Best Pool Cleaners

Pool cleaners let you spend more time lying back and relaxing in the water. Wading through different robotic pool cleaners (or automatic pool cleaners), pool vacuums, and other pool cleaning products can be difficult, but knowing what to look for can help you find the right device that makes light work of keeping your pool squeaky clean. Continue reading...

Brand
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Rating
Price
$43.99 to $3,399
$43.99
$3,399
Cord Length
10 m
Pool Surface
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Pool Type
Weight
3.4 kg
12.5 kg

Based on 2,571 reviews
Replaced by Robo-Tek Robo-Plus V2  5.0 (6)
Robo-Tek Robo-Plus

Robo-Tek Robo-Plus 🏆 2024

4.5  (146) Summary
  • Price (RRP) $2,290
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Shane
ShaneNSW
 
Outstanding serviceI have owned my Robotek pool cleaner for three years and can’t fault it, 10 out of 10. The quality and service of Robotek is absolutely faultless. Shane from Shellharbour Show reply
Enviroswim ES3

Enviroswim ES3

4.5  (79) Summary
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ozteam
ozteamQLD24 posts
 
Maytronics Dolphin S200

Maytronics Dolphin S200 🏆 2024

4.2  (120) Summary
  • Price (RRP) $2,291.71
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Michael
MichaelQLD
  Fair Incentive
Onga Hammerhead

Onga Hammerhead

3.9  (150) Summary
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Iwasduped
Iwasduped6 posts
  Verified
Maytronics Dolphin S100

Maytronics Dolphin S100

4.5  (45) Summary
Sydney J.
Sydney J.NSW
 
Good quality, easy to useI recommend this one to anyone looking for a convenient and effective way to help keep their pool clean. Show details ·  1
Maytronics Dolphin M Line

Maytronics Dolphin M Line

3.9  (216) Summary
  • Price (RRP) $2,510.10 to $3,399
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ozN
ozNNSW16 posts
  M400
A++++Tried out a few machines and this was by far the best. It isnt cheap but you certainly pay for what you get with Maytronics. It is easy to set and go and always leaves the pool spotless however dirty it was at the start. Also easy to clean. Show details ·  1
Kreepy Krauly Sprinta Plus

Kreepy Krauly Sprinta Plus 🏆 2024

4.1  (60) Summary
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Adam W.
Adam W.QLD
  Fair Incentive Verified
Easy install, works well so farThe unit was very easy to install, and did not need adjustments. Works well so far, but does not really climb walls, but then none of the ones we have had do that well. Show details
Robot My Life PoolBot B150

Robot My Life PoolBot B150 🏆 2024

4.0  (70) Summary
  • Price (RRP) $1,450
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robyn.marshall.1428
robyn.marshall.1428Australia11 posts
 
Kreepy Krauly RX-Tank

Kreepy Krauly RX-Tank

3.8  (65) Summary
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Laki
LakiAU2 posts
  Fair Incentive
Great pool cleanerAfter 6 weeks of use, the tank works well. Only stopped once when a twig got caught in the rubber tracks. Leaves, dirt and other debris are easily cleaned off the pool surface. Show details ·  1
Kreepy Krauly VTX-3

Kreepy Krauly VTX-3

4.4  (25) Summary
Michael
MichaelVIC2 posts
 
Great machineThis is the second Kreepy I have had. both have been excellent performers in the pool which looks sparkling. It cleans leaves and any dirt without a problem. It is left in the pool and presents no problem when swimming. Show details
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J I.
J I.
  Verified CX35
Known fault with control panelHad this machine 12 months and control panel stopped working , under warranty control panel was replaced now just under 12 months from replacement control panel went again , zodiac have arranged for new control panel , hopefully this one lasts as machine is a good solid machine. Show details
Zodiac
Zodiac   DM   
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Zodiac FX18

Zodiac FX18

4.3  (22) Summary
Mark M
Mark MQLD5 posts
 
Broken 6 months past warrantyThe robot had minimal use as I have a very clean pool. Used 20 times. Always washed and kept safe. It broke down out of warranty and fluidra won't look at it . No goodwill here obviously. One look at it would show it looks in perfect nic. I'd avoid zodiac. $1100 up in smoke. Show details
Maytronics Dolphin X30

Maytronics Dolphin X30

3.9  (31) Summary
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willsmithkp7
willsmithkp7NSW
 
Great for pool maintenanceEasy to set up and drop in the water and it does what it says. Recommend for anyone looking for a hassle-free pool cleaning solution Show details ·  1
Maytronics Dolphin X40 Plus

Maytronics Dolphin X40 Plus

4.1  (20) Summary
jennifergonzalezjgon
jennifergonzalezjgonNSW
 
Saves me loads of timeIt's pretty easy to use, just drop it in and let it do its thing. Cleans the pool way better than I ever did, getting all the nooks and crannies. It's quiet too, doesn't make a racket while it's working. Show details ·  1
Zodiac G2

