Remember that frustrating afternoon spent endlessly skimming leaves and debris from your above-ground pool? Finding the right above ground automatic pool cleaner can save you hours of work each week. This guide will help you choose the best cleaner for your needs, covering everything from suction-side cleaners to pressure-side models, and helping you avoid costly mistakes. You’ll learn about different types, features to look for, and how to maintain your chosen cleaner for optimal performance.
Choosing the Right Above Ground Automatic Pool Cleaner
Selecting the perfect above ground automatic pool cleaner involves understanding your pool’s specific needs and your budget. This section explores the crucial factors to consider before purchasing, helping you make an informed decision.
Suction-Side vs. Pressure-Side Cleaners
- Suction-Side Cleaners: These cleaners connect to your pool’s existing suction system. They are generally less expensive but may have less powerful cleaning capabilities.
- Pressure-Side Cleaners: These cleaners use a separate pump to generate the cleaning power, resulting in a more thorough clean. They are more expensive but offer superior performance.
Suction-side cleaners are a popular choice for their affordability and ease of installation. However, their cleaning power is dependent on the strength of your pool’s pump, potentially leaving some debris behind if your pump isn’t powerful enough. They’re suitable for lightly soiled pools and those with fewer obstructions.
Pressure-side cleaners offer a significantly stronger cleaning force compared to suction-side models, making them ideal for larger pools or those with more debris. While more expensive upfront, the improved cleaning efficiency and reduced manual cleaning time often make them a worthwhile investment in the long run.
Pool Size and Type
- Small Pools: A smaller, less powerful cleaner is usually sufficient for smaller above-ground pools.
- Large Pools: Larger pools will benefit from a more powerful cleaner with a longer cleaning cycle.
For above-ground pools under 15 feet in diameter, a smaller, lightweight cleaner will often suffice. Look for cleaners specifically designed for smaller pools, which may offer better maneuverability in tight spaces. Over-powerful cleaners can potentially damage the pool walls in these instances.
Larger above-ground pools, especially those with more intricate shapes or many obstacles, require more powerful cleaners to ensure thorough cleaning. Consider models with longer cleaning cycles and increased suction or pressure capacity.
Types of Debris
- Fine Debris: Cleaners with fine mesh filters will be better at collecting fine particles like sand and silt.
- Large Debris: Cleaners with larger filter bags or debris chambers will handle larger leaves and twigs more effectively.
If your pool tends to accumulate fine debris such as sand or silt, choose a cleaner with a fine mesh filter bag. This will ensure that even the smallest particles are removed efficiently, leaving your pool water crystal clear.
For pools that experience frequent leaf fall or other large debris, a cleaner with a larger filter bag or debris chamber is essential. These models can accommodate more debris before needing emptying, reducing the frequency of maintenance.
Top Features to Look for in an Automatic Pool Cleaner
Beyond the basic type, several advanced features significantly impact a cleaner’s performance and overall value. This section highlights these essential features to consider when choosing your automatic cleaner.
Cleaning Cycle and Coverage
- Programmable Cleaners: Many modern cleaners offer programmable cleaning cycles, allowing you to customize cleaning times to suit your schedule.
- Full Coverage: Ensure the cleaner’s design ensures comprehensive coverage of your pool’s floor and walls.
Programmable cleaners add convenience and flexibility, enabling you to schedule cleaning during off-peak hours or to tailor the cleaning duration based on the level of pool soiling. This feature can be especially useful for maintaining a clean pool with minimal hands-on effort.
Look for cleaners with advanced navigation systems or patterns that guarantee thorough coverage of your pool’s entire surface area, preventing dead spots where debris can accumulate. Efficient coverage saves you time and effort in manual cleaning.
Filter Bag Capacity and Ease of Cleaning
- Large Capacity Filter Bags: Larger filter bags reduce the frequency of emptying, saving you time and effort.
- Easy-to-Clean Filter Bags: Look for cleaners with easily accessible and removable filter bags for convenient cleaning.
A large-capacity filter bag allows for longer cleaning cycles before requiring cleaning or emptying. This convenience minimizes interruptions to your pool maintenance routine.
Easy-access and removable filter bags simplify the cleaning process, making it quick and effortless to empty and clean the filter. Choose cleaners with bags that can be easily cleaned without requiring extensive disassembly.
Durability and Warranty
- Robust Construction: Choose a cleaner made from durable materials designed to withstand the rigors of frequent use.
- Warranty Information: A good warranty demonstrates the manufacturer’s confidence in their product’s quality.
Durability is key to a long-lasting investment. Look for cleaners constructed from high-quality materials resistant to wear and tear. A rugged design ensures your cleaner can handle the demands of continuous operation.
