The Aiper Scuba S1, and its more robust sibling, the Aiper Scuba S1 Pro cordless robotic pool cleaner, have certainly made waves in the Australian market, promising a hands-free approach to pool maintenance.
For many Aussie pool owners, the idea of a robot handling the scrubbing and vacuuming is incredibly appealing, especially with our sunny climate leading to frequent pool use.
These units are designed to tackle everything from fine dust to larger debris, aiming to give you more time to enjoy your pool rather than clean it.
Initial reviews suggest strong performance in terms of suction power and navigation, making them a viable option for those looking to upgrade their pool cleaning routine.
The “cordless” aspect is a major draw, eliminating tangled hoses and the need for constant supervision, a common pain point with traditional cleaners.
While the initial investment might be higher than some manual or pressure-side cleaners, the convenience and efficiency often justify the cost for busy households.
Here’s a comparison of some popular pool cleaning solutions, including the Aiper Scuba S1 and alternatives, to help you make an informed decision:
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- Key Features: Cordless robotic pool cleaner, dual-roller brushes, powerful suction, Wall-climbing capability, intelligent navigation.
- Average Price: AUD $1,200 – $1,500
- Pros: Exceptional convenience, eliminates cords, efficient cleaning for floors and walls, ideal for larger pools, saves time and effort.
- Cons: Higher initial cost, requires charging, some users report occasional missed spots on very complex pool shapes, potentially needs manual intervention for extremely stubborn debris.
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- Key Features: Enhanced cordless robotic pool cleaner, stronger motor, extended battery life, more advanced navigation, continuous path optimization.
- Average Price: AUD $1,800 – $2,200
- Pros: Superior cleaning performance, longer run time, highly efficient for larger or heavily used pools, robust build, advanced smart features.
- Cons: Premium price point, still requires charging, might be overkill for smaller, less frequently used pools.
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Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus Robotic Pool Cleaner
- Key Features: Robotic pool cleaner, ideal for inground pools up to 50 feet, scrubbing brushes, easy-to-clean filter cartridges, tangle-free swivel cable.
- Average Price: AUD $1,000 – $1,300
- Pros: Proven reliability, excellent cleaning performance for floors and walls, relatively affordable for a robotic cleaner, easy maintenance.
- Cons: Corded operation can be cumbersome, may require occasional supervision to untangle, not suitable for extremely large commercial pools.
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Polaris Vac-Sweep 280 Pressure Side Pool Cleaner
- Key Features: Pressure-side cleaner, requires a dedicated booster pump, large debris bag, sweeps, scrubs, and vacuums.
- Average Price: AUD $800 – $1,100 plus booster pump if not already installed
- Pros: Effective at picking up large debris, durable, robust design, good for pools with significant leaf litter, relatively low maintenance.
- Cons: Requires a separate booster pump additional cost and installation, not as efficient with fine dirt as robotic cleaners, hose can tangle.
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Hayward Poolvergnuegen Suction Pool Cleaner The Pool Cleaner
- Key Features: Suction-side pool cleaner, patented self-adjusting turbine vanes for maximum power, multiple pre-set steering sequences, robust tire treads.
- Average Price: AUD $500 – $700
- Pros: Generally lower cost, plugs into your existing filtration system, good for smaller debris and routine cleaning, simple to operate.
- Cons: Relies on your pool pump for power, can put strain on your pump, less effective on large debris, can get stuck on steps or obstacles, hose can tangle.
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Pool Skimmer Basket with Handle
- Key Features: Basic replacement skimmer basket, typically made of durable plastic, includes a handle for easy removal.
- Average Price: AUD $20 – $50
- Pros: Essential for manual debris removal, inexpensive, easy to install, prevents larger debris from reaching the pump.
- Cons: Requires constant manual effort, only for surface debris, not a “cleaner” in itself but a crucial component.
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- Key Features: Various types including nylon, steel, and combo brushes, typically 18-24 inches wide, attaches to standard telescopic poles.
- Average Price: AUD $30 – $70
- Pros: Affordable, necessary for scrubbing pool surfaces and preventing algae growth, versatile for corners and steps, fundamental for pool hygiene.
