So, you had a wild pool party and now the above ground pool looks like an eyesore. We know how you feel after the high of fun subsides and you see empty beer cans, food crumbles, dirty masks, and filth scattered everywhere—even in your pool. It looks like a herculean task, doesn’t it?
Well, you can at least stop worrying about the dirty water if you have the best vacuum for your above ground pool. They come in all shapes and sizes and are fantastic at helping keep the pool clean and mess-free. Whether you want to clean up after a crazy party or simply perform some regular maintenance work, these vacuums prove themselves to be very handy.
With the rise in demand for above ground pools, especially to increase the value of one’s property, the need for keeping them well-maintained has also increased. There are three different kinds of pool vacuums available on the market: automatic or robotic pool vacuums, suction-side vacuums, and pressure-side pool vacuums.
When you are in the market to find the most suitable pool vacuum, expect to be bombarded with a variety of brands and models. It can be hard for a customer to compare, analyze, and weigh the options, as well as make the right choice, so we have done all that homework for you.
After carefully reviewing dozens of products, we have shortlisted the top 8 above ground pool vacuums to help you with your decision making. If you don’t have the time to read through all the reviews and need to order one quickly, we simply suggest the PAXCESS Automatic Pool Cleaner (learn more), a highly advanced cleaner that scrubs the floor and walls efficiently to make it ready to use within minutes.
| Dimensions | Weight | Pool Size | ||
| Dolphin E10 | 18 x 22 x 12 inches | 22.7 pounds | Up to 30 ft. | See Details |
| PAXCESS | 26.1 x 18.9 x 12.6 inches | 30 pounds | Up to 50 ft. | See Details |
| AIPER | 26 x 19 x 12.5 inches | 30 pounds | Up to 50 ft. | See Details |
| Hayward W3500 | 38.8 x 10.8 x 10.9 inches | 17.36 pounds | Up to 30 ft. | See Details |
| Dolphin Nautilus CC | 16.38 x 16.77 x 8.97 inches | 14 pounds | Up to 33 ft. | See Details |
| Zodiac Ranger | 16 x 9.5 x 40.5 inches | 15 pounds | Up to 30 ft. | See Details |
| Pentair K50600 Kreepy Krauly | 33.5 x 16.5 x 6.75 inches | 14.02 pounds | Up to 30 ft. | See Details |
| VINGLI | n/a | n/a | Up to 30 ft. | See Details |
#1. Dolphin E10 Automatic Robotic Pool Cleaner
The first and most efficient vacuum on our list is the E10 automatic robotic pool cleaner from Dolphin (see Amazon). Designed specifically to clean above ground pools up to 30 feet in size, the manufacturers claim that it can clean your pool in less than 1.5 hours so that you don’t have to spend an entire day waiting for your pool to be clean enough to use.
With enhanced filtering options and floor scrubbing capabilities, you can breathe easy knowing that your pool will be free of debris and sparkly clean in no time. The product is backed by a two-year quality assurance to give you a worry-free performance every time.
The E10 does not require any extra installation work, hoses, or pumps to do its cleaning job. Just plug it in, and the E10 will trap and lock away all types of debris.
With an average operating cost of only 5 cents per hour, this Dolphin model consumes less energy. Additionally, the quick water release function helps you easily remove the unit from the pool after the cleaning is complete and you’re ready to store your vacuum away.
Product features and specifications
- Measurements: 18in. x 22in. x 12in.
- Weight: 22.7 lbs.
- Designed for pools up to 30 feet in diameter
- Easy-to-clean top load filter
- 2-year quality assurance
- No booster pump, no extra hoses, no installation
User/ Customer reviews
Most people feel that this vacuum does a great job cleaning their above ground pools, and it removes mud, dirt, and debris quickly. Users have said that the unit is well-built and that it cleans the bottom surface of the pool in just one cycle. A few customers have said that it may sometimes take two cycles to get the pool completely clean, though.
Conclusion
This is a compact and well-built vacuum for above ground pools, and it does its job as expected. With no extra attachments or installation work, it saves a lot of time and gives you a clean pool within minutes. It’s a little pricey, but it works as expected.
#2. PAXCESS Automatic Pool Cleaner, Robotic In-Ground/Above Ground Pool Cleaner
The automatic swimming pool cleaner is the latest and most efficient vacuum of its kind. It is controlled by an advanced and intelligent computer program, so you can adjust the settings and just let it do its job. You can also schedule the robot to thoroughly clean the bottom surface and pool walls by using the 3 available settings of 1 hour, 2 hours, and 3 hours.
