Automatic and Robotic Pool Cleaners
A good automatic cleaner saves hours of vacuuming. Learn how the types differ, and get matched with an independent local pro for setup or repair.
Free matching with independent local pool pros across Florida.
A quick guide, not a sales page
Dominion Pool Pros does not sell pool cleaners or recommend a particular product. This page explains how the three main types work so you can compare them with the pool you have. When you want hands-on help with plumbing, a booster pump, setup or a cleaner that stopped working, you can request an independent local pro.
Robotic, suction or pressure?
| Robotic | Suction-side | Pressure-side | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Power | Own motor, plugs into a low-voltage power supply | Your pool pump's suction | Your pump's return flow, often with a booster pump |
| Where debris goes | Onboard bin or bag | Pump basket and pool filter | Attached bag |
| Best with | Fine dirt, walls and floor scrubbing | Sand, fine to small debris | Leaves and larger debris |
| Upfront cost | Usually highest | Usually lowest | Middle, higher with a booster pump |
| Upkeep | Empty the bin, occasional parts | Hoses, diaphragms, tires | Hoses, bags, tires, booster pump |
| Effect on filter | None, it filters itself | Loads the pool filter | Little |
Questions that help you choose
- Is your pool screened?
- Screened pools usually get more fine dirt than leaves, which suits robotic and suction cleaners.
- Is it under trees?
- Heavy leaf fall points toward pressure-side cleaners or cleaners with large debris capacity.
- Do you want to clean walls and the tile line?
- Many robotic cleaners climb and scrub walls.
- Do you have a cleaner line and booster pump?
- If not, a pressure-side cleaner means extra plumbing and equipment.
- How is your filter?
- Suction cleaners send debris to the pool filter, so it needs to keep up.
When a local pro can help
- Adding a dedicated cleaner line or a booster pump for a pressure-side cleaner
- Setting pump speeds on a variable-speed pump so a suction or pressure cleaner moves properly
- Adding a booster pump to automation
- Diagnosing a cleaner that gets stuck, misses spots or stops moving
- Replacing worn hoses, diaphragms, tires or bags
Before work begins, confirm that the pro you hire holds the Florida license your job requires.
What affects the cost of cleaner help
We do not publish prices. Setup and repair costs depend on the type of cleaner, whether plumbing or a booster pump needs to be added, the parts involved and whether the work is combined with other service. For cleaner purchases, compare retailers and manufacturers directly.
Pool cleaner questions
Does Dominion Pool Pros sell pool cleaners?
No. Dominion Pool Pros does not sell products. This page explains the types of cleaners so you can make an informed choice, and you can request an independent local pro if you want help with setup, a cleaner that stopped working or the plumbing some cleaners need.
Which type of pool cleaner is best?
It depends on your pool and priorities. Robotic cleaners work on their own power and filter debris into an onboard bin. Suction-side cleaners are simple and use your pool pump. Pressure-side cleaners handle larger debris and usually need a booster pump. A pro who sees your pool can help you decide.
Can a pro help set up a pressure-side cleaner?
Yes. Many pressure-side cleaners need a dedicated cleaner line and a booster pump, and all automatic cleaners work best when hoses, speeds and settings are adjusted for the pool. That is a job a local pro can take on.
Why does my pool cleaner keep getting stuck?
Common causes are the wrong hose length, low or high flow, worn tires or tracks, a clogged bag or filter, or steps and drains that trap the cleaner. Adjusting setup often fixes it.
Does a robotic cleaner replace pool service?
No. A cleaner helps with debris on the floor and walls, but it does not test or balance the water, clean the filter or check equipment. Many homeowners use both. See weekly pool service.
Related services
- Weekly Pool ServiceGet matched with a local pro for a recurring weekly visit that covers chemistry, skimming, brushing, baskets and a quick equipment check.
- Pool Filter CleaningFind a local pro to break down and deep clean cartridge, DE and sand filters so water clears faster and the pump works less.
- Pool Automation and Smart ControlsConnect with a local pro to repair a control panel or add automation that runs pumps, heat, lights and valves from one place.
- One-Time and Deep Pool CleaningGet matched with a local pro for a single deep cleaning before a party, after a storm, before a sale or when you are catching up.
Request cleaner setup or repair in these Florida areas
Requests are matched with independent pros in six Florida metro areas. Availability depends on local pro coverage.
Need help with a pool cleaner?
Tell us your city, the cleaner type and what you need. We will pass your request to an independent local pro.
Dominion Pool Pros is a free referral service. We connect Florida homeowners with independent local pool professionals and do not perform any pool or spa work ourselves.