- Cons: Entirely manual effort, time-consuming, requires physical exertion, not suitable for vacuuming or deep cleaning.
Navigating the Australian Pool Cleaning Landscape: Aiper Scuba S1 vs. The Field
When it comes to keeping your pool sparkling clean under the Australian sun, the options can feel overwhelming.
From the classic manual tools to cutting-edge robotic wonders, each method brings its own set of pros and cons.
The Aiper Scuba S1 and its Pro variant have garnered significant attention, promising a level of autonomy that few other cleaners can match.
But how do they truly stack up against the established players and alternative approaches in the Australian context? This section will dive deep into the nuances, helping you weigh your options wisely. Reliable Hosting Services
The Rise of Robotic Cleaners: What Makes the Aiper Scuba S1 Stand Out?
The Aiper Scuba S1 represents the pinnacle of modern pool cleaning technology, particularly for those seeking a “set it and forget it” solution.
Its core appeal lies in its cordless design and intelligent navigation, features that directly address common frustrations with older cleaning methods.
- Unleashing Cordless Freedom: The most striking feature of the Aiper Scuba S1 is its complete freedom from power cords and hoses.
- No Tangles, No Fuss: Traditional corded robotic cleaners, and certainly pressure or suction side cleaners with their long hoses, are notorious for tangling. This often requires users to untangle them mid-cycle or before storage, adding unnecessary hassle. The Aiper Scuba S1 eliminates this entirely, allowing it to move freely and efficiently without interruption.
- Enhanced Safety: Eliminating cords near water reduces potential electrical hazards and tripping risks, making the pool area safer for families and pets.
- Ease of Storage: Without a cumbersome cord, storing the Aiper Scuba S1 is far simpler and takes up less space.
- Intelligent Navigation and Coverage: The S1 employs sophisticated algorithms to map your pool’s contours.
- Systematic Cleaning Paths: Unlike random-pattern cleaners that might miss spots, the Aiper Scuba S1 aims for systematic coverage, ensuring every inch of your pool floor and walls in the Pro model is cleaned efficiently. This means fewer missed patches and a consistently cleaner pool.
- Obstacle Avoidance: Its sensors allow it to detect and navigate around obstacles like ladders, drains, or even floating toys, preventing it from getting stuck and ensuring continuous operation.
- Powerful Suction and Brushing Action: Don’t let its compact size fool you. the Aiper Scuba S1 is built for serious cleaning.
- Dual Brushes: Equipped with robust roller brushes, it actively scrubs away stubborn dirt, algae, and grime from surfaces, providing a more thorough clean than vacuuming alone.
- Versatile Debris Collection: From fine dust and sand to leaves, twigs, and even small pebbles, the S1 is designed to pick up a wide range of debris sizes, ensuring comprehensive pool hygiene. The filter system effectively traps these particles, preventing them from recirculating.
Aiper Scuba S1 Pro: Taking Pool Cleaning to the Next Level
For those with larger pools, more demanding cleaning needs, or simply a desire for the absolute best, the Aiper Scuba S1 Pro cordless robotic pool cleaner offers significant enhancements over the standard S1 model.
It builds upon the S1’s strengths, pushing the boundaries of autonomous pool maintenance.
- Extended Battery Life for Larger Pools: The Aiper Scuba S1 Pro boasts a significantly longer battery life, which translates directly to extended cleaning cycles.
- Ideal for Expansive Pools: If you have a larger inground pool, the Pro model’s enhanced endurance means it can complete a full cleaning cycle without needing a recharge, ensuring comprehensive coverage and preventing partial cleans.
- More Frequent Cleaning: The longer run time also allows for more frequent or intensive cleaning sessions, which is particularly beneficial during peak swimming season or after heavy storms.
- Enhanced Suction and Filtration: The Pro model often features a more powerful motor and an upgraded filtration system.
- Superior Debris Handling: This means it can tackle heavier loads of debris, from a thick layer of leaves to substantial amounts of sand, with greater efficiency and less risk of clogging.
- Finer Filtration: The improved filtration system captures even smaller particles, leading to noticeably clearer water and reduced strain on your pool’s main filter.
- Advanced Wall-Climbing and Waterline Scrubbing: While the standard S1 has some wall-climbing capabilities, the Pro version typically excels in this area.