Zodiac G2

3.0  (89) Summary
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Longtime G2 Owner
Longtime G2 Owner
  Verified
Zodiac MX8

Zodiac MX8

2.8  (224) Summary
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Steven P.
Steven P.
  Fair Incentive Verified
MX8 tune up kitI actually purchased the tune up kit for this model. Awesome company to deal with and super fast delivery. Saved me $$$ on a new robot cleaner. Show details ·  1
Maytronics Dolphin S50

Maytronics Dolphin S50

4.3  (13) Summary
Ben H.
Ben H.NSW
 
Nice pool cleanerThe pool vacuum looks cool and is perfect for fall when the fallen leaves from the yard fall into the pool, making it easy to clean. Show details ·  1
Zodiac MX6

Zodiac MX6

2.8  (112) Summary
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Stephen C.
Stephen C.QLD3 posts
 
Zodiac Cyclonic Leaf Catcher

Zodiac Cyclonic Leaf Catcher

4.0  (14) Summary
Lyn
LynNSW
  Fair Incentive
Zodiac Leaf CatcherThis is our second Zodiac Leaf Catcher, the first one lasted over 8yrs with continual use, summer and winter. It does the job, we have a large gumtree that drops leaves all year round. The leaf catcher is a time saver. Show details
Madimack GT Freedom

Madimack GT Freedom

4.6  (10) Summary
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Jennifer
Jennifer3 posts
  i60
ALDI Power Force Pool Cleaner

ALDI Power Force Pool Cleaner

3.3  (18) Summary
$99.99RRP
Dean
DeanVIC
  Automatic Pool Cleaner
Good for one end of poolBasically stays down deep end of the pool and gets stuck in a corner, keep dragging down to shallow end but returns to deep end. Tried lots of adjustments even getting in to pool with snorkeling gear to eyeball it, hasn't saved me anytime at all. Show details
Maytronics Dolphin S 400

Maytronics Dolphin S 400

4.6  (8) Summary
$3,123.57RRP
Sisi
SisiNSW2 posts
 
Fantastic performanceI tried a few other models before Maytronics and I have to say my Dolphin is awesome - its cleans by pool better than before. Dolphin really is the best on the market, my pool has never looked so clean Show reply
Baracuda Manta

Baracuda Manta

3.1  (21) Summary
Happy
Happy2 posts
 
Hayward AquaNaut 250/450

Hayward AquaNaut 250/450

3.2  (19) Summary
Frustrated pool owner
Frustrated pool owner
  250
It's garbage. AvoidBarely more effective than pushing a manual vacuum around yourself. Clogs constantly. Your Local Algae will love it. You will have the greenest pool in the neighborhood, guaranteed! Show details
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Anthony P
Anthony PGold Coast12 posts
  TX35
Zodiac
Zodiac   DM   
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Hi Anthony, Thank you to sharing your experience with us. We greatly appreciate your feedback and will use this opportunity to make further improvements.

Baracuda Captura

Baracuda Captura

2.6  (34) Summary
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bimantha s.
bimantha s.
 
Absolutely rubbish , after sale service is horrible ,rudeI have brought new baracuda ggotcha pool cleaner work only two days.
Try to get help to fixe the problem after sale service omg they are rude angry they dont want to help. Please dont buy these rubbish . Show details
Baracuda
Baracuda   DM   
More

Hi Bimantha, We are sorry to hear about your experience. Please do reach out to our support team to assist you promptly with your Captura on 1300 784 423 from Mon-Fri 8.30am - 6.00pm AEDT.

Hayward TigerShark

Hayward TigerShark

2.6  (36) Summary
S Morgan
S Morgan
  TigerShark
Maytronics Dolphin Active X6

Maytronics Dolphin Active X6

3.9  (10) Summary
Brad W.
Brad W.2 posts
 
Maytronics
Maytronics   DM   
More
Robo-Tek Robo-Plus V2

Robo-Tek Robo-Plus V2

5.0  (6) Summary
$2,290RRP
Brenda
BrendaQLD2 posts
 
Dragonfly Floating Pool Cleaner

Dragonfly Floating Pool Cleaner

5.0  (6) Summary
Tricia
TriciaNSW5 posts
 

A pool cleaner with a hose attached cleaning a tiled pool floor

Types of pool cleaners

Using a pool cleaner can save you time, money, and can leave you with a more thoroughly cleaned pool. While filtration systems help collect small debris, only a pool cleaner can capture heavier grit and prevent the growth of algae and bacteria.

We’ve listed the different pool cleaners available on the market, and what kind of pools they each suit.

Suction pool cleaners · See all

Suction cleaners are attached with a hose to your skimmer box, and use your pool’s filtration system and its suction to collect grime. These cleaners are the most common pool cleaner type in Australian pools.

