Pool Cleaner Inground

Pool Cleaner Inground

Looking for an inground pool cleaner? The best options are available at local pool supply stores like Leslie’s, Pinch A Penny, or online at Amazon, Pool Supply World, and manufacturer websites. Before contacting retailers, check customer reviews, warranty terms (typically 1-3 years), and compatibility with your specific pool type. Legitimate sellers offer detailed product specifications and proper certifications. Avoid vendors with no physical address, suspiciously low prices, or who can’t provide manufacturer documentation.

What is pool cleaner inground?

An inground pool cleaner is a specialized maintenance device designed to automatically remove debris, dirt, and algae from permanent in-ground swimming pools. Unlike their above-ground counterparts, inground cleaners handle larger water volumes, steeper slopes, and varied pool shapes.

Three main types dominate the market:

Suction-side cleaners connect to your pool’s existing filtration system through the skimmer or dedicated suction line. They use the suction power of your pump to move around the pool and collect debris. These cleaners cost between $200-$600 and work well for pools with light to medium debris. The Hayward Navigator and Zodiac MX8 are popular models in this category.

Pressure-side cleaners run off the pressure side of your circulation system, connecting to a dedicated return line or to a booster pump. They create a venturi effect that sweeps debris into an attached collection bag. Pressure cleaners handle larger debris and cost $400-$1,200. The Polaris 380 and Hayward TriVac 700 perform well for most inground pools.

Robotic cleaners operate independently from your pool system with their own internal motors and filtration. They plug into a standard electrical outlet and navigate your pool using smart programming. Priced between $600-$2,000, robots like the Dolphin Premier and Zodiac VX65 provide the most thorough cleaning with the least effort.

The type you need depends on your debris level, budget, and existing pool equipment. Most pool owners start with a suction-side cleaner and upgrade as needed.

Comparing cleaner performance by pool conditions

Pool Condition Suction-Side Pressure-Side Robotic
Light debris (leaves, dust) Good Very Good Excellent
Heavy debris (acorns, twigs) Poor Good Very Good
Wall climbing ability Varies by model Good Excellent
Algae removal Good Fair Excellent
Stair cleaning Limited Limited Good (model dependent)
Energy efficiency Uses existing pump Medium-High High
Maintenance required Low-Medium Medium Low

Common brands and models

Hayward produces the Navigator Pro, TigerShark, and PoolVac Ultra series. Their cleaners range from $300-$1,500 and focus on reliability and thorough cleaning.

Zodiac (formerly Polaris) offers the MX series suction cleaners and their famous Polaris pressure-side cleaners, along with high-end Zodiac robotic models ranging from $400-$1,800.

Pentair makes Kreepy Krauly suction cleaners and Racer pressure cleaners, with most models in the $300-$900 range.

Dolphin (Maytronics) specializes in robotic cleaners like the Nautilus and Premier models, priced from $700-$1,800.

How It Works

Each type of pool cleaner uses different technology to clean your inground pool.

Suction-side cleaners

These cleaners use your pool pump’s suction power to move and collect debris. The process works like this:

  1. The cleaner connects to your skimmer or dedicated vacuum line
  2. Pool pump creates suction that powers the cleaner
  3. Debris travels through the cleaner, through your plumbing, and into your pool filter
  4. Internal mechanisms (flaps, hammers, or diaphragms) create movement patterns

John from Arizona reports: “My Hayward Navigator cleans my 16×32 rectangular pool perfectly. It struggles with larger leaves during fall but handles everyday dust and small debris with no problem.”

The simplest suction cleaners use random patterns, but advanced models like the Zodiac MX8 use programmed navigation to ensure full coverage. Maintenance involves occasional cleaning of the foot pad, checking for worn parts, and making sure your pool filter is clean.

Suction cleaners put additional strain on your pool filter and require more frequent filter cleanings. Some models also struggle with larger debris that can clog your plumbing.

Pressure-side cleaners

These cleaners use water pressure from your return line or a dedicated booster pump:

  1. Pressurized water enters the cleaner through a dedicated line
  2. Pressure creates a venturi effect that vacuums debris into a collection bag
  3. Water jets propel the cleaner around the pool
  4. A sweep hose stirs up settled debris

“My Polaris 380 picks up everything from fine sand to acorns,” says Maria, a pool owner in Florida. “The booster pump was an extra expense, but the cleaning power is worth it.”

Most pressure cleaners come with their own debris bag, which keeps collected material out of your filter system. Models like the Hayward TriVac 700 can switch between different modes for walls and floors.

The downside? They require either a booster pump (adding $350-$600 to the initial cost) or sufficient pressure from your existing pump. The additional moving parts also mean more maintenance than suction cleaners.

Robotic cleaners

Robotic cleaners are self-contained cleaning systems:

  1. The robot plugs into a standard outlet via a transformer that converts high voltage to safe low voltage
  2. An internal pump draws water and debris through fine filters inside the unit
  3. Onboard computers direct movement patterns via programmable algorithms
  4. Brushes scrub surfaces as the robot moves

Tom, a pool service technician in California, explains: “Robots do the most thorough job. They use about as much electricity as a light bulb, and the good ones clean the entire pool—floor, walls, and waterline—in 2-3 hours.”

