10 Best Suction Side Pool Cleaners 2025 in the United States

The Polaris MAXX Premium Suction-Side Automatic Pool Cleaner is designed to work well with all types of in-ground pool surfaces, cleaning floors, walls, and waterlines effectively. Its active scrubbing brushes help tackle stuck-on debris, which means it does a thorough job of cleaning even tricky spots. One standout feature is the HALO Technology, which handles a variety of debris from fine silt to larger particles without clogging, making it reliable for pools that gather different kinds of dirt. The cleaner uses smart navigation to move in multiple directions, improving coverage and its ability to climb walls, which is great for pools with varied shapes or steep inclines.

It comes with a 39-foot hose, suitable for most average-sized pools, giving it enough reach to cover a typical pool without needing extra hose extensions. The Polaris MAXX also focuses on energy efficiency, running on lower water flow rates thanks to its hydraulic design and a regulator valve that helps reduce wear, potentially extending its lifespan. Maintenance is made easier with replaceable brushes and a design aimed at minimizing clogging issues.

A few considerations include its weight of over 21 pounds, which might make handling during setup or removal somewhat challenging. While the hose length fits most pools, very large pools may require additional hose lengths to reach every corner. Additionally, it is designed specifically for in-ground pools, so it is not suitable for above-ground pools. For those with average to large in-ground pools seeking a cleaner that efficiently handles various debris types while saving energy, the Polaris MAXX provides a strong cleaning performance combined with thoughtful maintenance features.

The Hayward W3PVS40JST Poolvergnuegen Suction Pool Cleaner is designed for in-ground pools up to 20 x 40 feet. Its 4-wheel drive system allows it to clean larger pools and navigate deep ends effectively. This cleaner features patented self-adjusting turbine vanes, which ensure it maintains maximum power regardless of the flow rate and can handle larger debris without getting clogged.

The adjustable roller skirts help the cleaner maintain suction on uneven surfaces and navigate obstacles seamlessly, while the patented tire treads enhance its ability to climb walls and clean thoroughly. The pre-programmed internal steering sequences are a big plus, ensuring the cleaner covers the entire pool efficiently. With a hose length of 40 feet, it provides ample reach for most pools within its size range.

At 19 pounds, it may be a bit cumbersome for some users when it comes to handling and setup. Additionally, being powered by the pool's existing pump and filtration system means the pool’s pump and filter need to be well-maintained for optimal performance. While the product doesn’t require assembly and is relatively easy to maintain, it is essential to note that regular upkeep of the pool's pump and filter is crucial. This cleaner is best suited for pool owners looking for a powerful, efficient, and relatively low-maintenance solution for keeping their in-ground pools clean and debris-free.

The Hayward W3PVS20JST Poolvergnuegen Suction Pool Cleaner is designed for in-ground pools up to 16 x 32 feet, making it suitable for average-sized residential pools. One of its standout features is the patented self-adjusting turbine vanes that ensure maximum suction power and efficient debris passage, including large debris. This is advantageous for those who have pools with varying levels of debris. Additionally, the patented adjustable roller skirts help maintain optimal suction on uneven surfaces and when encountering obstacles, which is beneficial for pools with irregular floors or walls.

The 33-feet hose length is sufficient for the specified pool size, ensuring good coverage without frequent repositioning. The cleaner also features 2-wheel drive and tire treads that enhance its climbing ability and maneuverability around obstacles, ensuring thorough cleaning. The multiple pre-programmed internal steering sequences are designed to cover the entire pool efficiently.

As for maintenance, the product is relatively easy to take care of with simple rinsing and regular filter cleaning. However, some users might find the 12-pound weight slightly cumbersome if they need to frequently handle the cleaner. While the product is self-installed, it does require hydraulic power to operate. Its design and features make it an efficient and reliable option for those who want thorough cleaning of their in-ground pools without too much hassle.