- Automatic pool cleaners work on a timer. You can choose what time of day they go on and turn off, and they will clean the bottom of your pool automatically. They do this by using the water from a pool pump to run a drive mechanism which allows them to navigate the pool and vacuum the bottom. Some require a separate dedicated pump, while others can run off of your pool's existing filter pump.
- Although automatic pool cleaners do not require much maintenance, they do require adequate pressure from the pump to run properly. The most common problem associated with automatic pool cleaners is that the leaf catching bag/basket is not regularly emptied, or the pool filter is dirty. In either case, the cleaner will lose power and not function properly.
- The No. 1 selling point for automatic pool cleaners is obvious, they are automatic. However this can also be one of their faults. Once the timer is set, the pool cleaner will come on everyday for the same scheduled amount of time. But the pool may not dirty. Set the timer accordingly, so you're not wasting electricity and money.
- Automatic pool cleaners come in many shapes and sizes, each designed for a specific type of pool. Above-ground pools require a different auto-cleaner than in-ground pools, steep walled pools require a different cleaner than gently sloped pools. Additionally, most people find that although their pool cleaner is working properly, it can not reach every corner of the pool, leaving some areas of the pool dirty. So although they are automatic, it does not mean they are perfect.
- There is an automatic pool cleaner for every budget, with prices ranging from $200 to $1,000-plus for top models. Auto pool cleaners eventually pay for themselves in the long run, saving you the money of having to hire a pool maintenance person. Although they will add a few dollars to your electricity bill each month.
