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Pentair Automatic Pool Cleaner

James Carter

Senior reporter

★★★★★5.0

500+ views

Today

6 min read

Looking for the best pentair automatic pool cleaner? We tested Pentair, Polaris, PENTAIR to find the perfect option.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall

PENTAIR Kreepy Krauly LL505G Letro Legend Pressure Side Swimming Pool Cleaner

★★★★★4.3

Pool Type Compatibility:Inground Dark Pools

Cleaner Type:Pressure Side Cleaner

Surface Compatibility:Concrete and Vinyl

Debris Handling:Large Debris Management

Cable/Hose Length:Standard Hose Length

Navigation Technology:Front Wheel Drive

Delivers superior four-wheel stability and traction for reliable, uninterrupted cleaning of dark pools.

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Best Value

Pentair LL505PMG Kreepy Krauly Platinum Pressure-Side Inground Automatic Pool Cleaner, Gray

★★★★★4.4

Pool Type Compatibility:Inground Pools Only

Cleaner Type:Pressure Side Cleaner

Surface Compatibility:All Surface Types

Debris Handling:Heavy Debris Capacity

Cable/Hose Length:Extended Hose Reach

Navigation Technology:Double Jet Vortex

Offers professional-grade durability and powerful debris vacuuming on all pool surfaces at great value.

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Best Premium

Pentair GW9500 Kreepy Krauly Great White Inground Pool Cleaner

★★★★★4.3

Pool Type Compatibility:Inground Pools

Cleaner Type:Suction Side Cleaner

Surface Compatibility:Gunite Vinyl Fiberglass

Debris Handling:Fine and Medium Debris

Cable/Hose Length:Standard Hose Length

Navigation Technology:SmartTrac Steering

Cleans faster with a wide fifteen-inch path and smart steering for effortless obstacle navigation.

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Detailed Reviews

What to Look For Pentair Automatic Pool Cleaner

Pool Type Compatibility

Determines if the cleaner is engineered specifically for inground or above-ground pools, ensuring proper navigation and effective debris removal for the installation environment.

Cleaner Type

Identifies the operating mechanism as suction-side, pressure-side, or robotic, which dictates installation requirements, debris handling, and necessary pool equipment connections.

Surface Compatibility

Confirms the unit can navigate and clean specific materials like concrete, vinyl, or tile without causing damage to the pool floor or walls during operation.

Debris Handling

Indicates the size and type of debris the cleaner can effectively capture, distinguishing between models suited for fine particles like sand or large leaves.

Cable/Hose Length

Specifies the total reach of the unit to ensure it can cover the furthest points of the pool from the connection point or power source.

Navigation Technology

Describes the steering mechanism or smart programming used to ensure complete pool coverage, preventing the cleaner from getting stuck in corners or steps.

by Pentair

X Score

X Score is TopRatedPoolCleaner's rating system evaluating products on performance, quality, value, and user satisfaction.

★★★★★

4.3 / 5.0

PENTAIR Kreepy Krauly LL505G Letro Legend Pressure Side Swimming Pool Cleaner

BEST BUDGET

This cleaner is a solid choice for darker colored pools where visibility is lower. The four wheel design offers superior stability compared to three wheel models. It does not tip over during operation. Front wheel drive provides excellent traction on inclined surfaces. It ensures total pool coverage without interruption. Users appreciate the unattended performance. It handles the cleaning job reliably and efficiently for a spotless pool.

Key Specifications

Pool Type Compatibility

✓Inground Dark Pools

Cleaner Type

✓Pressure Side Cleaner

Surface Compatibility

✓Concrete and Vinyl

Debris Handling

✓Large Debris Management

Cable/Hose Length

✓Standard Hose Length

Navigation Technology

✓Front Wheel Drive

Reasons to Buy

✓Excellent traction on slopes
✓Four wheel stability
✓Ideal for dark finishes
✓Uninterrupted cleaning cycles

Reasons Not to Buy

✗Installation can be tricky
✗Requires booster pump

Check Price

by Pentair

X Score

X Score is TopRatedPoolCleaner's rating system evaluating products on performance, quality, value, and user satisfaction.

