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The Best Pool Vacuums of 2024
If you’re a proud pool owner, you already know that maintaining the cleanliness of your pool is essential. A pool vacuum can help you keep your watery oasis free from leaves, debris, and dirt. Out of a sea of options on the market, our team has chosen five of the best pool vacuums that offer durability, longevity, and exceptional power. Chief among them is the AIPER Pool Vacuum, a cordless powerhouse that cleans and filters your pool water in no time flat. Read on for more details on all of these great pool vacuum options!
Our Top Picks For Pool Vacuums
View all ContentsThe Best Pool Vacuums
Best Overall
Designed to save you time and money while keeping your pool pristine, the AIPER Pool Vacuum is the ultimate solution for pool maintenance. It is equipped with a revolutionary quad-motor system and WavePath Navigation Technology. Plus, this vacuum effortlessly climbs walls and effectively scrubs the waterline, leaving no trace of impurities. With three cleaning modes to choose from, you have complete control when cleaning your pool.
This vacuum can target trouble spots and help you achieve a spotless pool. It also has a quad-motor system that filters an impressive 130 gallons of water per minute, delivering unmatched cleaning efficiency. The built-in battery ensures an extended runtime of up to 180 minutes. The charging time has also been halved to just 90 minutes, allowing for quicker and more competent cleaning sessions. With its exceptional features, long battery life, and robust cleaning capabilities, this pick is the top choice on our list.
Pros
- Cordless design eliminates the need for cords
- Impressive 180-minute cleaning time
- Filters 130 gallons of water per minute
Cons
- Screen filter inadequate for fine dirt
Best for Small Debris
Introducing the Intex Rechargeable Pool Vacuum: Your solution to effortless pool and spa maintenance. With powerful suction designed for PureSpas and above-ground pools up to 18 feet in diameter, this handheld vacuum ensures a sparkling clean every time.
Equipped with durable nickel-metal hydride rechargeable batteries, enjoy consistent suction power that lasts all day and beyond. Two interchangeable brush heads, a USB charging cable, and a telescoping aluminum shaft provide everything needed for efficient debris removal.
Featuring an automatic shutoff function and IPX8 waterproof switch, safety and durability are guaranteed. Weighing just 6.74 pounds, it’s lightweight and portable for easy cleaning of inground pools, hot tubs, and jacuzzis. Say goodbye to tedious cleaning and hello to pristine waters with the Intex Rechargeable Pool Vacuum.
Pros
- Efficient in picking up small debris
- Convenient and easy to use
- Durable and long-lasting battery life
Cons
- Filter bag needs frequent cleaning
Most Robust
The Dolphin Pool Vacuum boasts exceptional cleaning performance. It can cover the entire pool area during its two-hour cleaning cycle. Designed to cater to both above-ground and in-ground pools, this innovative vacuum cleaner guarantees a pristine pool experience. With its remarkable wall-climbing capabilities, the vacuum expertly scrubs the floor and walls of pools. As a result, it ensures a thorough cleaning every time.
This vacuum has a generous 60-foot tangle-free cable. In turn, it provides extensive reach and maneuverability throughout your pool. With a suction rate of 4,500 gallons per hour, the vacuum swiftly captures debris. In turn, your pool water will be clear and inviting. Weighing in at a mere 19 pounds, this lightweight yet powerful robotic cleaner effortlessly glides through the water and delivers exceptional results.
Pros
- Long 60-foot tangle-free cable
- 4,500-gallon suction rate per hour
- Lightweight design for effortless handling
Cons
- Limited control over cleaning patterns
Most Powerful
The PAXCESS Pool Vacuum is a convenient and cordless robotic cleaner. Designed to revolutionize your pool cleaning experience, this is a powerful device. With its advanced features and high-performance capabilities, this automatic pool vacuum is perfect for both above-ground and in-ground swimming pools. It also provides an impressive working time of between 60 and 90 minutes.
