Pentair offers a full line of pool cleaners under the name “Kreepy Krauly.” And while Kreepy Kraulys can be both robotic or run off of the plumbing, the Original Kreepy Krauly Suction-Side Inground Pool Cleaner is frequently cited as the most popular suction-side cleaner in history, with more than 3 million satisfied customers worldwide. This cleaner is suitable for in-ground pools with concrete and gunite finishes.

Here's a breakdown of its features and characteristics:

Features

• One Moving Part: The original Kreepy Krauly is known for having only one operational moving part (a flapper or diaphragm), which contributes to its durability and low maintenance requirements. This design means there are no wheels, gears, or diaphragms to constantly replace or repair.

• Cleaning Coverage: This cleaner is designed for greater cleaning coverage, reaching from the waterline to the pool bottom. It uses powerful suction to remove both large and small debris.

• Automatic Operation: The Kreepy Krauly operates automatically, utilizing the pool's filtration pump's suction power to move around the pool and collect debris. It does not require an additional booster pump.

• Regulator Valve: An adjustable regulator valve automatically adjusts the water flow, ensuring the cleaner moves at the ideal speed for efficient cleaning.

• Dive Float and Roller Strap: The dive float system helps guide the cleaner throughout the entire pool, while a roller strap helps it maneuver around steps and ladders.

• Cleaner Wings: The cleaner wings help channel leaves, dirt, and debris directly into the skimmer basket for easy cleanup.

• Easy Installation: Installation is generally quick and easy, often requiring no tools.

Benefits

• Affordable: The original Kreepy Krauly is an affordable option.

• Low Maintenance: The singlemoving-part design means less wear and tear, reducing maintenance frequency and costs compared to cleaners with multiple moving parts, gears, or diaphragms.

• Effective Cleaning: It's praised for its ability to effectively remove both small and large debris, keeping the pool clean and clear.

• No Booster Pump Needed: The cleaner operates directly from the pool pump, eliminating the need for an additional booster pump and saving energy costs.

• Improved Water Circulation: Suction cleaners like the Kreepy Krauly help improve pool circulation by drawing water from the bottom and sides and sending it through the pool's filtration system.

Pentair Suction-Side Kreepy Krauly Potential drawbacks

• Getting Stuck: Some report that the original Kreepy Krauly can occasionally get stuck in corners, on steps, or around pool features.

• Clogging with Large Debris: Like other suction-side cleaners, it can struggle with large leaves or debris that might get caught in the throat or flapper, potentially stopping the cleaning process until the debris is manually removed.

• Random Cleaning Pattern: Unlike robotic cleaners with programmable cleaning patterns, the Kreepy Krauly operates with a random cleaning pattern, moving around the pool randomly along with the direction of water flow.

• Durability Concerns: While many report excellent durability, some mention issues with the plastic components wearing down relatively quickly in some instances.

Maintenance

Maintenance for the original Kreepy Krauly is relatively simple, focusing on keeping the flapper clean and checking the condition of the vacuum seal and foot pad. If debris gets caught in the flapper, it can be easily accessed and removed by hand. Regular cleaning of the filter system and skimmer basket is also essential for optimal performance.

Zodiac Baracuda G3

The Zodiac Baracuda G3 is a hugely popular suction-side pool cleaner for in-ground pools, known for its efficiency, simplicity, and compatibility with various pool surfaces.

Here's a detailed look at its features, benefits, and considerations: Key features of the Zodiac G3 include its suction-side operation via the pool's pump, a single moving part (the Long-Life Diaphragm) for quiet operation and low maintenance, and a FlowKeeper Valve to regulate water flow for optimal performance. It also has a 36-Fin Disc for surface adhesion and obstacle avoidance, a Wheel Deflector for maneuverability, a Quick-Release Cassette for easy diaphragm access, and durable, scuff-resistant hoses. Installation is straightforward and doesn't require special tools.

The Zodiac G3 offers efficient cleaning of pool floors, walls, and steps, handling small to medium debris.

It is considered energy-saving when used with low-speed pumps and requires low maintenance due to its simple design. The cleaner is also seen as a good value and is often reported to be durable, lasting for several years.