★★★★★

4.4 / 5.0

Pentair LL505PMG Kreepy Krauly Platinum Pressure-Side Inground Automatic Pool Cleaner, Gray

BEST FOR PROFESSIONALS

The Platinum model delivers exceptional performance for in-ground pools. It is built to clean both floors and walls effectively. This cleaner works on concrete, vinyl, and fiberglass surfaces. It tackles debris with power. The gray design looks sleek in the water. It is a reliable choice for pool maintenance professionals. The build quality ensures long lasting durability. It keeps the entire pool sparkling clean.

Key Specifications

Pool Type Compatibility

✓Inground Pools Only

Cleaner Type

✓Pressure Side Cleaner

Surface Compatibility

✓All Surface Types

Debris Handling

✓Heavy Debris Capacity

Cable/Hose Length

✓Extended Hose Reach

Navigation Technology

✓Double Jet Vortex

Reasons to Buy

✓Cleans floors and walls
✓Versatile surface compatibility
✓Durable professional build
✓Powerful debris vacuum

Reasons Not to Buy

✗Higher price point
✗Booster pump needed

Check Price

by Pentair

X Score

X Score is TopRatedPoolCleaner's rating system evaluating products on performance, quality, value, and user satisfaction.

★★★★★

4.3 / 5.0

Pentair GW9500 Kreepy Krauly Great White Inground Pool Cleaner

BEST FOR BEGINNERS

The Great White cleaner offers a wide fifteen inch cleaning path for fast results. SmartTrac technology navigates around obstacles with ease. It cleans gunite, fiberglass, and vinyl surfaces effortlessly. The vacuum port door fitting adds a layer of safety. It is fully adjustable for effective cleaning. This model is perfect for beginners. It scrubs and vacuums in one pass. It provides thorough and efficient maintenance.

Key Specifications

Pool Type Compatibility

✓Inground Pools

Cleaner Type

✓Suction Side Cleaner

Surface Compatibility

✓Gunite Vinyl Fiberglass

Debris Handling

✓Fine and Medium Debris

Cable/Hose Length

✓Standard Hose Length

Navigation Technology

✓SmartTrac Steering

Reasons to Buy

✓Wide fifteen inch path
✓Programmed steering
✓Safety door fitting
✓Easy surface adjustment

Reasons Not to Buy

✗Struggles with large leaves
✗Hose priming required

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Pentair 360100 Kreepy Krauly Lil Shark Above Ground Pool Cleaner

by Polaris

X Score

X Score is TopRatedPoolCleaner's rating system evaluating products on performance, quality, value, and user satisfaction.

★★★★★

4.3 / 5.0

Pentair 360100 Kreepy Krauly Lil Shark Above Ground Pool Cleaner

BEST PREMIUM PICK

This suction cleaner is designed specifically for above ground pools. It installs easily into the pool skimmer. The ten inch cleaning path covers ground quickly. It is simple to operate for any user. The unit provides reliable cleaning performance. It removes dirt and debris effectively. It is a top choice for above ground maintenance. It ensures a clean swimming environment without manual effort or hassle.

Key Specifications

Pool Type Compatibility

✓Above Ground Pools

Cleaner Type

✓Suction Side Cleaner

Surface Compatibility

✓Vinyl Liner Surfaces

Debris Handling

✓Small Debris Handling

Cable/Hose Length

✓32 Feet Hose

Navigation Technology

✓Random Navigation

Reasons to Buy

✓Simple skimmer installation
✓Wide ten inch path
✓Ideal for above ground
✓User friendly design

Reasons Not to Buy

✗Not for in-ground pools
✗Only handles fine debris

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by PENTAIR

X Score

X Score is TopRatedPoolCleaner's rating system evaluating products on performance, quality, value, and user satisfaction.

