It’s important to keep your above-ground pool clean, clear, and free of debris. Not only for your enjoyment but for pool parties, too! You don’t want to deter your guests because there’s sand, leaves, or algae in the pool.
While there are many above-ground pool vacuums on the market, I’ve created a list of the best 10. It’s designed to help you find the right one for your needs, whether you want something budget-friendly, specifically for removing sand, or robotic.
This list is powered by hours of in-depth research into various brands, honest customer reviews, and expert advice. I thoroughly studied each product’s cleaning mechanism, cleaning ability, how to use it, and more essential details. With that in mind, I’ll tell you all the pros and cons of each vacuum so you can make an unbiased decision.
- Large basket filter
- Easy to remove from pool
- Quick cleans in only 1.5 hours
- Strong Water Tech P30 motor
- 10.5-inch vacuum head
- One-hour battery life
- 45 min battery recharging
- 10.5-inch vacuum head
- Easy to empty canister
- Has two interchangeable brush heads
- Impressive safety features
- 94-inch telescoping pole
- Scrubs pool floor
- Enhanced filter system
- Scans pool floor for dirt
No products found.
- Useful for above-ground pools, spa & ponds
- Double layered mesh bag
- Creates Venturi effect without electricity
- Cleans two pool types
- Removable debris bag
- No electricity required
- Comes with an AG disc
- Automatically regulates water flow
- Quiet operation
- Automatic cleaner
- Smart steering across entire floor
- Budget-friendly
- Patented jet sweep system
- Unique filter bag
- Automatic operation
Review Methodology: At Oh So Spotless, we take pride in providing you with a thorough analysis and assessment of the best above-ground pool vacuums available in the market. Our team of professionals has hands-on experience with various pool vacuums, and we use a range of criteria to evaluate their performance, including suction power, energy efficiency, and ease of use. We compare and rank each product based on these factors, and our reviews are backed by data, research, and first-hand evidence. Our goal is to help you make an informed decision by sharing our expertise and identifying key decision-making factors, such as design choices, durability, and the unique features that set a product apart from its competitors. Trust our comprehensive evaluation process and let Oh So Spotless guide you in choosing the perfect above-ground pool vacuum for your needs.
The Best Above-Ground Pool Vacuum of 2023
I’ve spent hours researching real customer reviews, expert advice, and product descriptions. With that in mind, I’ve created a list of the 10 best above-ground pool vacuums based on each product’s cleaning ability and design. Reading through this, we’re sure you’ll find your ideal cleaner.
Let’s get cleaning!
Dolphin E10 Robotic Pool Cleaner
Best Robotic Pool Vacuum
Cleaning a pool can be quite a hassle and can add to the already long list of household tasks. But when you choose a robotic pool vacuum, the burden is lifted. All you need to worry about is turning it on, placing it in the pool, and cleaning it occasionally.
If you’re in the market for a robotic vacuum, the Dolphin E10 cleaner is one of the best.
What We Like
Large Basket Filter
The large-capacity filter gives you lots of freedom since you don’t have to empty it or clean it out that often. When you empty it, it just takes the click of one button. Super easy!
Simply Remove From Swimming Pools
Have you ever used a pool vacuum that’s a pain to remove from the pool? Well, this one makes it easy.
When you pull it out, the water drains. Fast! And it doesn’t let out debris thanks to the super fine filter (sold separately, but it’s a must-have).
Cleans Pools in 1.5 Hours
This can clean an average-sized above-ground pool in only 1.5 hours! This gives you your beloved pool back quickly — and spotless — so you can enjoy an afternoon swim.
Active Scrubbing Brush
One of the things I love most about this vacuum is the built-in scrubbing brush. Not only does this unit collect debris, but it deep cleans the bottom of your pool, saving you from doing it by hand.
What We Don't Like
Limited Cycle Time
If you have a larger above-ground pool, you can definitely still use this. But it has one timer option: 1.5 hours.
This isn’t enough for some pools. It’s not a huge issue to reach it and start the timer again, but it would be better if there were more options.
