Buying Guide for the Best Cheap Pool Cleaner
Choosing the right pool cleaner can make maintaining your pool much easier and more efficient. When selecting a pool cleaner, it's important to consider various factors to ensure you get the best fit for your needs. Here are some key specifications to look at and how to navigate them.Type of Pool CleanerPool cleaners come in three main types: suction-side, pressure-side, and robotic. Suction-side cleaners attach to your pool's suction line and use the pool's pump to move around. Pressure-side cleaners use the return water from your pool's pump to move and collect debris. Robotic cleaners are self-contained units that operate independently of your pool's pump and filter system. Suction-side cleaners are generally the most affordable and are suitable for smaller pools with light debris. Pressure-side cleaners are good for larger pools with more debris, while robotic cleaners offer the most convenience and efficiency but are usually more expensive.
Pool Size and ShapeThe size and shape of your pool can influence the type of cleaner you need. Larger pools may require more powerful cleaners or those with longer hoses to cover the entire area. Irregularly shaped pools with many corners or steps may benefit from robotic cleaners that can navigate complex layouts more effectively. For smaller, standard-shaped pools, a suction-side cleaner might be sufficient.
Debris TypeConsider the type of debris that commonly falls into your pool. If your pool collects a lot of leaves, twigs, and larger debris, you might need a cleaner with a larger intake and debris bag. For pools that mostly accumulate fine dirt and sand, a cleaner with fine filtration capabilities is essential. Suction-side cleaners are generally good for fine debris, while pressure-side and robotic cleaners can handle larger debris more effectively.
Ease of MaintenanceMaintenance is an important factor to consider. Some pool cleaners require more frequent emptying and cleaning of filters or bags. Robotic cleaners often have easy-to-access filter cartridges that can be quickly cleaned, while suction-side and pressure-side cleaners may require more manual effort. If you prefer a low-maintenance option, look for cleaners with easy-to-clean filters and minimal parts that need regular attention.
Energy EfficiencyEnergy efficiency is another important consideration, especially if you want to keep operating costs low. Robotic cleaners are generally the most energy-efficient as they operate independently of your pool's pump and use less electricity. Suction-side cleaners rely on your pool's pump, which can increase energy consumption. Pressure-side cleaners also use the pool's pump but may have their own booster pump, which can add to energy use. If energy efficiency is a priority, a robotic cleaner might be the best choice.
Cleaning Cycle TimeThe time it takes for a pool cleaner to complete a cleaning cycle can vary. Robotic cleaners often have programmable cycles and can clean a pool in a few hours. Suction-side and pressure-side cleaners may take longer and are often left to run for several hours or even overnight. If you want quick cleaning, a robotic cleaner with a shorter cycle time might be ideal. For those who don't mind longer cleaning times, suction-side or pressure-side cleaners can be a good fit.