This above ground pool robotic cleaner contains four sponge roller brushes to deep clean with twice as much power—it even cleans the tough spots to ensure that there’s no dirt hiding in the corners. With its strong absorption ability, this pool cleaner easily handles all of the walls and floors during the cleaning cycle.
It also features a front scrubbing sponge brush that vacuum cleans the debris from the water as well. Additionally, the extra-large filter basket traps any leaves and fine dirt, while still circulating water to keep everything clean. This model comes with a swivel cord that prevents tangling of the cords and allows the vacuum to move around efficiently.
This vacuum works best in pools up to 50 feet.
Product features and specifications
- Measurements: 26.1in. x 18.9in. x 12.6in.
- Weight: 30 lbs.
- Auto-clean setting
- Features “Intelligent Cleaning”
- Durable 50 ft. power cord
- PVA sponge roller brush
- Large top-access cartridge filters
- 2-year manufacturer’s warranty
User/ Customer reviews
Most users are happy with the performance of this robotic vacuum cleaner when it comes to picking up leaves, twigs, and debris from both in-ground and above ground pools. People have mentioned that it’s super easy to empty the collected waste and clean the filter, which is a huge plus. A few customers have mentioned that if the pool is too dirty, you may need two or more cycles to clean.
Conclusion
This is an intelligent, automatic pool cleaner that knows its job well and delivers a great performance at scrubbing the floor and walls and trapping suspended particles in the pool. With three different settings, this is the perfect pool cleaning equipment to use for a quick clean-up, regular maintenance, or occasional deep cleanings.
#3. AIPER Automatic Robotic Pool Cleaner
This automatic robotic pool cleaner by AIPER comes with PVA brushes to give you superior grip and strong absorption to trap all types of debris, buds, leaves, and tough dirt. Ideal for both in-ground and above ground pools up to 50 feet, this pool cleaner automatically climbs the walls for a thorough clean.
As the equipment climbs the walls and moves along the floor of the pool, it efficiently picks up fine dust as well as any stubborn dirt stuck on the walls. The anti-rollover technology gives you the peace of mind that it will never fall, and the tangle-free cables make cleaning both easier and a much smoother process.
You can even schedule this robotic cleaner to run the cleaning cycle automatically either every 1 hour, every 2 hours, or every 3 hours thanks to its advanced settings. It additionally features a built-in, large, top-loading filter basket to capture all of the dirt and debris to leave your swimming pool looking sparkling clean. To ease your mind, it comes backed by a 2-year manufacturer warranty to provide you with a truly risk-free purchase.
Product features and specifications
- Measurements: 26in. x 19in. x 12.5in.
- Weight: 30.1 lbs.
- Tangle-free swivel cord
- Large filter basket
- Wall-climbing capabilities
- 2-year manufacturer’s warranty
- High-quality PVC brushes
- For in-ground/above ground pools up to 50 ft.
User/ Customer reviews
Users have been thrilled with the advanced technology of this model that even picks up the finest silica sand from the bottom of their pool—something that average pool cleaners cannot do. People are happy with the quality of the items and attachments that come in the box, and they have found it easy to set up as well.
Customers have also mentioned how the cleaner starts working immediately once it’s submerged into the pool and that it walks on vertical walls and ground effortlessly.
Conclusion
For those who want a pool cleaner that does most of the job itself without any supervision or control, this is a great choice. The powerful brushes do a great job at trapping even the finest dust particles and there are different schedules to meet the needs of varying pool sizes and different people’s cleaning preferences. Overall, we feel that you are getting a very good value for the money with this one.
#4. Hayward W3500 Aquabug Above-Ground Pool Vacuum
The cute exterior design of the Hayward W3500 Aquabug is the first thing to most people’s attention, but there’s so much more to it than just the attractive appearance. These models are designed to clean the bottom and walls of all shapes and sizes of in-ground and above ground pools and do so automatically.
This vacuum cleaner uses the pool’s existing filtration system and the company’s SmartDrive program steering to deliver a powerful cleaning performance. These tiny fellows steer quickly through the water and trap all of the small and large particles floating around to quickly give you a sparkling pool.
We love the unique and exclusive gearing system that offers a constant and balanced water flow with gentle movement and quiet operation across the pool floor. It also boosts the water circulation in the pool for improved overall cleaning and water quality. The installation takes only about 10 minutes (without tools), and you just need 32 feet of hose that comes with it to get it started.
Product features and specifications
- Measurements: 38.8in. x 10.8in. x 10.9in.
- Weight: 17.36 lbs.
