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Suction VS Robotic Cleaners - Which Should You Choose?

By Swimming Pool Kits Direct Team, September 6th, 2024
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Here at Swimming Pool Kits Direct, we have a number of different cleaners to keep your fibreglass swimming pool free of dirt and debris.

Pro Tip:

A robotic cleaner may cost a pretty penny up front but it will save you time and potentially money in the long run.

“A pool cleaner is an essential part of owning a pool. We’re here to make the task as user friendly as possible, and potentially even enjoyable!”

Colm

Swimming Pool Kits Direct

There are two main types of pool cleaners on the market; suction and robot cleaners. A suction cleaner is a base model cleaner that uses your pool’s filtration system. It works by connecting a large hose directly into your skimmer which then pulls water into the pump. The cleaner moves around the pool whilst suctioning small debris and sediment into the skimmer and then filter.

A robotic cleaner is an automated pool cleaner which uses an electric motor to create suction and then removes dirt and debris. It has a basket attachment which requires emptying. They use technology to map out your pool so that it is cleaned and scrubbed efficiently. Some models are completely wireless .

madimack-gt-freedom-i30-cordless-robotic-pool-cleaner-4223-01
Madimack Wireless Robotic Cleaner i30
Product-Cleaner-The-Pool-Cleaner-v2_front
PoolCleaner v2 Auto Suction Cleaner
AX20 suction cleaner
AX 20 Suction Cleaner
DB2-1
Maytronics DB2 Robotic Cleaner

 

 

Pros

Cons

Suction Cleaner

  • Safe to use on all pool types
  • Able to climb walls
  • No additional basket is required
  • Run using your pool’s filtration system
  • Cost effective
  • Lightweight
  • Cleans in a random manner
  • Not suitable for larger debris
  • Unable to clean stairs or corners
  • Can require for the pump to run more frequently
  • Does not clean waterline

Robotic Cleaner

*  Able to collect larger debris

  • Scrubs and cleans walls, stairs and waterline
  • No hose
  • Independent of pool filtration system
  • Can be completely wireless
  • Uses intelligent programming to clean the pool thoroughly
  • Safety (cordless models) - no hoses or cables in the pool
  • $$$ larger upfront expense
  • Heavier
  • Regular maintenance (requires bag or cartridge to be emptied)
  • Require electricity

 

Which Suction or Robotic Cleaner should I go for? 

Here at Swimming Pool Kits Direct, we currently have three cleaners available on our website however can source almost any - just ask one of our team members. 

 

 

Pros

Cons

RRP (July 2024)

Maytronics DB2 Robotic Cleaner

  • Ultra lightweight
  • Quick water release
  • Scrubbing on all surfaces
  • Energy efficient
  • Reduces water wastage
  • Upfront cost
  • Separate power source
  • Not cordless

$2170

PoolCleaner v2 Auto Suction Cleaner

  • Easy to install
  • Self-adjusting Turbine Vanes
  • Able to clean all pool shapes and sizes
  • Need to clean out skimmer basket more frequently
  • Sporadic cleaning motion

$899

Madimack Wireless Robotic Cleaner i30

  • Longlife battery
  • Cordless
  • Energy efficient

* Upfront cost
* Weight

$1899

AX20 Suction Cleaner

  • Cyclonic scrubbers
  • Easy to install
  • 360 degree rotation
  • Need to clean out skimmer basket more frequently
  • Sporadic cleaning motion

$997

 

Conclusion

Both suction and robotic cleaners are great options but if your short term budget allows, a robotic cleaner will ensure you have more time on your hands to enjoy your swimming pool.

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