The waterproof design of this pool vacuum ensures reliable performance. It can give you peace of mind as it effortlessly cleans your pool. Featuring a deflector and a powerful motor, this pool vacuum delivers exceptional cleaning performance. With a fast-moving speed, this vacuum covers your pool area swiftly and effectively, saving you time and effort. Equipped with two large suction doors, a bottom brush, and a superior filter, this robotic pool cleaner efficiently traps and collects debris.
Pros
- Cordless operation for unrestricted cleaning
- User-friendly design with lightweight build
- Lithium-ion battery with 90-minute lifespan
Cons
- Power connector may rust
Most Convenient
The Polaris Pool Vacuum is a cutting-edge solution that combines intelligent cleaning capabilities with effortless control. With the help of an app, you can now clean your pool from anywhere and at any time. All you need is your smartphone. This advanced pool cleaner is designed for use with in-ground pools up to 60 feet. It provides an exceptional cleaning performance to keep your pool water crystal clear and inviting.
Equipped with a generous 70-foot cable and an extra-large five-liter debris canister, this powerful cleaner removes all dirt and debris. In turn, your pool will be pristine and ready for your next refreshing swim. Plus, the premium caddy adds convenience and creates space for storage. You won’t have to worry about any more uncertainty when it’s time to empty the filter canister thanks to the built-in feature that lets you know when it’s time for maintenance.
Pros
- Designed for in-ground pools
- Four-wheel drive system for seamless navigation
- Low-torque watertight swivel prevents cable tangling
Cons
- App can be difficult to set up
Most Valuable
The Hayward Pool Vacuum is the perfect solution for in-ground pool owners who want a hassle-free cleaning experience. With its intelligent microprocessor-based technology, this advanced cleaner effortlessly and thoroughly cleans the floor, walls, coves, and water of pools. Plus, it only takes three hours to fully clean the pool.
With this pool vacuum, you can say goodbye to manual scrubbing and hello to sparkling clean water. That’s because this pool vacuum has a powerful onboard pump that provides superior debris pickup. The simple filter cartridge system makes maintenance a breeze. Just open the cleaner, remove the cartridge, and rinse it with a hose. Furthermore, this vacuum runs independently from the pool’s filtration system. This eliminates the need for extra hoses, hookups, or pumps.
Pros
- Intelligent microprocessor-based technology for thorough cleaning
- Powerful on-board pump for debris pickup
- Simple filter cartridge system for easy maintenance
Cons
- Might not take well to wall cleaning
Pool Vacuums: A Buying Guide
With a staggering 10.7 million swimming pools in the United States, it’s clear that pools are an integral part of many people’s lives. Whether it’s a residential backyard oasis or a public aquatic facility, the need for effective pool maintenance is paramount. That’s where pool vacuums come into play. Let’s dive into our comprehensive buyer’s guide where you can explore the many different factors that will help you choose the right pool vacuum for you.
Factors To Consider Before Purchasing a Pool Vacuum
Filtration system
The filtration system of the vacuum determines its ability to trap and retain debris. Look for vacuums with large-capacity filters or filter bags. This will help lower the frequency at which you need to empty or clean the vacuum. Additionally, consider the type of filtration, whether that’s cartridge, sand, or diatomaceous earth. Choose the one that suits your preferences and maintenance routine the most.
Construction materials
The construction and materials used to build the vacuum will determine the device’s overall durability. These details will affect the vacuum’s resistance to wear and tear as well. The most desirable materials are stainless steel, heavy-duty plastics, and corrosion-resistant materials. These are desirable in terms of longevity. Stainless steel is a popular vacuum material due to its excellent corrosion resistance. Vacuum components that are made from heavy-duty plastics, such as acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) or polycarbonate, also offer durability and impact resistance.
