If you are looking for the best above ground pool vacuum cleaner, you are at the right place. You see, swimming is the best form of exercise as argued by most people. However, you wouldn’t want to swim in a pool that is dirty. Dirt could enter your eyes and cause problems. Also, if you have sensitive skin, swimming in dirty water can cause skin infections.
All this can be avoided by regularly cleaning the pool with the right equipment. Today, we focus on the best above ground pool vacuum cleaners available in the market this year.
So, if yours is an above ground swimming pool, you’ll find some great recommendations in this article. We have researched far and wide to shortlist the Top 10 Best Above Ground Pool Vacuum Cleaners 2024. We will be pointing out the features that make each one stand out.
Best Above Ground Pool Vacuums 2024 – Comparison Chart
Before we dig deeper into the specific reviews, these are the top 10 best above-ground pool vacuums:
| Best Above Ground Pool Vacuum Cleaners 2018 | Automatic? | |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Aquabot APRVJR Pool Rover Junior Robotic Above-Ground Pool Cleaner (Our top pick) | Yes | |
| 2. Dolphin Escape Robotic Above Ground Pool Cleaner | Yes | |
| 3. Hayward 900 “Wanda the Whale” Above-Ground Automatic Pool Cleaner | Yes | |
| 4. Aquabot Pool Rover S2-40i | Yes | |
| 5. Hayward Aqua Critter Automatic Above Ground Pool Cleaner (Our budget pick) | Yes | |
| 6. Intex Auto Pool Cleaner (For Intex Above Ground Pools) | Yes | |
| 7. Baracuda Zodiac Ranger Suction Side Automatic Above-Ground Pool Cleaner | Yes | |
| 8. Pentair Kreepy Krauly E-Z Vac Suction-Side Pool Cleaner Model K50600 | Yes | |
| 9. XtremepowerUS Automatic Suction Vacuum | Yes | |
| 10. Zodiac Baracuda G3 W03000 | Yes |
Reviews of the Best Above Ground Pool Vacuum Cleaners 2024
Well, if you are looking to upgrade to a more efficient above-ground pool vacuum or have never owned one, today is your lucky day. We have handpicked the best 10 for you to choose from. Any of the cleaners reviewed here will definitely give you the best bang for your buck.
These are the best above-ground pool vacuums in 2024:
1. Aquabot APRVJR Pool Rover Junior Robotic Above-Ground Pool Cleaner – best above ground pool vacuum
Since 1982, Aqua Products has been among the market leaders in robotic pool cleaners with the sole aim of creating great products to help people enjoy swimming. The fact that the company was acquired in 2011 by the industry’s best, Fluidra, only goes to show the quality you stand to get.
The Aquabot brand is common to most swimming enthusiasts. Many Aquabot cleaners have graced homes and recreational centers over the years. The Aquabot APRVJR, usually called Aquabot Pool Rover Junior, stands out because of its features and the efficiency with which it gets the job done.
If you need to remove sand, silt, bacteria, algae and other contaminants, the APRVJR does a splendid job. As it cleans the water in your above ground pool, this robot also ensures that the floor is also clean the process.
First, the Aquabot APRVJR pool vacuum is fully automatic. Once you put it to work on your oval, round or rectangular flat-bottom above-ground pool, just sit back and relax. It cleans the entire pool within 1 hour without the need of hoses. At the touch of a button, its 24-volt pump motor provides powerful vacuum suction (70 gallons per minute) and jet-drive propulsion to get rid of all dirt.
Extra-wide non-marring wheels help the robotic cleaner to move over the pool’s surface with ease. Also, a patented E-Z swivel device prevents the cable from tangling to increase efficiency.
Also, being fully automatic, you don’t need to worry about the cleaner running non-stop. It automatically shuts off after 2 hours of work. This saves on energy costs. Speaking of savings, the fact that the cleaner removes even the smallest of particles, you also save on the amount of chemicals used as well as water since you don’t need to drain the pool so often.
Features summary:
- Fully automatic
- 40-foot floating cable
- Powerful suction (70 gallons per minute)
- Reusable filter bag can filter particles as small as 2 microns
- Exclusive hydrorobotic technology
- Ideal for flat-bottomed above ground pools
- Safe for all types of surfaces
- Power supply transformer
- 24-volt pump motor
- Extra-wide non-marring wheels
- Recommended electrical input: 120 VAC/60Hz
- Power consumption: 180 Watts
- 1-year warranty on the motor
Click here to see the current price of the Aquabot APRVJR Pool Rover Junior.
