If you own a pool, you know that keeping it clean can feel like a never-ending chore. Leaves, sand, dirt, and the occasional mystery debris all seem to find their way in. A good suction-side pool cleaner can take a lot of that work off your hands, keeping your water sparkling with minimal effort. But with so many models available, how do you know which one is worth your money?
In this guide, we’ll break down what makes a suction-side pool cleaner stand out, which models are getting rave reviews in 2025, and how to choose the right one for your pool’s unique needs.
What is a Suction-Side Pool Cleaner?
A suction-side cleaner connects to your pool’s skimmer or a dedicated suction line. It uses the suction from your existing pool pump to move around and vacuum debris. Unlike robotic cleaners, it doesn’t have its own motor or filter—it sends everything straight into your pool’s filtration system.
Why do people love them? Three main reasons:
- Affordability: They typically cost less than robotic or pressure-side cleaners.
- Simplicity: Few moving parts make them easier to maintain and repair.
- Proven reliability: Many models have been on the market for years with loyal followings.
Key Features to Look For
Not all suction cleaners are built the same. Here’s what to pay attention to when shopping:
- Debris Handling: Can it manage leaves, fine dirt, or both?
- Wall Climbing: Does it stick to floors only, or can it scrub walls and waterlines?
- Navigation: Does it get stuck on steps, corners, or drains?
- Durability: Are parts like hoses and wheels built to last?
- Ease of Setup: Can you connect it and start cleaning in minutes?
Also consider how powerful your pool pump is—suction cleaners rely entirely on it, so low horsepower may limit performance.
Top Suction-Side Pool Cleaners of 2025
1. Hayward PoolCleaner (W3PVS20GST) – Best Overall
The Hayward PoolCleaner is a long-time favorite among pool owners for good reason. The 2-wheel version is ideal for standard-sized pools, offering steady movement and great debris pickup. It handles fine dirt, sand, and leaves with ease, and its adjustable skirts help maintain suction over uneven surfaces.
For larger pools, the 4-wheel model adds stability and speed, covering more ground in less time. Both versions are lightweight, easy to set up, and known for lasting many years with minimal maintenance.
2. Zodiac Baracuda G3 – Best for Large Pools with Heavy Debris
The Zodiac Baracuda G3 is built for coverage. It climbs walls, maneuvers around obstacles, and pulls in a variety of debris—from large leaves to smaller dirt particles. Its durable diaphragm design means fewer moving parts, reducing breakdowns and making repairs straightforward.
3. Hayward Navigator Pro – Easiest to Use
If you want a cleaner that works with almost no adjustment, the Navigator Pro is a safe bet. It’s quiet, efficient, and designed for simple operation. It does best with fine to medium debris and works well in pools with smooth surfaces.
4. Pentair Kreepy Krauly – Best for Fine Debris
The Pentair Kreepy Krauly has been around for decades and remains a go-to for fine sand and silt. Its simple flapper design allows it to operate for years without complex repairs. While it’s not the best at handling large leaves, it excels at keeping a pool looking polished.
5. Zodiac MX8 Elite – Best for Wall Climbing
The Zodiac MX8 Elite uses a track system to move with stability, making it one of the best wall climbers in the suction category. Its dual cyclonic suction gives it strong debris pickup, and the scrub brushes help with stubborn dirt on walls and floors.
Pros and Cons of Suction-Side Cleaners
Pros
- Lower cost compared to robotic or pressure-side cleaners
- Easy to set up and use
- Few parts to maintain
- Proven track records for many models
Cons
- Rely on your pool’s pump—performance can vary
- Send all debris to your filter, requiring more frequent cleaning
- Not always as effective on stairs or tight corners
How to Choose the Right One for Your Pool
- Small, clean pool: Pentair Kreepy Krauly or Hayward Navigator Pro
- Large pool with mixed debris: Hayward PoolCleaner (4-wheel)
- Leaf-heavy environment: Zodiac Baracuda G3
- Need strong wall climbing: Zodiac MX8 Elite
- Budget-friendly with solid performance: Hayward PoolCleaner (2-wheel)
Maintenance Tips to Extend Life
- Rinse hoses and cleaner after each use to prevent wear
- Store hoses flat to avoid bending or kinking
- Inspect moving parts for wear every month
- Keep your pool filter clean to maintain strong suction
- Check your pump basket for large debris before running the cleaner
Final Thoughts
Suction-side pool cleaners are a reliable, affordable way to keep your pool looking inviting all season long. While they may not offer the advanced features of robotic models, their simplicity and durability make them a favorite for many pool owners.
For most people, the Hayward PoolCleaner offers the best balance of performance, durability, and price. If you have a larger pool or specific cleaning challenges, one of the other top models on this list might be a better fit. The key is to match your cleaner to your pool’s size, debris type, and how much time you want to spend on maintenance.
With the right suction-side cleaner, you’ll spend less time vacuuming and more time enjoying your pool—exactly the way it should be.