- Comprehensive Surface Coverage: The Aiper Scuba S1 Pro is designed to climb and scrub not just the pool floor, but also the walls and, crucially, the waterline. The waterline is often a neglected area where dirt and oil accumulate, leading to unsightly rings. The Pro’s ability to tackle this ensures a truly spotless pool.
- Improved Agility: More powerful motors and advanced traction allow the Pro to navigate corners and complex pool shapes with greater agility, ensuring no spot is left uncleaned.
Corded Robotic Cleaners: The Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus as a Benchmark
Before the cordless revolution, corded robotic cleaners like the Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus were the gold standard for automated pool cleaning. Surfshark Microsoft Edge
They remain a very popular and effective option, offering a compelling balance of performance and cost.
- Reliable Cleaning Performance: The Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus is renowned for its consistent and thorough cleaning capabilities.
- Active Brushing: It features powerful scrubbing brushes that dislodge stubborn dirt and algae from both the pool floor and walls, ensuring a deep clean.
- Efficient Filtration: Its robust filtration system effectively captures a wide range of debris, from fine particles to larger leaves, keeping your pool water pristine. Many models offer multiple filter options for different debris types.
- Tangle-Free Swivel Cable Mostly: While it’s a corded unit, many Dolphin models incorporate a patented swivel cable technology.
- Minimizing Tangles: This swivel mechanism is designed to prevent the cable from tangling during the cleaning cycle, which is a significant improvement over older corded cleaners. While not entirely tangle-proof in every scenario, it drastically reduces the likelihood of interruptions.
- Plug-and-Play Operation: Once plugged in, the Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus is largely plug-and-play, requiring minimal user intervention during its cleaning cycle.
- Cost-Effectiveness and Durability: Compared to the newest cordless models, corded robotic cleaners often offer a more budget-friendly entry point into automated cleaning.
- Lower Upfront Cost: The absence of complex battery technology and advanced wireless communication can make them more affordable to purchase, representing excellent value for money.
- Proven Lifespan: Many corded models have been on the market for years, demonstrating a proven track record of durability and longevity with proper maintenance. This makes them a reliable long-term investment for many pool owners.
Pressure-Side and Suction-Side Cleaners: Traditional Workhorses
Before robotic cleaners became widely accessible, pressure-side and suction-side cleaners were the go-to automated solutions.
They operate differently, leveraging your pool’s existing pump system.
While they may lack the autonomy of robotics, they still hold a valuable place in the Australian pool cleaning arsenal.
- Pressure-Side Cleaners e.g., Polaris Vac-Sweep 280: These cleaners connect to a dedicated return line and use the pressure from a booster pump often sold separately to move around the pool and vacuum debris.
- Excellent for Large Debris: Pressure-side cleaners excel at picking up large items like leaves, acorns, and pebbles, which they collect in an onboard debris bag. This prevents these items from reaching your pool’s main filter, reducing strain on your filtration system.
- Independent Operation: Since they have their own debris bag, they don’t rely on your pool’s skimmer or filter basket for collection, which can be advantageous in pools with heavy debris.
- Durability and Longevity: Models like the Polaris 280 are known for their robust construction and can last for many years with proper maintenance.
- Considerations: The need for a separate booster pump adds to the initial cost and energy consumption. They are generally less effective at picking up fine dust and silt compared to robotic cleaners. Their hoses can also tangle.
- Suction-Side Cleaners e.g., Hayward Poolvergnuegen: These cleaners connect to your pool’s skimmer or a dedicated suction line and use your main pool pump’s suction to move around the pool and draw in debris.
- Cost-Effective Entry: Suction-side cleaners are typically the most affordable type of automated cleaner, as they don’t require an additional pump or complex electronics.
- Simple to Operate: They are generally easy to set up and use. simply connect the hose to your skimmer, and the cleaner starts moving.
- Good for Routine Cleaning: They are effective at picking up smaller debris, dirt, and dust during regular maintenance.
- Considerations: Since they use your main pool pump, they can put additional strain on it and may require you to clean your pump basket more frequently. They are prone to getting stuck on steps or obstacles and may not provide as thorough a clean as robotic or pressure-side models, especially for larger debris or very dirty pools. Hose tangling is also a common issue.