Cord Tangles Easily
A big complaint is that the cord gets tangled often. It doesn’t swivel, so it can run over the cord, get wrapped up in it, or just twist it all about.
Product Specs
| Type | Robotic |
| Type of Dirt | General dirt and debris |
| Weight | 14.6 pounds |
| Usage | Above-ground pools up to 30 feet |
| Warranty | Two years |
Our Ratings
Pool Blaster Max Cordless Cleaner
Best for Cleaning Sand
Sand can be a big problem for pool owners. Since sand is so fine, you need a particular vacuum that can handle fine particles — such as the Pool Blaster Max.
This can capture all kinds of dirt and more of it. This vacuum has powerful suction that can clean up large debris like acorns and leaves, as well as small particles such as sand and dirt.
What We Like
Water Tech P30 Motor
This super-strong Water Tech P30 Motor has increased suction for quick and efficient cleaning. Get the job done quicker with this vacuum so you make a splash in the pool as soon as possible.
Good for Deep Cleaning
You can use this for spot-cleaning, but it’s also great for deep cleaning. The 10.5-inch vacuum head can quickly clean up the whole pool. It also has a nose cone head for getting into corners and other hard-to-reach places.
One Hour Battery Life
Get more done between charges. The lithium-ion battery is designed to run for up to an hour, giving you more time to clean. The battery also charges in less than four hours!
Cordless Cleaning
A cordless cleaner makes it easier to quickly touch up your swimming pool or hot tub. No hoses or cords necessary — just whip this out and give your watery areas a clean!
What We Don't Like
The Bag Fills Quickly
One of the main frustrations about this cool pool vacuum is that the bag is small. Some needed to empty it five times per session, and others needed to empty it over 20 times per session!
Not the Most Durable
Based on its performance, you may need to replace this pool vacuum every one to two years. The motor is powerful, but it’s not very durable. For the pretty high price, this is a big bummer for a lot of customers.
Product Specs
| Type | Battery-powered |
| Type of Dirt | Leaves, acorns, twigs, dirt, and sand |
| Weight | 5.5 pounds |
| Usage | In-ground and above-ground |
| Warranty | One year |
Our Ratings
Community Feedback
Pool Blaster Catfish Ultra Cleaner
Best for Leaves
Are leaves littering your pool? Nobody wants to swim in a leaf-covered pool — it’s not relaxing. We recommend the Pool Blaster Catfish Ultra to get rid of those leaves.
This vacuum can suck up leaves, acorns, twigs, dirt, and sand. If these things are ruining your spa-like swimming experience, then this is the vacuum for you.
What We Like
Rechargeable Battery
Being battery-powered, this is easy and convenient to use since there are no power cords to get in your way. It runs up to 45 minutes at a time, which is enough for most pools.
Versatile Cleaning
This vacuum is the ultimate solution for all your cleaning needs, whether you need to do a deep clean or spot-clean a small mess. Its straightforward design lets you quickly clean messes, while the generously sized 10.5-inch vacuum head lets you clean your entire pool efficiently.
Easy To Empty
This is a big pro point, as nobody wants to deal with nasty gunk after they’ve vacuumed it up. The unique canister has a dual-cam lever connection, allowing you to easily empty the chamber without the mess.
Easy To Use
This is one that customers love using. Why? Because it feels like using a regular vacuum. It’s the same sort of design, except with an elongated handle so you can clean your pool from the edge.
What We Don't Like
Flimsy Handle
The handle is pretty thin and not very sturdy, so it can feel relatively cheap as if it is going to break. This prevents you from being able to put a lot of pressure on the appliance.
Clogs Easily
The debris canister isn’t that big, so if you suck up a whole bunch of leaves, it can clog easily. This can prevent a smooth experience when vacuuming your pool, as you may need to empty it often.
