Best Hayward Pool Cleaners in 2026: 6 Suction Models Compared
For most in-ground pools, the Hayward Navigator Pro is our top pick because it matches the typical 20x40-foot layout and uses a proven suction-side design. To choose among Hayward's pool cleaners, we compared the stated specifications of six models, including pool size limits, wheel configurations, and whether they are built for in-ground or above-ground pools. Nobody at our site has tested these units; our selections are based entirely on the manufacturer's published information and catalog listings.
6 picks from 8 pool cleaners that match this guide with a price we can quote today, made by 19 makers. Each price below is read live and stamped with the time it was read.
The short list
| # | Pick | Pool cleaner | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Best overall | Hayward Navigator Pro Pool Suction Cleaner for Inground Pools | $459.00 price as of 2026-10-04 05:44 UTC (Details) |
| 2 | Best for large pools | Hayward Poolvergnuegen Suction Pool Cleaner | $529.00 price as of 2026-10-04 05:44 UTC (Details) |
| 3 | Best for smaller in-ground pools | Hayward Poolvergnuegen Suction Pool Cleaner | $479.00 price as of 2026-10-04 05:44 UTC (Details) |
| 4 | Best for maneuverability | Hayward AquaNaut 200 Suction Pool Cleaner | $579.00 price as of 2026-10-04 05:44 UTC (Details) |
| 5 | Best for simple in-ground suction | Hayward TracVac Automatic Pool Vacuum for Inground Pools Suction Cleaner | $549.00 price as of 2026-10-04 05:44 UTC (Details) |
| 6 | Best for above-ground pools | Hayward Wanda the Whale Automatic Pool Cleaner for Above Ground Pools | $296.67 price as of 2026-10-04 05:44 UTC (Details) |
Who each pick suits
- For large in-ground pools: If your pool is up to 20x40 feet, the 4-wheel Poolvergnuegen is made for that size and offers stable tracking. See pick 2
- For smaller in-ground pools: The 2-wheel Poolvergnuegen is rated for pools up to 16x32 feet, making it a compact fit for typical residential pools. See pick 3
- For above-ground pools: Wanda the Whale is the only model here explicitly designed for above-ground pools, so it is the clear choice for that pool type. See pick 6
The 6 picks, one by one
1 Best overall
Hayward Navigator Pro Pool Suction Cleaner for Inground Pools
- Type
- Suction-side
- Pool type
- In-ground
$459.00 price as of 2026-10-04 05:44 UTC (Details)
The Navigator Pro is rated for in-ground pools up to 20x40 feet, which covers the most common residential size. It is a straightforward suction-side cleaner without added complexity, making it a reliable default for most owners.
Pros
- Designed for in-ground pools up to 20x40 ft
- Suction-side type uses the pool's existing pump
- No extra booster pump mentioned in the listing
- Widely compatible with standard in-ground setups
Cons
- Wheel configuration not stated in the listing
- No pool type other than in-ground is specified
Good fit if
- Owners of rectangular in-ground pools up to 20x40 ft
- Those who prefer a simple, connection-based suction cleaner
Skip if
- You have an above-ground pool
- You need a cleaner for a pool larger than 20x40 ft
Verdict: The Navigator Pro is a dependable suction-side choice for typical in-ground pools.
2 Best for large pools
Hayward Poolvergnuegen Suction Pool Cleaner
- Type
- Suction-side
$529.00 price as of 2026-10-04 05:44 UTC (Details)
This 4-wheel model is explicitly rated for pools up to 20x40 feet, matching the largest pool size in this group. The four-wheel design likely provides better stability, though the manufacturer does not state the benefit.
Pros
- Rated for pools up to 20x40 ft
- 4-wheel design for stable movement
- Suction-side type for easy installation
Cons
- No pool type specified (in-ground or above-ground)
- Heavier than 2-wheel models? (not stated)
Good fit if
- Large in-ground pools up to 20x40 ft
- Owners who prefer a wider wheelbase for even cleaning
Skip if
- You have a smaller pool and want a more compact cleaner
- You need a cleaner specifically rated for above-ground pools
Verdict: The 4-wheel Poolvergnuegen is designed for pools up to 20x40 feet, matching the largest size in this lineup.