Manual Cleaning Methods: The Foundation of Pool Maintenance
While automated cleaners offer immense convenience, manual cleaning tools remain indispensable for every Australian pool owner. Online Advertising
They are the foundation of good pool hygiene, essential for spot cleaning, initial setups, and ensuring areas inaccessible to robots are pristine.
- Essential for Spot Cleaning: Even the most advanced robotic cleaner might miss a stubborn spot or leave a small patch of dirt behind. A good manual vacuum head and brush on a telescopic pole are perfect for quickly tackling these areas without having to run a full cleaning cycle.
- Addressing Specific Issues: Algae blooms, heavy leaf falls, or sudden influxes of dirt often require direct manual intervention to get the pool back to normal quickly.
- Brushing: Regular manual brushing of pool walls and floor prevents algae from taking hold and dislodges dirt, making it easier for filters or automated cleaners to pick up. This is particularly important for tiled or pebblecrete surfaces.
- Skimming: A leaf rake or skimmer net is crucial for removing floating debris from the surface before it sinks and causes issues. Daily skimming can significantly reduce the workload for any automated cleaner.
- Versatility and Control: Manual tools offer complete control over the cleaning process.
- Corners and Steps: Robotic cleaners can sometimes struggle with very tight corners, steps, and other irregular features. Manual brushes and specialized vacuum attachments are designed to reach these tricky spots effectively.
- Targeted Cleaning: If you only need to clean a specific area, manual tools allow you to focus your efforts precisely, saving time and energy compared to running a full automated cycle.
- Cost-Effective and Durable: Manual cleaning tools are generally inexpensive, highly durable, and require no power source. They are an initial investment that will last for years, providing reliable backup or primary cleaning for smaller pools.
The Australian Climate Factor: Why Efficient Cleaning Matters
Australia’s climate, with its abundant sunshine and sometimes harsh weather, significantly impacts pool maintenance needs.
From fine dust whipped up by dry winds to copious leaf litter after a storm, effective cleaning isn’t just a luxury—it’s a necessity.
- Sunlight and Algae Growth: Prolonged exposure to sunlight, especially during hot summers, can rapidly promote algae growth in pool water. Efficient cleaning, particularly brushing of walls and floors something the Aiper Scuba S1 and S1 Pro excel at, is crucial for disrupting algae colonies and allowing sanitizers to work effectively.
- Leaf and Organic Matter Accumulation: Many Australian homes feature lush gardens or are surrounded by native bushland. This translates to significant leaf drop, pollen, and other organic matter entering pools.
- Preventing Stains: If left to decompose, organic matter can lead to unsightly stains on pool surfaces. Robotic cleaners that can efficiently pick up leaves and larger debris prevent this issue.
- Reducing Chemical Demand: Decaying organic matter consumes pool chemicals, leading to increased chemical costs and less effective sanitization. Regular cleaning reduces this biological load.
- Storms and Extreme Weather: Australia is no stranger to intense storms, which can dump vast amounts of debris into pools in a short period.
- Rapid Recovery: Having an efficient cleaner, especially a cordless robotic one, allows for quick recovery after a storm, getting your pool back to swim-ready condition faster. The ability of the Aiper Scuba S1 Pro to handle larger debris loads becomes a significant advantage here.
- Maintaining Water Balance: Excessive debris can throw off pool chemistry. Prompt removal helps maintain proper water balance, reducing the likelihood of more complex and costly issues.
Investment vs. Convenience: Making the Right Choice
Deciding on a pool cleaner often boils down to a fundamental trade-off between upfront investment and ongoing convenience.
While the Aiper Scuba S1 and S1 Pro represent a higher initial cost, their value proposition lies in the time and effort they save. Advertising
- Initial Cost vs. Long-Term Savings:
- Robotic Cleaners Aiper Scuba S1/Pro: These have the highest initial purchase price. However, they are highly energy-efficient as they run on low-voltage DC power and don’t rely on your main pool pump, which can be a significant energy consumer. This translates to lower electricity bills over time compared to pressure or suction side cleaners. They also reduce the strain on your main filter and pump, potentially extending their lifespan and reducing maintenance costs for those components.