Product Specs
| Type | Battery-powered |
| Type of Dirt | Leaves, acorns, twigs, dirt, and sand |
| Weight | 6 pounds |
| Usage | In-ground and above-ground |
| Warranty | One year |
Our Ratings
Community Feedback
Intex 28620EP Rechargeable Handheld Vacuum
Best Rechargeable Pick
If you’re looking for a rechargeable option, then the Intex handheld vacuum is great. Moreover, the cost of this product is quite affordable, which may work well for various budgets.
This handheld vacuum is suitable for all PureSpa products and above-ground pools up to 18 feet in diameter.
You can easily clean every nook and cranny with the telescoping pole. Incredible for hard-to-reach spots!
What We Like
Two Interchangeable Brush Heads
This comes with two interchangeable brush heads: one for general cleaning and the other for corners and stairs. Cleaning in specific places has never been easier.
Safety Protection Included
This has some cool features to prevent breakage. Firstly, it automatically shuts off when not submerged in water, protecting the battery life. Secondly, it has a waterproof switch to prevent any damage to the electrics while it is underwater.
94-Inch Pole
The extended 94-inch telescoping pole makes it so easy to adjust when you need it. Whether you need a longer length to reach into the middle or a shorter length to do the sides, this aluminum pole has got you covered.
Works In Various Pools
Put this vacuum to the test in all PureSpa and above-ground pools that are up to 18 feet in diameter. So if you have a hot tub, pool, and a pond, this will clean across all your bodies of water, as long as they don’t surpass the width limit.
What We Don't Like
You Must Be Patient
This doesn’t have the strongest suction. Therefore, it can take a while to clean the pool. Plus, the bag is relatively small, so it needs to be emptied often. The charge time is also quite long, so overall — you need quite a bit of patience to enjoy this vacuum.
Not Durable
Some customers found this stopped working after a few months. They were happy with it up until this happened, but keep in mind that it isn’t the most durable.
Product Specs
| Type | Battery-powered |
| Type of Dirt | Loose dirt and debris |
| Weight | 6.6 pounds |
| Usage | All PureSpas and above-ground pools up to 18′ Diameter |
| Warranty | One year |
Our Ratings
Community Feedback
Dolphin Sigma Robot Pool Cleaner
Best for Algae
You want to steer clear of having algae in your pool. It can deter people from going for a nice swim, which is disappointing when you forked out a lot of cash for your pool.
But with an appropriate pool vacuum, you can say goodbye to algae. This Dolphin Sigma cleaner is our top choice for getting algae out of your pool for good.
It has a total runtime of almost three hours which is more than enough for cleaning.
What We Like
Scrubs and Cleans the Pool
This doesn’t just vacuum; it scrubs and cleans your pool. The durable dual micro brushes rotate along the surfaces to remove algae, bacteria, dirt, and debris.
Use this along the pool floor, walls, tiles, and waterline. I’m super impressed with how detail-orientated this vacuum is, and I think you will be, too!
Enhanced Filter System
The two oversized filter baskets can hold a larger capacity of waste and particles. You can seamlessly clean without worrying about emptying the filter baskets that often. Moreover, it uses 90 percent less energy than some outdated pool cleaners.
Anti-Tangle Swivel
The anti-swivel hose rotates 360 degrees to avoid tangling, which may seem like a small detail — but it’s a very important and practical one. Now you don’t have to waste time untangling it, which can be a big problem with other pool vacuums.
Next-Generation Smart Mapping
Fully equipped with Smart Nav Software and Gyroscope, this scans your pool floor to locate dirt along the entire pool floor, walls, tile, and waterline. Yep, that’s right — it can take itself from the floor to the walls using a 3-axis rotation without effort from you.
What We Don't Like
Sometimes Misses Spots
Although it’s designed to get into corners, nooks, and crannies, some customers say this little guy can miss spots. This is specifically where slopes meet, or stairs end.
Doesn’t Memorize Pool Layout
While the smart mapping can scan for dirt, it can’t yet memorize the pool’s layout. Therefore, the movements around the pool are quite random. It would be awesome if it had a memorization function like home robot vacuums do.
