A sparkling pool always feels inviting. It sets the tone for relaxed weekends, quick dips after a warm day and the simple joy of having clear blue water at home. The right pool cleaner helps keep that feeling alive. It keeps your water clearer for longer, makes maintenance easier and cuts down your to-do list so you can enjoy the fun part of owning a pool.
This guide walks through suction cleaners, pressure cleaners and robotic cleaners so you can find the option that suits your pool and your day-to-day routine.
Understanding the three main types of pool cleaners
Pool cleaners fall into three main groups.
- Suction cleaners connect to your pool system and use pump power to collect debris.
- Pressure cleaners use return pressure to move around and store debris in their own bags.
- Robotic cleaners run on their own motor and scrub the pool while collecting dirt inside a built-in filter.
Each one has a different style of cleaning. By looking at how they work, you can match the cleaner to your pool size, environment and the level of convenience you want. It is a friendly decision once you know what you are comparing.
1. Suction pool cleaners
A suction pool cleaner hooks into your pool’s skimmer or a dedicated suction line. When your pump runs, it creates gentle suction that moves the cleaner around the pool. As it glides, it vacuums up fine debris like dust, sand and small leaves, pushing everything through your regular filtration system.
Suction cleaners usually move in a steady, rhythmic pattern. You simply turn on your pump and let the cleaner do its thing. They are one of the simplest ways to keep a pool maintained without a complicated setup.
Pros of suction cleaners
Suction cleaners are friendly on the budget and popular with pool owners who want a simple, dependable option. They are great for everyday cleaning and for pools that collect light debris. Because they rely on your existing pump, they do not need extra equipment or complicated electrical setups.
They are also quiet, low and easy to understand. Many pool owners like that they can leave the cleaner in while the filtration system runs.
Possible limitations
Since suction cleaners depend on pump strength, a weak or ageing pump can affect performance. They also send debris through your filter, which means more frequent filter cleaning or backwashing. Large leaves or sticks may clog the cleaner or reduce movement.
Suction cleaners mostly focus on the pool floor. They can climb walls in some cases, but they are not known for strong scrubbing.
Best suited for
A suction cleaner is a friendly choice for:
- Pools that mostly collect small debris
- Families wanting an affordable everyday cleaner
- Smaller to medium pools
- Pool owners who are happy with simple cleaning and occasional manual brushing
2. Pressure pool cleaners
Pressure cleaners use the return jets in your pool to create movement. Some run on the pool’s existing return flow, while others work best with a booster pump for extra power. This pressure sends the cleaner across the pool while pushing debris into a built-in collection bag.
Unlike suction cleaners, pressure models do not push debris into your filter. They store everything themselves, which helps reduce strain on your filtration system.
Pros of pressure cleaners
Pressure cleaners are strong, fast and great at handling larger debris. They tackle leaves, gum nuts, larger dirt and the kind of things that drop into pools surrounded by gardens. Because they keep debris out of the filtration system, your filter stays cleaner for longer.
These cleaners are also tough. They have sturdy tyres or wheels and can handle uneven surfaces well. When paired with a booster pump, they gain even more power and speed. This makes them a perfect match for busy pools or homes with lots of outdoor foliage.
Possible limitations
Some pressure cleaners require a booster pump, which increases your setup cost. Their debris bags need emptying, and the cleaner may need a little more maintenance than suction models. They also do not always pick up fine dust as effectively as other types.
Best suited for
A pressure cleaner is a great fit for:
- Pools near gardens or trees
- Pools with heavy seasonal debris
- Owners who want strong cleaning without adding load to their filter
- People who want a fast, energetic cleaning performance
3. Robotic pool cleaners
Robotic cleaners are the most advanced option on the market. They plug into a low-voltage power supply and move around your pool using an internal motor. They vacuum debris straight into a built-in filter and often scrub floors, walls and the waterline at the same time.
Many robotic cleaners have smart navigation. Instead of wandering randomly, they follow organised paths that help them reach more of the pool in less time. Some can climb walls with ease, glide along curved edges and handle deeper pools without any trouble.
Pros of robotic cleaners
Robotic cleaners offer excellent convenience. They clean with more detail, scrub surfaces and pick up both fine dust and large debris. Because they are self-powered, your filtration system gets a break. Many pool owners notice cleaner water and less manual brushing after switching to a robotic model.
Energy use is low due to the efficient power supply. Many models include fun features like quick clean cycles, tangle-resistant cords or simple lift handles. They give you the deepest clean with the least effort.
Possible limitations
The main limitation is the higher upfront cost. Robotic cleaners also need occasional care, like emptying the internal filter and checking brushes or tracks. They should be stored out of direct sunlight to protect the electronics.
Best suited for
A robotic cleaner is ideal for:
- Busy homeowners who want effortless cleaning
- Larger or irregularly shaped pools
- Owners who want strong scrubbing and advanced cleaning power
- Anyone who loves smart technology that makes pool care simple
What to consider when choosing a pool cleaner
When choosing your pool cleaner, it helps to look at a few friendly factors before you decide.
- Debris type — Think about the kind of debris your pool collects. If you mostly get dust or fine grit, suction or robotic cleaners work well. If your pool sits near trees, a pressure cleaner may be the hero you need.
- Pool size and shape — Bigger pools or deep pools benefit from cleaners with strong movement. Smaller pools often do well with suction models.
- Pump strength — If your pump is older or not very powerful, a suction cleaner may feel slow. Pressure cleaners and robotic cleaners perform well even if the pump is not doing the heavy lifting.
- Budget — Suction cleaners are friendly for tight budgets. Pressure cleaners sit in the middle, depending on setup. Robotic cleaners have a higher price tag but offer the easiest cleaning overall.
- Desired level of convenience — If you want the closest thing to set-and-forget cleaning, robotic cleaners take the lead. If you prefer simple, reliable and cost-effective cleaning, suction models are a good choice.
Keep your pool sparkling with pool cleaners from My Online Pool Shop
If you are looking for a friendly place to explore your options, My Online Pool Shop offers a range of suction, pressure and robotic cleaners to suit different pool needs. You can browse online, compare models and choose a cleaner that makes pool care easier and more enjoyable. It is a simple way to keep your pool looking great all year round across Australia.
Need support choosing a cleaner? Our friendly team is here for you. Connect with us today to get started.