Pool Care /
What Are the Types of Pool Cleaner?
Pool cleaners usually come in four types: manual, suction, pressure, and robotic. Each cleans differently, and the best fit depends on your pool and maintenance needs.
Archive date: this article was written for PoolSkimmer on Oct 24, 2026 and given the earlier archive date of Sep 22, 2025 so the blog reads as an organized archive. It was not published on that date.
The question of what kind of pool cleaner to get is a common one. In short, there are four options: the manual vacuum, the suction-side and pressure-side cleaners, and the robotic variety. While they all serve to clean the pool, their methods of operation vary as do the maintenance requirements they suit. Ultimately, the decision on which pool vacuum is right for you will come down to your pool type, the amount of debris and how much hands-on work you are prepared to put in.
What are the main types of pool cleaner?
For the most part, pool cleaners can be broken down into these groups:
- Manual pool vacuum: One where you do the guiding.
- Suction pool cleaner: Taps into the pool system’s suction via a skimmer or port.
- Pressure-side pool cleaner: Driven by water pressure from the pump; some require a booster.
- Robotic pool cleaner: An independent unit that you put in the water and let go to work apart from the filter system.
Hayward’s own weekly maintenance advice puts automatic vacuums in three buckets: robotic, pressure and suction. It is the same distinction most pool owners make when comparing them.
How does a manual pool vacuum work?
With a manual cleaner you have complete control. You take your time moving it over the floor and up the walls as necessary. This is useful for getting at dirt and debris that might otherwise be left behind with a hasty pass.
It is often the way to go if there is settled debris on the bottom, you want to direct the vacuuming yourself, or you are after a straightforward cleanup post-skimming. Just remember to shut off the pump before you reach for the skimmer basket or any other equipment and don’t forget your PPE if the situation calls for it.
Suction, pressure and robotic: what is the difference?
Suction pool cleaner This is a simple automatic option for some inground pools with the right plumbing. It is nothing more than an extension of the filtration flow from the pool pump.
Pressure-side pool cleaner These move about on the strength of the pool system’s water pressure. The setup is a bit more involved than a suction vacuum in that some models will need a booster pump to function.
Robotic pool cleaner Many prefer the robotic model precisely because it is not tied to the pool pump or filter circulation like the others. It has its own path and operates on its own.
How to pick the right pool vacuum
You can make a practical choice by running through a few questions:
1. Is full control what I am after? Then a manual vacuum is the answer. 2. Do I want to make use of my current pool system? A suction cleaner would be suitable. 3. Am I set up with a booster pump or similar? You may want to consider the pressure-side option. 4. Would I rather have something that doesn’t run through the pool filter? Make it a robotic cleaner.
Then there is the matter of what kind of debris you are dealing with. Algae residue, fine sediment and leaves will each dictate a different routine, particularly once you have finished brushing and skimming.
Mistakes to avoid
Do not make the assumption that an automatic cleaner means you can forgo regular filter care, skimming and brushing. Nor should you try to access a skimmer basket while the pump is on, or start vacuuming without first checking for loose debris in problem spots. And always give the manufacturer’s manual a read for proper setup.
When to get a professional
If the pool pump is acting up or the cleaner is not moving as it should, or perhaps seems at odds with your plumbing, it is best to call in a qualified service technician. The same goes for any electrical faults or repairs that could compromise safe operation. If the water is anything but safe, stay out of the pool until the matter is put to rest.
Sources and further reading
- [Hayward: Weekly pool maintenance](https://www.hayward.com/maintenance/weekly-pool-maintenance)