Robotic vs. Pressure Pool Cleaners: A Simple Guide

Keeping your pool clean can feel like a never-ending task. Fortunately, automatic pool cleaners can step in to save the day. But with popular options such as robotic and pressure pool cleaners, how do you choose? Let’s break this down so you can find the best fit for your needs.

What is a Robotic Pool Cleaner?

Robotic pool cleaners are like little cleaning robots that zip around your pool. They are powered by electricity and have their own brains, meaning they can navigate your pool without human help. With smart technology, these cleaners can detect walls and obstacles, ensuring they clean every corner.

Imagine having a tiny maintenance crew that works for you! They scrub walls, suck up debris, and even filter the water. The best part? You can just pop them in the pool, and they do their thing.

Benefits of Robotic Pool Cleaners

  • Efficiency: they use advanced navigation to cover every inch of your pool.
  • Energy-saving: most robotic cleaners are energy-efficient, so they won’t spike your electricity bill.
  • User-friendly: just plug them in, and they’re ready to go.
  • Versatility: they work well in various pool types, such as vinyl, fiberglass, or concrete.

What is a Pressure Pool Cleaner?

Pressure pool cleaners, also known as pressure-side cleaners, rely on your pool’s pumping system. They hook up to the pool system’s return jet, and uses the water pressure to push debris into a filter bag or a filtration basket. Think of them as submerged vacuum cleaners that use water pressure (instead of water suction) to move around the pool.

While pressure-side pool cleaners can be pretty effective, they depend on your pool’s pumping system, and in many cases an additional booster pump, to get going.

Benefits of Pressure Pool Cleaners

  • Cost-effective: generally, they are cheaper upfront compared to robotic cleaners, but more expensive compared to suction pool cleaners.
  • Simple to use: they connect to your swimming pool’s pump system, and are usually ready to clean after making a few adjustments.
  • Reliable: many homeowners find them dependable for regular maintenance.
A video about the three basic types of pool cleaners: robotic, pressure, and suction.

Quick Comparison: Robotic vs. Pressure Pool Cleaners

When it comes to making a choice, look at these key factors:

Efficiency and Cleaning Capability

Robotic pool cleaners often outperform pressure-side cleaners because they can navigate and clean the pool more thoroughly. They scrub walls and floors while pressure cleaners might miss spots.

Installation and Setup

Pressure pool cleaners often require a little more setup since they hook into your pool’s plumbing, and often require the installation of an additional booster pump. In contrast, robotic pool cleaners just need a power source and can start cleaning quickly.

Maintenance and Care

Both types require maintenance, but robotic pool cleaners usually need less routine upkeep. They have filters that need occasional cleaning, while pressure cleaners might require bag replacements regularly.

Price Point

Robotic pool cleaners can be pricier, generally ranging from a few hundred to over a thousand dollars. Pressure-side cleaners are usually a little more budget-friendly, with several options costing a few hundred dollars. However, the installation of a booster pump will increase the overall cost associated with a pressure-side pool cleaner.

Conclusion: Which Cleaner is Right for You?

In the battle of robotic vs. pressure pool cleaners, the best choice depends on your needs.

If you want a thorough, efficient clean with less hassle, then a robotic pool cleaner may be your champion. However, if you’re looking for a pressure-side pool cleaning solution, then a pressure pool cleaner fits the bill.

Both types have their pros and cons, so think about your pool’s unique features, your budget, and how much time you want to spend on cleaning. Choose wisely!

Photo by MARIOLA GROBELSKA on Unsplash.