Keeping a pool clean is not only a matter of aesthetics, but also of health.
Pool cleaning systems play a vital role in removing debris, impurities and particles that inevitably fall into the water.
From leaves to small dust particles, a good cleaning system ensures that the water remains clear and healthy for use.
These systems can vary in sophistication and cost, ranging from affordable manual options to fully automated systems that require little or no owner intervention. The main approaches to pool cleaning include skimmers, filtration systems, manual sweepers, cleaning robots and integrated cleaning systems.
The role of skimmers in pool cleaning
Before we get into the specific cleaning systems for the bottom of the pool, it is important to understand surface cleaning, which is key to preventing dirt from accumulating on the bottom. Skimmers are responsible for this task.
They are devices that are placed on top of the pool and ‘collect’ leaves, insects and any other floating debris before they sink.
As I mentioned earlier, the skimmer acts as the first cleaning barrier, preventing most of the dirt from settling to the bottom of the pool.
The larger particles are trapped in its grid, while the rest passes through the filtering system.
The skimmer is essential for keeping the water surface clean and facilitates the work of the bottom cleaning systems. If kept in good condition and complemented by a good filtering system, it considerably reduces the frequency with which it is necessary to clean the bottom of the pool.
Manual pool cleaners: Sweepers and hoovers
One of the most traditional systems for cleaning the bottom of a pool is the manual sweeper. This is a device similar to a hoover that is connected directly to the pool’s filtration system.
This method is effective, but requires manual work by the owner, who must move the sweeper all over the bottom of the pool to suck up the dirt.
The sweeper is effective, but can be a little tedious.
In larger pools, this process can be quite time-consuming, although it is still an economical and functional option for many homeowners.
Personally, I have found myself using this system on more than one occasion, and although it is effective, I admit that it can be tiring, especially in larger pools.
Robotic pool cleaners: Types and benefits
To reduce manual effort, cleaning robots have gained popularity in recent years. There are two main types: those with their own filter and pumping system, and those that are connected to the pool’s filtration system.
Robots with an integrated filter
This type of robot is placed directly in the pool and cleans the bottom of the pool autonomously. Once it has finished, it is removed from the pool and the integrated filter inside it is cleaned.
This method is efficient and practical, as there is no need to keep an eye on the process.
Robots connected to the filtering system
On the other hand, there are robots that are connected to the pool’s filtration system. These rely on the pool’s main pump and filter to operate, meaning you don’t need to clean any additional filters.
This can make maintenance much easier, as the pool’s backwash system can take care of the cleaning automatically.
In my experience, robots connected to the filter system are a more convenient option in the long run. You don’t have to worry about cleaning an additional filter every time you use the robot, and they tend to last longer.
Integrated cleaning systems: The ultimate solution
While robots and manual sweepers work well, integrated cleaning systems represent the highest level of automation in pool cleaning.
These systems operate through a series of sprinklers that are installed at the bottom of the pool. When activated, these devices propel the dirt to a specific point where it is sucked into the filtration system.
These systems are extremely efficient and, although they are more expensive and complex to install, they virtually eliminate the need for manual maintenance.
I have seen them in luxury pools and the convenience is unparalleled. However, it is important to note that these systems require careful planning from pool design, making them less common in older domestic installations.
Comparison of pool cleaning systems
Each cleaning system has its advantages and disadvantages. Below is a comparison to help homeowners decide which is best suited to their needs:
| System | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|
| Skimmers | Efficient for surface cleaning. | They do not clean the bottom of the pool. |
| Manual sweepers | Economical and effective. | They require manual effort and time. |
| Robots with integrated filter | Self-contained and easy to use. | Require filter cleaning. |
| Robots connected to the filtering system | Less additional maintenance. | Dependent on the pool system. |
| Integrated systems | Full automatic cleaning. | Costly and difficult to install. |
How to choose the best cleaning system for your pool
When deciding which cleaning system is best for your pool, it is essential to consider factors such as the size of your pool, the time you can devote to pool maintenance and, of course, the budget available.
Smaller pools can benefit from manual systems or simple robots, while for larger or luxury pools, integrated cleaning systems can offer an unrivalled experience.
In my case, while I have had the opportunity to try different options, I find that robots connected to the filtration system offer the best balance between efficiency and cost, not to mention ease of maintenance.
Maintenance of natural pools: How are they cleaned?
A topic that generates many questions is that of natural pools. Despite what many might think, natural pools require very similar cleaning systems to conventional pools.
As I mentioned earlier, these pools accumulate dirt in the same way, and the cleaning systems, whether manual or automatic, work in a similar way.
The only difference is that the filters in natural pools are usually specific to treat the water more ecologically, but the basic principles of cleaning remain the same.
At the end of the day, the dust on the bottom of a natural pool is also cleaned with sweepers, robots or integrated systems.
