The 5 Best Suction Side Pool Cleaners: Buying Guide & Reviews 2020
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A suction side pool cleaner is a really handy tool that works by attaching to the suction side in the plumbing system. Professionals like pool cleaners, which both clean the debris but also control the growth of algae and bacteria in the pool. However, finding the best suction side pool cleaner isn’t easy. But don’t worry. If you’re finding it hard to make the right choice from among the hundreds available in the market, I can help. This post will talk about poolside suction cleaners to give you useful information along with comparing top models available.
Last update on 2023-09-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Why Buy a Suction Pool Vacuum?
You should buy a pool vacuum cleaner because this equipment is very useful for maintaining the right balance in the pool. However, that’s not its only function.
- Cleaning your pool is much cheaper than paying someone else to do it.
- A one-time investment
- Doesn’t require much maintenance
- Relatively easy to install–You don’t have to be a genius to set it up
- Eliminates even the smallest scale debris
- Maintains your pool and keeps it and water clean
- A suction side pool cleaner can even scrub the pool walls.
FAQWhy you need a suction side pool cleaner? The things become very easier in the presence of a suction side pool cleaner as it cleans pool automatically. It can be a suitable option for saving time as well as effort. It not only cleans thoroughly but also climbs walls and cleans the waterline. Moreover, it has a few moving components that result in low maintenance. How does suction side cleaner work? For those who don’t know, the suction, the pool cleaner is attached to pool’s suction side. The hose is connected to the cleaner from one end, whereas the other end is attached to the skimmer or vacuum port whatever installed on the pool. The suction is developed & this equipment moves around the pool picking up the debris & other impurities.
Cautionary Note:
Finding a good pool cleaner is not easy. While the products reviewed here are considered the best, I have to say that about 20% of customers have had issues with their cleaner, so be sure to read the listing and check the reviews before you buy. Also, please remember that what looks like a great price now may result in ‘buyer’s’ remorse later. So give priority to my recommended cleaners.
Which is the Best Automatic Pool Vacuum Cleaner as of 2020?
Last update on 2023-09-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
To be clear, as each company advertises their units to convince potential buyers. However, the real question, is which one is worth your hard earned money. I have put together a list of the 5 best known suction side cleaners in 2020. And since we’re talking about pools–excuse the pun– let’s dive in!
Poolvergnuegen PV89654000020 Pool Cleaner Suctio (editor’s choice)
- EFFORTLESS DEBRIS MANAGEMENT: The patented self-adjusting turbine vanes eliminates clogs and ensures maximum power at virtually any flow. Their ability to move allows easy passage of large debris to ensure full cleaning with peace of mind
- COMPLETE POOL OVERAGE: The PoolCleaner has multiple pre-programmed internal steering sequences, which cause the left wheel to periodically reverse, allowing The PoolCleaner to turn and then move into another direction. This feature ensures full pool coverage and efficient cleaning
- ROBUST TIRE TREADS: The patented tire treads give The PoolCleaner enhanced climbing ability and obstacle maneuverability – especially with main drains. This makes The PoolCleaner ideal for all pool surfaces and shapes
- MAINTAINS CONSTANT SUCTION: Patented adjustable roller skirts allows the cleaner to maintain optimal suction on uneven surfaces and when encountering obstacles
- OPTIMAL SUCTION AT VARIOUS FLOWS: Three easily interchangeable throats improve debris passage and suction performance, making it ideal for use with variable-speed pool pumps
Last update on 2023-09-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
First, this vacuum pool cleaner does its job fast. It may cost more, but the generally positive reviews and solid functioning justifies that. This extremely powerful model from Poolvergnuegen has
- An excellent steering system, internal turbine, and bag-free construction.
