Looking for a high-performance pool cleaner that’s built for durability, efficiency, and crystal-clear results? Pentair pool cleaners are trusted by homeowners and pool pros alike for their powerful suction, smart navigation, and long-lasting reliability.
In this guide, we’ll break down the best Pentair pool cleaners in 2024 across all categories—robotic, suction-side, and pressure-side—so you can find the perfect match for your pool size, surface, and cleaning needs.
Why Choose a Pentair Pool Cleaner?
Pentair has earned its reputation for delivering:
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Consistently powerful cleaning performance
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Rugged design built to last
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Efficient, smart technology
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Wide range of options for different pool types
Whether you have a large in-ground pool, a compact vinyl liner pool, or lots of leaves and debris, Pentair has a cleaner that fits.
Best Pentair Pool Cleaners (Top Picks by Category)
1. Pentair Prowler 920
Best Overall Robotic Pool Cleaner
Why it’s great:
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Cleans floor, walls, and waterline
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Two filter options: fine and ultra-fine for debris of all sizes
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Plug-and-play design with no hoses or booster pump required
Specs:
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60 ft tangle-free swivel cable
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2.5-hour cleaning cycle
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For in-ground pools up to 50 ft
Pros:
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Strong suction and excellent wall climbing
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Easy to clean filter baskets
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Lightweight and energy-efficient
Cons:
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No remote or app control
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Doesn’t clean steps thoroughly
Verdict:
If you want an all-in-one solution that’s effective and easy to maintain, the Prowler 920 is Pentair’s top robotic cleaner for most pool owners.
2. Pentair Dorado Suction-Side Pool Cleaner
Best Suction Cleaner for Large Debris
Why it’s great:
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Oversized vacuum inlet captures leaves, sand, and debris easily
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Oscillating skirt helps it glide smoothly over any surface
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No need for booster pump
Specs:
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Connects to pool’s suction port or skimmer
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32 ft hose included
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Works well with low-speed pumps
Pros:
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Great for wooded or debris-heavy areas
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Powerful and simple to install
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Sticks to floors and walls without slipping
Cons:
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No wall scrubbing
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Not ideal for ultra-fine debris
Verdict:
The Dorado is perfect for pools that see a lot of leaves and organic debris, especially if you’re using a suction-side system already.
3. Pentair Rebel 2
Best Suction Cleaner for Tight Corners and Smaller Pools
Why it’s great:
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Compact, agile body navigates around tight spots
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Dual-action roller skirt for consistent suction over obstacles
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Works with variable-speed pumps
Specs:
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32 ft hose
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Two-wheel drive for agility
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Ideal for pools under 40 ft
Pros:
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Perfect for small in-ground or above-ground pools
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Scrubs as it vacuums
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Very low maintenance
Cons:
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Doesn’t clean walls or steps
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Struggles with very large debris
Verdict:
The Rebel 2 is a smart, budget-friendly choice for small pool owners who want hands-free vacuuming and strong suction in corners.
4. Pentair Racer LS Pressure-Side Cleaner
Best Pressure Cleaner for Large Pools and Debris Loads
Why it’s great:
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Large intake throat for big debris
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LED lights for night cleaning visibility
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30% faster cleaning than previous models
Specs:
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Requires a booster pump
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31 ft hose
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Includes debris bag and sweep hose
Pros:
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Great for large or tree-lined pools
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Fast, aggressive cleaning
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Doesn’t clog easily
Cons:
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Booster pump required
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Higher upfront investment
Verdict:
If your pool collects a lot of leaves, twigs, or acorns, the Racer LS is a heavy-duty workhorse that powers through tough messes with speed and precision.
5. Kreepy Krauly Warrior
Best All-Around Suction-Side Cleaner
Why it’s great:
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Two-wheel design for climbing and tight turns
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Easy to assemble and install
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Reliable cleaning with minimal parts to replace
Specs:
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Works with single and variable-speed pumps
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Suction hose included
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Compatible with most in-ground pools
Pros:
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Consistent coverage with pre-programmed steering
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Low-cost long-term maintenance
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Ideal for vinyl, fiberglass, and plaster
Cons:
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Doesn’t clean waterline
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May miss very fine dust
Verdict:
The Warrior is one of the most balanced suction-side cleaners on the market, great for everyday cleaning with little effort.
Comparison Table: Best Pentair Pool Cleaners
| Model | Type | Cleans Walls | Scrubs? | Booster Needed | Ideal For | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Prowler 920 | Robotic | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ | All-in-one, in-ground | $$$$ |
| Dorado | Suction | ❌ | ✅ | ❌ | Large debris loads | $$ |
| Rebel 2 | Suction | ❌ | ✅ | ❌ | Small/medium pools | $ |
| Racer LS | Pressure | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | Large pools, heavy debris | $$$ |
| Warrior | Suction | ❌ | ✅ | ❌ | General cleaning | $$ |
How to Choose the Best Pentair Pool Cleaner for You
1. Pool Type
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In-ground pools: All models are suitable depending on size and shape
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Above-ground pools: Use lightweight suction models like Rebel 2
2. Debris Type
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Fine debris (sand, dirt, silt): Robotic cleaners like the Prowler 920
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Large debris (leaves, twigs): Dorado or Racer LS
3. Surface Type
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Vinyl and fiberglass: Choose cleaners with soft scrubbers like Rebel 2 or Warrior
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Plaster or concrete: All models are compatible, but robotic models offer deeper scrubbing
4. Budget
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Under $500: Rebel 2, Warrior (suction-side)
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$500–$1,000: Dorado or Racer LS
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$1,000+: Prowler 920 for robotic performance
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Pentair robotic cleaners require a booster pump?
No, robotic models like the Prowler 920 are plug-and-play and do not connect to your pool’s filtration system.
Can I use a Pentair cleaner with a variable-speed pump?
Yes. Models like the Rebel 2, Warrior, and Dorado are designed to work efficiently with variable-speed systems.
What’s the difference between suction and pressure-side cleaners?
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Suction-side cleaners attach to your skimmer and are powered by your pool pump.
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Pressure-side cleaners like Racer LS use a return line and usually require a booster pump for maximum performance.
Conclusion
Pentair offers a full range of high-quality pool cleaners built for efficiency, durability, and performance across all pool types. Whether you need a robotic cleaner for low-maintenance convenience or a suction-side model for daily cleaning, there’s a Pentair solution that fits your needs and budget.
Top Picks Recap:
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Best Overall Robotic Cleaner: Pentair Prowler 920
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Best for Heavy Debris: Pentair Racer LS
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Best Budget Suction Cleaner: Pentair Rebel 2
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Best All-Around Suction Option: Kreepy Krauly Warrior
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Best for Large Leaves and Organic Debris: Pentair Dorado
Ready to upgrade your pool cleaning experience? Choose a Pentair cleaner that fits your lifestyle—and enjoy more swim time with less scrubbing. Have a favorite? Drop your thoughts in the comments below.