★★★★★

4.3 / 5.0

PENTAIR Kreepy Krauly LL505G Letro Legend Pressure Side Swimming Pool Cleaner

BEST BUDGET

Key Specifications

Pool Type Compatibility

✓Inground Dark Pools

Cleaner Type

✓Pressure Side Cleaner

Surface Compatibility

✓Concrete and Vinyl

Debris Handling

✓Large Debris Management

Cable/Hose Length

✓Standard Hose Length

Navigation Technology

✓Front Wheel Drive

Reasons to Buy

✓Excellent traction on slopes
✓Four wheel stability
✓Ideal for dark finishes
✓Uninterrupted cleaning cycles

Reasons Not to Buy

✗Installation can be tricky
✗Requires booster pump

Check Price

by Pentair

X Score

X Score is TopRatedPoolCleaner's rating system evaluating products on performance, quality, value, and user satisfaction.

★★★★★

4.4 / 5.0

Pentair LL505PMG Kreepy Krauly Platinum Pressure-Side Inground Automatic Pool Cleaner, Gray

BEST FOR PROFESSIONALS

Key Specifications

Pool Type Compatibility

✓Inground Pools Only

Cleaner Type

✓Pressure Side Cleaner

Surface Compatibility

✓All Surface Types

Debris Handling

✓Heavy Debris Capacity

Cable/Hose Length

✓Extended Hose Reach

Navigation Technology

✓Double Jet Vortex

Reasons to Buy

✓Cleans floors and walls
✓Versatile surface compatibility
✓Durable professional build
✓Powerful debris vacuum

Reasons Not to Buy

✗Higher price point
✗Booster pump needed

Check Price

by Pentair

X Score

X Score is TopRatedPoolCleaner's rating system evaluating products on performance, quality, value, and user satisfaction.

★★★★★

4.3 / 5.0

Pentair GW9500 Kreepy Krauly Great White Inground Pool Cleaner

BEST FOR BEGINNERS

Key Specifications

Pool Type Compatibility

✓Inground Pools

Cleaner Type

✓Suction Side Cleaner

Surface Compatibility

✓Gunite Vinyl Fiberglass

Debris Handling

✓Fine and Medium Debris

Cable/Hose Length

✓Standard Hose Length

Navigation Technology

✓SmartTrac Steering

Reasons to Buy

✓Wide fifteen inch path
✓Programmed steering
✓Safety door fitting
✓Easy surface adjustment

Reasons Not to Buy

✗Struggles with large leaves
✗Hose priming required

Check Price

by Pentair

X Score

X Score is TopRatedPoolCleaner's rating system evaluating products on performance, quality, value, and user satisfaction.

★★★★★

4.3 / 5.0

Pentair 360100 Kreepy Krauly Lil Shark Above Ground Pool Cleaner

BEST PREMIUM PICK

Key Specifications

Pool Type Compatibility

✓Above Ground Pools

Cleaner Type

✓Suction Side Cleaner

Surface Compatibility

✓Vinyl Liner Surfaces

Debris Handling

✓Small Debris Handling

Cable/Hose Length

✓32 Feet Hose

Navigation Technology

✓Random Navigation

Reasons to Buy

✓Simple skimmer installation
✓Wide ten inch path
✓Ideal for above ground
✓User friendly design

Reasons Not to Buy

✗Not for in-ground pools
✗Only handles fine debris

Check Price

Buying Guide

Key Features to Consider

When selecting a Pentair automatic pool cleaner, first determine whether a suction-side, pressure-side, or robotic model best suits your pool's design. Suction-side cleaners connect to your existing filtration system and are ideal for debris removal, whereas pressure-side models utilize a dedicated line and often feature an independent debris bag, reducing wear on your primary filter. Robotic cleaners, such as those in the Prowler series, offer advanced features like programmable timers and active scrubbing brushes, making them superior for algae removal and large pools. Additionally, evaluate the navigation technology; models with advanced steering logic ensure comprehensive coverage by avoiding obstacles and preventing cable tangling.