Product Specs
| Type | Robotic |
| Type of Dirt | Debris, algae, and bacteria |
| Weight | 35 pounds |
| Usage | All pool shapes, above- and in-ground, up to 50 feet |
| Warranty | Three years |
Our Ratings
Community Feedback
PoolSupplyTown Vacuum Cleaner
Best Handheld Pool Vacuum
I have a few handheld options on our list, but this is popular among customers!
Handheld pool vacuums are very easy to use without obstructing cords or wires. Plus, you’re in control which lots of people prefer over automatic or robot vacuums.
The PoolSupplyTown cleaner lets you take charge of sucking up every last bit of dirt and debris.
What We Like
Versatile Uses
This works well for above-ground pools, but that’s not all. You can also use this on spas, ponds, and waterfalls. Bring every water feature in your backyard to perfection with this vacuum!
Venturi Effect
This uses the water pressure from your garden hose to create a venturi effect, which sucks up debris without using electrics. The powerful suction can draw in leaves and all sorts of debris, leaving your pool sparkling clean.
Doesn’t Use Electricity
As mentioned above, this vacuum uses a venturi effect. Therefore, you don’t need to plug this in or use electricity. Not only does that save money, but it also means this is super portable. If you want to take it over to your neighbors house or with you on vacation, why not?
Double Layered Mesh Bag
The filter bag is pretty much as important as the vacuum itself. And this one is unbeatable! The double-layered fine mesh bag is sturdy enough to capture and trap fine particles. This includes sand, pebbles, dirt, and tiny toys.
What We Don't Like
Telescopic Pole Not Included
Keep in mind that you will need to buy a telescoping pole separately. I think these are essential when cleaning out a pool with a handheld vacuum, so it’s a bit disappointing that it’s not included.
Flimsy Handle
The poles and handles that are included are cheap and flimsy. They may break, but even if they don’t, they prevent you from being able to apply a good amount of pressure when cleaning.
Product Specs
| Type | Handheld — connects to garden hose |
| Type of Dirt | Dirt, sand, pebbles, toys, leaves, and more |
| Weight | 12 ounces |
| Usage | Above-ground pools, spas, waterfalls, and ponds |
| Warranty | Not specified |
Our Ratings
Hydrotools Pool and Spa Venturi Vacuum
Best Budget Choice
When you search for above-ground pool vacuums, you’ll be met with many high numbers. But those are mostly for robotic or pressure-side vacuums. You don’t need to spend a fortune to clean your pool!
This venturi vacuum from Hydrotools is at a modest price, and it will still effectively clean your pool.
What We Like
Cleans Two Pool Types
Use this to clean your above-ground pool, but you can also use it for kiddie pools which can get very dirty. If you like to leave your kiddie pool out for a few days at a time, but hate the dirt that accumulates, then this vacuum is for you.
Removable Debris Bag
The debris bag is removable, making it very easy to empty all the dirt you trap. You can also easily clean and air it out before putting it back on the vacuum.
No Electrics Required
This attaches to your garden hose and uses the venturi effect to create suction. This means no electrics, no cords, and no annoying wires to get in your way. Totally safe and budget-friendly!
Cheap and Cheerful
Are you getting heart eyes looking at the price? It’s pretty nice! And the good news is that it’s worth the price; this is easy to use, quick to get up and running, and cleans pools well.
What We Don't Like
Flimsy Construction
With the quality, you do get what you pay for. It’s quite a flimsy device.
It looks a bit like a toy, according to some customers. But it does the job and should last a good while.
Not for Larger Pools
This is a pretty small device that takes a while to clean up large messes. Therefore, customers with bigger pools found it a faff to use. It’s best for kid pools or smaller above-ground pools.
Product Specs
| Type | Handheld — connects to garden hose |
| Type of Dirt | Loose dirt and debris |
| Weight | 1.2 pounds |
| Usage | Above-ground pools and kiddie pools |
| Warranty | 72 hours |
Our Ratings
Community Feedback
Zodiac Ranger Suction Side Cleaner
Best Suction-Side Vacuum
This suction-side vacuum will properly clean above-ground pools up to six feet deep, even with dished-out bottoms. It only has one moving part, which is great because it eliminates the need for a hammer or flapper noise common in suction-side or other pool vacuums.
