Pool Cleaners Explained: How Do Pool Cleaners Work in 2025

Tired of spending weekends scrubbing your pool instead of enjoying it? 

You’re not alone.

Pools in Perth are great for cooling off, but keeping them clean is a constant struggle. Dust, leaves, and algae build up quickly, and cleaning by hand takes time and energy.

The Perth climate makes things worse. The strong sun breaks down chlorine faster, heat speeds up algae growth, and eucalyptus leaves sink to the bottom, where they clog filters and upset the water balance. 

Without the right pool cleaner, your pump has to work harder, your filter gets overloaded, and the water can quickly turn cloudy or unsafe.

That’s where pool cleaners make life easier. They work in three main ways:

• Suction cleaners connect to your pool pump and vacuum dirt into the filter.
• Pressure cleaners use water jets (sometimes with a booster pump) to push debris into a bag.
• Robotic cleaners run on their own, using motors, brushes, and smart sensors to scrub floors, walls, and even the waterline.

With the right cleaner, you’ll spend less time fighting debris and more time enjoying a crystal-clear pool all year round.

Why Pool Cleaners Are Essential in Perth

Having a pool in Perth is a great way to cool off during the long, hot summers. But the same climate that makes swimming so enjoyable also creates extra cleaning challenges. 

The strong sunlight breaks down chlorine more quickly, high temperatures speed up algae growth, and Perth’s dry conditions mean that sand and fine dust often blow into pools. 

Many backyards are also lined with eucalyptus trees, which drop leaves, twigs, and seeds into the water almost every day. Without the right cleaning system, all this debris builds up fast, leaving water cloudy and equipment under strain.

Manual cleaning alone can’t always keep up with these conditions. Skimming the surface or vacuuming by hand is time-consuming, and much of the debris sinks to the floor before you can remove it. 

Once organic matter starts to break down in the water, it affects the chemical balance, encourages algae growth, and makes swimming less safe. 

This is why a pool cleaner is not just a convenience in Perth, it’s an essential part of regular maintenance.

The main reasons pool cleaners are essential for Perth pool owners include:

• Saves time: A pool cleaner removes leaves, sand, and algae automatically, so you spend less time on maintenance and more time enjoying your pool.
• Improves water hygiene: By reducing the build-up of organic matter, pool cleaners help prevent cloudy water, bacterial growth, and algae blooms.
• Extends equipment life: Removing debris before it reaches the pump and filter lowers wear and tear, helping these parts last longer and work more efficiently.
• Keeps pools swim-ready: A cleaner ensures your pool stays in good condition for daily use, which is especially important in Perth’s hot climate, where pools are often used.

For homeowners across Perth, these benefits make a big difference. Instead of weekends spent vacuuming and scrubbing, you can relax knowing your pool water stays clean, clear, and safe.  

What a Pool Cleaner Actually Does

• Loosens and vacuum-collects debris (fine dust, sand, leaves, algae film)
• Filters water through the pool filter or an internal cartridge/bag
• Circulates water to reduce dead spots where algae thrive

Types of Pool Cleaners & How They Work

Pool cleaners come in three main types: suction, pressure, and robotic. 

Suction models use the pump to vacuum dirt, pressure cleaners use water jets for larger debris, and robotic cleaners scrub and filter on their own.

1. Suction-Side Pool Cleaners

Suction-side pool cleaners are the simplest and most affordable type of automatic pool cleaner. They connect directly to your pool’s skimmer box or a dedicated suction port and use the pool pump’s suction power to move around the pool. 

As they travel across the floor and walls, they vacuum dirt, sand, and algae, which are then carried into the pool’s filter system. 

Because of this design, suction cleaners are quiet, low-maintenance, and suitable for almost any pool surface, including concrete, fiberglass, vinyl, and tile.

How Suction-Side Pool Cleaners Work 

1. Connection: Attach the cleaner hose to the pool’s skimmer or suction port.
2. Pump Activation: When the pool pump turns on, suction draws water and debris through the hose.
3. Movement: The suction powers the cleaner’s movement in random patterns around the pool.
4. Debris Collection: Fine particles, dirt, and algae are pulled into the hose.
5. Filtration: Debris flows into the pool’s filter or pump basket, where it is trapped.
6. Continuous Cleaning: The process repeats until the pump is switched off.

This simple system makes suction cleaners reliable for day-to-day cleaning, though they depend heavily on the pool pump and filter.

Best For

• Pools in sandy or dusty Perth suburbs.
• Pool owners are looking for a budget-friendly option.
• Smaller to medium-sized pools with mostly fine debris.