There are two types of suction cleaners:

  • Inertia driven suction cleaners. Inertia-driven cleaners clean in a random pattern. They’re effective on pools with curved walls, as they can’t always get into tight corners.
  • Geared suction cleaners. These have wheels and move in a fixed pattern, letting them easily clean sharp corners. If you have a smaller pool with steps and straight walls, then a geared cleaner may be more suitable, however because they’ve got more moving parts then inertia-driven models, they may require more maintenance.
Pros
Cheaper than other pool cleaners.
Simple to use set up.
Usually suitable for both in-ground and above-ground pools.
Doesn’t have a motor, so it has one less part that needs repair or replacing.
Uses your pool’s suction, so won’t cost you much in electricity.
Cons
Leaving them in the pool all the time means they’ll fill up the skimmer box, making your pool pump work extra hard - this could damage it over time.
More effort to maintain, as you have to empty the skimmer box every now and then as it fills up with debris.
Debris may still be left on the pool’s surface, so you’ll need to use a net to scoop up what’s left.
Has to be put in and removed every cleaning session.

Robotic pool cleaners · See all

Robotic cleaners are operated by electric motors, and because they house pumps and filters, they’re self-contained - this means they have an inbuilt container for debris that you need to empty out. They don’t need to be connected to your pool’s filtration system, however they do need to be plugged into an outlet.

Pros
Can efficiently clean and remove debris, germs, and bacteria from larger pools.
Generally stop and block up less than other pool cleaners.
Pool robots are low maintenance in that they run without any supervision needed, and most automatically shut off when the pool is clean - also, some robotic pool cleaners can be left in the pool.
Easy to use and set up.
Good at cleaning corners.
Some models require less added chemicals then other swimming pool cleaners.
Cons
Priciest type of cleaner available.
Need to be plugged into a GFCI-protected outlet, which limits its range.
Some don’t filter while they clean.
Often heavier than suction cleaners.
Pump and filter need to be cleaned.

Pressure pool cleaners

Pressure cleaners work in conjunction with your pool’s water return port, or with a booster pump line. These types of cleaners can be expensive to install, so it’s common for people to opt for a different cleaner if their pool doesn’t already have one.

Pros
More powerful than suction cleaners, letting them effectively clean pool surfaces.
Collects all kinds of dirt and debris, both fine and coarse.
Rarely clogs up.
Often more efficient at cleaning than suction cleaners.
Durable.
Can clean tight corners.
Cons
More expensive than suction cleaners.
Require more effort to set up and maintain.
Some pressure cleaners require their own plumbing.

Other types of pool cleaners

  • Handheld cleaners: This works similarly to a vacuum cleaner in that you use your own energy to push it along the pool floor to clean it. It’s time consuming, especially if you have a large pool, but it is the most economical cleaning option available.
  • Chlorinators: Pool chlorinators are devices that automatically maintain the right level of chlorine in your pool. This keeps the pool clean and safe to swim in, and helps prevent algae growth.

What to consider when choosing a pool cleaner

Compatibility with your pool

Different swimming pools have different cleaning needs, so check that the cleaner is suited for your pool, taking into consideration features like whether it’s an in-ground or above-ground pool, as well as the size and shape of your pool.

If you have a square or rectangle pool with straight edges, you might find that a cleaner with a cleaning pattern covers your pool’s surface better than if it were a kidney-shaped pool.

Some cleaners are able to climb and clean steps and walls, and having this feature saves you having to manually clean these yourself.

Certain cleaners may also be able to more effectively clean certain pool surfaces. Whether you have a vinyl, concrete, fibreglass, tiled, or other surface, check that your cleaner is suitable for your pool before you buy it.

During storms and rains, you may also want to keep a cover on your pool - if this is the case, check that the cleaner you’re considering can still run while your pool is under cover.

Build quality

You’re going to want a pool cleaner that lasts you years, and can reliably clean your pool every season.

A longer warranty is usually a good indication of the durability of a product, so aim for at least 3-year protection. If this seems like a long warranty to look out for, then keep in mind that your cleaner will likely only be regularly cleaning during the summer.

Read reviews.

Reading through reviews can give you a good idea of how long a product lasts, and when things do go wrong, how much it costs to repair or how easy it is to fix yourself.

Hose length

Your cleaner should have enough hose to reach from one end of the pool to the other - it’s even better to err on the safe side by having a metre or two of extra length.

If your cleaner doesn’t have a long enough hose, then some manufacturers will let you buy a longer one separately.

Price

Pool cleaners can cost anywhere from $150 to $1200 (however cleaners from reputable brands usually start around the $300 mark), and you should expect to fork out up to $2500 if you’re after a robotic model.

While robotic cleaners are more expensive, they’re usually the most efficient and easiest cleaner type to maintain.

The bottom line

A swimming pool is a huge investment that the right pool cleaner (or pool cleaning service) can help make worthwhile, so that you and your loved ones can enjoy a swim in sparkling clean water whenever you want.

Carefully consider your options so that you end up with a cleaner that lets you spend more time in the pool and less time cleaning it.

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