- Patented SmartDrive programmed steering system
- Unique turbine/gearing system
- Deluxe bumper ring reduces friction
User/ Customer reviews
Users are happy, not only with the aesthetic beauty of the Aquabug pool vacuum cleaner, but also with the swiftness with which it glides through the water to clean every inch inside their pools. A few users have said the hose that comes with the product is short, but you can buy additional hoses online to meet your requirements.
Conclusion
This is a well-made, above ground pool cleaner, but there are a few limitations. If your pool gets covered with leaves, you must also get the Hayward leaf filter that fits on the hose or else the pool pump may get jammed. Overall, we feel that this is a good cleaner for small pools that don’t tend to have large particles or leaves.
#5. Dolphin Nautilus CC Automatic Robotic Pool Cleaner
Cleaning your swimming pool should not be a hassle, and the Dolphin Nautilus CC Automatic Robotic Pool Cleaner shows you how to get it done without any hassle. This compact piece of equipment works great for small swimming pools (up to 33 feet) to make them ready for use in less than two hours.
Unlike the pressure and suction cleaners, this contemporary unit is eight times more energy-efficient since it doesn’t rely on a pool filter or pump for the job. With advanced filtering and scrubbing capabilities, this pool cleaner does an amazing job at keeping the pool walls and floor exceptionally clean.
At the touch of a button, you can easily schedule the automatic pool cleaner weekly using 3 different settings: every day, every 3rd day, or every other day. The quick water release function helps maintain a lightweight profile for easy removal of the Nautilus CC from the pool after cleanup.
Product features and specifications
- Measurements: 16.38in. x 16.77in. x 8.97in.
- Weight: 14 lbs.
- Cleaning time: 2 hours (standard)
- Single, front, high-speed scrubber
- Single click basket (large)
- Ideal for pools up to 33 ft.
- 3 different cleaning schedule settings
User/ Customer reviews
As per users, this robotic vacuum cleaner has made life much easier for them by effortlessly removing pine tree needles, dead algae, worms, and a lot of debris. Most people feel that the price point is incredible for the kind of performance it delivers. A few users have said that the cleaner often gets stuck when it’s going over the drain when moving backward, however.
Conclusion
This is a compact and agile vacuum cleaner that travels swiftly inside the pool while removing a variety of dirt and debris. With a very negligible operating cost, you are saved from also getting hit with a high energy bill just in order to get a clean pool. Overall, we feel that this vacuum pool cleaner is worth every penny.
#6. Zodiac Ranger Suction Side Automatic Above-Ground Pool Cleaner
This stylish and uniquely-designed automatic cleaner removes debris from the above ground pools, even with dished-out (sloped) bottoms up to 72 inches deeper. With just one moving unit to get the job done, it does not include any annoying flapper or hammer noise; thus, it works quickly, effectively, and quietly.
This cleaner comes with a unique deflector wheel that saves it from getting tangled on any ladders, stairs, steps, or corners. It glides effortlessly inside the pool to clean the side walls, around the steps, and the entire floor to make it squeaky clean and ready for use within just an hour or two depending upon the amount of debris.
This vacuum cleaner comes pre-assembled with 32 feet of feed hose, so there’s no installation issues nor need for any additional gear. The Flowkeeper Valve, as well as the Insta-Skim Compact valve for flow control, easily help regulate the water flow automatically and also ensure an optimum performance every time.
Product features and specifications
- Measurements: 16in. x 9.5in. x 40.5in.
- Weight: 15 lbs.
- 32 feet of feed hose
- Flowkeeper Valve and Insta-Skim features
- Unique deflector wheel
- Only one moving part
- Not for use for Intex/soft-sided pools
User/ Customer pools
Users have said that this vacuum cleaner worked better than many other standard cleaners out there, but you should be careful about any toys left in the pool that could be sucked into the cleaner and damage the unit. Some people have warned that it works for a few feet and then stops until you give it a nudge, but that is not a very big problem for the price. Customers are also very happy with the friendly customer support and service offered by the brand.
Conclusion
This is a great vacuum cleaner for above ground pools, but it comes with some restrictions of which you will need to be aware (such as the damage-from-toys risk). The suction power is incredible and pulls in a lot of debris to completely clean your pool. At this price, you could not get happier for the great product you’ll receive.
#7. Pentair K50600 Kreepy Krauly E-Z Vac Suction-Side Above Ground Pool Cleaner
If you have a small pool and dread the idea of a large and bulky cleaner that would take a lot of storage space, here’s a sleek and compact unit from Pentair. The K50600 Kreepy Krauly E-Z Vac Pool Cleaner sports a superior hydraulic design to give you optimum vacuuming power capable of removing all types of debris.