Advantages

• Affordable upfront cost: Entry-level units start from a few hundred dollars.
• Easy to install: Simple plug-and-play setup, no extra equipment needed.
• Quiet operation: Works with little noise, unlike some pressure systems.
• Versatile: Works on most pool surfaces and shapes.
• Effective on small debris: Picks up dirt, sand, and algae well.

Disadvantages

• Strains the filter: All debris goes into the filter, which needs more frequent cleaning.
• Less effective on large debris: Struggles with eucalyptus leaves, twigs, and floating debris common in Perth.
• Energy use: Relies on the pump, which may need to run longer, raising power costs.
• Wear on equipment: Can shorten the life of pool pumps and filters due to extra workload.
• Random coverage: Moves unpredictably and may miss spots.

Maintenance Tips for Suction Cleaners

• Clean the filter and pump basket regularly to prevent blockages and maintain strong suction.
• Check hoses for leaks or cracks, as air leaks reduce cleaning power.
• Adjust the hose length to match your pool size for optimal coverage.
• Use a leaf canister attachment if your pool is surrounded by trees, to stop large debris from reaching the pump.

Cost Expectations

• Purchase price: $250–$600, depending on the brand and features.
• Running costs: Higher than robotic cleaners since they rely on the pool pump.

2. Pressure-Side Pool Cleaners

Pressure-side pool cleaners are more powerful than suction cleaners and are designed to handle larger debris such as leaves, twigs, and eucalyptus pods that often fall into Perth pools. 

Instead of relying on suction, they connect to the pool’s return line and use the pressure of water returning to the pool to move around. 

Many models also require a booster pump for extra power. The water jets create propulsion, while the Venturi effect lifts debris into a separate filter bag attached to the cleaner. This keeps debris out of the pool’s main filter, reducing strain on the system.

How Pressure-Side Pool Cleaners Work  

1. Connection: The cleaner attaches to the pool’s return line.
2. Water Pressure: Water jets create propulsion, pushing the cleaner around the pool.
3. Venturi Effect: High-pressure water creates suction that lifts debris off the pool floor.
4. Debris Collection: Debris is captured in a separate filter bag.
5. Continuous Cleaning: The cleaner moves randomly until the pump or booster shuts off.

Best For

• Pools surrounded by trees that drop large debris.
• Perth pools that struggle with eucalyptus leaves, twigs, or gum nuts.
• Medium-to-large pools where a more powerful cleaner is needed.

Advantages

• Handles large debris well: Leaves and sticks don’t clog the filter.
• Protects the main filter: The Debris bag keeps big waste out of the system.
• Powerful propulsion: Covers more pool area effectively.
• Durable: Built to handle heavy-duty cleaning.

Disadvantages

• Booster pump often required: Adds to purchase and running costs.
• Higher energy use: Less efficient than robotic cleaners.
• No fine filtration: Not as effective for dust, sand, or algae.
• More moving parts: Can require more maintenance.

Maintenance Tips

• Empty the debris bag regularly to maintain strong suction.
• Check hoses and connections for leaks or wear.
• Service the booster pump to ensure consistent pressure.

Cost Expectations

• Purchase price: $500 – $1,200 (without booster pump).
• Booster pump: $300 – $600 extra.
• Running costs: Higher due to booster pump energy use.

3. Robotic Pool Cleaners

Robotic pool cleaners are the most advanced option and work independently from the pool pump or filter. They are powered by a low-voltage electric motor and use built-in pumps, filters, and rotating brushes to scrub and vacuum the pool. 

Modern robotic cleaners use sensors and smart mapping technology to cover the pool efficiently, including the floor, walls, steps, and even the waterline. 

Many models now include Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity, programmable cleaning cycles, and cordless rechargeable versions for extra convenience.

How Robotic Pool Cleaners Work 

1. Power Supply: The cleaner plugs into a low-voltage power source or uses rechargeable batteries.
2. Navigation: Built-in sensors or smart mapping guide efficient movement.
3. Scrubbing & Vacuuming: Brushes scrub the pool surface while debris is vacuumed into a cartridge.
4. Filtration: Water passes through fine internal filters before returning to the pool.
5. Smart Features: Timers and remote control options allow automated or scheduled cleaning.

Best For

• Perth homeowners want the most thorough, hands-off cleaning.
• Pools with mixed debris: fine sand, algae, and large leaves.
• Large or high-use family pools where hygiene is a top priority.

Advantages

• Independent system: Does not strain the MP or filter.
• Energy efficient: Uses low-voltage electricity.
• Thorough cleaning: Scrubs floors, walls, steps, and waterline.
• Smart features: Timers, Wi-Fi control, cordless models.
• Effective on all debris types.

