Gone are the days where neighborhood kids were your best, and possibly only, option for cleaning your pool. Technology has progressed and there are now many options to choose from. Whether as a supplement or your primary cleaner, here are 5 options to consider.
1. Robotic Pool Cleaners
The great thing about a robotic pool cleaner is that it doesn’t require much effort. All you need to do is program it and then place it into your pool to roam and clean, kind of like a Roomba for your pool. It doesn’t need to be attached to your swimming pool’s pump or the water circulation system since it has its own filter bag. The downside of that level of convenience is that it can come at a relatively steep cost. Robotic pool cleaners can be quite expensive, which is something you should consider as you weigh your options.
If you do decide to spring for a robotic pool cleaner, here are some tips to keep in mind. Turn off your pool’s pump before use so that all the filth and debris settles at the bottom. This allows the robot to simply scoop it up as it traverses your pool. This also helps avoid any unnecessary wear and tear on your pool’s pump, helping to extend its life. Finally, make sure to clean out the filter bag of your robotic cleaner regularly, ideally after each use.
2. Suction-Side Pool Cleaners
Suction-side pool cleaners rely on your pool’s pump to provide the suction to scoop up the debris in your pool with its long hose that connects to the skimmer at the water intake valve – it’s basically a large water-based vacuum cleaner. They are inexpensive, easy to use, and can get to those hard-to-reach spots on your pool’s walls. Keep in mind they will bump up your electric bill and they can put extra strain on your pool’s pump and filter. Before you commit to a suction-side pool cleaner, make sure your pool pump and filter are in good condition to avoid any costly repairs or replacements. You’ll also want to clean out your pool’s skimmer basket after each use, since most models do not have their own filter bag and use your pool’s filter system to capture the debris.
3. Pressure-Side Pool Cleaner
Pressure-side pool cleaners use your pool’s pump and filter system to pressurize the side of the pump with water. The water moving through the pump is pressurized, which sucks out the dirt and debris before the now clean water is released back into the pool. They have their own filter bags, which reduces the wear and tear on your pool pump and filter system, but you will notice a higher electric bill.
4. Manual Pool Cleaners
Manual pool cleaners are the cheapest and simplest option on the market. However, they require a lot of work on your part as you have to 1) connect the hose to the skimmer, 2) push the pole around the swimming pool, and 3) backwash your pool’s filter when you are done. All of this can take a considerable amount of work and time slaving away in the hot sun, especially if you have a larger pool. Additionally, your pool’s pump must be running while you are using the manual cleaner, so you will see the same rise in your electric bill that you would see from the pressure-side pool cleaner.
5. Your Trusted Pool Maintenance and Remodeling Experts
If you want to make sure your pool stays a source of relaxation rather than stress through the upcoming winter months, call our expert pool technicians at Summerhill Pools. Checking the equipment, balancing the water, and cleaning your pool is vital if you want your pool to be ready for use when Summer rolls around! Call us today!