It also includes a deflector wheel to prevent the vacuum from getting caught on steps, ladders, and corners. Pre-assembled upon arrival, it’s all ready for your pool.
What We Like
AG Disc for Glidability
This comes with an AG disc that helps the machine glide effortlessly along your pool’s bottom. But it also goes up the sides and around steps to ensure most of the pool is covered and clean.
Automatically Regulates Water Flow
The automatic regulation of water flow improves the performance, so it’s working as best as possible. Thanks to the Flowkeeper Valve and the Insta-Skim Compact flow control valve, it works to monitor the water intake.
Quiet Operation
No more annoying the neighbors with a noisy pool vacuum! This operates very quietly, which completes the nice and easy experience of cleaning your pool with this vacuum.
Arrives Pre-Assembled
The last thing busy people need is complicated instructions to assemble a product. Thankfully, this vacuum arrives pre-assembled, so you can have it up and running (and cleaning) in no time.
What We Don't Like
Not for Certain Pools
The manufacturer does not recommend using this for Intex or soft-sided pools, so keep that in mind if that sounds like your above-ground pool.
Stops and Starts
This can often stop and start, giving you an interrupted cleaning experience. Whether it shuts off or just focuses on one specific area, it can be annoying. However, customers still say it does a fantastic job when moving.
Product Specs
| Type | Suction-side |
| Type of Dirt | Loose dirt and debris |
| Weight | 15 pounds |
| Usage | Above-ground up to 6 feet deep (not soft-sided or Intex) |
| Warranty | One year |
Our Ratings
Community Feedback
Intex Auto Pool Cleaner
Best for Intex Pools
This cleaner is a great vacuum option for Intex pools. This suits all Intex above-ground pools with a 1.5-inch hose fitting.
It will automatically clean and vacuum the entire pool floor, leaving you with very little work to do. It has a 24-foot hose that you can easily attach to your inlet connectors.
Be sure to use this with a filter pump with a flow rate of 1,600-3,500 GPH.
Warning
What We Like
Automatic Cleaner
Being an automatic cleaner, this takes the stress out of cleaning your pool floor! Power this on, sit back, relax with an iced tea and a good book, and let the vacuum do the hard work for you.
Smart Steering Cleans Entire Pool Floor
This automatically reverses the direction when necessary to ensure the entire pool floor is clean. It will do its best to avoid missed spots.
Budget-Friendly Price
For an automatic vacuum, this is pretty budget-friendly. Customers think it’s worth the price you pay for it, especially since it only takes about an hour to clean the average-sized Intex pool.
Includes a Cleaning Brush
When I hear that a pool vacuum has a cleaning brush, I do a little happy dance. The small brush underneath this vacuum can sweep the floor, accumulating more debris. Not only that, it has a water pressure jet to steer the debris into the vacuum, leaving your pool as spotless as possible.
What We Don't Like
Pesky Sand Filter
This comes with a sand filter, which can be a bit pesky. If you don’t use the right kind of sand, the sand can get into the motor and destroy the vacuum.
The gears don’t do a great job keeping it out, but customers found ways around this. For instance, you can try using Vaseline on the gears, and your product should work great!
Blows Debris Around When Full
When the debris holder gets full, instead of just minimizing suction, it actually begins to blow debris around the pool. This can be very frustrating when you’ve just let it run for a while, and it was doing a good job of cleaning. Now it’s dirtying up your pool again.
Product Specs
| Type | Robotic |
| Type of Dirt | Loose dirt and debris |
| Weight | 14.8 pounds |
| Usage | Intex pools, above-ground only |
| Warranty | One year |
Our Ratings
Community Feedback
Polaris Vac-Sweep Pressure Side Vacuum
Best Pressure-Side Vacuum
This is a popular and well-received option if you’re looking for a pressure-side vacuum for your above-ground pool. It is specifically for vinyl and fiberglass pools up to five feet deep, so check your pool before purchasing.
