Pool Vacuums
Pool cleaners can be categorized into three different types :
- Suction Cleaners (sucks
water & dirt into the pool filter)
- Pressure Cleaners (blows water. Venturi effect collects dirt in a bag)
- Robotic Cleaners (electric
powered)
Suction cleaners use the pump motor to power the unit. The cleaner operates when the pump motor is running. The
most popular of these is the Hayward Navigator. The hose connects to
either the skimmer, or has a separate connector on the pool wall. Generally, the Barracuda types are the cheapest, but may not cover the whole
pool. Also, the diaphragm regularly needs replacing due to the force exerted on the rubber, casing it to
split.
Pressure
cleaners also use the pump motor (often, a secondary motor), to create sufficient pressure to power the unit and
collect dirt in a bag mounted on the cleaner. The most popular is the Polaris 360.
Robotic cleaners
are powered by an electrical cord and a 12-24v transformer plugged into a standard electrical outlet. Typically,
they are programmed to operate for a couple of hours a day, and collect dirt in a bag inside the
cleaner. These have tended to be a lot more expensive. However, newer
models have dramatically reduced the cost. The most popular being the Nitro Smartkleen.
Of the three
different types, suction cleaners reduce the circulation capacity for moving
water around. Pressure cleaners also reduces circulation, requiring a wall jet to mount the
hose. Robotic cleaners are the most effective, only running when
programmed, and does not negate the effectiveness of the pump/water
circulation.
Recommendations
-
Nitro Smartkleen
NC22 Robotic Cleaner
Hayward Navigator Pro -
Suction Cleaner
Pentair Great White - Suction
Cleaner
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