Which pool cleaner is right for you?

Choosing the right pool cleaner can feel overwhelming with so many options on the market. The good news? Once you understand the three main types available, the decision becomes much clearer. Let's walk through suction, pressure, and robotic cleaners to help you find the perfect match for your pool and lifestyle.

The Three Types of Pool Cleaners

In Australia, suction and pressure cleaners dominated residential pools for decades. They're reliable workhorses that have kept countless backyard pools sparkling clean. However, advances in technology have made robotic cleaners an increasingly affordable and effective option, and many pool owners are now making the switch.

Here's the honest truth: all three types will get your pool clean. The real question is which one suits your specific situation, budget, and the unique challenges your pool faces.

Suction Cleaners: The Budget-Friendly Classic

Suction cleaners work much like a household vacuum cleaner. They connect to your pool's skimmer box and operate whenever your pump is running, cruising around the pool floor and sucking up dirt and debris directly into your skimmer basket.

The beauty of suction cleaners lies in their simplicity. There are fewer moving parts, which generally means less maintenance and lower upfront costs. They're particularly well-suited to pools that don't face heavy debris loads—if your pool is tucked away from large trees and doesn't collect much leaf litter, a suction cleaner will likely serve you brilliantly for years.

Best suited for: Pools with minimal tree cover, budget-conscious pool owners, and those who prefer a simple, low-maintenance cleaning solution.

Keep in mind that because debris goes directly into your skimmer basket and through your filtration system, you'll need to empty the basket more frequently during heavy debris seasons. The cleaner also only operates when your pump is running, so cleaning time is tied to your filtration schedule.

Pressure Cleaners: The Heavy-Duty Performer

If your pool battles with gum nuts, twigs, eucalyptus leaves, or other substantial debris, a pressure cleaner might be your best ally. These cleaners connect to a dedicated return line and use water pressure—either from your main circulation pump or a dedicated booster pump—to power around the pool and sweep debris into an onboard collection bag.

The key advantage here is capacity. Pressure cleaners can handle the heavy stuff that would clog a suction cleaner. Eucalyptus leaves, seed pods, and larger debris are no match for a quality pressure cleaner. Most can clean an average pool in under three hours, making them efficient workers.

Best suited for: Pools surrounded by trees, properties with heavy leaf fall, and pool owners who want to reduce strain on their filtration system.

Another significant benefit is that debris goes into the cleaner's bag rather than through your pump and filter. This takes considerable load off your filtration system and can extend the life of your equipment. You'll simply empty the bag periodically instead of constantly clearing out your skimmer basket.

Robotic Cleaners: The Smart Choice

Robotic pool cleaners represent the latest evolution in pool cleaning technology. They operate completely independently from your pool's filtration system—simply drop them in, and they go to work using their own internal electric motor and onboard intelligence.

What sets robotic cleaners apart is their thoroughness. Built-in navigation systems ensure systematic coverage of your entire pool, including walls and waterline tiles on many models. They don't miss corners or get stuck on steps like older technology sometimes does. The cleaning is precise, methodical, and comprehensive.

Best suited for: Pool owners who want the most thorough clean possible, those who value convenience and modern technology, and anyone looking to reduce energy costs and extend equipment life.

Because robotic cleaners don't rely on your pump, they use significantly less energy than suction or pressure alternatives. They also collect debris in their own cartridge or bag, meaning zero strain on your filtration system. Yes, the upfront cost is typically higher, but many pool owners find the superior cleaning performance, energy savings, and convenience well worth the investment.

Making Your Decision

When choosing between these three options, consider your pool's environment first. Heavy debris from overhanging trees points toward a pressure cleaner or robotic model. A sheltered pool with minimal debris can be well-served by a simple suction cleaner. If budget permits and you want the best possible clean with modern convenience, robotic cleaners are hard to beat.

Think also about your time and how hands-on you want to be. Suction cleaners require you to empty skimmer baskets regularly. Pressure cleaners need their bags emptied. Robotic cleaners need their cartridges cleaned, but they often do a more complete job that may reduce how much manual maintenance you need to do overall.

Still Not Sure?

Every pool is different, and sometimes the best advice comes from someone who can assess your specific situation. At Poolwise, we're happy to discuss your options and help you find a cleaner that matches both your budget and your pool's needs. Whether you're upgrading from an old cleaner or buying your first, getting the right match means years of crystal-clear water with minimal fuss.

Ready to find your perfect pool cleaner? Browse our robotic range & suction range or get in touch for personalised advice.