Getting a pool in the backyard is no easy task. You need months of research, and even then, you might have second thoughts. This task is tedious but exciting. But there is a crucial mistake people often do. While trying to make it perfect, they often forget what to do afterward. You might regret it if you do not include a cleaning plan when researching for a pool.
The pool is for enjoyment, but keeping it clean can be daunting. Even more so, if you do not have the right tool. What bothers most is the presence of algae. A vacuum for the pool could be the best solution.
4 Best Pool Vacuums for Algae
1. DOLPHIN Nautilus CC Supreme: Best Cordless Pool Vacuum for Algae
Things We Like:
- Tangle-free wire management, and app-control feature
- 3 powerful scrubbing brushes
- Anti-tangle cord and an app-controlled scheduler.
- Twin-Cartridges setup.
- Powerful suction motor
- Clean the floor and the walls of your pool.
DOLPHIN Nautilus CC Supreme becomes our preferred pool cleaning device for many reasons. Its 3 effective brushes, wireless connectivity, tangle-free wire management, and app-control feature are the perfect combination for cleaning algae. The robot cleaner can climb vertically, and clean waterlines, and drains so that you don’t have to put extra effort into the cleaning.
Down the line, you should look for two main abilities of such robot cleaners. They are the ability of cleaning and cover all spots. Here, our selected model has 3 powerful scrubbing brushes. Among those brushes, the middle one spins very fast for removing stubborn buildups.
Now, maneuverability and wall climbing are our second-most important concerns. Tracks and wheels are the only options where tracks can climb 90° walls, and wheels can cover slopes up to 60 degrees.
Nautilus CC Supreme comes with tracks, and its rival Polaris F9450 has a 4-wheel drive system. That’s why we couldn’t declare Polaris F9450 as the best bet despite its many admiring features.
Both models can clean pools up to 50 feet making them perfect for almost all swimming pool owners. But we recommend small pool owners go for less expensive models such as handheld pool vacuums.
Now, let’s talk about other benefits you can get from this model.
It has an anti-tangle cord and an app-controlled scheduler. That combination lets busy persons set weekly cleaning schedules and do other important things. You can also rely on other time-saving low-maintenance and easy cartridge-cleaning features.
So, is it the best bet?
Yes, it is the best bet for those who own a pool larger than 30² but not more than 50². If you are planning a party but are too busy to clean the pool and arrange everything, DOLPHIN Nautilus CC Supreme will be your best helping hand.
In that sense, every pool owner, regardless of pool length, can be benefitted greatly. Check out the price, and customer reviews, and decide whether it is the right model for your pool.
Summary: DOLPHIN Nautilus CC Supreme Automatic Robotic Pool Cleaner is the best option for a fully programmable wall, floor, and waterline cleaner. Its Twin-Cartridges setup and triple scrubber with the powerful suction motor are effective against algae and other similar organisms.
Specification:
- Pool Length: 50 feet
- Cable length: 60 feet
- Filter: Twin Cartridges (Extra Large)
- Dimension: 23 x 19 x 13
- Scrubbers: 3
Pros:
- Easy-to-manage filters
- Effective cleaning scrubbers
- Easy to operate
Cons:
- Can’t clean stairs
2. Polaris Vac-Sweep 380 Pressure Side Pool Cleaner: Best for Pressure Cleaning
Things We Like:
- Fast and technical cleaning.
- Triple jet powering.
- Comes with 31 feet of hose.
- Maximum level of water circulation.
- Single chamber filter bag.
- Clean the floor and the walls of your pool.
Polaris Vac-Sweep 380 Pressure Side Pool Cleaner is one of the most powerful pool cleaners you can find on the market. Because it is powered by triple jets as well as an additional booster pump. This is why it can provide greater vacuum power, which means it can clean the pool in the shortest time possible. Along with that, this product is super durable.
The main benefits
This pool cleaner is a perfect choice for those who already have a booster pump, as it requires one additionally. It may seem a bit extra at first, but a little addition to this pump can increase the filtration process a lot faster and more effectively.
Polaris Vac-Sweep 380 is one of the most powerful and durable pool cleaners for this booster pump and Triple jet powering. It makes the cleaning process faster, like three hours or less than that.
