What is a Pressure Side Pool Cleaner?
A pressure side pool cleaner is a type of automatic cleaner that connects to your pool’s return line, where it uses the pressure created by your pool’s pump to move around and clean the pool. Unlike suction-side cleaners, which rely on your pool’s skimmer or suction lines, pressure side cleaners utilize the water pressure from the pump to drive the cleaner across the pool.
How Do Pressure Side Cleaners Work?
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Attachment: The cleaner is connected to the return line or a dedicated pressure line in your pool.
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Movement: The water pressure forces the cleaner to move around the pool while jets inside the cleaner create forward motion. Some models even feature a debris bag attached to the cleaner to collect dirt, leaves, and debris.
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Debris Collection: The cleaner uses the water pressure to collect debris from the pool’s floor, and in some cases, the walls. It pushes the debris into the pool’s filtration system or into a debris bag attached to the cleaner.
Key Features of Pressure Side Cleaners
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Efficient Coverage: These cleaners can cover a larger area more efficiently, often reaching pool walls and other hard-to-reach areas.
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Use of Debris Bags: Many pressure-side cleaners have a debris bag that collects the dirt directly, reducing strain on your pool’s filtration system.
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Increased Power: Since they use pressure to move, they tend to have more power than suction-side cleaners, making them better at picking up larger debris like leaves and twigs.
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Cleaner Pool Walls: Some models can even climb pool walls, making them great for pools with varied depths and walls that need regular cleaning.
What to Consider When Choosing a Pressure Side Cleaner
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Pool Size and Shape: Pressure side cleaners are effective in large pools and those with irregular shapes. If your pool has steps, corners, or other obstacles, a pressure side cleaner may work better than a suction-side cleaner.
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Debris Type: If your pool tends to accumulate large debris, like leaves or sticks, a pressure side cleaner is a better option than a suction cleaner. The increased pressure helps dislodge and pick up these larger particles.
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Pump Requirements: Pressure side cleaners require a stronger pool pump or a dedicated booster pump to operate at peak efficiency. Make sure your pool’s pump can handle the extra pressure needed for these cleaners.
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Filtration: Some models have debris bags to capture large debris, while others push debris into the pool’s filtration system. Choose the one that best suits your pool’s filtration setup.
Pros of Pressure Side Cleaners
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Efficient for Larger Pools: Pressure side cleaners are great for larger or more irregularly shaped pools because they can cover more area more efficiently than suction-side cleaners.
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Powerful Debris Pickup: They excel at picking up larger debris such as leaves, twigs, and dirt.
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Cleaner Walls and Floors: Many pressure side cleaners can climb pool walls, ensuring your pool is thoroughly cleaned from top to bottom.
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Reduces Strain on Filter: Since debris is captured in the cleaner’s debris bag (in some models), there is less strain on your pool’s main filtration system.
Cons of Pressure Side Cleaners
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Requires a Booster Pump: Many pressure side cleaners require a dedicated booster pump to provide the necessary water pressure. This adds to the initial cost and energy consumption.
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Higher Maintenance: Due to their more complex mechanisms, these cleaners may require more maintenance than suction-side models. The debris bags need to be emptied regularly, and the unit itself may require more attention.
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Higher Cost: Pressure side cleaners tend to be more expensive than suction side cleaners, both in terms of initial cost and operational costs (especially if a booster pump is required).
Conclusion
Pressure side pool cleaners are a powerful solution for maintaining cleanliness in larger or irregularly shaped pools, especially those with larger debris. They offer excellent coverage, debris pickup, and can clean pool walls, but they often require a booster pump and may come with higher costs and maintenance requirements.
If you have a large pool with significant debris, a pressure side cleaner can make pool maintenance easier and more effective. Just ensure your pool pump can handle the additional pressure, and consider whether you’re willing to invest in the necessary equipment like a booster pump.