A solid warranty provides peace of mind and protection against potential malfunctions or defects. A longer warranty often indicates higher confidence in the product’s longevity and reliability.
Different Types of Above Ground Automatic Pool Cleaners
Understanding the variety of available cleaners is crucial for making the right choice. This section explores the key differences between various cleaner types, helping you narrow your search.
Suction-Side Cleaners
Suction-side cleaners are the most common and affordable option. They use the pool pump’s suction to move around and collect debris. They are relatively simple to install and maintain, but their cleaning power can be limited depending on the strength of the pump.
Pressure-Side Cleaners
Pressure-side cleaners offer more powerful cleaning than suction-side cleaners. They use a separate pump to generate the cleaning power and typically provide a more thorough clean. While more expensive, they are excellent for larger or heavily soiled pools.
Robotic Cleaners
Robotic cleaners are fully independent units that don’t rely on your pool’s pump system. They are typically more expensive, but they offer superior cleaning power and efficiency, making them ideal for those seeking a truly hands-off cleaning solution. They usually have filter bags that need emptying.
Maintaining Your Above Ground Automatic Pool Cleaner
Proper maintenance is essential for extending the lifespan of your pool cleaner and ensuring optimal performance. This section provides practical tips and recommendations.
Regular Cleaning
- Empty the filter bag regularly to avoid clogging and maintain cleaning efficiency.
- Inspect the cleaner’s components for any damage or wear and tear.
Regularly emptying the filter bag is crucial to ensure that the cleaner maintains its cleaning power. Clogged filter bags can reduce the cleaner’s efficiency and potentially damage the motor over time.
Regular inspection helps identify potential issues before they escalate into larger problems. Checking for loose parts, worn hoses, or damaged wheels can prevent costly repairs or replacements down the line.
Troubleshooting Common Problems
- If the cleaner is not moving, check for obstructions or clogs in the hoses or filter bag.
- If the cleaner is not picking up debris, ensure the filter bag is clean and the suction or pressure is adequate.
If your cleaner stops moving unexpectedly, it’s often due to obstructions or clogs. Check the hoses for blockages and ensure the filter bag is not overloaded with debris.
Inefficient debris pickup might indicate a problem with the filter bag or insufficient suction/pressure. Clean the filter bag thoroughly and check the pump settings to ensure appropriate flow.
Debunking Common Myths About Automatic Pool Cleaners
Myth 1: Automatic pool cleaners replace manual cleaning entirely.
While automatic pool cleaners significantly reduce manual cleaning, they don’t eliminate the need for occasional manual cleaning. Skimming the surface and brushing the walls still play an important role in keeping your pool sparkling clean.
Myth 2: All automatic pool cleaners are created equal.
The performance and efficiency of automatic pool cleaners vary greatly depending on the type, features, and brand. It’s crucial to choose a cleaner suited to your pool’s size, type, and level of soiling.
Myth 3: Automatic pool cleaners are only suitable for in-ground pools.
Many automatic pool cleaners are designed specifically for above-ground pools, and there are various models available to suit different pool sizes and types. Choosing the right cleaner for your above-ground pool is essential for efficient and effective cleaning.
FAQ
What is the average lifespan of an above-ground automatic pool cleaner?
With proper maintenance, a quality automatic pool cleaner can last for several years, often 5-7 years or even longer. The lifespan can vary depending on the brand, model, and frequency of use.
How much do above-ground automatic pool cleaners cost?
The price range varies greatly depending on the type and features. Budget-friendly suction-side cleaners may start around $100, while more powerful pressure-side or robotic cleaners can cost several hundred dollars.
Can I use any automatic pool cleaner with my above-ground pool?
No, not all automatic pool cleaners are compatible with all above-ground pools. It’s essential to verify the cleaner’s compatibility with your pool’s type, size, and plumbing system before purchasing.
How often should I clean the filter bag of my automatic pool cleaner?
The frequency depends on the pool size, usage, and amount of debris. For most pools, cleaning the filter bag every 1-2 weeks is recommended, but you may need to clean it more frequently depending on your pool’s conditions.
What should I do if my automatic pool cleaner stops working?
First, check for obvious problems like clogged hoses or a full filter bag. If the issue persists, consult the owner’s manual for troubleshooting tips or contact the manufacturer’s customer support for assistance.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the best above-ground automatic pool cleaner is a crucial step in maintaining a clean and enjoyable swimming experience. By considering your pool’s specific needs, exploring different types, and understanding key features, you can make an informed decision that saves you time and effort for years to come. Don’t hesitate to research reviews and compare different models to find the perfect cleaner for your above-ground pool!