2. Dolphin Escape Robotic Above Ground Pool Cleaner
If you’re tired of cleaning your pool manually, this is another great robotic option. It is perfect for above-ground pools of any shape, and efficiently removes all kind of dirt. Just set it out to work, sit back, relax and let the Dolphin Escape take care of the rest.
Interestingly, you no longer have to mess with dirt bags. The cleaner has a big debris cartridge that holds large amounts of dirt as it navigates the pool. Also, the Dolphin Escape Robotic Above Ground Pool Cleaner has HyperBrush dual scrubbing brushes that scrub hard-to-remove contaminants from the pool vacuum.
A powerful, dual 24-volt DC motor helps get rid of all kinds of dirt and algae from your above ground swimming pool efficiently.
Features summary:
- Automatic
- HyperBrush technology
- 24-volt DC motor
- Lightweight: only 14 lbs.
- Cleaning cycle: 1.5 hours
- Large debris cartridge
- No dirt bags
- SmartNav 2.0 robotic scanning
- 1-year warranty
Click here to see its current price.
3. Hayward 900 “Wanda the Whale” Above-Ground Automatic Pool Cleaner
For more than 80 years, Hayward has been at the forefront of ensuring that people have fun in swimming pools without being worried about infections. Innovative, technologically superior cleaners from Hayward get rid of impurities from swimming pools with ease. It is no wonder that two Hayward products feature in this review.
Wanda the Whale is among the best above ground pool vacuum cleaners in the market currently. Just like other Hayward above-ground pool cleaners, this one also works off the existing filtration system in pools of any shape or size.
One downside of this pool cleaner is that it can only be used for permanent swimming pools. So, the Hayward 900 is not suitable for any pool that can be taken apart (e.g. Intex or any other soft-sided pool).
To begin with, this cleaner uses the patented SmartDrive programmed steering to automatically clean the pool faster and more thoroughly than regular cleaners. It improves water circulation by pulling water from the bottom as it glides, which ensures that the pool stays clean.
A unique turbine/gearing system guarantees a constant, balanced flow of water. So, you get a quiet operation and smooth movement across the pool floor. Also, a deluxe bumper ring is present to reduce friction for easy movement away from the walls.
Lastly, installation and operation is a walk in the park. Within 10 minutes, you should have installed everything, even the hoses.
Features summary:
- Automatic
- Unique turbine/gearing system
- Contoured head design for easy steering
- Easy installation
- Deluxe bumper ring to reduce friction
- SmartDrive programmed steering
- Works with existing filtration system
- For permanent above-ground swimming pools only
- 1-year warranty
Click here to see how much the Hayward 900 costs.
4. Aquabot Pool Rover S2-40i
This is the second Aquabot pool vacuum cleaner on in this list. And that’s only for good reasons. The Pool Rover S2-40i is the ‘elder brother’ of the Aquabot Pool Rover Junior. It has an amazing capability that is worth anyone’s time. It is ideal for above ground pools of all shapes and sizes with surfaces up to 40 feet long.
The Pool Rover S2-40i efficiently vacuums dirt, debris and other impurities from the pool floor, cove and lower walls. Also, it employs a filter bag filtration system that captures even the smallest of particles (up to 2 microns small). The removable, washable filter bags are also easy to remove and re-attach.
Also, it has a strong pump that filters about 80 gallons/minute producing the ultimate suction power. The vacuum’s power and efficiency reduce the need to use a lot of chemicals to get rid of pollutants. So, you will get to make a lot of savings with this cleaner.
Features summary:
- Automatic
- 40-foot kink free, EZ swivel cable
- Powerful suction (80 gallons per minute)
- Reusable filter bag can filter particles as tiny as 2 microns
- Exclusive hydrorobotic technology
- Aquabot pump
- Power supply
- Adjustable axle pin
- Safe for all surfaces
- 1-year warranty on the motor
Click here to see the current price of the Aquabot Pool Rover S2-40i.
5. Hayward Aqua Critter Automatic Above Ground Pool Cleaner – best budget above ground pool vacuum
This is the other Hayward product that makes it to our top 10 best above ground pool vacuum cleaners podium. Just like its cousin the Wanda the Whale, the Hayward Aqua Critter is another fantastic option to consider if you want to get rid of dirt and other impurities from your above ground pool. Usually, the job is done in a maximum of 2 hours.
