{TOP 5} Best Handheld Pool Vacuums For The Money

Pools get dirty. That is just a fact of life. If not cleaned regularly, they can turn into a disaster. It is very important to keep your pool, spa, or hot tub clean. You need one of the best handheld pool vacuums.

Interested? Read on. In this article we will tell you everything you need to know about pool vacuums. We explain how to choose a handheld pool vacuum. We  even review the top five products available.

What is A Pool Vacuum?

But first, what is a pool vacuum? A pool vacuum is similar to a home vacuum. It uses suction to remove all of the dirt and debris from your pool. You typically attach it to your pool’s water pump and filtration system. That is not always the case, though. We discuss the different kinds of pool vacuums in the next section.

A pool vacuum removes everything that could get caught in the pool’s filter. The pool filter removes the dirt, leaves, and other debris from the water. If you have a good filter, it will do this job well. But, pool filters have to been cleaned as well.

The most efficient and time-saving option is the pool vacuum. Then the filter only has to remove smaller particles.

Different types of pool vacuums

There are many different types of pool vacuums available. Cordless, robotic, manual, and suction pool cleaners can all be purchased. Below we describe each type. We will also tell you their advantages and disadvantages.

Manual Pool Cleaners

Manual pool cleaners are powered by you. They are typically hooked up to your pool’s skimmer or suction port. Then you move the entire pool vacuum manually. There is no other power provided.

Manual pool cleaners are a great cost saving option. They are typically less heavy than powered pool vacuums. They can also be hard to use correctly. You should have experience with a pool vacuum before trying a manual pool vacuum

Suction Pool Cleaners

 Suction pool cleaners use suction to clean your pool. These use a hose that connects to your pool’s skimmer. Your pool’s suction powers the machine. Suction pool vacuums can be used up the sides of a pool. They are easier to use than manual pool cleaners.

Pressure Pool Cleaners

Pressure pool cleaners also hook into your pool. The hose gets attached to the pressurized side of the pump. You use the pressurized water to clean your pool.

These pool vacuums require that you clean the pool’s filter every time. You will not actually be removing anything from the pool. You are just detaching it from the sides and bottom.

Robotic Pool Cleaners

Robotic pool cleaners are programmable. They clean your pool on their own. They are also hand-free.

Most robotic pool cleaners run on rechargeable batteries. You should only use them when the pool’s pump is off. Otherwise you just step back and allow them to clean the pool.

Where are the handheld pool cleaners?

You can purchase handheld pool vacuum cleaners in the suction and manual categories. You hold on to a handheld pool vacuum as you use it.

Handheld suction pool cleaners tend to come with rechargeable batteries. They are usually attached to telescopic pool poles. The telescopic poles may or may not be included in your purchase. These are extremely easy products to use. They work best in small- to medium-sized pools and hot tubs.

Manual pool cleaners are handheld pool vacuums. There is no other power supplied to the device. You have to hold on to the pole and push it to clean your pool. All manual pool vacuum heads are therefore handheld pool vacuums.

The type of handheld pool vacuum you choose will depend on your wants and needs. Continue reading to find out more about these handy devices.
Do I need a handheld pool vacuum?

Handheld pool vacuum cleaners are perfect for someone with a smaller sized pool. You have to physically push handheld pool vacuums. You can use them on larger pools. Your time and effort will just be multiplied. Don’t want to spend hours pool cleaning? Then do not purchase a handheld pool vacuum for a large pool. A robotic pool cleaner is the best option in that scenario.

Anyone with a small- to medium-sized pool should definitely consider a handheld pool vacuum. Cleaning these sized pools is not hard or time consuming. Handheld pool vacuums work best on algae and debris.
What to look for in a handheld pool vacuum

Consider a few features when choosing a pool vacuum.

Power

How a handheld power vacuum receives its power is a major consideration. You can find manual vacuums that use power in many ways. Hooking into your pools suction, being battery-powered, or even attaching to a garden hose are all power options.

The type of power depends on your pool and yard. If you have a small pool with a convenient garden hose hook-up, try a garden-hose powered manual vacuum. Battery powered handheld pool vacuums are great for consistent power. These are also the most expensive type of handheld pool vacuums.

