Best Automatic Pool Cleaners in 2020

The base of this cleaner is a 36-inch fin disc, which is designed to stay flat on pool surfaces and prevent the cleaner from getting stuck on pool features like lights or drain covers. This model is suited for in-ground pools, and it works well with lower horsepower pumps thanks to automatic water regulation performed by the FlowKeeper Valve. The included hose is gentle on pool edges and tiles, and won't leave scuff marks. Zodiac has also included an extra diaphragm for the cleaner, so you won't need to spend on spare parts.

Instead of wandering around at random, Nautilus models use CleverClean technology, an algorithm-supported method for reaching all spots in the pool. The bottom-loading filter can catch fine and ultra-fine debris from the water, which will give your pool that extra sparkle. The cable is tangle-free thanks to a built-in swivel, and there is a full bag indicator so you can keep things running efficiently. This version of Nautilus takes approximately three hours to clean your in-ground pool.

Kreepy Krauly has modernized its automatic pool cleaners with a much slimmer profile. By implementing SmartTrac programmed steering and the smaller design, the cleaner won't get stuck in small spots or miss any debris. It's also equipped with bristles that will help release tough dirt spots on the bottom of the pool. This model is safe to use for in-ground pools made with fiberglass, vinyl, and gunite pools, but be aware that it does not clean stairs automatically.

Some cleaners can only collect debris on the floor of the pool, but this model can use its dual scrubbers and traction belt to go up walls of in-ground pools up to 50 feet. For a more thorough clean, there is a top-loading cartridge that can filter fine sediment from the water. It even has a weekly scheduler with three different time intervals (every day, every other day, and every third day), which will start the cleaning process automatically. And it's all backed by a 2.5-year warranty so that you can buy with confidence.

The two large tires on this model have treads that work on vinyl, fiberglass, pebble, gunite, and tile in-ground pool surfaces up to 16 feet by 32 feet. Inside the cleaner, there are auto-adjusting turbine vanes that allow for large debris to pass through to your filter. When it's in use, this model will turn every 8-10 feet, using a programmed internal steering sequence to make its way around the pool. To ensure drains and lights aren't an issue, a special roller skirt helps keep suction on all surfaces.

Your above-ground pool can have a sparkling clean floor in about 1.5 hours with the help of the Dolphin E10. It's energy-efficient and will cost you roughly 5 cents an hour to run -- not bad when you consider you have one less chore to do. The filter basket is top-loading, which makes it easy to clean out after a trip around the pool. Everything you need to clean pools up to 30 feet comes with this model, and it does not require any additional pumps.