10 Best In Ground Automatic Pool Cleaners 2025 in the United States

The Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus Wi-Fi Automatic Robotic Pool Vacuum Cleaner offers several appealing features for those with in-ground pools up to 50 feet in length. It comes with Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing you to schedule cleanings remotely, which is convenient for busy households. Its wall-scrubbing capability ensures a thorough clean across various pool surfaces and shapes, making it versatile for different pool designs.

The top-load filter basket simplifies debris removal, contributing to ease of maintenance, while the plug-and-play system ensures straightforward operation with minimal setup required. Its 2-hour cleaning cycle is efficient for most pool sizes, promising energy savings and reduced operational time. The product is backed by Dolphin's reputation for durability and performance, with a 4.2-star rating from over 16,000 reviews reflecting substantial user satisfaction.

However, weighing in at 35.4 pounds, it may be cumbersome for some users to handle. Additionally, it requires an AC power source, which could limit placement flexibility. Despite these minor drawbacks, its robust build and efficient cleaning prowess make it a strong contender for pool owners seeking hassle-free maintenance.

The Polaris Vac-Sweep 280 is a pressure-side pool cleaner designed for in-ground pools of various shapes and surfaces, including vinyl, fiberglass, gunite, pebble, and tile. It operates using a separate booster pump, which powers dual venturi jets to create strong suction, allowing it to clean an entire pool in about 3 hours. This makes it well suited for pool owners who want a thorough clean without spending a whole day on maintenance. The cleaner’s large 2.25-inch inlet is a big plus, as it can pick up larger debris like leaves and acorns, which many other cleaners might miss. It comes with a single chamber debris bag that collects both small and large particles, but this means you have to empty the bag regularly to keep it working well.

The product includes 31 feet of hose, which should cover most average-sized pools, though very large pools might require additional hose length. While the cleaner is made of durable plastic and has a limited warranty, it does rely on a booster pump, so you’ll need to have that installed and running, which can add to the initial setup cost and complexity. Energy-wise, it is generally efficient since it cleans quickly, but the need for a separate pump means extra electricity use. Maintenance is straightforward once set up, with no complex assembly required.

If you want a reliable pressure-side cleaner that handles sizable debris and covers walls as well as floors, and you already have or plan to install a booster pump, this Polaris model represents a solid choice. However, if you prefer a cleaner that works without additional equipment or with less frequent debris bag emptying, you might want to explore other options.

The Dolphin Nautilus CC Automatic Robotic Pool Vacuum Cleaner is designed to efficiently clean above and in-ground pools up to 33 feet in length. One of its standout features is its wall-climbing capability, which ensures thorough cleaning of pool surfaces, although it does not clean the waterline. The active scrubbing brush is gentle on surfaces but effective at removing debris, minimizing the need for manual scrubbing. The top-load filter basket is user-friendly, making maintenance straightforward and enhancing the clarity of the pool water.

The plug-and-play system simplifies operation, allowing users to clean their pools in just two hours without hassle. With over 40 years of experience, the Dolphin brand is known for its performance, durability, and cost savings. However, it’s worth noting that the warranty is limited, which may be a concern for some users. Additionally, while the cleaner is energy-efficient and easy to maintain, it requires regular cleaning of the filter and protection of plastic components from extreme conditions.

The device is relatively lightweight at 14 pounds and operates on corded electric power. It does not require assembly and uses a touch control method for operation. Despite a few drawbacks, such as not cleaning the waterline and the limited warranty, the Dolphin Nautilus CC is a solid choice for maintaining a clean and debris-free pool.