The pool cleaner comes with a free skimming valve that regulates water flow automatically to ensure proper cleaning speed. It also simultaneous skims the surface debris while vacuuming out all dirt and suspended particles. It operates in a truly random pattern to cover each and every inch of the pool.
This product comes with 32 feet of hose to enable it to easily glide across all of the different sections of the pool for thorough cleaning.
Product features and specifications
- Measurements: 33.5in. x 16.5in. x 6.75in.
- Weight: 14.02 lbs.
- Superior hydraulic design
- Free skimming valve
- True random pattern coverage
- Suction-side cleaner
- Includes 32 ft. of hose
User/ Customer reviews
Users having large and deep pools have successfully used the cleaner to get rid of the debris from the floor and the side walls too. People were even able to use this vacuum with Intex pools with the help of a rubber boot. A few customers have complained about the absence of a strainer basket though and the fact that it clogs the filter too quickly.
Conclusion
The concept and design of Pentair K50600 makes it a winner, and it does its job as expected. With clear and easy assembly instructions, the cleaner will be set and ready to use within minutes. Overall, you get good value at an affordable price with this vacuum.
#8. VINGLI Swimming Pool Vacuum Cleaner
This swimming pool vacuum cleaner by VINGLI is easy to assemble and install, enabling you to effortlessly begin the process of cleaning your pool. Unlike other automatic or robotic cleaners that make hammer noises, this model operates quietly without disturbing anyone simply trying to relax near the pool.
This cleaner is capable of removing dirt and debris from the floor as well as the side walls. With the help of a wheel deflector, it can easily move around tight corners. The scuff-resistant and long-life hoses do a good job of eliminating the scuffs on pool surfaces.
The VINGLI pool vacuum saves time as the company guarantees there will be no jamming or breaking during the cleaning process. This model comes with 10 durable hoses for quick and easy replacement, and you can even attach the pool sweeper to your existing filtration system. The manufacturer stands behind the product by offering a one-year warranty.
Product features and specifications
- One-year warranty
- Free replacement
- 10 durable hoses
- 3/4-HP swimming pool pump
- Minimum flow of 1700 gal/hr.
- Scuff-resistant, long-life hoses
User/ Customer reviews
People who thought it was a cheap knock-off were pleasantly surprised to find how well-built the product was and were impressed with its compatibility with varying pool pumps and systems. Users have also mentioned that the product comes with attachments to easily set it up for all types of pools. According to customers, it does a great job of cleaning large pools within just a couple of hours.
Conclusion
Despite being one-third of the price of many of the expensive pool vacuum cleaners out there, this small and affordable model does a comparatively good job. With an efficient cleaning system, it can handle both small- and large-sized pools, although it might take some more time to do the large ones. Overall, this is a great investment.
Things To Look For In A Vacuum For Above Ground Pool
While all the above-reviewed products are good options, you will still need to choose the one that meets your specific requirements. Here are a few things you’ll need to consider to narrow down your options and find the best vacuum for your above ground pool.
#1. Suitable for pool size
This is one of the most common mistakes people make: buying a cleaner that’s too big or small for their pool’s size. While manual vacuums may work for small-sized pools, you will need a robotic or suction type vacuum for the bigger pools with more depth and higher walls. The power cord and hose length are also important because you will need to connect these to a power source or pump.
#2. Efficiency at cleaning
When it comes to efficiency, one of the first things to consider is whether or not the cleaner will be able to effectively climb the walls to clean them properly. The second important thing you’ll want to find out is how well the vacuum gets back on track after encountering a problem. You will not want a cleaner that gets interrupted by every single hurdle on the way.
#3. High-Quality Brushes
Besides climbing ability, you will also need to ensure that the vacuum cleaner you choose includes a good quality brush with strong bristles to sweep and scrub the pool’s floor and walls. It should be able to effectively remove even the stubborn debris like dead algae and other problematic debris around the pool.
#4. Life expectancy
Like everything, your pool’s vacuum cleaner also has a life expectancy. However, you can extend its duration by getting a quality product and taking good care of it. The cheaper options are often made of low-grade materials that do not stand up to the test of time.
#5. Manufacturer warranty
Before ordering a product, you must always look into the manufacturer’s warranty. Go for a product that has at least a one-year or more guarantee. By taking good care of your vacuum cleaner, you can easily get more out of your investment, but a warranty ensures you’re covered if you truly run into some problems with it.
