Top 4 Suction Pool Cleaners of 2024 as Determined by Testing

# Review: The Best Suction Pool Cleaners for Easy Maintenance

If you’re a pool owner, you know how important it is to keep your pool clean and well-maintained. Suction pool cleaners are a popular choice for their accessibility and effectiveness in keeping your pool in top shape. In this review, we tested five different models to find the best suction pool cleaners on the market. We evaluated each pick based on ease of setup, quality of design, ease of use, cleaning abilities, and overall value. We also considered factors like noise levels, maintenance, and cleaning time. Let’s dive into our top picks and see which suction pool cleaner is right for you.

## Best Overall: Hayward The PoolCleaner Suction Cleaner

**Design: 5/5**
**Ease of Use: 4/5**
**Effectiveness: 4.5/5**
**Value: 4/5**

The Hayward Poolvergnuegen Suction Pool Cleaner stood out as our top pick for the best overall suction pool cleaner. With a thoughtful design, lightweight construction, and excellent cleaning abilities, this cleaner impressed us during testing. The self-adjusting turbine and tire treads make it versatile for any pool surface, while the adjustable roller skirts ensure consistent suction even on uneven surfaces. While it may not be the fastest cleaner, it gets the job done effectively.

### How It Performed After One Month

After a month of testing, the Hayward Poolvergnuegen Suction Pool Cleaner continued to impress us with its consistent performance and fair price point. While it may not be the fastest cleaner, it delivers reliable cleaning results, making it a great value for pool owners.

**Product Details:**
– Weight: 4.9 pounds
– Cable Length: 33 feet
– Pool Length: Up to 32 feet
– Filter Style: Existing pool filter
– Suggested Pool Style: In-ground
– Suggested Pool Surface: All

## Best for Large Pools: Zodiac Baracuda G3 Suction Pool Cleaner

**Setup: 2/5**
**Design: 4/5**
**Ease of Use: 4/5**
**Effectiveness: 5/5**
**Value: 5/5**

The Zodiac Baracuda G3 Suction Pool Cleaner is our top choice for large pools, thanks to its impressive cleaning abilities and efficient design. With a 39-foot feed hose and a 36-fin disc for better adherence to pool surfaces, this cleaner excelled in cleaning the sides, slopes, and hard-to-reach areas of our 40-foot pool. While assembly can be time-consuming, the overall performance of this cleaner makes it a worthwhile investment for large pool owners.

### How It Performed After Six Months

After six months of use, we found the Zodiac Baracuda G3 Suction Pool Cleaner to be a reliable and effective cleaner for large pools. While it may require some extra setup time, its cleaning performance and durability make it a top choice for maintaining a clean pool.

**Product Details:**
– Weight: 17.6 pounds
– Cable Length: 39 feet
– Pool Length: Up to 40 feet
– Filter Style: Existing pool filter
– Suggested Pool Style: In-ground
– Suggested Pool Surface: Tile, vinyl, gunite, fiberglass

## Easiest to Use: Hayward Navigator Pro Suction Pool Cleaner

**Setup: 2/5**
**Design: 4/5**
**Ease of Use: 5/5**
**Effectiveness: 4.8/5**
**Value: 4/5**

For pool owners looking for a user-friendly suction pool cleaner, the Hayward Navigator Pro is the ideal choice. With easy setup, simple instructions, and quiet operation, this cleaner makes pool maintenance a breeze. The winged design and preprogrammed steering pattern ensure thorough cleaning of debris, while the quiet operation adds to the overall user experience.

### How It Performed After Six Months

After six months of regular use, the Hayward Navigator Pro Suction Pool Cleaner continued to impress us with its strong suction ability and consistent cleaning performance. While it may require occasional adjustments, its programmed cleaning feature enhances coverage and overall cleaning efficiency.

**Product Details:**
– Weight: 18 pounds
– Cable Length: 40 feet
– Pool Length: Up to 40 feet
– Filter Style: Existing pool filter
– Suggested Pool Style: In-ground
– Suggested Pool Surface: Gunite

## Best for Small Debris: Pentair Kreepy Krauly Pool Cleaner

**Setup: 3/5**
**Design: 4/5**
**Ease of Use: 4.5/5**
**Effectiveness: 4.5/5**
**Value: 5/5**

If you have a pool with small debris that needs to be cleaned, the Pentair Kreepy Krauly Pool Cleaner is the perfect choice. With features like an automatic valve, cleaner wings, and roller straps, this cleaner excels at removing small particles and maintaining a clean pool floor. While assembly may be tedious, the overall cleaning performance and value of this cleaner make it a top pick for pool owners.