Disadvantages

• Higher upfront cost: $1,000 – $2,500+.
• Maintenance required: Filters and brushes need regular cleaning.
• Heavier units: Can be harder to lift from the pool.
• Battery life: Cordless models typically run 1.5 – 3 hours per charge.

Maintenance Tips

• Rinse filters and brushes after every use.
• Check the power cords or battery for wear.
• Store the unit out of direct sunlight when not in use.

Cost Expectations

• Purchase price: $1,000 – $2,500+.
• Running costs: Low, typically less than running a booster pump system.

4. Manual Cleaning Tools

Even with the best automatic cleaners, manual cleaning tools remain essential for pool care. These include telescopic poles with skimmer nets, suction hoses, and pool brushes. 

They are useful for spot-cleaning stubborn dirt, removing floating debris, or brushing down walls before algae takes hold. Every Perth pool owner should keep a basic set of manual tools as a backup.

How Manual Cleaning Tools Work 

1. Net Skimming: Use a telescopic pole with a net to remove leaves and debris from the surface.
2. Brushing: Scrub walls and steps with a pool brush to loosen algae and dirt.
3. Manual Vacuuming: Connect a vacuum head and hose to the skimmer for deeper cleaning.

Best For

• Spot-cleaning between automatic cleaner runs.
• Pools with heavy leaf fall after storms.
• Quick touch-ups before guests arrive.

Advantages

• Low cost: Basic tools are inexpensive.
• Full control: You decide what areas to clean.
• Essential backup: Useful if an automatic cleaner breaks down.

Disadvantages

• Time-consuming: Requires manual effort.
• Inconsistent results: Harder to achieve full coverage.
• Not practical for daily cleaning: Best used alongside automatic cleaners.

Maintenance Tips

• Rinse nets and brushes to prevent wear.
• Store poles and equipment out of direct sunlight.
• Replace worn brushes and nets when needed.

Cost Expectations

• Purchase price: $50 – $200 for a basic set.
• Running costs: None beyond occasional replacements.

Key Components of Pool Cleaners

Although pool cleaners come in different designs, suction-side, pressure-side, or robotic, they all share a few core components that allow them to keep your pool clean. 

Understanding these parts helps Perth pool owners choose the right cleaner and know how to maintain it properly. 

Below are the key components found in most automatic and manual pool cleaners.

1. Suction Mechanism

The suction mechanism is the heart of every cleaner. It creates the pulling force that lifts dirt, sand, and algae from the pool floor and walls. The way this suction is created depends on the type of cleaner. 

Suction cleaners depend on your pool’s pump, pressure cleaners use water jets to create lift, and robotic cleaners have their own small motor inside the unit.

• Suction cleaners: Powered by the pool’s pump.
• Pressure cleaners: Use water jets and the Venturi effect to pull debris up.
• Robotic cleaners: Create suction with an internal motor.

2. Filter or Debris Bag

A cleaner needs a place to hold the dirt it collects. This can be a filter, cartridge, or debris bag. Without this part, the dirt would simply flow back into the pool. 

Suction cleaners rely on the pool’s main filter, pressure cleaners collect waste in their own bag, and robotic cleaners trap everything inside built-in cartridges that can be rinsed clean.

• Suction cleaners: Send debris into the pool’s main filter and pump basket.
• Pressure cleaners: Use an attached filter bag for leaves and larger debris.
• Robotic cleaners: Store debris in internal cartridges or bags.

3. Drive System

The drive system controls how the cleaner moves. It pushes or pulls the cleaner around the pool floor, walls, and sometimes steps. Simple suction cleaners move randomly, while pressure cleaners use wheels or jets for more powerful movement. 

Robotic cleaners go one step further with tracks and smart navigation sensors that help them cover the entire pool more efficiently.

• Suction cleaners: Move randomly with water flow.
• Pressure cleaners: Use wheels or jets for propulsion.
• Robotic cleaners: Use wheels or tracks with smart navigation.

4. Power Supply

The power supply is what keeps the cleaner running. Suction and pressure cleaners rely on the pool’s existing system, while robotic cleaners are fully independent. This difference plays a big role in cost and energy use. 

Suction cleaners rely on the pool pump, pressure cleaners often need a booster pump, and robotic cleaners use either a low-voltage cord or rechargeable batteries.

• Suction cleaners: Use the pool’s main pump.
• Pressure cleaners: Run on water pressure, often boosted with a pump.
• Robotic cleaners: Plug into a low-voltage supply or use rechargeable batteries.

5. Hoses or Cords

Hoses and cords act as the cleaner’s lifeline. They connect it to the pool system or supply power. If they leak, tangle, or wear out, the cleaner won’t work as it should. 

Suction and pressure cleaners use long hoses, while robotic cleaners come with floating cords or go cordless with battery packs.

