Finding the best above ground pool vacuums isn’t an easy task.
We have reviewed more than 100 pool vacuums by spending 30+ hours and chosen the top 10 vacuums for you.
Keeping your swimming pool sparkling clean is important if you want to stay free from unnecessary infections. However, it’s not always easy to hold up your end of the deal and sometimes the only time you remember to maintain the hygiene of your pool is when you want to play and relax in it. But, it doesn’t have to be that way. Check out our list of 10 pool vacuums for above ground pools for your swimming pool that will help you get the job done in minutes.
Best Above Ground Pool Vacuum
Zodiac Baracuda G3
The Zodiac Baracuda G3 stands out for a couple of reasons. It is affordable yet features a long lasting durable design. Plus it has a quiet performance with a capacity to devour all types of debris.
You can read the complete review or skip to the guide.
Comparison Table
| Product | Name | Features | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Zodiac BARACUDA G3 |
| |
 | Hayward SP1068 |
| |
 | Water Tech Pool Blaster |
| |
 | Polaris Vac-Sweep 65 |
| |
 | XtremepowerUS |
| |
 | Zodiac Ranger |
| |
 | Water Tech Pool Blaster |
|
Its was a hard task for us to choose the top among all these vacuums but Zodiac BARACUDA G3 have made the top position. Its durable design and efficient cleaning ability made it the best among all.
#1. Zodiac BARACUDA G3 Above Ground Pool Vacuums– Top Pick
Let’s kick off with a pool vacuum cleaner that is popular for a durable build quality build and a quiet operation design. For most users, the Zodiac G3 is a must have especially if you need an inexpensive option.
It comes with zero moving parts and all you have to do to get it started is connect it to the suction side of your pool’s circulation system and you are good to go. The upside here is that you get an above ground pool cleaner that is easy to use and quiet. In fact, since there are no moving parts with this cleaner, you don’t need to give a lot of thought about the maintenance of gears and wheels.
Simply put, this here is an inexpensive cleaning tool with a 36-fin disc design that creates an adhesive-free connection between the cleaner and the pool so that nothing gets stuck.
Furthermore, the flow keeper valve works well to ensure quality cleaning performance even when there is a drop in the pool’s circulation pump. Whether you have small or medium debris, sand or leaves in your pool, the Zodiac BARACUDA G3 will gulp everything up for efficient cleaning. The only downside is that the Baracuda G3 doesn’t work well on steps as it is designed for flat floors and surfaces.
Pros:
- Quiet operations
- Durable design
- Easy to use and assemble
- Efficient cleaning performance
- Versatile design
Cons
- Occasionally gets stuck while cleaning stairs
- Slightly pricey for some users
#2. Hayward SP1068 Above Ground Pool Vacuum – Best Portable Option
Withover 80 years of experience in the industry, Hayward has maintained a reputation for quality in all its products and the Hayward SP1068 is no exception. This portable pool vacuum cleaner is built to handle all types and sizes of swimming pools. It can easily maneuver over the flat surfaces and corners all thanks to the rectangular shape of the head. Plus, thanks to the 360-degree swivel hose connector, you can be sure of frustration-free operations with this cleaner. There have been some complaints about the bristles but you can easily solve this with a screwdriver and a hammer when the old bristles getloose. Also, beware that the unit doesn’t come with a hose.
Pros:
- See-through design for easy unclogging
- Easily sticks to the surface
- Inexpensive and affordable
- Contoured shape for easy cleaning in corners
Cons:
- Weak bristles that are known to come off
- There is no hose included with the vacuum head
#3. Pool Blaster Water Tech Above Ground Pool Vacuums – Best Battery Operated Pool Vacuum
As the name suggests, the Pool Blaster Max Li CG is designed with the power to blast any sort of debris sand and leaves right out of your pool. Whether you need it for a commercial or residential pool, this cleaner comes with a debris bag that also traps algae. It is a battery powered by a rechargeable battery with a runtime of 1 hour. The 12.75-inch vacuum head plus the new on and off startup switch makes it easy to use even for extreme situations. In addition, the handle is easy to grip making the cleaner a must have for getting rid of large and fine debris on stairs and corners. However, even though it’s a lightweight machine that is easy to use for a pool or spa, there have been some complaints about the customer service and the overall durability of the machine.
Pros:
- Easy on and off switch
- Ideal for all kinds of pools
- Portable lightweight design
- Up to 60 minutes of run-time
Cons:
- Complaints about durability
#4. Polaris Vac-Sweep 65 Above Ground Pool Vacuum
If you are looking for an automatic pool cleaner, the Polaris Vac-Sweep 65 deserves to be among your top considerations. This machine works well for all above ground pool cleaning with a capacity of up to 5 feet deep. Installations are easy and it’s designed to be an automatic cleaner capable of cleaning all type of debris, twigs, and pebbles. In fact, the unique filter bag works well to get rid of the debris giving the Polaris Vac-Sweep 65 durability. Apart from having an easy install process, the patented jet sweep assembly performs well for getting debris in hard to reach places of the pool. The only problem is that it gets easily tangles up if you set it up poorly. The downside here is that the Polaris Vac-Sweep 65 is limited in terms of its float hose length such that you can only use it well on 27 feet long by 5 feet deep pool. However, if you get a hose extension, you can use it on a 30 feet long pool.