Price

That brings us to our next category: price. Your personal budget will determine your purchase. Most handheld pool vacuums are fairly inexpensive. Some types. especially cordless or robot pool vacuums, will cost more than others.

Keep track of each product’s price. Just becomes something is more expensive does not mean that it is best. The handheld pool vacuum cleaner you choose should work for your pool and cleaning style.

Weight

Most handheld pool vacuum cleaners do not weigh much. This is especially true for manual pool vacuums. This type of pool vacuum does not have a lot on them. They won’t be very heavy. Handheld pool vacuums with rechargeable batteries will be the heaviest.

Weight is important. It determines how hard it will be to clean the pool. If children will be cleaning the pool, you have to get a light enough product for them to handle safely.

Type of Pool

Most handheld vacuum cleaners work best in small- to medium-sized pools. Every product you look at will indicate the recommended pool sizes and types. Some products will be more restrictive than others. For example, you may only be able to use a handheld pool vacuum cleaners in laminated pools. Or you may need a specific in-ground pool cleaner.

Always keep your specific pool or hot tub in mind. Check with your warranty before making your purchase. Some pool vacuums may invalidate the warranty.

Type of Cleaner

Decide whether you want a manual or suction type of handheld vacuum cleaner. We have already discussed some pros and cons of each type. Here’s a quite recap:

Manual pool vacuum heads require you to power the product. Pushing the manual pool vacuum through the water provides the cleaning. This type of handheld pool vacuum can be difficult for novices. It is typically the most affordable option.

Suction pool cleaners, on the other hand, hook into your pool’s skimmer. The skimmer provides suction to the product. This type usually comes with rechargeable batteries or hooks into your garden hose. The power helps drive the handheld pool vacuum through the water. It also makes maneuvering it around the pool much easier.

Handheld pool vacuums Pros and Cons

Handheld pool vacuums come with some major pros and cons.

PROS

 – Come in both the suction and manual varieties. There are many models to choose from.
– They can be quite inexpensive. This is the most cost-effective type of pool vacuum.
– Handheld pool vacuum cleaners clean better than pressure or robotic pool cleaners.

CONS

 – You have to hold them while cleaning. That means more work for you.
– You may need some practice to use them efficiently and effectively.

Top 5 Best Handheld Pool Vacuum 2022

Comparison table

Top 5 Best Handheld Pool Vacuum on the Market Reviews

#1 Soniclean Soft Carpet Upright Vacuum Cleaner

Poolvergnuegen’s Hayward 896584000-013 automatic pool vacuum is a great product. It comes in both two and four wheel drive. The two-wheel drive version will clean pools up to 16-feet by 32-feet. The company was included self-adjusting turbine vanes in this handheld pool vacuum, which provides the most power possible no matter where it is being used. The roller skirt—where the wheels are—is adjustable and will work well even on uneven surfaces.

The Poolvergnuegen Hayward 896584000-013 can clean pool surfaces of gunite, vinyl, fiberglass, pebble, and tile. It is wonderful that the company is so specific about what surfaces the 896584000-013 can clean. Most companies are not that forthcoming. You will need a ½ hp or 35 gpm pump size to run this handheld pool vacuum.

#2 Aura 6250 Paradise Power Spa Vacuum

The Aura 6250 Paradise Power Spa Vacuum is our first manual pool vacuum on this list. It does not need pumps, batteries, or water hook-ups to run. This is highly unusual and very appealing about the Paradise Power Spa Vacuum. You can use it anywhere, anytime. The convenience can’t be beat.

The features of the Aura 6250 also make it a great handheld pool vacuum cleaner. It comes with an aluminum telescopic pole that will extend to seven feet. It can also pick up a lot of different types of debris, including rocks, pennies, marbles, sand, leaves, you name it. Finally, the 6250 is one of the most affordable manual pool vacuum.

#3 PoolSuppyTown Mini Jet Vac Vacuum Cleaner

PoolSuppyTown’s Mini Jet Vac Vacuum Cleaner is one of the easiest handheld pool vacuums to use. It is really just a manual pool vacuum head. This product hooks up to your garden hose, and the water pressure from your hose powers the machine. PoolSuppyTown claims that the hose’s water causes the Venturi effect, which will draw debris and dirt right into the collection bag.