- Pressure-Side Cleaners: Moderate initial cost, but often require an additional booster pump, adding to the expense and energy consumption.
- Suction-Side Cleaners: Lowest initial cost, but they use your main pool pump, which can increase its running hours and energy usage, potentially offsetting some of the initial savings over time.
- Manual Tools: Very low initial cost, but require significant time and physical effort, which has its own “cost” in terms of your personal time and convenience.
- Time as a Valuable Commodity:
- Automated Solutions Robotics: The primary benefit of robotic cleaners is the gift of time. Once programmed or dropped in, they autonomously clean the pool, freeing you up for other activities. This is especially valuable for busy professionals, families, or those who simply prefer to relax by the pool rather than clean it.
- Manual Cleaning: While therapeutic for some, manual cleaning can be time-consuming, especially for larger pools. What might take an hour or more with a brush and vacuum can be done by a robot while you’re at work or enjoying a weekend barbecue.
- The “Effortless” Factor:
- Aiper Scuba S1/Pro: Close to effortless. You charge it, drop it in, and retrieve it. The “cordless” aspect particularly enhances this ease of use, eliminating the struggle with hoses.
- Corded Robotics: Still largely effortless once set up, but managing the cord can be a minor inconvenience.
- Pressure/Suction-Side: Require connecting hoses, managing the cleaner’s movement, and periodic hose untangling. More effort than robotics.
- Manual: Requires significant physical effort, especially for scrubbing and vacuuming.
- Choosing the Right Balance:
- If convenience and energy efficiency are your top priorities, and you have a moderate to large pool, the Aiper Scuba S1 or S1 Pro are excellent investments despite their higher upfront cost. They save you time, reduce physical effort, and can lower your long-term energy bills.
- If initial cost is a major constraint but you still want some automation, a reliable corded robotic cleaner like a Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus offers a fantastic balance.
- For those with smaller budgets or smaller pools who don’t mind a bit more manual work, or already have the necessary plumbing, pressure-side or suction-side cleaners remain viable.
- Remember, regardless of your automated choice, manual tools are always a valuable backup and essential for routine maintenance.
FAQ
What is the Aiper Scuba S1 and how does it work?
The Aiper Scuba S1 is a cordless robotic pool cleaner designed to autonomously clean the floor and walls of your swimming pool.
It works by using internal motors to propel itself, intelligent navigation algorithms to map the pool, and powerful suction combined with scrubbing brushes to dislodge and collect debris into its onboard filter system.
Being cordless, it recharges and operates independently. Hostgator Hosting Services
Is the Aiper Scuba S1 available in Australia?
Yes, the Aiper Scuba S1 is available for purchase in Australia through various online retailers and some specialized pool equipment suppliers.
You can often find it on major e-commerce platforms.
What is the difference between the Aiper Scuba S1 and the Aiper Scuba S1 Pro?
The Aiper Scuba S1 Pro is an enhanced version of the S1. Key differences typically include a more powerful motor, extended battery life for longer cleaning cycles ideal for larger pools, improved navigation capabilities, and often superior wall-climbing and waterline scrubbing performance.
How long does the Aiper Scuba S1 battery last on a single charge?
The exact battery life varies depending on the model S1 vs. S1 Pro and the cleaning conditions e.g., heavy debris vs. light dust. Generally, the Aiper Scuba S1 offers up to 90 minutes of cleaning time, while the S1 Pro can run for up to 150 minutes or more.
How long does it take to charge the Aiper Scuba S1?
Charging times for the Aiper Scuba S1 typically range from 2 to 3 hours for a full charge. Safe Drive Course
The S1 Pro, with its larger battery, might take slightly longer, around 3 to 4 hours.
Can the Aiper Scuba S1 climb pool walls?
Yes, the Aiper Scuba S1 is designed with wall-climbing capabilities, allowing it to scrub dirt and algae from your pool’s vertical surfaces.
The S1 Pro often exhibits even stronger and more consistent wall-climbing performance.
Is the Aiper Scuba S1 suitable for all pool types?
The Aiper Scuba S1 is generally suitable for most standard inground and above-ground pools with flat or gently sloped bottoms.