Potential considerations

Some potential drawbacks include difficulty handling large debris, the possibility of getting stuck in corners or on steps, and limited effectiveness in cleaning the waterline. Connecting to the skimmer can reduce its surface skimming efficiency and lead to faster filling of the pump filter basket. The standard warranty is typically 90 days, though extensions may be available.

Maintenance

Routine maintenance involves regular cleaning of the skimmer and pump baskets, and the pool filter. It's important to inspect and replace the diaphragm as needed, check hose connections for leaks, and store the cleaner out of direct sunlight with the hose straight.

Key maintenance concerns

The Zodiac Baracuda G3, while known for its reliability and ease of use, does have a few key maintenance concerns and common troubleshooting issues.

• Diaphragm Wear and Tear: The single moving part, the Long-Life Diaphragm, is the most common component to wear out and require replacement.

• Hose Integrity: The hoses can develop leaks or become brittle over time, impacting suction and movement. Check hose sections for leaks by lifting each section above water. A cracked hose may produce a hissing sound.

• Disc and Footpad Wear: The 36-Fin Disc and the footpad (also known as a foot flange) can wear down, affecting the cleaner's ability to adhere to surfaces and navigate obstacles effectively. The footpad should be replaced when the depth of the channels between the treads is 1/8' or less.

• FlowKeeper Valve: While designed to regulate flow, the FlowKeeper Valve can also experience issues, such as springs going bad, plastic breaking, or the valve not staying in the set position. • Hose Kinks and Coiling: Storing the hose improperly can cause kinks or coiling, hindering the cleaner's movement. Lay the hose out straight in a safe storage area when the cleaner is not in use, and use warm water or sunlight to straighten kinks.

• Chemical Damage: The Baracuda G3 is not warranted for use in pools treated with biguanide products. Always remove the cleaner before super chlorinating or adding pool chemicals, waiting at least four hours before returning it to the pool to prevent chemical damage.

Troubleshooting issues

Here are some common troubleshooting issues and their potential solutions:

• Cleaner Doesn't Move or Moves Slowly: Check if the main drain is closed. Ensure proper flow using the flow gauge and adjust as needed. In cold water, increase flow. Clean clogged baskets or filter. Inspect the diaphragm for damage. Check for air leaks in the system.

• Incomplete Pool Coverage: Adjust the flow to improve or reduce climbing. Direct return fittings downward. Straighten hose kinks and verify hose weight and length.

• Cleaner Gets Stuck: Adjust flow, hose length, and weight. Consider installing a ladder guard. Use return jets to redirect the cleaner.

• Cleaner Stays on Walls or Pool Edge: Reduce flow using the flow gauge. Adjust hose weight positioning. Utilize return flow to move the cleaner away from edges.

• Cleaner Won't Climb Walls: Increase flow using the flow gauge or Pool Pulse. Confirm proper hose length and adjust hose weight. Note that climbing may be limited in some pool types.

• Low Flow (Flow Gauge Showing 0-2): Clean the filter, pump strainer, and skimmer baskets. Verify correct valve positions for suction lines.

• High Flow (Flow Gauge Showing 4-6): Verify correct valve positions for suction lines. Reduce the flow setting on the FlowKeeper™ valve. If applicable, slightly open the main drain.

Maintaining a Zodiac Baracuda G3 regularly and replacing worn parts will help ensure its performance and longevity.

The PoolCleaner

For pool service techs, Hayward's most popular pool cleaner is the Hayward 2-Wheel Suction PoolCleaner, also known simply as 'The PoolCleaner.' This suction-side cleaner is designed for in-ground pools up to 16' x 32' and utilizes the existing pump and filter for power.

Reasons for its popularity

• Ease of Use: Customers find it easy to set up and appreciate its simple design, making it a 'set-itand- forget-it' cleaner.

• Effective Cleaning: It is praised for its ability to clean 10 times faster than other models and its strong suction power, collecting a variety of debris including small stones. It also boasts self-adjusting turbine vanes to prevent clogging and improve power at any flow.

• Affordability: It is considered a good value compared to robotic cleaners and is a more affordable option overall.

• Durability and Reliability: While some mention durability issues with the hose, many customers report that the cleaner itself is well-built and performs well for many years with minimal maintenance.