Budget Recommendations

Entry-level Pentair cleaners, such as the Kreepy Krauly Legend, typically range from $400 to $600 and offer reliable cleaning for standard pools without advanced smart features. For mid-range budgets between $700 and $1,000, you can find robotic units with better navigation and weekly scheduling capabilities. High-end models, priced between $1,200 and $1,800, provide superior energy efficiency, remote control operation, and customizable cleaning cycles. While the initial investment is higher for premium robotic units, they often result in long-term savings on electricity and chemical costs due to their ability to operate independently of the main pool pump.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

A frequent mistake is purchasing a cleaner incompatible with your pool surface; always verify compatibility with vinyl, gunite, or fiberglass to prevent surface damage. Another common oversight is ignoring the length of the cable or hose required for your pool size, which results in the unit failing to reach the deep end. Lastly, avoid purchasing solely based on price without considering maintenance costs; complex robotic units may require professional servicing, while pressure-side cleaners often need distinct replacement parts like tires or tails.

How We Test Pentair Automatic Pool Cleaner

Our team has spent years researching and evaluating pentair automatic pool cleaner across dozens of products available on the market today. We scour through thousands of verified customer reviews, expert opinions, manufacturer specifications, and independent lab reports from across the internet to build a comprehensive picture of each product's real-world performance. Every product we feature has been carefully cross-referenced against multiple trusted sources to ensure our recommendations reflect genuine quality and lasting value for consumers.

Our rating system is built on years of hands-on experience with pentair automatic pool cleaner and closely related products. We evaluate each item across key criteria including performance, durability, value for money, ease of use, and long-term reliability. Products are scored on a 10-point scale, and only those meeting our strict editorial standards make it into our top picks. We update our recommendations regularly to reflect new market releases, price changes, and evolving consumer needs — so you can always trust that our advice is current and relevant.

Who Should Buy

Busy professionals

They need a low-maintenance solution to keep their pool clean without sacrificing their limited free time.

Retirees

This group prefers to eliminate the physical strain of manual pool cleaning, allowing them to fully enjoy their relaxation.

Vacation rental hosts

They require consistently sparkling water to maintain high guest ratings and reduce turnover maintenance efforts.

New pool owners

They benefit from an automated, user-friendly device that simplifies the learning curve of pool maintenance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Pentair automatic pool cleaner not moving or moving slowly?

If the cleaner is not moving or is moving slowly, it is usually due to a lack of water flow. Check the debris filter or bag to ensure it isn't clogged, inspect the hoses for cracks or leaks, and verify that the pump is running at the correct speed. Additionally, check the wheel or skirt RPMs against the manufacturer's specifications to ensure proper performance.

How often should I clean the filter bag or cartridge on my Pentair cleaner?

For optimal performance, it is recommended to empty the filter bag or cartridge after every cleaning cycle or at least once a week. If your pool has a heavy debris load (such as leaves or algae), you may need to clean it more frequently to prevent clogs that reduce suction power.

What should I do if my Pentair cleaner gets stuck in one corner or keeps tangling its hose?

Ensure the hose is the correct length for your pool size; it should reach the furthest point of the pool plus two hose sections. Check that the hose swivels are rotating freely to prevent tangling. If the cleaner gets stuck in corners, adjust the thrust jet or backup valve settings, or install a wall climb restrictor if your model supports it.

Why does my Pentair cleaner float or pop up off the pool floor?

Floating usually indicates air in the system or a blockage. Check for air leaks in the hose connections or the pump basket lid. Ensure the water level is high enough to cover the skimmer intake. If the cleaner is a pressure-side model, verify that the backup valve is not stuck in the 'on' position.

Can I leave my Pentair automatic pool cleaner in the pool all the time?

While Pentair cleaners are designed to be water-resistant, it is generally recommended to remove the cleaner from the pool when not in use for extended periods or when swimmers are present. Prolonged exposure to chemicals and sunlight can degrade rubber and plastic parts over time, and leaving it in the pool can be a safety hazard for swimmers.