This powerful vacuum pool cleaner cleans the pool floor alongside its wall and steps. With this amazing feature, you do not have to do anything manually when it comes to pool cleaning
Because of its 31-feet hose, you do not have to worry about the size of the pool. It collects all the debris is a single chamber filter bag that needs to be removed before overload.
Is this the best bet?
It is the best bet if you already have a booster pump and only need a pool cleaner. In that case, you do not need to worry about anything additional still fulfill the need and save money.
Summary: If you have the budget, then this is perfect for you. It may cost you a bit extra for the booster pump, but it is worth the price. It saves you time and energy in the long run. And once you have bought it, you do not need to worry about the pool cleaning anymore.
Specification:
- Cleaning Cycle: 3 hours
- Hose Length: 31 feet
- Venturi Jets: 3
- Vacuum Inlet: 2¼ inch
- Debris Bag: Single Chamber
Pros:
- Fast cleaning.
- Large capacity reusable filter bag.
- Cleans pool floor, wall, and steps.
- Easy to use.
Cons:
- Needs booster pump separately.
3. XtremepowerUS 75037 Climb Wall Pool Cleaner: Best for Suction Cleaning
Things We Like:
- The design of the cleaner is eco-friendly.
- Vacuum pools of any size and shape.
- No additional tool or electricity is required.
- Best for dead algae as well as any type of debris.
- Clean the pool automatically; no need to do anything manually.
- Suitable for all kinds of pool surfaces.
XtremepowerUS 75037 Climb Wall Pool Cleaner is perfect for cleaning any type of debris, including algae, dirt, pebbles, bugs etc. It can work on any kind of pool surface, including fiberglass, vinyl, and concrete. Basically, this pool cleaner can clean pools automatically with any size, shape, or type.
The main benefits:
XtremepowerUS 75037 is an automatic suction side pool cleaner. This indicates that it works by attaching the cleaner to the pool’s main filtration pump. The benefit you get from this is you do not need anything additional to go with this pump. It will even save you electricity as it does not need any.
It can operate on any kind of surface because it is gentle and flexible. For this reason, it can perfectly clean your pool without harming or scratching it on the way.
Moreover, this swimming pool vacuum cleaner ends your hustle to clean the sidewalls of your pool, which takes hours to clean. It goes up on the walls of the inground pool or above-ground pool and cleans it seamlessly.
Despite all the facilities it is giving, it is comparatively easy to maintain. Because it comes with only one detachable part. On the other hand, it does not have any wheel, which usually gets jammed in the pool cleaners.
Is this the best bet?
If your pool is surrounded by trees and tends to get dirty very easily this cleaner can be a good choice for you. Especially it is a great one for cleaning the walls of the pool. You will get the best value out of it if you already have s filter pump.
Summary: If your pool is small and gets dirty quickly, XtremepowerUS 75037 is for you. As it does not require any additional attachment, it cost you no extra money. But if you can afford it, a 3/4 hp filter pump is highly recommended. It is also recommended not to use it in an extra-large size pool. Other than that, it is a great tool to clean your pool effortlessly.
Specifications:
- Product Type: Automatic Suction Pool Vacuum
- Cleaning area: Floor and walls
- Weight: 10 LB
- Dimensions: 41 inch L x 6 inch W x 18 inch H
- Additional electricity: No
Pros:
- Affordable price.
- Climbs up and cleans the wall easily.
- User friendly and easy maintenance.
Cons:
- Get clogged by leaves.
- Need a separate filter pump for function properly.
4. Water Tech Pool Blaster Max Li Pool & Spa Cleaner: Best for Handheld Cleaning
Things We Like:
- Portable and simple to use.
- No need for a power connection. Operate by a powerful rechargeable li-ion battery.
- Can perform 12-feet deep cleaning.
- Can clean drains, and stairs.
This pool vacuum is considered the best because of its effectiveness and convenience. Other types are also very capable, but handheld ones are simple yet effective. Here, the scrubbers matter the most to rub the hard surfaces, and the suction hose collects the floating algae.
But lots of people don’t choose this type for some reason, and you should know them. As it requires physical labor, many of us can’t manage when the pool is large. However, buying an automatic pool cleaner can solve all those issues.
Now, all are not so bad about this handheld model, and you can get some benefits that even automatic models can’t. For example, using Water Tech Pool Blaster Max Li, you can clean the stairs and uneven surfaces effectively. Also, you don’t have to spend time maintaining the cleaner or cleaning the X-Treme Multilayer Filter.