Its performance can vary slightly on extremely uneven surfaces or very complex pool shapes with many obstacles. Fifth Grade Ski Pass Colorado
It works with various pool surfaces like concrete, fiberglass, and vinyl.
How effective is the Aiper Scuba S1 at picking up large debris?
The Aiper Scuba S1 and S1 Pro are generally effective at picking up a range of debris, including leaves, twigs, and sand.
They come with robust filter baskets designed to capture both fine and larger particles.
How do I clean the Aiper Scuba S1 filter?
Cleaning the Aiper Scuba S1 filter is usually straightforward.
You typically remove the cleaner from the pool, open a latch or compartment to access the filter basket, empty the collected debris, and then rinse the filter thoroughly with a garden hose. Go High Level Software
Is the Aiper Scuba S1 worth the price in Australia?
For many Australian pool owners, the Aiper Scuba S1 and S1 Pro offer significant value.
The cordless design, effective cleaning, and time-saving convenience often justify the higher upfront cost, especially considering reduced energy bills compared to some alternatives.
How does the Aiper Scuba S1 compare to traditional corded robotic pool cleaners?
The main advantage of the Aiper Scuba S1 is its cordless operation, eliminating tangled cables and making deployment and retrieval much easier.
Corded robotic cleaners like the Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus are also highly effective but require managing a power cord.
Does the Aiper Scuba S1 require a booster pump?
No, the Aiper Scuba S1 is a standalone robotic cleaner with its own internal motor and battery. Web Hosting Review
It does not require an external booster pump, unlike many pressure-side pool cleaners.
Can I leave the Aiper Scuba S1 in the pool all the time?
It is generally not recommended to leave the Aiper Scuba S1 or any robotic pool cleaner in the pool indefinitely.
It’s best practice to retrieve it after a cleaning cycle, empty the filter, and charge it for its next use.
This extends its lifespan and prevents unnecessary wear and tear.
What kind of maintenance does the Aiper Scuba S1 require?
Beyond regular filter cleaning, the Aiper Scuba S1 requires minimal maintenance. Hostgator Web Hosting
It’s good practice to periodically check the brushes for wear, ensure the charging ports are clean and dry, and store the unit in a cool, dry place when not in use.
Where can I find Aiper Scuba S1 Pro reviews Australia?
You can find Aiper Scuba S1 Pro reviews in Australia on various platforms, including Amazon Australia, dedicated pool equipment retailer websites, general electronics review sites, and YouTube channels focusing on pool maintenance.
Is the Aiper Scuba S1 suitable for above-ground pools?
Yes, the Aiper Scuba S1 is generally suitable for most types of above-ground pools, provided they have a flat or gently sloped bottom that the cleaner can navigate.
Always check the manufacturer’s specifications for maximum pool size and depth limits. Go High Level Com
Does the Aiper Scuba S1 come with a warranty in Australia?
Yes, typically the Aiper Scuba S1 and S1 Pro come with a manufacturer’s warranty, usually ranging from 1 to 2 years, depending on the retailer and specific model.
It’s always advisable to confirm warranty details with your seller at the time of purchase.
Can the Aiper Scuba S1 clean a heavily soiled pool?
While the Aiper Scuba S1 is powerful, for heavily soiled pools with significant debris or algae, it’s often best to perform an initial manual clean or run the robot through multiple cycles.
For extreme conditions, the S1 Pro might offer better performance due to its enhanced power and filtration.
What are the main benefits of a cordless robotic pool cleaner like the Aiper Scuba S1?
The primary benefits include unparalleled convenience no cords to tangle or manage, energy efficiency operates independently of your main pump, powerful and autonomous cleaning, and saving significant time and effort compared to manual cleaning or traditional corded options. Aiper Scuba E1 Cordless Robotic Pool Cleaner
What alternatives are there to the Aiper Scuba S1 for pool cleaning in Australia?
Alternatives include other corded robotic pool cleaners e.g., Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus, pressure-side cleaners e.g., Polaris Vac-Sweep 280, suction-side cleaners e.g., Hayward Poolvergnuegen, and traditional manual cleaning tools like brushes, skimmers, and manual vacuums.
Each has different features, price points, and levels of automation.
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