Keeping a small pool clean can feel like trying to catch a slippery fish. You want that crystal-clear water without spending hours with a pool brush or manual pool vacuum cleaner. That’s where automatic pool cleaners come in. They can make your life a lot easier and keep your pool sparkling. Let’s take a look at some options that fit perfectly for smaller pool sizes.
Why Do You Need an Automatic Pool Cleaner?
Have you ever stared at your pool, wondering if you should jump in or tackle the cleaning? An automatic pool cleaner takes away that dilemma. These nifty machines do the dirty work so you can enjoy your pool time instead of cleaning it. No more walking around with a brush, or swimming around with a net! With an automatic cleaner, just put it into the pool and let it do its thing.
Foremost, I think that understanding the different types of automatic pool cleaners can help you choose the right one for your small pool.
Suction-Side Pool Cleaners
Suction cleaners attach to your pool’s existing suction system. They’re like an underwater vacuum cleaner that glides along the bottom, sucking up dirt and debris. They’re great for small pools because they don’t need much power and are usually quite affordable.
For example, the Hayward W3PVS20JST Poolvergnuegen (also known as The PoolCleaner 2X) is a popular suction pool cleaner for in-ground pools up to a size of 32 feet. For larger pools, you will need to get the PoolCleaner 4X model, which has a 4-wheel drive system, and is made for larger pools up to 20 feet by 40 feet.
Anyway, the 2-wheeled Hayward W3PVS20JST Poolvergnuegen (PoolCleaner 2X) model will clean the floor and walls of a smaller in-ground swimming pool. It can be used on various pool surfaces such as fiberglass, gunite, PebbleTec, tile and vinyl. Click here to read more on Amazon (paid link).
Pressure-Side Pool Cleaners
These cleaners use pressure from your pool’s pump to move around. While they might be pricier than suction cleaners, they can handle larger debris, making them a solid choice for any pool that has trouble with leaves or other debris.
Even though the Polaris Vac-Sweep 280 should be the obvious choice for a pressure-side pool cleaner, I think that I am going to recommend another Polaris model: the Polaris Quattro P40. This is a newer model that does not have that large debris bag on top of the cleaner. Instead, the Quattro P40 has a dual-filtration canister that is built into its body, which collects debris both large and small.
Overall, I think that its more compact design would look better in a smaller pool. Although, keep in mind that it still needs a booster pump to function properly, and that the Quattro P40 is more expensive than the Vac-Sweep 280 model. Click here for current price on Amazon (paid link).
Robotic Pool Cleaners
Robotic cleaners are the futuristic option and work independently of your pool system. Think of them as underwater robots on a mission! They have their own internal pump motor and filtration system, so they can pick up fine dirt and debris. Plus, most have a programmable schedule. You can set them to clean while you’re at work, and come home to a spotless pool.
In particular, I think that the Dolphin Nautilus CC robotic pool cleaner should be one of the best choices for both in-ground and above ground pools up to 33 feet in length. It is able to clean the floor and walls, although it does not have the ability to clean the waterline. Moreover, it does not seem to have a weekly timer or smartphone connectivity.
Nonetheless, the Nautilus CC is an affordable option that has a top-load filter basket that will be easy to remove and clean. For a smaller pool size, you probably do not need advanced stuff such as weekly timers, smartphone apps, and remote steering. The automatic cleaning time of 2 hours should be enough to clean up a small pool. Get yours today on Amazon (paid link).
Features to Look for in Automatic Cleaners for Small Pools
When choosing the right cleaner for your small pool, consider these key features:
Size and Weight
Automatic pool cleaners come in various shapes and sizes. For small pools, look for compact models that can easily navigate confined spaces. Lightweight options are easier to handle and store, making your cleanup process even simpler.
Filtration System
The cleanliness of your pool also depends on how well the cleaner can filter out debris. Opt for cleaners that offer efficient filtration to ensure your pool sparkles. Remember, a cleaner with better filtration means less hassle for you.
Ease of Use
You want a cleaner that’s simple to operate. A one-button start feature is ideal. Look for models that come with easy-to-follow instructions.
Final Thoughts
Investing in an automatic pool cleaner for your small pool can be the lifesaver you didn’t know you needed. Instead of spending hours cleaning, you can jump in and enjoy your pool whenever you want. With so many options available, finding the right cleaner for your needs is just a big splash away.
Photo by Point3D Commercial Imaging Ltd. on Unsplash.