Installing this vacuum in only a couple of minutes is very easy. It’ll be up and running before you know it, using the pressure of clean water to vacuum your pool. This leaves both the filter and skimmer free to deal with debris in the water.
What We Like
Patented Jet Sweep
This unique sweep system blows water against the pool walls to loosen debris. This works in hard-to-reach places to ensure your pool is deeply cleaned. It then sweeps the loosened debris into the filter bag, which you can clean out later.
Unique Filter Bag
Speaking of the filter bag, it works uniquely. When larger items, like twigs and pebbles, get sucked up, the filter bag removes them before they reach your pump. Overall, this will prolong the life of your filtration system, which is a big bonus for pressure-side vacuums.
Automatic Operation
This runs automatically, leaving you with very minimal work to do.
As I mentioned, it’s easy to install in seconds, so you can get it up and running before you leave to do other important chores. Or chill. Let’s be honest — it’s always a good time to chill out.
Cleans In Less Than Three Hours
Do you want to clean your pool quickly? Perhaps you have guests coming over or are desperate for a dip in the pool on a hot day. This unit will clean your pool in three hours or less!
What We Don't Like
Tangle Issues
We don’t recommend leaving this completely unattended as it can get tangled. Customers came back to find it had curled up in itself, not doing its job. But when it is untangled and running, it works great!
Random Movements
Many customers said that this thing moved randomly. Sometimes it would just spin in circles; other times, it would just do one half of the pool. And other times, it would only work in reverse.
Keep in mind that it may do its own thing occasionally.
Product Specs
| Type | Pressure-side |
| Type of Dirt | All kinds of debris |
| Weight | 13.9 pounds |
| Usage | Above-ground for vinyl and fiberglass up to five feet deep |
| Warranty | Cleaning head two years, port valve five years |
Our Ratings
Community Feedback
| Product | Best | Type | Type of Dirt | Weight | Usage |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dolphin E10 Pool Cleaner | Robotic Pool Vacuum | Robotic | General dirt & debris | 14.6 lbs | Above-ground up to 30 feet |
| Pool Blaster Max Cordless Cleaner | For Cleaning Sand | Battery | Leaves, acorns, twigs, dirt & sand | 5.5 lbs | In-ground & above-ground |
| Pool Blaster Catfish Ultra Cleaner | For Leaves | Battery | Leaves, acorns, twigs, dirt & sand | 6 lbs | In-ground & above-ground |
| Intex Rechargeable Handheld Vac | Rechargeable Pick | Battery | Loose dirt & debris | 6.6 lbs | PureSpas & above ground |
| Dolphin Sigma Pool Cleaner | For Algae | Robotic | Debris, algae & bacteria | 35 lbs | Above- & in-ground, up to 50 feet |
| PoolSupplyTown Pool Spa Jet Vac | Handheld Pool Vacuum | Handheld | Dirt, sand, pebbles, toys, leaves | 12 oz | Above-ground, spas, waterfalls, ponds |
| Hydrotools Pool & Spa Venturi Vac | Budget Choice | Handheld | Loose dirt & debris | 1.2 lbs | Above-ground & kiddie pools |
| Zodiac Ranger Suction Side Cleaner | Suction-Side Vacuum | Suction-side | Loose dirt & debris | 15 lbs | Above-ground up to 6 feet |
| Intex Auto Pool Cleaner | For Intex Pools | Robotic | Loose dirt & debris | 14.8 lbs | Intex pools, above-ground |
| Polaris Vac-Sweep Pressure Side Vac | Pressure-Side Vacuum | Pressure-side | All kinds of debris | 13.9 lbs | Above-ground (vinyl); fiberglass |
Types Of Above-Ground Pool Vacuum Cleaners
You’ll notice a few different types when shopping for an above-ground pool vacuum. We’ll walk through the main differences, pros, and cons of each one.
Battery
Battery-powered pool vacuums run on rechargeable batteries. These are usually more portable since you don’t have long cords or wires to tangle you up while you clean.
Pros
- More portable and easy to use.