Little-Known Facts

• Customizable Steering: The PoolCleaner comes in 2-wheel and 4-wheel versions. The 2-wheel version has a steering cam that causes it to turn 5 times in a cycle for average-sized pools. The 4-wheel version has a cam that causes only 3 turns, making the unit go straighter for longer to cover larger pools.

Interestingly, if you have a 2-wheel unit and need more straight-line cleaning, you can replace the 2-Wheel Cam (PVXH036009) with a 4-Wheel Cam (PVXH010009).

• Optimal Tire Pressure/Wear: The cleaner's performance relies on the correct wheel speed, measured in RPMs. You can check this by observing the right front wheel's notch for one minute; it should turn 11 to 14 times. If the RPM is too high, the cleaner may climb out of the pool and suck air. If too low, it may not climb walls effectively.

• Surface-Specific Shoes: The 'shoes' on the cleaner's pods need to match the pool's surface for optimal grip and cleaning. There are different shoes for various surfaces: standard/ slotted for plaster and Pebble-Tec, cork for vinyl and fiberglass, and ceramic for tile. Ensure you're using the correct type and that they're not worn out.

• Subtle Hose Cracks: Small, hardto- see cracks in the hoses can allow air to leak in, affecting suction and cleaner operation. You can test for these by holding the hose sections underwater and blowing into one end while capping the other, watching for bubbles.

Troubleshooting issues

• Cleaner Not Moving or Moving Slowly:

• Obstruction: Check for debris (rocks, twigs, leaves) lodged between the bearings and the turbine by removing the inspection plate at the bottom of the cleaner.

• Insufficient or Excessive Suction: Verify that the turbine has enough water flow using the vacuum gauge or flow gauge provided with the cleaner. Adjust the flow by using the bypass valve or the skimmer/inlet valve if applicable. Too much suction can cause the cleaner to climb too high out of the water and suck air.

• Worn Parts: Inspect the tires, shoes, wings, and flaps for wear. Worn parts can affect the cleaner's ability to move and grip the pool surface.

• Air Leaks: Check for air leaks in the hoses, hose connections, skimmer, or pump basket.

• Pump/Filter Issues: Ensure the pool pump is primed and functioning properly, and that the filter is clean.

• Cleaner Gets Stuck:

• Hose Length: The hose should extend two full sections past the furthest point in the pool.

• Return Line Interference: Ensure that the return line(s) are not affecting the cleaner's movement (pointing them down is preferred).

• Rear Flap Adjuster: Experiment with the rear flap adjuster setting (I, II, or III) to control climbing ability and reduce sticking in corners or on steps.

• Worn Shoes/Wings/Flaps: Inspect and replace worn shoes, wings, or flaps.

• Excessive Speed: If the cleaner is moving too fast, it may get stuck more easily. Adjust the suction to slow it down.

• Cleaner Not Climbing Walls:

• Incorrect/Worn Shoes: Make sure the cleaner has the appropriate shoes for your pool surface and that they are not worn out.

• Pool Slope: The cleaner may not be able to climb the wall if the angle of the pool floor to the wall is too steep.

• Algae: Algae on vinyl liners can make the surface slippery, preventing the cleaner from climbing. Treat for algae and brush the walls.

• Rear Flap Adjuster: Try adjusting the rear flap adjuster to position III for increased climbing ability.

• Saturated Filter Frames (for electric cleaners): If you have an electric model, saturated filter frames can reduce suction and adherence, affecting wall climbing. Check, clean, or replace them.

While different Hayward suctionside cleaners have distinct names and appearances, it's a known secret in the pool industry that some models are remarkably similar, sharing the same internal components.

The PoolCleaner, AquaNaut, and Phoenix are essentially the same cleaner marketed under different names and color schemes for various retail and online channels. The PoolCleaner was originally a product of Poolvergnuegen, a company acquired by Hayward. Hayward launched the AquaNaut (models 200 & 400) to expand the cleaner's appeal and make it available online. The Phoenix is sold at Leslie's Pool Stores.

These models all come with features like the patented Super Hump tires and the V-Flex turbine. The primary differences are the body style, color scheme, and the availability of suction inlets (the AquaNaut and Phoenix typically come with both large and small inlets, while The PoolCleaner may require requesting the different sizes from Hayward).