 The Mini Jet Vac is not too good to be true. It is amazingly affordable. It can clean pools, spas, ponds, and fountains. It will fit any 1-1/4-inch pole and standard garden hose. And, it only weighs twelve ounces. It doesn’t get much better then that.

#4 Water Tech Pool Blaster Max Li Pool & Spa Cleaner

The Water Tech Pool Blaster Max is a well-known handheld pool vacuum cleaner for a reason. It receives its power from a rechargeable Lithium Ion battery. That means that this handheld pool vacuum will be heavier. It weighs 5.5 lbs. But, with that weight comes increased power and a sixty minute runtime.

The Water Tech Pool Blaster Max can be used on any pool or spa. It also comes with an easy to use on/off switch. As a final bonus it also has a multilayer filter system. This means that your pool water gets cleaned by multiple filters, which leaves you the cleanest, clearest water imaginable.

#5 Zodiac Polaris 5-400-00 Spa Wand

Zodiac’s Polaris pool cleaner 5-400-00 Spa Wand will clean any surface. It is an easy product to set up and use because all you do is hook it into your pool’s skimmer. The suction from your own pool powers the Polaris pool cleaner. It runs so well that it can even clean the pool floor, steps, and water’s surface.

At three pounds the Zodiac Polaris pool cleaner is one of the lighter handheld pool vacuum options. It also comes with its own telescoping pole for simple cleanup. So, if you want a handheld pool vacuum cleaner that is simple to use and quick to set up, the Polaris pool cleaner 5-400-00 is the product for you.

Tips and Tricks For Vacuuming Your Pool

Just because you have all the tools to clean your pool doesn’t mean you know how or when to use them. If you will be cleaning the pool yourself, this is essential information to have. You should use your pool vacuum every other day during the season. Here’s a few tips for making your vacuuming session go quicker.

 – Assemble the handheld pool vacuum cleaner. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions when performing this step.
– Attach the handheld pool vacuum to your skimmer.
– Put the cleaning head in the water and begin cleaning.
– Go as slowly as you can. The water will likely be cloudy. But, the faster you go the more likely it is that you will miss pieces of debris.
– Your strokes should be long—and slow, see above. Make sure that each stroke slightly overlaps the other, just as you would when vacuuming floors in your home. This ensures that no part of the pool’s floor is missed.
– If the pool is too dirty you may have to clean it twice. On the first pass pick up as much as you can. Then wait for the debris to settle back to the pool floor. This will probably take a couple of hours. Then do a second pass with your handheld pool vacuum.
But, that’s not all. You don’t just need to clean your pool sides and bottom. You also need to clean all of the area around the pool as well. Here are a few tips for keep your pool area clean.
–  Don’t forget to skim the surface of the water and add chemicals.
–  Any pool deck or side area should be kept swept and clean as well. You don’t want dirt from the side getting swept into your nice, clean pool.

Why clean your pool at all?

Cleaning your pool is extremely important. The chemicals that you put into your pool to keep the water clear do a lot of the work. And the circulation system in your pool helps. But, to keep your pool sparkling clean you need to also make time for weekly pool cleaning with a handheld pool vacuum.

There is a single important reason why you need to take special care to keep your pool clean: bacteria and mold. If you do not regularly clean the bottom and sides of your pool, bacteria and mold and grow there. Although most mold will not harm humans, it is unsightly. Certain types of bacteria are harmful. In fact, they can cause a number of infections if left to flourish in your pool.

Finally, if you do not regularly use your handheld pool vacuum your pool filter may get clogged with leaves and dirt. And, that debris plus dead insects and infest your water. No one wants to swim in a dirty pool. So, do the right thing and use your handheld pool vacuum cleaner regularly.

Final Words

Obviously, handheld pool vacuums are extremely important pieces of equipment in pool maintenance. Without them you will be missing a crucial component of keeping your pool clean. This is why it is so important to purchase one of the best handheld pool vacuums on the market.

In this article we have reviews the top five handheld pool vacuum cleaners. We’ve also provided you with a buyer’s guide that should help you choose your next handheld pool vacuum. By now all of your questions should be answered. However, if you still want to know something about handheld pool vacuums that we haven’t covered, leave us a message below.