#6. Sensors
Some high-end vacuum cleaners come with advanced sensors that assist the device in avoiding unfortunate circumstances one might encounter when going underwater in a pool. With these sensors though, they can more easily tackle obstacles by sensing them beforehand, making your pool cleaning more hassle-free.
#7. Cleaning Cycles
Just like washing machines, pool vacuum cleaners have different types of cleaning cycles that you can set to run depending on your needs. You can pick a cycle depending upon the size of your pool or even the amount of debris that’s in it. Based on these factors, you may also need to run the vacuum cleaner one or more times.
#8. Wheel Drive Wheels
If you are looking for an automatic or robotic vacuum cleaner, you may want to look for extra convenience in the form of a wheel drive. We would suggest that you look for units that come with four wheels to maintain balance while gliding inside the pool, and these also take care of the tight spaces, too.
#9. Operating cost
Based on your budget, you will need to choose between the three main types of vacuum cleaners: suction-side vacuums, robotic cleaners, and pressure-side pool vacuums. The suction-side vacuums easily plug into the pump and filtration system preexisting in your swimming pool. While they don’t need any extra power, they may make your pump work harder.
The robotic vacuums are self-contained, and they require an external power source to operate the internal motors for thorough cleaning of the pool. Pressure-side pool vacuums are the most expensive units that require a large flow of water to work efficiently.
#10. Setup/Installation
Setting up and installing pool vacuums is much easier than you’d imagine. They are typically ready-to-use right out of the box. You just need to unbox it, connect it to power, and put it into the water.
The robotic models will require a power source to become your plug-in solution. The suction-side models take a few minutes for you to connect the hoses to the pool pump and get the vacuum working to eliminate the debris. Pressure-side pool cleaners can connect in two ways: the lower models use the return line, and most other models need a more dedicated cleaner line.
Tips To Maintain Above-Ground Vacuum For Pool
With every installation of a suction-side vacuum, make sure you start with a clean filter for the best results. If you are reactivating it after some time, do a quick flush of the plumbing line as well. The cleaner should be disconnected from the pump before cleaning the filter, however.
Suction vacuum cleaner
After you are done cleaning the filter, allow the filtration system to run for a few minutes to ensure that the plumbing lines have been flushed thoroughly. Remember to remove the vacuum cleaner from the pool before adding any cleaning chemicals to the water. Additionally, always make sure you remove the suction-side cleaner from the pool before letting swimmers get in the water.
For off-season storage, we suggest that you first shut off the pool pump, remove the equipment from water, drain it, and then disconnect the hose sections. Always store the equipment in a dry and well-covered location.
Pressure vacuum cleaner
The maintenance requirements for pressure-side cleaners are almost the same as those for the suction-side vacuum steps. However, there’s one major exception: these units come with an attached filter bag to collect the debris. To keep them working fine, never let the bag get fully filled with debris, and empty when it is half full.
Always be sure to clean the inline filter screen, and remember to follow the procedure for off-season storage the same way as you would do for a suction-side sweeper.
Robotic/ Automatic vacuum cleaner
Remember to disconnect the power source for the vacuum cleaner before taking it out of the swimming pool. After you remove it, drain the water completely (most units will have a quick water release function). Make sure you regularly empty and clean the filter element as well.
When not in use during the off seasons, make sure you store the robotic vacuum cleaner properly with its electric cord tucked away safely. Always keep it secure and in a dry and covered area.
Related Questions
How often should I vacuum my pool?
In general, we suggest that you vacuum clean your pool at least once every week. In between those times, if you notice any large amounts of dirt, debris, or leaves on the pool, you may need to vacuum again. This would likely be the case, for example, right after a thunderstorm or rain when leaves and other debris would be knocked down and blown back into your pool again.
Can I vacuum the algae in a pool?
If there is algae in your pool, you can easily get rid of it by using a pool vacuum cleaner, but the bits that are stuck on the pool’s corners and crevices may be hard to fully remove. When prevention being better than simply dealing with it later, we primarily suggest that you just clean the pool regularly to prevent the growth of algae in the first place.
What natural products can I use to clean a pool?
If you want to avoid using chemicals to clean your pool, there are many household items you can use at a fraction of the price of the chemical-based products. These items include a paste made of water and baking soda to clean the concrete areas, bleach to remove stains from grout and kill bacteria/algae in water, and white vinegar to get rid of the calcium buildup.
See Also:
4 Best Pressure Washer For Pool Deck
5 Best Pool Brush For Pebble Tec
How Long To Run Polaris Pool Cleaner