Pros:
- Quiet operations
- Quality performance
- Easy to install
- Easily eliminates contaminants
- Durable quality
- Relatively inexpensive
Cons:
- Gets tangled easily
- Requires extra hose extensions for larger pools
#5. XtremepowerUS – Best Above Ground Automatic Pool Vacuum
XtremepowerUS Automatic Suction Vacuum is a decent option for those who want a machine that does not use electricity. This is a cleaner that can handle a 30-inch pool and with the right hose length, you can get every spot of your pool clean. It’s designed with a removable flapper that prevents debris from getting lodged inside. Speaking of debris, the manufacturer approves this pool cleaner for algae, dirt, and dust. However, the downside is that you are not supposed to clean out leaves with this cleaner.
Furthermore, even though this auto sweeper works well on flat and curved surfaces, it is not recommended for stairs in the pool. The good news is that you can attach it to an existing filtration system to enable efficient cleaning. Also, use a ¾ hp pool pump to get the best out of the machine.
Pros:
- Affordable
- Durable smart design
- Easy to use especially during unclogging
- Does not need electricity
Cons:
- Easily gets entangles with the wrong hose length
- Requires adjustments and regular maintenance
#6. Zodiac Ranger – Best Electric Pool Vacuum for Above Ground
Another unit from Baracuda that is designed for effective cleaning is the Baracuda Ranger. It is capable of delivering an effective cleaning performance even for dished out swimming pool bottoms up to 72 inches. It’s a go-to for those who distaste flapper and hammer noises as it only has one moving part.
Furthermore, thanks to the unique deflector wheel, you don’t have to worry about the machine getting caught up in the corners, steps or ladders. It also features a patented FlowKeeper valve that is similar to the Baracuda G3 and enables the machine achieves peak performance with easy regulation and adjustment of the water flow.
Basically, if you are looking for a suction pool vacuum, this here a solid pick. However, even though it’s a huge time saver, it’s not designed for cleaning soft-sided pools.
Pros:
- Fast and easy installation
- Relatively quiet performance
- Only one moving part
- Ideal for time-saving
- Pocket-friendly
Cons:
- Requires some guidance
- Not ideal for soft-sided pools
#7. Water Tech Pool Blaster Catfish Li Pool Vacuum Cleaner
Water Tech has been around for over 40 years. During this time, this manufacturer has been coming up with diverse and revolutionary pool and spa vacuum cleaning designs for every pool imaginable. With the Water Tech Pool Blaster Catfish, you don’t just get a regular above ground vacuum pool cleaner; this machine is capable of cleaning up to 33 gallons per minute while being completely independent of the main filter system. It is completely easy to use and the lightweight design makes it suitable for residential pools and spas. With a 45 minute run time on a single charge, the Water Tech Pool Blaster Catfish gives you quality performance that also includes a reusable filter bag. The only downside is that you will have is to get a telescopic pole if you plan to have an extended reach without additional pumps or hoses.
Pros:
- Easy to operate
- Rechargeable long-lasting battery
- Easily picks up wet leaves and pine needles
- Affordable pricing
Cons:
- You need to buy a pole separately
- Not ideal for larger pools
#8. Aquabot ABTRT2R1 – Best Above Ground Pool Robotic Cleaner
Sometimes all you need is a robotic pool cleaner that cleans scrubs and vacuums the floor of your pool at the same time. Well, if that is the case, the Aquabot turbo t2 is what you need. This above ground pool robot cleaner uses a microprocessor technology that is capable of cleaning pools that are 50 feet long. Designed with a large scrub, this cleaner is great for getting rid of dirt and debris from hard to reach places. It also has a large 19-quart reusable filter bag that works well to gather dirt even from the walls of the pool. What’s more is that it is able to climb at a 90-degree angle, cleaning the entire pool within 60 minutes. This cleaner can do all this without being connected to the swimming pool pump. All you have to do is put it in water and let it work automatically thanks to a built-in internal pump motor.
Pros:
- User-friendly with simple operations
- Long power cord included
- Thermoplastic rubber code that is long lasting
- Speedy performance
- Quality filtration
Cons:
- Expensive
- Some debris gets stuck to the scrubber
- requires some maintenance
#9. Hayward 500 – Affordable Above Ground Pool Sweeper
When summer comes, one of the hardest chores becomes the chore of above ground pool cleaning. But it doesn’t have to be like that. With the Hayward 500, you can make the whole experience fun and exciting thanks to a unique automatic pool vacuum. The Hayward 500 is built with an advanced contoured head design that makes steering easy to save you time. In fact, in less than 10 minutes, you will be able to get rid of all the debris from the tile pools, concrete or fiberglass. There is more, this machine also comes with a capacity for quiet operations as it’s made with a unique gearing system that balances the water flow for gentle movements. Talking of movement, the cleaner is made with a deluxe bumper ring that reduces friction for flawless movement. The only downside is that you might need a major pump for the cleaner to work as expected.