• Suction cleaners: Use hoses that connect to the skimmer or suction port.
• Pressure cleaners: Use hoses linked to return jets or booster pumps.
• Robotic cleaners: Use a floating cord or cordless battery pack.

Why These Parts Matter

Each of these components works together to keep your pool clean. The suction mechanism pulls debris off the floor and walls. The filter or bag holds it in place. 

The drive system moves the cleaner around. The power supply ensures everything runs, and hoses or cords keep the system connected. If even one part fails, the cleaner won’t perform properly.

• Suction: Removes dirt, sand, and algae.
• Filter/Bag: Traps particles and leaves.
• Drive System: Moves the cleaner across all areas.
• Power Supply: Provides energy for cleaning.
• Hoses/Cords: Keep the cleaner connected and working.

Which Cleaner Is Best for Perth Pools?

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Pool Cleaner

When buying a pool cleaner, it’s important to match the cleaner to your pool’s size, type of debris, and how much effort you want to put into maintenance. 

The right choice will save you time, energy, and money while keeping your Perth pool clear.

• Pool Size & Shape: Small pools can use suction cleaners; larger or complex pools are better with robotic or pressure-side models.
• Debris Type: Fine dirt and sand suit suction or robotic cleaners; large leaves and twigs are best handled by pressure-side cleaners.
• Pool Type: In-ground pools need robotic or pressure-side cleaners; above-ground pools can use suction or manual tools.
• Running Costs: Suction cleaners are cheap upfront but use more pump time; pressure-side cleaners may need a booster pump; robotic cleaners cost more to buy but are energy efficient.
• Manual Effort: Robotic cleaners need the least attention; suction and pressure cleaners need some; manual tools require the most work.

Energy Efficiency & Cost Considerations

When choosing a pool cleaner, it’s important to think not only about cleaning performance but also about energy use and long-term costs. 

Some cleaners rely heavily on your pool pump or an extra booster pump, which increases electricity use, while others operate independently and are much more efficient. 

The type of cleaner you choose will affect both your running costs and the lifespan of your pool equipment.

1. Suction-Side Cleaners

Suction cleaners run directly from the pool pump. They are affordable to buy but less efficient because the pump must run longer to power them. This also puts more strain on the pool’s filter, which may need more frequent cleaning.

• Depend on the pool pump power.
• Lower purchase price, but higher electricity costs over time.
• Increase wear on the filter system.

2. Pressure-Side Cleaners

Pressure cleaners often need a separate booster pump to work properly. This makes them stronger against large debris but also less energy efficient. Running both the pool pump and booster pump increases overall power use.

• Require a booster pump in many cases.
• Handle large debris well.
• Higher running costs compared to suction or robotic cleaners.

3. Robotic Cleaners

Robotic cleaners are the most energy-efficient. They run on low-voltage power or rechargeable batteries and cost far less to operate than running a pump for several hours. 

They also reduce wear and tear on the pool’s pump and filter because they work independently.

• Independent power supply, no strain on pump or filter.
• Use low-voltage electricity or batteries.
• Highest upfront cost, but cheapest to run long term.

4. Manual Tools

Manual nets, brushes, and vacuums are the cheapest option but require your time and effort. They don’t use any electricity, but they aren’t practical for regular cleaning in larger pools.

• Lowest cost, but highest manual effort.
• Best as a backup, not a main cleaning method.

5. Cost Spectrum

If you look at both purchase price and running costs, the order is clear:

• Lowest cost: Manual tools.
• Low upfront, higher running costs: Suction cleaners.
• Higher cost, higher running costs: Pressure cleaners.
• Highest upfront, lowest long-term cost: Robotic cleaners.

Pool Maintenance Tips with Automatic Cleaners

Automatic pool cleaners make looking after your pool much easier, but they cannot do everything on their own. 

To keep your pool in top condition, you still need to carry out a few simple maintenance tasks. 

Regular checks and small adjustments will make sure your cleaner runs smoothly and your pool water stays safe and clear.

• Clean the filter or bag regularly to prevent blockages.
• Brush the walls and steps to remove stubborn algae.
• Check hoses and connections to avoid leaks and cracks.
• Monitor water chemistry to keep pH and chlorine balanced.
• Use a pool cover to reduce debris and keep the water warmer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Summary 

Pool cleaners work in different ways to keep pools clear and safe. Suction cleaners are low-cost and best for fine dirt, pressure-side cleaners handle large debris with power, robotic cleaners are the most efficient and easy to use, and manual tools are still needed for spot cleaning. 

Choosing the right type depends on pool size, debris, running costs, and how much effort is preferred. Book your professional pool cleaning service today with 1 PoolCare in Perth.