Type of pool
Suction-side vacuums rely on the suction power of your pool’s filtration system. They connect to the suction port or skimmer. From there, they move around the pool, collecting debris as they go. Pressure-side vacuums operate via the pressure generated by the pool’s water return jets. They connect to the return line. Also, they use the force of the water to create suctions and collect debris. These vacuums often have their filter bags, reducing the pool’s filtration system load as well. Robotic pool vacuums are self-contained units that operate independently of the pool’s filtration system. They are equipped with motors, pumps, and filters. Plus, they are controlled by a programmable computer.
Maneuverability
The maneuverability of a pool vacuum impacts its ease of use. It also influences the overall effectiveness when cleaning hard-to-reach areas. For suction-side vacuums or pressure-side vacuums, the length of the hose or the cord should be sufficient enough to reach all corners of the pool. It should be able to do this without straining or tangling in the process. Longer hoses and cords offer greater flexibility. Plus, their reach is more impressive than shorter ones. So, look for vacuums with swivel features or tangle-free designs. These can ensure smooth operational experiences while preventing frustrating interruptions as you clean.
Suction power
A vacuum’s suction power determines its ability to pick up debris effectively. Higher suction power is generally more efficient. This is especially true for large or stubborn debris. Also, consider the horsepower or wattage rating of the vacuum to gauge its suction power. When considering suction power for a pool vacuum, the recommended range is typically between 0.5 and 1.5 horsepower (HP). This is equivalent to 400 and 1200 watts. However, the right suction power for you will depend on the size and type of pool you have.
Maintenance
After each use, thoroughly clean the components of the vacuum. This includes the brush heads, filters, and collection bags or chambers. Periodically inspect the vacuum’s parts for signs of wear and tear. Keep an eye out for worn brushes, damaged hoses, or cracked seals. Ensure that the pool’s water chemistry is properly balanced. Pay attention to pH levels, chlorine levels, and alkalinity. Store the pool vacuum in a dry and clean area. Always make sure it is away from direct sunlight when not in use.
People Also Asked
Can I use a pool vacuum for an above-ground pool?
Yes, you can use a pool vacuum for an above-ground pool. However, making sure you select a vacuum that is specifically designed for above-ground pools is key. These vacuums tend to feature adjustable heights, lighter weights, and more gentle cleaning mechanisms to avoid damaging the pool liner.
Can a pool vacuum remove algae from the pool?
While pool vacuums effectively remove debris, they may not be sufficient enough to remove stubborn algae. Algae often require additional treatment, such as the use of algaecides or shock treatments. These are capable of killing and eradicating algae from pools. Once the algae have been treated, the pool vacuum can help you remove the dead algae. These vacuums can also prevent the recurrence of algae by maintaining regular cleaning and filtration practices.
Do I need a separate vacuum for an in-ground pool and a spa?
In most cases, you will need a separate vacuum for an in-ground pool and a spa. The requirements for cleaning an in-ground pool differ from those of a spa. That’s because in-ground pools are typically larger. They also have different surfaces and depths. In-ground pool vacuums are designed to handle a larger volume of water and debris. On the other hand, spa vacuums are specifically designed for smaller areas. They usually have special features to help you navigate tight spaces and clean intricate surfaces.
Can I always leave my pool vacuum in the pool?
It is generally not recommended to leave your pool vacuum in the pool at all times. Continuous exposure to chemicals, sunlight, and water can lead to premature wear and damage to the vacuum's components. You should remove the vacuum after use. Clean and dry it thoroughly. From there, store it in a dry, protected area away from direct sunlight.
What are the common troubleshooting tips for pool vacuums?
Common troubleshooting tips for pool vacuums include checking for blockages or clogs in the vacuum head, hose, and filter system. Ensure that you have the proper connections for the hose as well as a secure seal. Verifying that the pool pump and the filtration system are functioning correctly is key. Make sure you adjust the water flow or pressure as necessary. If the vacuum still doesn’t operate properly, consult the manufacturer's manual. Alternatively, you can seek assistance from a professional pool technician for troubleshooting and other repairs.