- Its four-wheel design provides adequate power for dealing with problems that block the path of other pool vacuums
- Deep threaded tires offer additional traction in the pools made using concrete
- Patented Steering System has a superb power to go through each curve, stair, and wall in the pool
- Large Filter Bag minimizes the wear and tear on the internal system
- Click here for a customer’s video review
- Here is another customer’s critical review
Pros
- Equipped with programmable angles for convenient cleaning
- Extremely powerful steering system
- Bag-free design
- Capable of moving on all types of pool surfaces
Cons
- Demand specialized tires for working on vinyl surfaces
- Most expensive
Overall Assessment
The Poolvergeugen is a respected brand. Its overall design is good, however,
Zodiac MX6 In-Ground Suction Side Cleaner (runner up)
- Innovative low-flow design makes it ideal for pools with 2-speed or variable speed pumps
- Cyclonic suction for powerful vacuuming and articulating turbine blade for aggressive wall-climbing
- Swiveling hoses are quick-connect style for easy assembly
- Includes automatic Weir Valve, 90° Twist Lock Elbow, 7 x 1.2m Twist Lock Hose Lengths, Flow Regulator Valve, Hose Float, Hose Protector, Warranty Card.
Last update on 2023-09-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Giving tough competition to Pool Vergneugen, this compact and powerful side cleaner is a also a great choice. Here’s why:
- It can climb walls along and reach small areas that other units miss
- Very quiet operation
- Hoses fit well, which prevents stripping the threads
- Operates at a suction speed of 25 gallons per minute
- The presence of a flow regulator valve allows the unit to provide performance without using too much energy
- Even a beginner can connect hoses, makes setting it up a snap.
- It is a perfect option for people who have a small in-ground pool
- The manufacturer delivers this unit with a two-year worry free warranty against defects
- Swiveling hoses makes assembly easier than ever, wear and tear are greatly redu
- Cyclonic Cleaning and a compact, powerful turbine easily eliminates dirt and debris from the pool bottom.
It climbs the walls and stairs for proper cleaning
Pros
- Compact & durable design
- Equipped with a handle for pulling it out of the water
- Prevent stripping using clip attachment
Cons
Zodiac Baracuda G3 W03000 (Easiest to Install)
- Quiet, powerful suction cleaner; works with low-speed pumps for maximum efficiency.
- Devours small and medium-sized debris and cleans floor, walls and steps of your entire pool.
- FlowKeeper Valve automatically regulates water flow to maintain peak cleaning performance even with lower horsepower pumps.
- Wheel Deflector for movement around tight corners.
- Scuff-resistant Long-Life Hoses eliminate scuffs on all pool surfaces.
Last update on 2023-09-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
If your main priority is an easy to install product, then the Zodiac Baracuda G3 W03000 is a good choice. Despite being an affordable option, this unit is quite reliable & considered a perfect alternative to expensive pressure-side cleaner available. This suction side vacuum pool cleaner comes with components that include things like 4.5” connector, hose sections, wheel deflector, valve cuff, and finned disc along with the main cleaner. Here are the main points:
- In addition to debris and other impurities, this machine can also pick up small and medium leaves
- Powerful yet easy to use suction side cleaner maneuvers well
- Top-grade durable cables reduce scuffs and scratches
- This cleaner is operates quietly so no one gets disturbed
- Highly Durable Diaphragm–a simple moving part in the form of diaphragm unlike other models minimizes time wasted on maintenance
- Reduced need spending too much money on replacing faulty parts
- 36-fin Disc connection added between the cleaner in providing solid adhesion to the lining
This results in doing quality cleaning along with preventing disruptions from worn out parts
Pros
- Good value for the money
- Extremely low maintenance
- Affordable price
- Very quiet operation
Cons
- Incapable of picking up larger leaves
- Hoses demand proper care
Xtremepower US Automatic Suction Vacuum (Best Budget-Friendly Pick)
- 10 hoses included for up to 30' pool. Ideal for cleaning bottom surface and wall; does not clean stairs
- Require at least a 1 hp swimming pool pump or 1600 GHP to function properly.
- No tools required and no electricity needed; Attaches to your existing filtration system
- Cleaner should be moving about the pool at a rate of 8 to 12 feet per minute. Eco-friendly automatic pool cleaner vacuum designed for high efficiency and low maintenance.