### How It Performed After Six Months

After six months of occasional use, the Pentair Kreepy Krauly Pool Cleaner proved to be a reliable and effective cleaner for small debris. While setup may take some time, its consistent cleaning performance and value make it a worthwhile investment for pool maintenance.

**Product Details:**
– Weight: 15 pounds
– Cable Length: Not listed
– Pool Length: Up to 40 feet
– Filter Style: Existing pool filter
– Suggested Pool Style: In-ground
– Suggested Pool Surface: Pleated seal

## The Bottom Line

Our top pick for the best suction pool cleaner overall is the Hayward Poolvergnuegen Suction Pool Cleaner, thanks to its quick setup, effective cleaning, and versatility on any pool surface. Whether you have a small or large pool, there is a suction pool cleaner on our list that will meet your needs and make pool maintenance a breeze.

## Our Testing Process

To determine the best suction pool cleaners, we rigorously tested five models at home and evaluated them based on setup, design, ease of use, effectiveness, and value. We considered factors like noise levels, maintenance, and cleaning time to provide you with the most comprehensive review of each cleaner. Our testing process ensures that the suction pool cleaners on our list are top performers in the market.

## What to Know About Suction Pool Cleaners Before Shopping

### Weight
When choosing a suction pool cleaner, consider the weight of the unit, including the added weight of hoses. Lighter cleaners like the Pentair Kreepy Krauly are easier to carry and maneuver.

### Cable Length
Ensure that the hose length of the cleaner is sufficient to reach the entire length of your pool. The Hayward Navigator Pro comes with a 40-foot hose, ideal for larger pools.

### Pool Length
Make sure the cleaner is suitable for the size of your pool. The Zodiac Baracuda G3 is designed for large pools and provides efficient cleaning for pools of various sizes.

### Filter Style
Consider the filtration system of the cleaner and choose one that complements your pool pump. Cartridge filters like the Hayward Poolvergnuegen offer significant water savings and efficient debris collection.

### Suggested Pool Surface and Style
Check if the cleaner is compatible with your pool surface and style. Different cleaners are designed for specific pool surfaces, so choose one that suits your pool type for optimal performance.

## Other Suction Pool Cleaners We Tested

While our top picks stood out for their performance and value, we also tested the Zodiac MX6 In-Ground Suction Side Pool Cleaner. While it offers effective cleaning, issues with climbing walls and priming may affect its overall performance.

## Your Questions, Answered

### Can you leave a suction pool cleaner in the pool between uses?
While some cleaners have timers for automatic cleaning, it is advisable to remove the cleaner from the pool when not in use to prevent damage from prolonged exposure to chlorine.

### How do you install a suction pool cleaner?
Installation of a suction pool cleaner involves connecting it to the suction side of your pool’s plumbing lines, either through a dedicated suction line or the pool skimmer inlet.

### How does a suction pool cleaner work?
Suction pool cleaners use the pool pump to create suction for debris removal. They rely on the pool’s filter to collect debris, making them efficient and low-maintenance cleaning solutions.

## Who We Are

Our review was compiled with insights from Brian Wells, a pool equipment expert, and Dr. Claudia Duncan, a pool management professional. Our testing process and recommendations are based on their expertise and our extensive testing to provide you with the best suction pool cleaners on the market.

## What Is BHG Recommends?

Products that earn the BHG Recommends seal have undergone rigorous testing to ensure they meet our standards for quality and performance. Our recommendations are based on thorough testing and expert insights to help you make informed decisions for your home.

In conclusion, suction pool cleaners are a convenient and effective solution for maintaining a clean and safe pool. Whether you have a small or large pool, our top picks offer reliable performance, ease of use, and value for your pool maintenance needs. Choose the best suction pool cleaner that suits your pool size, surface, and cleaning preferences to enjoy a sparkling pool all year round.