This pool vacuum also utilizes the SmartDrive pre-programmed pattern to clean the entire swimming pool by sucking up leaves, debris, and any other dirt. It is perfect for both dished-out and flat above ground swimming pool floors.
Similar to the Hayward 900, the Aqua Critter uses the existing filtration system in pools of all shapes or sizes. However, it is not recommended for pools with pumps that are smaller than 3/4 hp. Also, this pool vacuum is not compatible with non-permanent, soft-sided above ground pools such as Intex.
Installation is also easy. It takes only 10 minutes to fix everything up without the need of getting professional help.
Features summary:
- Automatic
- Cleans in 2 hours max
- Unique SmartDrive pre-programmed cleaning pattern
- Great for both flat and dished-out pool floors
- Includes head, 30-foot hose, and skimmer cone
- Not for pumps smaller than 3/4 hp
- Easy to install
- Works with existing filtration system
- For permanent above-ground swimming pools only
- 2-year warranty
To see how much the Hayward Aqua Critter costs, click here.
6. Intex Auto Pool Cleaner – best above ground pool vacuum for Intex pools
Enjoy the comfort of cleaning your pool automatically with the Intex Auto Pool Cleaner. This cleaner is specifically made for Intex above-ground pools with 1-1/2 inch hose fittings. Also, please note that the filter pumps must have a flow rate of 1,600 to 3,500 GPH for optimal performance.
If you’re an Intex above-ground pool owner, look no further. Getting rid of dirt, algae and other pollutants using this cleaner will definitely make your experience more enjoyable. This pool vacuum cleaner is not suitable for in-ground swimming pools.
Features summary:
- Automatic
- 24-foot hose
- Unsuitable for in-ground pools
- Only for Intex above-ground swimming pools with 1-1/2 inch hose fittings
- Works with filter pumps with a flow rate of 1,600 to 3,500 GPH
Click here to see its current price.
7. Baracuda Zodiac Ranger Suction Side Automatic Above-Ground Pool Cleaner
The Zodiac Ranger is another great above-ground pool vacuum. It does a fantastic job getting rid of dirt and other debris that has camped at the bottom of your pool. It can work well on both flat and dished-out pool floors (up to 72 inches). However, this pool cleaner is not recommended for Intex and other soft-sided pools.
Among its amazing features is the unique deflector wheel. The wheel prevents the pool cleaner from getting caught on ladders, steps, and corners. There is also an AG disc that allows the Ranger to glide smoothly along the pool floor, up the walls and around steps for a wholesome cleaning.
Unlike other pool cleaners, the Zodiac Ranger is a smooth operator. It employs the one-moving-part technology as it cleans the pool. This eliminates the irritating hammer or flapper noise that is common in most pool cleaners.
For optimal performance, this pool vacuum cleaner has the FlowKeeper valve as well as the Insta-Skim compact self-adjusting flow control valve. These regulate water flow automatically, ensuring that the vacuum does its job efficiently.
If you want to get straight to work after purchasing this unit, worry not. It is pre-assembled, hence quite easy to install and operate.
Features summary:
- Automatic
- 32-foot hose
- Not recommended for Intex or soft-sided pools
- Great for flat pool floors and also dished-out ones (up to 72 inches)
- Quiet (one-moving-part technology)
- Unique deflector wheel
- AG disc for effortless gliding
- FlowKeeper valve and Insta-Skim compact valves
Click here to see the current price of the Zodiac Ranger.
8. Pentair Kreepy Krauly E-Z Vac Suction-Side Pool Cleaner Model K50600
The Pentair Kreepy Krauly does a thorough job to ensure that the floor of your above ground pool is spotless. Thanks to the True random pattern coverage and a superior hydraulic design, all debris, dirt and any other contaminants are eliminated from all corners of the floor.
While vacuuming, a free skimming valve automatically controls water flow to guarantee proper cleaning speed. It also simultaneously helps to skim off any surface debris.
Convenience is another factor that impressed us with the Pentair Kreepy Krauly. It only has one operational moving part (the flapper). This ensures that it lasts longer. Also, it does not have wheels or gears which usually require replacement and/or service.