The rechargeable Li-ion battery is durable enough to last years, and you can use up to 60 minutes with a full charge. And it doesn’t take more than 4 hours to recharge the battery. Finally, you can clean up to 12 feet deep after setting up the extension rods.
Who should consider this handheld pool cleaner?
If you have the budget and a desire for a portable model, you will love it and its 60-min battery backup time. The vacuum, large debris-capturing chamber, and battery pack are close to the vacuum head. So, there is no hassle of handling wires or pipes while cleaning.
But those who have a lower budget can buy POOLWHALE Portable Pool Vacuum Jet Underwater Cleaner. The only downside of this model is to take the hassle of using your garden hose or a separate vacuum.
Summary: Water Tech Pool Blaster Max Li is a portable handheld vacuum pool cleaner that runs on a 60-min backup battery. Cleaning uneven surfaces, drain, and stairs are not a problem for this model. It is easy to operate and clean, making it perfect for hassle-free and low-budget solution-seekers.
Specification:
- Maximum Depth: 12 feet
- Minimum Depth: 14.75 inches at 45° angle
- Dimension: 15.5 L x 6.5 W x 7.5 H
- Battery Runtime: 60 minutes
Pros:
- Easy-to-clean filters
- Simple on/off operation
- Clean any surface
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What is Algae?
Algae is a kind of aquatic plant that thrives in still water. They contain chlorophyll but lack real leaves, stems, roots, and vascular tissues.
They produce oxygen, which helps to sustain life underwater. Their presence attracts other animals and plants into the water body. To the underwater ecosystem, they are seen as valuable as crude oil because algae are the producer of oxygen and food sources for the primary consumer.
Can You Swim In A Pool With Algae?
Just like you can jump off a cliff, but that does not mean you should, you ‘can’ swim in a pool full of algae, but you never should.
It is very dangerous to swim in a pool with algae. Algae are slimy and slippery. They often cause accidents in the pool resulting in bruising, bumps, and even broken bones. Algae are more dangerous than anything in the pool to a novice user as they create a higher risk of drowning.
Getting Rid of Algae in a Pool – How Long Does It Take?
The answer is, it depends. It depends on how much algae there is, which cleaner you are using, the surrounding environment, etc.
Algae buildup due to lack of chlorine in the water. When you notice it, you might think, ‘If I start now, how long it might take?’
Even with the best product, it might take from 1 to 7 days, depending on how much algae has built up. With enough chlorine in an average size pool, it will take 1 to 3 days to get rid of them. If the pool is big and there are too much algae, it might take up to 7 days.
Things to Consider Before Buying the Best Pool Vacuum for Algae
If you are looking for the best above-ground pool cleaner vacuum for algae, you should consider these features.
Size and depth
Size and depth play the most significant role when choosing a cleaner. If you buy one that is less capable, the machine will never thoroughly clean the water. Purchasing a more capable one would be overkill.
Choosing anyone haphazardly that does not meet the criteria will ensure under-performance.
Cleaner type
There are mainly four types of cleaners, as we have mentioned. They each have something unique to offer.
For example, if you have a small pool that can be easily cleaned, a manual or suction cleaner should serve you very well. For big pools, it is better to use automated robotic cleaners.
Power consumption
This aspect is often overlooked when buying an above-ground pool vacuum for algae or working underwater. When ignored, after a month user gets confused when they get the bill.
These machines consume 180W on average. The ones with boosters and hydraulics might need 1000W on average. The automatic pool vacuum robotic cleaners tend to be more energy-efficient.
Hose length
Checking out vacuum hose length at first is the most important thing you could do. Because their area will depend on how far away they can move, which depends on hose length.
Coming home with a hose length that can not cover the whole pool could be frustrating. It would also be a waste of money because it won’t clean the pool properly.
Waterline leaning
If you need reminding, the waterline area is considered the area where water meets the tile. You might notice scale building up adjacent to that area.
Not all machines perform equally when it comes to cleaning that area. Suction and manual cleaners perform generally better than robotic pool cleaners when it comes to cleaning the waterline area.
Debris Collection
Usually, most of the pumps have filters built into them, while circulating debris gets stuck in the filter.