Pros:
- Advanced design for easy cleaning
- Speedy performance
- Comes with a 1-year warranty
- Durable build quality
Cons:
- Not ideal for soft-sided pools
#10. Aquabot Pool Rover S2-40i – with Extra Replacement Filter Bag
Aqua Products have proven to be the best performing, most durable and efficient products no matter the category. When it comes to above ground pool cleaners, the Aquabot Pool Rover S2-40i is one of Aqua products most popular machines and for a good reason.
This cleaner is proven to be highly reliable thanks to a design that is made to fit perfectly whether you want to use it for above ground or in-ground pool cleaning. It can handle a 30 feet long pool and boasts of a capability to filter through 5,000 gallons in 60 minutes.
If that is not impressive enough, this machine comes with 3 filter bags that are customized for fine dirt removal. It’s a fully automatic robotic cleaner that that is designed to work with raised main drains and imperfect pool bottoms. To crown it all, the Hayward 500 has a 40 feet cord built with coated rubber for extra durability and you get a 1-year warranty which is great.
Pros:
- Easy plug and play operation
- 1-year warranty
- Durable cord included
- Powerful suction
- Capable of working with imperfect pool bottoms
Cons:
- Requires regular maintenance
Buyer’s Guide: What is the Best Above Ground Pool Cleaner and How to Choose it.
Before you make a purchase decision, you need to know whether the deal you are getting is any good. Fortunately for you, this guide will show you some of the essentials that you have to keep in mind so as to pick the right tool for your needs.
- Weight
You need a portable machine that you can move around with ease. Therefore, go with a machine that is light enough for your needs.
- Warranty
A warranty is basically a safety net that guarantees the durability of the vacuum cleaner you have bought. Thankfully, there are good brands that have a good customer care service that allows you to return the item as soon as it gets faulty. Be sure to check and see whether your cleaner comes with a warranty.
- Bag availability
While some cleaners come with permanent bags that collect your debris, others feature replaceable bags that are easy to clean and maintain. It all goes back to your own personal preferences. If you want a replacement bag to go with your cleaner you can choose options like the Pool Blaster Water Tech Max Li Commercial Grade Pool & Spa Cleaner.
- Cord and hose availability
Some manufacturers offer a cord and hose with their units while some do not. If you already have a hose there is no need to pay extra to buy another. However, some units come with shortcords that limit your reach to those hard to reach the corner of the pol. On the other hand, some long hose will easily get entangled and get in the way of your vacuuming.
- Filtration system
The filtration system of any vacuum cleaner pretty much determines the efficiency of the cleaning operations. Be sure to check the performance of the filtration system so that you end up picking a cleaner that quickly does a thorough job. After all, the last thing you want is to have to redo a job after you’ve already spent hours cleaning.
- Accessories
Every package comes with its own set of accessories. These are tools that can help you enhance the performance of the cleaner.
Various types of above ground pool vacuum cleaner
Now that we have looked at the important features to have in mind, let’s look at some of the popular types of vacuum cleaners to help you pick what works with your pool.
- Pressure pool vacuums
Sometimes referred to as pressure-side cleaners, these types of cleaners usually feature a more advanced vacuum mechanism. First, they come with advanced suction features enabling the cleaner to generate water flow from the pool outlet for maximum efficiency. Unlike other types of cleaners, they do not need to use a pool filtration system to get rid of debris. They, however, feature a bag that collects the debris for easy cleaning. As a result of their speed and cleaning efficiency, they are best suited for those with a big pool.
- Suction pool vacuums
These are automatic cleaners are also known as suction-side pool vacuums. They clean by using a pool pump suction power in addition to the filtration pump of the pool. They are designed to use electricity to work and you will also need to turn on the pool pump while they clean. One of their biggest advantages is the fact that they enable you to have access to an automatic pool cleaner at an affordable price. This is mostly because they use the suction and with a powerful pool pump, you can get the work done much easier and faster. However, the downside is that they require more maintenance than regular cleaning since you will need to clean the filter on a regular basis.
- Robotic cleaners
Lastly, let’s look at the robotic cleaners. Well as the name suggests these are the most common types of cleaners you will find out there. They are usually designed in a unique way that takes advantage of the pool circulation mechanism to perform the cleaning work. They feature an internal collection bag that helps with increasing the cleaning efficiency. This results in impressive cleaning results where there is no single unwanted particle left at the floor of your pool. To enable reduce time and running costs, they feature a small built-in pump that increases power consumption efficiency. Some models also feature a remote control as well as other exciting features to make your work even easier. Others are capable of climbing the walls of your pool at a 90-degree angle to clean every part of the pool automatically. For these and money other features, however, robotic pool cleaners will fetch a high price that can range in the thousands.
Conclusion
So there you have it. With our list of ten of the best above ground pool vacuum cleaners, you can be sure to have a good selection from which you can pick your favorite. Be sure to also check out our buyers guide to get to know some of the important consideration most users overlook. The guidelines can go a long way to help you pick the right above ground vacuum cleaner.