10 Best Pool Cleaners 2025 in the United States

The Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus Wi-Fi is a robotic pool vacuum cleaner designed for in-ground pools up to 50 feet long. One of its standout features is the Wi-Fi connectivity, which allows you to schedule cleanings remotely through a smartphone app. This can be a real time-saver for pool owners who want to enjoy their pool without the hassle of manual cleaning.

Its wall-scrubbing capability is another strength, effectively climbing walls and cleaning various pool surfaces, ensuring comprehensive coverage. The top-load filter basket makes maintenance easy, letting you quickly clear debris without much fuss. In just about two hours, you can expect a clean pool, thanks to its plug-and-play design, which is convenient for users of all skill levels.

There are some drawbacks to consider. While it is effective for medium-sized pools, users with larger or unusually shaped pools may find its cleaning coverage slightly less efficient. The unit's weight at 35.4 pounds could also make it cumbersome to handle for some people, especially when lifting it in and out of the pool. Additionally, since it operates using AC power, placement of an outlet close to the pool is necessary, which may not be feasible for every homeowner. In terms of energy efficiency, it performs well compared to traditional cleaners but may still consume more power than manual cleaning options. Finally, while Dolphin has a strong reputation for durability, it’s important to note that warranty terms can vary, so checking this before purchase could be beneficial.

The Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus Wi-Fi is ideal for those looking for an automated and efficient cleaning solution for their in-ground pools, particularly for users who appreciate smart features and easy maintenance. However, potential buyers should evaluate their specific pool size and layout to ensure it meets their needs.

The Polaris VRX iQ+ Smart Robotic Pool Cleaner is designed to efficiently clean various pool types with its intelligent features and robust cleaning capabilities. It offers SMART Cycle Cleaning Mode, which cleverly assesses your pool’s dimensions and surface to determine the optimal cleaning time, ensuring thorough coverage. This makes it ideal for pools of different shapes and sizes. Its iAquaLink app control adds convenience, allowing users to easily set cleaning schedules, monitor temperatures, and receive status updates. The app's Wi-Fi connectivity enhances remote operation, making it user-friendly and accessible.

The cleaner is equipped with Vortex Vacuum technology and a 70-foot cable, featuring a tangle-reducing swivel, which helps it navigate and clean effectively from the floor to the waterline. With seven cleaning modes, including a specialized waterline-only option, it provides customizable cleaning solutions tailored to specific pool needs. The large illuminated debris canister is a practical feature, enabling users to easily see when it requires emptying.

In terms of ease of use and maintenance, the Polaris VRX iQ+ is straightforward with no assembly required, making it ready to operate right out of the box. Its 4WD agility ensures it can handle various pool terrains, while the durable aluminum build offers reliability and longevity. However, weighing 44 pounds, it might be heavy for some users to lift. On the downside, its high rank on best-seller lists suggests it's popular but not leading the market. It comes with a limited warranty, which could be a concern for those looking for extended service assurances. Nonetheless, its energy-efficient design and powerful cleaning performance make it a compelling choice for pool owners seeking a reliable robotic cleaner.

The Polaris Vac-Sweep 280 Pressure Side Pool Cleaner is designed specifically for in-ground pools and can handle a variety of pool shapes and surfaces, including vinyl, fiberglass, gunite, pebble, and tile. It is equipped with dual venturi jets and powered by a separate booster pump, ensuring efficient cleaning in three hours or less. The cleaner is capable of complete coverage, scrubbing both the floor and walls of your pool, which is beneficial for thorough maintenance.

Its large 2.25-inch inlet can capture large debris like leaves and acorns, which some other cleaners might struggle with. Additionally, it comes with a 31-feet feed hose and a single chamber filter bag to collect debris of various sizes. This makes it suitable for larger pools and those with considerable debris. The ease of use is enhanced by its simple setup and maintenance, though the need for a booster pump could be a downside for some users.

The device is made of plastic, which raises some questions about its long-term durability, but it is backed by a reputable brand, Polaris, known for quality products. Energy efficiency might be a concern given that it requires a separate booster pump, potentially increasing operational costs. However, the comprehensive warranty and effective cleaning capabilities can make it a valuable addition to your pool maintenance routine.