Features summary:
- Automatic
- 32-foot hose
- One operational moving part (flapper)
- Superior hydraulic design
- Free skimming valve
- True random pattern coverage
- Ideal for flat bottom or dished out pools
- Powered by existing pump and filter
- Not for pumps smaller than 3/4 hp
Click here to see how much the Pentair Kreepy Krauly K50600 costs.
9. XtremepowerUS Automatic Suction Vacuum
Another amazing above ground pool vacuum is the XtremepowerUS Automatic Suction Vacuum. It has powerful suction helps to vacuum all dirt from the pool effectively. It is ideal for the floor as well as the walls. However, it is not recommended for cleaning steps.
It is also easy to use. You don’t need to hook it up to any power socket. Just attach it to the existing filtration system and you are good to go. Please note that the cleaner requires a minimum of 1 hp pump or 1600 GHP flow rate to function well.
As expected, this pool cleaner can clean small pool dirt, dust, and algae. However, it is not recommended when you want to get rid of leaves and other large items from your pool.
Features summary:
- Automatic
- 10 hoses to cover up to 30-foot pool
- Not for pumps smaller than 1 hp or 1600 GHP
- Attaches to existing filtration system
- Not suitable for cleaning steps/stairs
- Uses eyeball divert to change water flow
- Can be eroded by chemicals, so wash after use
- Not ideal for leaves
- Minimum water depth: 3 feet
- 1-year warranty for parts replacement (limited)
Click here to see its current price.
10. Zodiac Baracuda G3 W03000
The reason we have placed this awesome pool vacuum at the tail end of our review is that it’s primarily one for in-ground pools. However, it also does a great job when it comes to flushing out dirt from above ground pools.
This powerful yet quiet pool cleaner efficiently gets rid of small to medium-sized debris from the pool floor, walls as well as the steps. It also has scuff-resistant, durable hoses that eliminate scuffs from all pool surfaces.
The Zodiac Baracuda G3 also has a FlowKeeper valve that automatically regulates the flow of water. This helps to maintain optimal cleaning performance even with pumps which have a lower horsepower. In addition, a 36-fin disc increases adhesion to the surface. This prevents the cleaner from getting hung-up on drains covers, lights and fittings among other pool features.
Also, it has a wheel deflector which prevents the cleaner from getting stuck. This helps maintain continuous cleaning. Lastly, the G3 has only one moving part (the long-life diaphragm). There are no gears, flappers or wheels. This means that the operation is easy and at maximum power. Consequently, maintenance costs are reduced.
Features summary:
- Automatic
- Works quietly
- Powerful suction
- FlowKeeper Valve adjusts water flow automatically
- Scuff-resistant, durable hoses
- 36-fin disc for increased adhesion
- Wheel deflector for easy movement around tight corners
- One-moving-part technology
- Quick and easy to set up
- Can be used with single, two-speed or variable-speed pumps
Click here to see the current price of the Zodiac Baracuda G3 W03000.
Conclusion
If you have an above ground swimming pool in your backyard, it’s always advisable to have it cleaned at least once a week. With the advancement in technology, you no longer have to employ manual tactics. You also don’t need to use a lot of chemicals to get rid of pollutants from your pool.
Using chemicals may do more harm than good. If you can find an automatic pool vacuum cleaner to do most of the work for you, then you’d have made a pretty decent investment. In this review of the top 10 best above ground pool vacuum cleaners, there are some great options.
Whichever you decide to pick among these, rest assured that it will do the perfect job so that you, your friends or family can have a good time at the pool without any concerns about pollutants.
In summary, these are the Top 10 Best Above Ground Pool Vacuum Cleaners 2024:
- Aquabot APRVJR Pool Rover Junior Robotic Above-Ground Pool Cleaner
- Dolphin Escape Robotic Above Ground Pool Cleaner
- Hayward 900 “Wanda the Whale” Above-Ground Automatic Pool Cleaner
- Aquabot Pool Rover S2-40i
- Hayward Aqua Critter Automatic Above Ground Pool Cleaner
- Intex Auto Pool Cleaner
- Baracuda Zodiac Ranger Suction Side Automatic Above-Ground Pool Cleaner
- Pentair Kreepy Krauly E-Z Vac Suction-Side Pool Cleaner Model K50600
- XtremepowerUS Automatic Suction Vacuum
- Zodiac Baracuda G3 W03000
Need tips? You can watch this YouTube video on how to clean the bottom of above ground pools by Long Island Pool Cleaning: