Having a pool in your backyard is absolutely a plus when it comes to entertaining or just having fun with the family, and it’s surely a source of prestige depending on the set up you have. Sadly, keeping it clean is really a chore. There is no end to the germs that can breed in water. This is why you need to ensure that pool sanitation is high on your priority list. The last thing you need is to affect the health of your family and friends as they enjoy your pool.
It is really a chore to clean the pool, but don’t forget that you have other options to doing it yourself. A lot of pool owners now rely on automation to perform this mind-numbing task.
There is a wide assortment of automatic pool cleaners out there that you can choose from, and they can do the job for both in ground or above ground pools.
Pool Cleaner Types
Most pool owners, as expected, prefer the automated types of cleaner to avoid the manual brushing and scrubbing. Here are the four basic types of pool cleaners:
• Return-side driven cleaner – This relies on the pump to operate since it requires a large amount of water flowing to do its job. The cleaner’s locomotion and dirt and debris suction takes place because of the Venturi effect, which is pressure reduction caused by constrictions in pipe sections. A pressure-driven cleaner is a minor variation of the return-side driven cleaner. In pressure-driven cleaners, water flow is pressurized by a secondary booster pump.
• Suction-side driven cleaner – These are usually attached to the skimmer using a hose. The suction provided by the pump propels the machine forward. They suck up the dirt and debris on the floor pretty well in addition to cleaning the walls of the pool.
• Electronic pool cleaners – This cleaner has a drive motor, a pump and a compressor all in one unit. During the cleaning process, the debris is vacuumed into the filter. After it is done, the filter bag needs to be cleaned. The cleaner moves in the pool with the help of wheels or tracks, which is connected to a motor and driven by belts.
• Robotic cleaners – These are the most expensive types of pool cleaners. They have the latest in terms of technology and operates with sensors mounted on bump bars. This enables them to pause briefly when they come in contact with walls or other obstructions, and then resume cleaning in the reverse direction.
Some cleaners also come with timers, same approach as your sprinkler systems, where start and stop times can be programmed on the cleaner. Robotic cleaners are the most expensive among the four types available. These cleaners are high tech and have embedded programmed microchips. They can work on their own or be directed by remote control to clean the pool of dirt and debris. Robotic models are powered by transformers that you need to plug to an outlet. The transformer converts the power to a lower voltage and is connected to the cleaner with a long cord.
The robotic types are great when it comes to handling sand, small dirt and other debris. There are even designs that come with a remote control which allow you to control your cleaner to clean any spot it might have missed! This cleaner type not only cleans the walls but also the tile lines. The only disadvantage is really the price which can be expensive when compared to other swimming pool cleaners out there.
Take your time before you go out and buy one. It’s best to first ask around, for example your friends who are pool owners or better yet, pool dealers and professionals in the field of swimming pools and pool supplies. Chances are if your friends are satisfied with their purchase, you will most probably be happy with it too!
