The 16 Best Suction Pool Cleaner Options in 2021

Maintaining a swimming pool is never easy as it takes a lot of work. However, a suction pool cleaner can eliminate dirt and debris in less time and with little or no effort on your path. Below, we review some of the best swimming pool cleaners in the market, then we conclude by pointing out down things to consider when shopping for a pool cleaner.

1. Zodiac MX8 Suction-Side Cleaner

Zodiac MX8 is one of the best automatic pool cleaners. MX8 is an efficient cleaning system that sucks in debris and particles that cling to pool surfaces. The cleaning power of this zodiac vacuum for pool is second to none, which is why it is highly rated. The Cyclone Technology it utilizes has tremendous pulling power, so all you have to do is hold it still while the device does the rest. Zodiac pool also has an X-Drive technology with an advanced dual navigation feature that covers the length and breadth of your entire pool.

It will clean the floor thoroughly, including tight corners and vertical walls. Let us also not fail to mention the special X-Trax tires that provide users with extra maneuverability. The hose is very long, so you can stand far away from the machine while you work your way through your pull at the other end.

This feature comes in very handy if your entire pool is huge. Moreover, this is one of the best automatic cleaners for cleaning Olympic-sized pools. Furthermore, this device is energy-efficient. It can run for a very long time without consuming too much energy, which is also good news if you want to control energy consumption.

The special tires enable you to move this zodiac pool device from one end of your pool to the other end with ease without the need to lift it. So if you have been looking for one of the best above-ground robotic cleaners, now you have it.

Pros

• High tech automatic pool cleaners
• Premium suction power
• Energy efficient
• Secure attachments
• It cleans very fast with its dual suction feature
• Extra-long 39ft hose

Cons

• A little complex for first-time users
• Requires stability when you are standing on slippery ground when in use

2. Hayward W3PHS41CST AquaNaut 400 Suction Pool Cleaners for In-Ground Pools

Another model of suction pool cleaners worth adding to this list is Hayward W3PHS41CST Aquanaut. This inground pool vacuum is a cleaner on wheels that every home with a swimming pool should have.

Hayward boasts tremendous suction power, stability, and perfect traction. As you move the machine from one spot to the next, the possibility of the machine tilting over is almost zero because of how strong the wheels are.

Hayward is ideal for all kinds of cleaning and is also effective for all types of swimming pools. It utilizes a patented V-Flex technology which sets it apart from other pool cleaners we have seen. This technology uses a self-adjustable vane that increases suction power when it comes in contact with clogging debris.

Similarly, you can seamlessly move over any surface without sacrificing suction power. Even if you encounter tough or large debris, you can trust Hayward to suck them all in with minimal fuss. As for the tires, rest assured that you will have no problems with them because they are rugged and built for tough terrains. In addition, they provide the user with superior climbing power for ultimate flow performance.

The Hayward W3PHS41CST is an ideal brand to choose if you want a pool cleaner that won’t clog during cleaning sessions. You know the quality to expect and you can be sure that it will last you for many years to come.

Pros

• Durable components
• It comes with quality attachments
• Very easy to handle
• Sturdy hose

Cons

• Not very energy efficient on certain pool surfaces
• Requires a very stable hand to target debris with the pool pump

3. Pentair 360042 Kreepy Krauly Suction-Side Inground Universal Pool Cleaner

Pentair is another pool cleaner we just had to add to this list when compiling a list of brands for this review. This world-famous robotic cleaner vacuum is a directional dive float system for comprehensive pool cleaning. One amazing feature you will like about Pentair is that you can direct the cleaning hose towards any area of your pool without going too close to the area of debris concentration.

The directional system can also guide the pool cleaner throughout the length and breadth of your swimming pool without actively pushing the machine on your own. If you are a first-time user with minimal experience using a robotic cleaner vacuum, Pentair will be an ideal device for you. The machine is straightforward to use. It comes with a roller strap that allows you to maneuver around steps so you can reach those tiny spots in and around stair lines. The automatic valve also regulates water flow on your behalf as you work your pool. This feature allows water to travel at resolute speed for quick action cleaning.

Suffice to say that this pool cleaner is a user-friendly machine that guarantees you many years of reliable service. For a single price, you get to enjoy clean pools for years to come. Pentair is one of the best pool cleaning robots we surely recommend.

Pros

• Smart controls
• User-friendly features
• Dependable moving parts
• It has cleaner wings to channel debris and dirt
• One of the best suction side pool cleaners for first-time users

Cons

• Quite weighty
• It does not come with replacement gears or wheels

4. Pentair GW9500 Kreepy Krauly Great White Inground Pool Cleaner

Another best inground pool Cleaner worthy of mention is another Pentair model called the GW9500. This device is fondly called the Krauly Great White because of its exterior.

Make no mistake, guys, this machine is an automatic cleaner that allows you to clean your pools in under 40 minutes, depending on how big and dirty the pool is. Smart features make it possible to do so.

For starters, Pentair GW9500 has SmartTrac programmable steering that allows for easy navigation. In this way, this pool cleaner for inground pools can be moved as you wish, despite obstacles. Thus, from the start to the finish of your cleaning session, you can proceed without interruption.

Secondly, it has a fitting vacuum port that has a ring-loaded cover. This feature protects you and ensures your safety during your cleaning. Pentair is a trusted brand among homeowners and cleaning professionals for this reason alone.

Then there is the turning mechanism that helps you navigate the machine out of tight, difficult areas. Generally, Pentair’s design features make pool cleaning easy, so we recommend them.

Pros

• Value for money
• Useful against semi-solid and solid dirt and debris
• Premium suction power
• Cleans 15 inches of ground at a time

Cons

• The Unidapt adapter telepole adapter is not effective for wide spit cleaning
• No warranty attached

5. Zodiac W03000 G3 Suction-Side Inground Vacuum Pool Cleaner

The Zodiac W03000 is as good as zodiac pool cleaners can be. This suction side inground cleaner is another excellent model from the stable of Zodiac. This cleaner functions with a quiet suction technology that makes minimal noise when it is working. So, if you have always wanted a pool cleaner that would not disturb the neighborhood’s peace when it is working, Zodiac W03000 is the suction pool cleaner for you.

It works at low speed, which is excellent for dealing with stubborn stains and dirt that will not come off your pool’s surface in seconds. Also, the maximum operational efficiency of Zodiac W03000 makes it a top-performing cleaner among the long list of cleaners available on the market today.

Zodiac has a special wheel deflector for moving the body around tight corners and shaky grounds. The traction is also standard, which prevents the machine from tumbling over. Moreover, the wheels are pretty flexible and maneuverable, so you will have no issues pushing it in any direction you please.

The FlowKeeper Valve is not manual but automatic, so you don’t have to worry your head about controlling the suction flow on your own since it regulates itself. The Zodiac W03000 may not be Zodiac’s best in-ground pool cleaner, but it is certainly not the worst.

Pros

• Effective against small and medium-sized dirt and debris
• An affordable pool cleaner
• Works well even with low power
• Very durable engine

Cons

• Sucking large debris may lead to clogging
• Not very good for above ground pools

6. Hayward 900 Wanda the Whale Suction Above-Ground Pool Cleaner

Another Hayward model to make our list is the Hayward 900 Wanda cleaner. From Hayward, this is one of the best above-ground robotic pool cleaners. It cleans a pool from the bottom. Another highly rated feature of this pool cleaner is that you can use it for above-ground and in-ground pools of all types.

So regardless of the type of poop you have on your property, this is the type of pool cleaner you need to maintain the quality of your pool. It is noise efficient and improves circulation by simply drawing water up from the bottom of your pool without submerging your hose onto the pool.

Hayward 900 guarantees superior results every single time you use it. In addition, its 32ft hose and other attachments are easy to install in less than 10 minutes. So if you want a quality cleaner, now you have one.

Pros

• Easy to assemble
• Extra-long hose
• Efficient filtration system
• It leaves your pool water looking sparkling clean

Cons

• The attachments are a little expensive
• Requires abundant space for storage

7. Vingli Pool Vacuum Above Ground Indoor Outdoor Automatic Swimming Pool Cleaner Sweep Crawler Sweeper

If you have a large estate with indoor and outdoor pools, we are sure you wouldn’t mind robot pool cleaners that can clean both effectively. Some pool cleaners are only suitable for specific pools, but this Vingli vacuum pool cleaner is a good all-arounder. With Vingli, you can clean above-ground, inground, indoor, and outdoor pools, leaving no stain or debris behind.

This automatic cleaner is both a sucker and a sweeper that will save you time and resources. Due to its fast operation, you consume less energy and time regardless of how big the pool may be. Amazingly, the manufacturer has included as many as ten durable replacement hoses, so you don’t have to spend money on a new one when the old one goes bad.

This cleaner does not jamb, nor does it clog, so you get to enjoy an uninterrupted cleaning process from start to finish. When you rely on Vingli, keeping your pool clean doesn’t have to be a hassle.

Pros

• Easy to setup
• Suitable for all pool types
• Ultimate sweeper cleaner
• Noiseless technology

Cons

• Manual regulator setting
• Requires weight adjustments

8. Poolvergnuegen PV896584000013 Hayward 896584000-013 the Pool Cleaner Automatic Suction Pool Vacuum

Tenth on our list of suction pool cleaners is this one by Poolverguegen Hayward. It is a very flexible device that is easily operable. You require little or no experience to use it as a first-time user. Furthermore, it has a wide hose passageway that allows large debris to pass through.

This automatic cleaner is also very effective on uneven surfaces. No dirt will be left on the staircase or in the cracks. All you need to do is bring your hose very close to the spot you want to clean, and this cleaner will do the rest.

The tires are sturdy and flexible, so they will not pull off, neither will they jamb under the weight of the suction machine. Let us also add that it is also effective for cleaning pool drains and the footpaths on the edges of your pool.

To prolong the life of this device, make sure you remove dirt from the chamber immediately after cleaning.

Pros

• Various suction flows
• Durable tires
• Easy to set up

Cons

• The hose is not very long
• It does not have extra attachments

9. XtremepowerUS Premium Automatic Suction Vacuum-Generic Climb Wall Pool Cleaner Sweeper

XtremepowerUS is one of the most versatile robotic pool cleaners for extra-large pools. This cleaner is effective for cleaning walls, stairs, and surfaces at a tremendous speed. There is a reason it is called XtremepowerUS. All it requires is a 1 hp pool pump or a 1600 GHP to perform.

XtremepowerUS is also a user-friendly poop cleaner for two reasons. Firstly, it does not require any special tools to get started; secondly, it doesn’t require electricity. Simply attach your filtration system, and you are good to go. Lastly, XtremepowerUS has a self-navigating system that moves according to set operational patterns from top to bottom, so rest easy knowing that cleaning your pool will not be a stressful as you thought.

Pros

• Onsite self-navigation
• It comes with 10 hoses
• It has a removable flapper
• Ultra Smart design

Cons

• Not ideal for cleaning pool stairs
• The package does not include an HP pool pump

10. Hayward 925ADC Navigator Pro Suction Pool Vacuum

For more than three decades now, Hayward Navigator Pro Suction Robotic Pool cleaners have been providing excellent cleaning services to pool owners and cleaning professionals alike. One of this manufacturer’s best suction pool cleaners is the Navigator Pro Suction because it can be controlled easily, locks debris up quickly, and can be set up and connected in less than 10 minutes.

You don’t require any special skills to use Hayward Navigator Pro. Armed with this machine, you can maintain your pool all year round with minimum effort. There are no noisy moving parts in the makeup, and it also operates at low noise levels.

Hayward Navigator Pro is highly functional and easy to manage. It requires no special tools, neither does it consume too much power.

Pros

• Energy efficient
• Operational flexibility
• Quick set up

Cons

• Wall climbing is limited to specific pool sizes and types

11. Vingli Automatic Pool Vacuum Cleaner Swimming Pool Vacuum With Additional Hoses & Diaphragms

Another model by Vingli to make our list is this automatic cleaner. This model comes with spare diaphragms and hoses for longevity. The best pool vacuum cleaners have extra attachments, and this is what Vingli offers.

Even though it functions as a suction cleaner, the amazing thing about it is that it doesn’t suck; instead, it cleans your pool, leaving behind no debris. Vingli is one of the best suction pool cleaners we have seen for in-ground pools because it has a deflector wheel that allows you to move it through tight corners.

It does not jamb, break, or suffer from clogging neither do you require any special tools to activate it. W also know that not every pool cleaner is effective against dust, but this model by Vingli is. It eliminates dust, dirt, and debris in one full swing.

If you don’t want to keep coming back to the same spot over and over again, you might want to go for this one-time pool surface cleaner. There are no leftovers with this device, so you get excellent results every single time.