- They come in a range of prices.
- They can tackle a versatile range of jobs.
Cons
- Shorter battery life (around 30-60 minutes).
- Charge times may take a few hours.
Robotic
Robotic pool vacuums clean the pool for you. It only takes a couple of hours to clean so that when you come back, the pool is crystal clear and ready to be used.
Pros
- Many options on the market.
- They save you time since you can do something else while it cleans.
- They’re compact.
- They don’t usually rely on pumps or filters.
Cons
- They’re very expensive.
- They don’t work well for oddly or uniquely shaped pools.
- They may miss spots.
Suction-Side
Suction-side vacuums attach to the suction side of your filter pump and empty the debris into the filter. They move around the bottom of the pool in quite random movements. They’re not the greatest, but they are pretty budget-friendly.
Pros
- Good for small pools.
- They come in a range of prices.
- It does the job for you; no manual work required.
Cons
- They move randomly, so they may miss spots.
- They cause wear and tear on your pool’s filter.
Pressure-Side
These vacuums use pressure from the pool’s intake to suck in water and move around the pool. It then sucks the dirt, leaves, hair, and debris into your pool’s filtration system, which you can remove from the filter basket.
Pros
- They have good coverage, so they work well for large pools.
- They can easily capture large debris.
- Many options can clean the bottom and sides of pools.
Cons
- You need to buy a booster pump separately, which can add to the cost.
- They’re not ideal for small debris.
- They’re expensive.
How To Choose the Best Above-Ground Pool Vacuum
Before placing an order, consider some important details. What’s best for someone else might not be best for you. Here are the top criteria you should look at before purchasing.
Type
Of course, consider the type. Look at the pros and cons of the main types: battery-powered, robotic, suction-side, and pressure-side. Some are more budget-friendly than others, while some do a better job.
Type of Dirt
You should also consider what type of dirt the vacuum collects. Is it large or small debris? Both? Will it be able to handle the specific type of dirt that muddies up your pool the most often?
I’ll let you know what debris each vacuum on the list can tackle.
Weight
The weight is crucial, especially for handheld or manual pool vacuums. Since you’re going to be holding it as it cleans, make sure that you can handle it. Weight matters, even for the robotic ones, since you’ll need to maneuver them from place to place as well.
My top picks range from 12 ounces up to 35 pounds, which is quite a large range! On average, above-ground pool vacuums weigh about 13 pounds.
Usage
We know that all of our options work on above-ground pools. But do they work on any other bodies of water, such as ponds or fountains, that you may want to clean?
Also, check the type of material they work on, such as vinyl or fiberglass.
Last but not least, check the pool depth they can handle to make sure it will work on your deep or shallow pool.
Warranty
Because above-ground pool vacuums can be pretty pricey, you should always look at the warranty to ensure you’re covered in case anything goes wrong. To make it easy for you, I’ve included warranty details for each product.
How Often Do I Need to Vacuum My Pool?
You should aim to vacuum your pool once a week or whenever you notice dirt and debris in it.
FAQs
How Do I Keep My Above Ground Pool Clean?
There are several ways to keep your above-ground pool clean, including monitoring pH levels, keeping the chlorine levels topped up, and cleaning out the filter.
How Long Do Above-Ground Pools Last?
On average, an above-ground pool lasts for two to six years before it needs replacing. You can extend this lifespan by protecting the lining from extreme weather conditions and following a maintenance regime.
How Do You Hook Up a Vacuum to an Above-Ground Pool?
The best way to hook up a vacuum to an above-ground pool is to ensure there is enough hose to reach the pool. Connect the hose to the adapter ports, submerge the vacuum in the water, and switch it on.
How Often Should You Change the Water In an Above-Ground Pool?
You should change the water in your above-ground pool at least once a year. The frequency does depend on how much the pool gets used, and how well you maintain the pool and filters.
Can You Leave an Above Ground Pool Up All Year?
You can leave an above-ground pool up all year. It may be more hassle emptying the pool and dismantling it than it is leaving it up and protected with a cover.