But you should look for machines that can clean not only algae but also debris. Because it will reduce the pressure on the pool filter and vice versa. Pressure-side pool sweepers are better at cleaning debris than most.
Maintenance
Each type needs different degrees of maintenance. Besides the basic procedures, the more removable parts machines have, the more care they need to operate.
Considering this, robotic, automatic cleaners need less attention for maintenance than other types.
Suction Power
Varying suction power affects the cleaning process in many ways. More suction power provides better cleaning. But, it raises power consumption.
Each type of cleaner offers machines with many levels of suction power. The optimum power level varies depending on different depths and environments.
Price
There are many machines with unnecessary over-the-top features that you will probably never use. These features usually drive up the price. Devices with more basic features cost less.
That does not mean you have to stick with the basic features. Try to stick with the reputed manufacturer and premium machines. You might end up buying one every year when compromised with quality.
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What Does a Pool Cleaner Do?
As the name suggests, they clean the pool, plain and simple.
But when you think about how they do it, the answer may surprise you. These vacuum cleaners are made in different ways to satisfy different needs. They also work in various ways. Some need to be operated by hand; others are automated” some clean through a suction ability system built into them.
However, they help you keep the pool clean by removing debris and algae in above-ground swimming pools. Calling them algae vacuum won’t be a wrong judgment. An above-ground pool vacuum cleaner helps you to keep in check bacteria too, which might irritate sensitive skin. Though they all do the cleaning, there are significant differences in the ways they do it.
So, what does a pool cleaner do in short? They let you enjoy your pool when you need it most without any risk of bacteria, algae, and other things.
Types of Pool Cleaners
Manual Pool Cleaners: This one has the oldest design of all. It has many different parts like a skimmer, brush, removable filter, etc. they are usually connected with a long handle and vacuum. You’ll have to connect them accordingly and operate them manually. Though their use is tedious, the benefit is that you can be sure of efficient cleaning of every inch. Some of the best handheld pool vacuums are manual cleaners.
Robotic Pool Cleaners: It will help you to clean the area without any manual effort. They are very compact and consume less power than other types. With the scheduling feature, you could just clean the pool with the touch of a button. Robotic vacuum cleaners do not need any additional parts to work, which is a significant advantage.
Offering these features will make one of the best robotic pool cleaner for algae. It is also one of the best portable pool vacuums among its peers.
Suction Pool Cleaners: Suction pumps are a cheaper and less expensive automatic pool cleaner option. The installation is not complicated. Its work is similar to a manual cleaner, but it is automated. Suction cleaners suck the water like a vacuum and direct it to the filter. It can move around on its own, so you can relax and stop worrying about clean water flow. It might underperform if your pool’s pump system has any flaws. However, they are great for vacuuming algae from the bottom of the pool.
Pressure Side Pool Cleaners: This one uses your pool’s circulation system. It catches the returning water and collects larger debris in its bag, which means less pressure on your pool’s filtration system. Also, it moves in a random pattern to ensure maximum cleanliness.
How to Vacuum Algae Out Of a Pool
The easiest method to vacuum algae out of a pool is called the waste method. For this, your vacuum needs to have a multi-port system.
At the start of the waste method, you have to set the vacuum system to the waste setting. This means if you have a suction side vacuum it connects to the skimmer, and to the pressure side vacuum it connects to the suction line.
Through this method, algae that are bypassing the filter are sent out of the pool after passing through the pipe and pump.
If dirt or dead algae are bypassing the filter and blowing back into the pool the cartridge may need to be cleaned.
This method prevents algae reintroduction into the pool and ensures that it won’t return.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Does baking soda kill pool algae?
Baking soda cannot kill algae, but it can loosen its root; thus, it can prevent aggressive algae growth.
2. What naturally kills algae?
Barley straw can kill algae naturally. But if you want a long-term solution, keep your water clean and clear.
3. Can you vacuum algae out of a pool?
With some specific methods, yes, you can vacuum algae.
4. Can a sand filter remove algae?
Yes, it can. But cannot filter 100% of algae.
5. Does vinegar remove algae?
By applying the mixture of white vinegar and water down the algae area and removing algae.
Our Verdict
At the end of this article, you might know what is the best pool cleaner for algae and the detailed facts about it. It is now easier for you to choose the right one for you. If you are still confused, do not hesitate to comment below. We will be there for you soon.