly. However, in general, you only need to empty the filter basket as necessary so that it does not get overfilled.
What Are the Different Types of Suction Side Pool Cleaners?
There are automatic and manual types of this pool cleaner. Both types operate via your pool’s existing pump. These pool cleaners come in a variety of designs. Some only have one moving part.
However, more sophisticated options have brushes, wheels, and other components to ensure that they remove and suck up the debris and dirt on your pool’s floor.
Why Should You Consider This Pool Cleaner?
This pool cleaning tool makes maintaining your pool easy. Since the tool itself is easy to maintain, you get a cleaner pool with limited effort. The design of these cleaners reduces the risk of mechanical breakdown, so you can essentially set them and forget them until you need to empty the basket.
They can remove debris of varying sizes. This can reduce the need to manually skim your pool as often.
Conclusion
It is easy to see why people use side suction pool cleaners. They simplify the maintenance process to ensure that your pool is clean and ready for swimming.
With the options that you learned about here, you can easily narrow down the choices so that you make the best decision regarding your pool maintenance. Explore each of the reviews thoroughly to learn about the details of each cleaner.
Consider your pool and your cleaning needs as you do this so that you can match up the information to the cleaner that will work the best for your pool.
Once you narrow down the cleaners that will work for you, explore the tips for choosing one and the factors to consider. This will provide important insight into what you need to think about when you are shopping for a suction-side pool cleaner.
The last part is reading the FAQs. This section provides more details about how to evaluate these pool cleaners so that you pick the one that will meet all of your needs.
Now, you are ready to buy a suction-side pool cleaner. Check with the owner’s manual of your pool to ensure that all of the specifications mesh with each other. Ensure that you install it properly to get the most benefit.