Pros

• It is easy to dislodge gathered dirt
• High-quality hose
• Time Saver
• Inexpensive

Cons

• It does not pick up leaves
• Requires frequent speed and weight adjustments

12. Hayward PHS21CST AquaNaut Suction Pool Vacuum

Hayward’s Aquanaut is another robotic pool cleaner. This PHS21CST is one of the best swimming pool cleaners with anti-clogging features. It maximizes suction power flow and allows you to steer the hose towards your desired direction without complicating the cleaning process.

Hayward PHS21CST has multiple programmed steering sequences that you don’t have to adjust on your own. These sequences allow you to cover the entire length of your pool effortlessly and in less time while maintaining constant suction every step of the way.

What’s more? This model has high traction tires that will glove through rough and slippery terrain, and they never come off. You are also at liberty to switch the suction speed to suit your need during your cleaning sessions.

Pros

• Amazing V-Flex technology
• Flexible steering
• Utilizes variable speed pumps

Cons

• The wheels are not multi-directional, so it requires physical effort
• Extra hoses not included

13. Vivohome Upgraded Automatic Inground Above Ground Suction Swimming Pool Sweeper Vacuum Cleaner

Vivohome Automatic Inground Above Ground suction cleaner is one of the best swimming pool cleaners for all pool types. A tested and trusted model for indoor and outdoor pools. We call this model a swimming pool preserver because it not only removes debris and dirt it also sucks on insects and algae growing around your pool’s edges.

If you don’t have the time to clean your pool regularly, this is just what you need. This robotic vacuum cleaner will leave your pool looking clean and fresh for a long time because it removes unwanted deposits from your pool’s surface.

The Finned disc is adaptive to pool surfaces such as concrete, marble, tiles, and even fiberglass. In addition, the TPU material design prevents your surface from damage due to excessive suction. As a result, Vivohome is a versatile cleaner worth the price and one you would not regret buying for your general pool maintenance.

Pros

• It takes less than 15 minutes to assemble
• 10 PVC pipes included
• Extra-long 32.8 ft hose (total length)

Cons

• It only works best with a 0.5 HP pool pump

14. Intex Recreation Corp FBA_28001E Intex Auto Pool Cleaner

Last but not least is the Intex Recreational Auto Cleaner. This best above-ground pool robotic cleaner can clean your pool in a reverse direction. It comes with a 24ft hose that can be attached easily to a pool inlet if you have one.

It also works with filter pumps that operate at a flow rate of between 1600-3500 gallons per hour, making it a helpful tool for cleaning Olympic-sized pools. In addition, the price you pay today will serve you well for many years to come since Intex is made from durable materials that will last for many years.

Intex is purpose-built to deliver excellent results even on uneven surfaces. The wheels are flexible and sturdy, and so is the steering. Intex robotic pool cleaners are excellent cleaners for outstanding results.

15. Zodiac MX6 Automatic Suction Side Cleaner Vacuum for Inground Pools

Have you been looking for a zodiac pool vacuum that you can trust you can trust to make your pool spick and span? You should be excited to know that the MX6 is another perfect suction pool cleaner by this manufacturer with a track record for delivering the kind of performance you desire.

The MX6 is not an average suction pool cleaners by any stretch of the imagination but a cleaner per excellence. It has an efficient low profile that allows you to clean your pool using 2-speed variable pumps. It also uses cyclonic suction power to pick up dirt and debris, which works similarly to the MX8. The turbine blade on the engines is also effective against stains that cling to the pool walls. If you prefer easy-to-use hoses, the MX6 is the cleaner for you because it uses a swiveling hose that is easy to assemble and connect.

This in-ground pool cleaner comes with a quality attachment for an ultimate cleaning experience. Some of the attachments are e a weir valve, Hose float, 90 inches Twist lock elbow, and a 7×1.2m Twist Lock Hose length. It also has a warranty card and a Flow regulator. All these attachments combine to provide the user with premium usability. Zodiac MX6 is a perfect swimming pool cleaner for in-ground pools and one we highly recommend. However, make sure you consult the User manual before you commence usage.

Pros

• Relatively easy to assemble
• After-sale customer tech support provided
• Excellent variable speed suction power
• Effective against tiny dirt and particles

Cons

• A little pricey
• Powerful engine vibrations can be unsettling

16. Hayward PV896584000020 Poolvergnuegen 896584000-020 The Pool Cleaner Automatic Suction

When we decided to review the best pool cleaners money can buy, our resolve was to ensure that only the best suction pool cleaners made our list hence our choice of brands and models. Continuing similarly, we bring you Hayward Poolverguegen. This model is an automatic pool cleaner that works at top speed. It makes very little noise, but the output is second to none.