- Automatic operation by self-navigating around the water on set patterns for the top to bottom pool cleaning. Refer to the PDF attached below in Technical Specification for the Manual and Troubleshooting Guide
Last update on 2023-09-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
This budget-friendly product uses cutting-edge automation to clean the pool properly. It is highly versatile, innovative, and capable of working on a variety of pool surfaces including concrete, fiberglass, & vinyl. Here are its main points:
- Also, the design of this unit is very simple, however, the parts can’t get replaced
- Doesn’t need electricity to operate it
- This automatic suction side pool cleaner can be attached directly to the filtration for eliminating the debris & other impurities from the pool
- Perfect for in-ground pools less than 32 feet long.
- Silicone ripple cleaner ensures that all types of surfaces can be cleaned with ease.
- The adjustable hose length is convenient to use
- Non-electric Operation–one of the few units available that can operate without electricity.
- Much cheaper than other units
- Eextremely easy to use, even if you are a beginner
- Wall Climbing–This feature is usually available in expensive models to cleaning debris and dirt
Pros
- Extremely easy to maintain
- Works without any electricity
- One of the cheapest in the market
- Cleans walls quite convincingly
Cons
- Work at a very low flow rate
- Short hose length
Zodiac MX8 Suction Side Cleaner (Best Lightweight Suction Side Pool Cleaner)
B00C1EJPJA
- Dual Cyclonic Suction: Cleans faster and more aggressively than other pool cleaners with greater vacuum power, a wider cleaning path, and the largest debris inlet.
- Durable X-Trax: Allows for the MX8 Suction Pool Cleaner to operate with excellent traction for any pool surface.
- Wide Cleaning Path: Clears a large path through dirt and debris for more comprehensive pool coverage.
- MaX-Drive Navigation: The MX8 cleaner comes with programmed navigation for complete pool coverage with advanced 360° patterns that enable it to traverse the pool leaving no spot uncleaned.
- Zodiac Pool Cleaners: Zodiac strives to deliver the perfect pool experience that enhances comfort, enjoyment, and peace of mind for pool owners.
Last update on 2023-09-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Are you looking for a highly advanced & lightweight suction side pool cleaner that can complete the job convincingly? If yes, then this model is going to fulfill your needs as it comes with all those features.
With a reach of over 36 feet & 20 gallons/ minute suction power, this unit is definitely a worthy option. You can use this unit for the in-ground pools of all shapes thanks to its ability to clean steps, walls, reversing directions as needed. Here are the main points:
- It is a reality that this unit demands frequent cleaning, but it isn’t a big issue.
- X-drive directional control gears give it great mobility, such as turning corners, climbing walls, etc.
- Eliminates the need for manual cleaning
- Dual Cyclonic Cleaning–two cleaning turbines help the unit to clean up grit
- Picks up leaves and pine needles
- Its wide path allows it to clean a wider area without taking too much time.
- Energy efficient
- Compatible to use with different pumps
- Normal suction power is nearly 20 gallons per minute
Pros
- Capable of moving in any direction
- Equipped with two turbines for better cleaning
- Complete work at a quicker rate
Cons
- Requires frequent cleaning
How to choose the right suction side pool cleaner?
Before you choose a pool cleaner, also consider these factors:
- Pool Size –a small pool can be cleaned easily using manual models as it doesn’t take too much time
- On the other hand, choose an automatic suction side pool cleaner for medium to large pools, since such cleaner cost more
- Efficiency–If you have a small pool, then the efficiency doesn’t need to be taken seriously. A large pool takes lots of time for cleaning, and that’s why you should choose a model with a high efficiency rate
- Energy Consumption–an energy efficient device can keep your electric bills down
- Ease of use–even for a beginner
- Budget–suction side pool cleaners range from as low as US$ 20 up to US$ 500
- Thing of Time-Money-Energy-Reliability-Easy of Use in your decision making process
Conclusion
According to my research, the Poolvergnuegen PV89654000020 is the best choice. The next 2 good choices are the Zodiac Barracuda, and the Zodiac MX8. For various reasons the Zodiac MX6 has more complaints than the the top 3 and the Xtremepower is great from a price point of view, but has some performance problems. To get more information or to buy one of these time and money saving pool cleaners, go here.
