Suction Side Pool Cleaner VS Robotic Pool Cleaner

[@UBGood]

🥇I like the Maxx and Zodiac suction side cleaners most.

[@SPL]

Me too! It's awesome!👏

[@ddyoder]

I really like my Pentair Rebel Warrior suction side pool cleaner. I use to have similar to video that oscillated/shook along the pool surface but I did find it was more finicky to pool pump speeds over time. The pentair rebel seems to consistently move and respond well to all pump speeds... though I have an adjacent spa against the pool and a few steps which I often clean manually since it can't crawl to them.

[@LFTRnow]

Tried both. The suction one with 4 wheels is basically designed to break after a few years, but was able to pick up the finest dust from the bottom. This of course clogs the cartridges, which are a pain to clean and expensive to replace. Bought a cheaper Aiper (~$150) and it does a good job on medium debris (palm tree seeds - I hate them, but it gets them up nicely), but dust just gets churned around, AND it doesn't deal with a deep end (can't go up the ramp). I think I might need a better robot, but not spending ~$1k unless I know it lasts and filters out dust (AZ pool).

[@SPL]

Try any of the Dolphin cleaners with the fine filter debris basket. They filter down to 20 microns.

[@speedracerjeff]

Suction side all day, every day. I have MX6s, MX8s, and The Pool Cleaners in every single pool on my route, including my own pool. Robotics require too much maintenance weekly and get overwhelmed by too much dirt/debris quickly, and can’t be left in the pool 24/7.

[@axeo123]

Suction aide hoses and the cleaner impact the look 'n feel of the pool.

[@speedracerjeff]

@@axeo123 you can take the suction cleaner out like many do when you have guests/pool party etc.

[@axeo123]

Yes, thanks. The pool though is a prominent backyard water feature visible all day long. The suction side cleaner and hose defeats that. Removing the suction side system and storing out of sight would be more trouble than placing/removing a robotic. I keep very low level of chemicals for swimming water quality, so the issue is green algae from time-to-time on all surfaces. The entire pool is easily brushed in a few minutes, but then main cartridge filter needs to be cleaned more frequently - not a favorite chore. :) Ideally a robotic if it comes even near 100% of all surfaces and traps the algae would be ideal.

[@CHORRO7415]

Is there a suction side cleaner that does walls better? I have a diving pool and concerned about the walls. Of course I understand brushing probably necessary but every little bit helps. I also get leaves and little pebble/nut debris and palm tree stuff occasionally during monsoon. I have a sand filter, so not worried about too much filter maintenance. I guess my criteria: Low maintenance, cheap to repair, will do walls and some steps. I only have one-speed pump. I'm also thinking of getting a skimmer (solar) to aid.

[@SPL]

Nothing will do the steps. But the Polaris Atlas or Maxx is your best bet for wall climbing. It needs a slope and can't go up a 90 degree wall.

[@ozzielara2337]

I’m currently debating which to go with next. I currently have a Pentair Rebel that’s been in use since 2017. It’s been pretty much trouble free since that time other than a couple of tune up kits here and there. Unfortunately even with the most recent tune up it’s still not working properly. I’m considering the Dolphin Cayman because I love the idea that I can use the skimmer again instead of having the attachment installed in the skimmer port so the Rebel can work properly. The concern I have is the fact that maintenance is probably going to be much more expensive and the other issue is that I would have to constantly take it in and out of the pool. The Rebel is nice because it’s basically “set it and forget it”. But because the hoses and cleaner are always in the pool it is a hassle to take out when having family and friends over. I honestly have to see just do a pros and cons list and see what comes out on top…

[@SPL]

That would be a good idea. You'll find that the pool is of course cleaner each day with a suction cleaner but when you need it clean for use all you need is 2-3 hours beforhand and toss the robot in.

[@speedracerjeff]

What’s so hard about disconnecting the hose from the wall or skimmer and taking it out? Lol

[@axeo123]

Hello David. You are known for solid advice. Do you have a list of cordless robotics to consider?

[@axeo123]

Hello David. Solid advice as usual. Do you have a list of cordless robotics to consider?

[@SPL]

Freedom Plus or The Dolphin Liberty 300. Top ones

[@axeo123]

Got it, and thanks again.

[@mintychris1]

I 3:45 am looking at a cordless cleaner. Choice between Dolphin and Zodiac. Dolphin has finer filtration but Zodiac has 3 motors and where I live spare parts are easier to find. I have a 10m x 5m irregular pebble pool. Any thoughts?

[@SPL]

I'd go with the FREEDOM and just order the Fine Sand/Silt Canister For Epic - R0897800.