The patented turbine blade adjuster makes it easy for you to eliminate clogs and debris within the shortest possible time. It also has a pre-programmed steering speed sequencer that periodically makes the left wheel reverse as you push it forward.

This Hayward is one cleaner that will not disappoint you in any way. It offers optimal suction power and an interchangeable throat which makes for raised cleaning.

Pros

• Expansive pool coverage
• Robust tire threads
• Variable speed pumps

Cons

• Not the best cleaner for eliminating wall dirt

What Is A Suction Pool Cleaner?

When a pool skimmer is turned on, a suction side pool cleaner initiates suction. A swimming pool cleaner can be used to clean swimming pools by moving them around. Since they use water pressure, vacuum cleaners are also known as poolside cleaners.

Types of Suction Pool Cleaners

There are different types of robot vacuum cleaners on sale today, and we explain the different types below:

Pressure

We have suction-side pool cleaners called pressure vacuums or pressure-side vacuum cleaners. This model has the vacuum attached to the side of the filter pump and moved around using the force of water pressure. Pressure suction side cleaners require booster pumps and a filtration system to increase the flow of water circulation.

However, they are pretty expensive and also consume a lot of water. Surfaces of pools, but not walls, are best cleaned by pressure suction side pool cleaners.

Automatic

Another type of cleaner is the automatic pool cleaner that connects to the skimmer or a special suction line. An automatic pool cleaner sucks water into the suction line, then filters and collects dirt as water flows through the line.

Then, the pump pushes the filtered water back into the swimming pool. An automatic pool cleaner is one of the most common models on sale today.

Robotic

The robotic pool vacuum is arguably the most cost-effective and energy-efficient cleaner in the market today. Also, it is very easy to use. You simply plug it in and switch it on. Robotic pool cleaners do not use attached filtration systems.

Instead, they have a self-contained in-built system and work with software that allows them to remove around your pool to such in dirt and debris.

Manual

Manually operated pool vacuum cleaners are the best. These types of suction cleaners are connected to an extended pole and held by the user standing outside the swimming pool. The user simply drives the cleaner scores the pool’s surface. Although they are very cheap, they rewire a lot of human effort.

Considerations When Purchasing

When buying a suction pool cleaner, here are several factors to consider to make a good choice.

Price

There are different prices for suction cleaners. Other models are available at different prices online and at hardware stores. So before you commence your search for a pool cleaner vacuum, make sure you already have a budget for it. Robotic and automatic cleaners cost more than manual cleaners. Cleaners with special features and control buttons will also cost more. The wise move is to go for a brand that guarantees value, and you can afford it.

Hose Length Needed

What is your preferred hose length? Let’s find out!

Suction Pool cleaners tend to have heavy-duty holes of different lengths. Two things to consider when making a choice is the code length and quality. First, make sure the hose is of high quality. Secondly, the longer the hose, the more space you will cover. We recommend a hose length of 24ft and above.

Debris Type and Amount

Another thing to consider when buying an Inground pool vacuum cleaner is the size of debris it can suck in. Some cleaners can suck in tiny and medium debris and dirt with no issues but will clog if it sucks in large-sized debris, while others will suck in the debris of all sizes. While we recommend pressure cleaners for large debris, note that you must empty the wastebasket several times to prevent overloading.

Pool Type/Material

The type of pool you have should also influence your choice. While most cleaners will work for all surfaces, some are just better for certain floors than others. We recommend that you read the product description before buying the cleaner.

Durability

You want a cleaner that will last for at least five years or more, right? If so, you should choose brands with durable parts. In addition, smart navigation sensors and programmable timers are featured on the best cleaners.

Suction Power

More importantly, is the suction power. It makes no sense to buy a pool cleaner that cannot handle the debris in your pool. So only consider models with tremendous suction power that can suck in leaves. A pool cleaner that can suck in leaves will handle any other debris.

Suction Pool Cleaner FAQ

The Bottom Line

If you have a swimming pool at home and want it to remain clean all year round, a suction pool cleaner is a must-have. This pool cleaner is easy to use and will make light work of dirt on your pool floor. If you get one, make sure you read the user manual to get the best results.

Pricing on this page was last updated on 2024-09-08