Modern robotic cleaners like the Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus feature:
– Smart navigation that learns your pool shape
– App control and scheduling
– Multiple cleaning modes
– Waterline scrubbing
– Fine filtration that removes particles as small as 2 microns

The drawback is the higher upfront cost, though many pool owners find the energy savings and reduced chemical use offset this expense within 1-2 seasons.

Filter maintenance

All pool cleaners interact with your filtration system to some degree:

  • Suction cleaners send debris directly to your pool filter, requiring more frequent filter cleanings
  • Pressure cleaners with bags keep most debris out of your filter system
  • Robotic cleaners have their own filtration, reducing the load on your pool system

For optimal performance, clean your pool cleaner filter according to the manufacturer’s recommendations—typically weekly for robots, and check bags on pressure cleaners after each use.

How to choose the right inground pool cleaner

Selecting the right cleaner depends on several factors:

  1. Debris type and volume: Heavy leaf areas need pressure or robotic cleaners with larger debris capacity.

  2. Budget: Consider both initial cost and operating expenses. Suction cleaners cost less upfront but may increase filter wear and energy use.

  3. Pool surface: Some cleaners work better on specific surfaces. Wheeled cleaners often perform better on concrete, while others excel on vinyl or fiberglass.

  4. Existing equipment: If you have a variable speed pump at low flow rates, a robotic cleaner makes more sense than a suction model requiring high flow.

  5. Pool features: If your pool has distinct tiers, beach entries, or extensive stairs, look for a cleaner specifically rated for these features.

  6. Maintenance commitment: Robotic cleaners typically require less maintenance than pressure-side models with multiple moving parts.

I recommend taking these steps before purchasing:

  • Get water test results to understand your pool chemistry needs
  • Measure your pool dimensions and identify trouble spots
  • Check your pump’s flow rate (GPM) if considering a suction or pressure cleaner
  • Speak with at least two local pool professionals for recommendations
  • Read owner reviews from people with similar pools

Common problems and solutions

Even the best inground pool cleaners face occasional issues:

Getting stuck: If your cleaner regularly gets trapped in corners or on ladders, check for:
– Correct hose/cable length (too long causes tangling)
– Proper water flow
– Worn wheels or tracks
– Flow restrictor settings

Poor cleaning performance: When cleaning seems incomplete:
– Check your filter and empty cleaner bags/canisters
– Inspect for clogs in the intake
– Ensure proper water chemistry (high phosphates can affect some cleaners)
– Confirm adequate run time (most pools need 2-3 hours of cleaning daily)

Erratic movement: When your cleaner moves unpredictably:
– Check for air in the system (common with suction cleaners)
– Inspect for damaged parts
– Ensure proper weight balance
– Verify proper tire/track inflation on applicable models

Regular maintenance extends the life of any pool cleaner. Most manufacturers recommend:
– Daily emptying of collection bags
– Weekly hose/cable inspection
– Monthly inspection of moving parts
– Seasonal storage in frost-free locations

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does an inground pool cleaner cost?

Inground pool cleaners range from $200-$2,000 depending on type and features. Suction cleaners cost $200-$600, pressure cleaners $400-$1,200, and robotic cleaners $600-$2,000. Operating costs vary too—suction cleaners use your existing pump, pressure cleaners sometimes require a booster pump (using 750-1,500 watts), while robots typically use only 60-150 watts during operation.

How long do pool cleaners last?

Most quality inground pool cleaners last 3-7 years with proper maintenance. Suction cleaners often last 3-5 years, pressure cleaners 5-7 years with regular part replacements, and robotic cleaners 4-7 years. Factors affecting longevity include frequency of use, proper storage, water chemistry, and regular maintenance.

Can inground pool cleaners handle all debris types?

No single cleaner handles everything perfectly. Suction cleaners work best for smaller debris like dust, sand, and small leaves. Pressure cleaners handle medium debris including leaves and acorns. Robotic cleaners manage most debris types but may struggle with larger items like palm fronds or sticks. For heavy debris situations, a leaf canister or pre-filter can help prevent clogs.

How often should I run my pool cleaner?

For average pools, run the cleaner every 1-2 days for 2-3 hours. Heavily used or debris-prone pools may need daily cleaning. During fall leaf season, you might need twice-daily cleaning. Robotic cleaners can typically clean most pools in a single 2-3 hour cycle, while suction and pressure cleaners might need longer run times.

Are pool cleaners worth the investment?

Yes, automatic pool cleaners save significant time and improve water quality. Manual cleaning of an average inground pool takes 30-60 minutes, multiple times weekly. Automatic cleaners also reach areas difficult to clean manually. Better circulation improves chemical distribution and reduces algae growth. Many owners report using fewer chemicals after installing an automatic cleaner.

What maintenance do pool cleaners need?

All cleaners need regular maintenance. Suction cleaners require foot pad inspection, hose checks, and diaphragm replacement every 1-2 seasons. Pressure cleaners need bag emptying after each use, sweep hose inspection, and occasional bearing replacement. Robotic cleaners need filter cleaning after each use and cable untangling. All units should be stored out of direct sunlight when not in use.

Can I leave my pool cleaner in the pool all the time?

Most manufacturers recommend removing cleaners when not in use. Constant exposure to chemicals degrades materials faster, especially rubber parts. Sunlight exposure can damage plastic components. Robotic cleaners should always be removed, dried, and stored after cleaning cycles. Some suction and pressure cleaners can remain connected but should be pulled out during chemical treatments or when shocking the pool.