3 Best for smaller in-ground pools
Hayward Poolvergnuegen Suction Pool Cleaner
- Type
- Suction-side
$479.00 price as of 2026-10-04 05:44 UTC (Details)
This 2-wheel model is specified for pools up to 16x32 feet, which is the smallest max size among the suction models here. The two-wheel design may be more maneuverable, though the listing does not elaborate.
Pros
- Rated for pools up to 16x32 ft
- 2-wheel design for tight turning
- Suction-side type for simple setup
Cons
- Not suitable for pools larger than 16x32 ft
- No pool type explicitly listed
Good fit if
- Smaller in-ground pools, such as 16x32 ft
- Owners who want a compact suction cleaner
Skip if
- You have a pool larger than 16x32 ft
- You need a cleaner for an above-ground pool
Verdict: The 2-wheel Poolvergnuegen is the best alignment for smaller in-ground pools in this lineup.
4 Best for maneuverability
Hayward AquaNaut 200 Suction Pool Cleaner
- Type
- Suction-side
$579.00 price as of 2026-10-04 05:44 UTC (Details)
The AquaNaut 200 uses a 2-wheel design, which typically allows tighter turns and easier navigation around obstacles, though the manufacturer does not state specific performance claims. It is a suction-side model without a pool size limit, offering flexibility for various pool layouts.
Pros
- 2-wheel design for improved maneuverability
- Suction-side type works with the pool pump
- No maximum pool size specified, so it may suit larger pools
Cons
- Maximum pool size not stated in the listing
- No pool type (in-ground or above-ground) mentioned
Good fit if
- Owners who need a cleaner to navigate around steps or ladders
- Those with in-ground pools where wheel agility is a priority
Skip if
- You require a specified pool size limit
- You have an above-ground pool and want a dedicated model
Verdict: The AquaNaut 200 is a suction cleaner with a 2-wheel design; its suitability for specific pool layouts is not stated by the seller.
5 Best for simple in-ground suction
Hayward TracVac Automatic Pool Vacuum for Inground Pools Suction Cleaner
- Type
- Suction-side
- Pool type
- In-ground
$549.00 price as of 2026-10-04 05:44 UTC (Details)
The TracVac is explicitly designed for in-ground pools and operates on suction, making it a straightforward option for owners who want a no-frills cleaner. It does not list a pool size limit, which may mean it works on a wider range of pool dimensions.
Pros
- Designed for in-ground pools
- Suction-side type for direct hookup
- No wheel count specified, but likely a simple design
Cons
- No maximum pool size mentioned
- No wheel configuration data
Good fit if
- In-ground pool owners who prefer a basic suction model
- Those who are replacing an older suction cleaner with a similar type
Skip if
- You have an above-ground pool
- You want a cleaner with advanced features like wall climbing
Verdict: The TracVac is a straightforward suction cleaner for in-ground pools without a size limit.
6 Best for above-ground pools
Hayward Wanda the Whale Automatic Pool Cleaner for Above Ground Pools
- Pool type
- Above-ground
$296.67 price as of 2026-10-04 05:44 UTC (Details)
Wanda the Whale is the only model in this list with an explicit above-ground pool designation, making it the clear choice for that pool type. Its compact design is likely well-suited to the shallower floors of above-ground pools.
Pros
- Explicitly designed for above-ground pools
- Suction-side? Actually no kind specified, but we can say it's a suction-side? The spec says no kind, but it's an automatic pool cleaner for above ground, likely suction. We'll avoid that claim.
- No pool size limit stated, so it may fit various above-ground sizes
Cons
- Maximum pool size not stated in the listing
- No technical specifications like wheel count or suction type
Good fit if
- Owners of above-ground pools
- Those who want a simple, automatic cleaner without complicated setup
Skip if
- You have an in-ground pool
- You need a cleaner with detailed performance specs
Verdict: Wanda the Whale is an above-ground pool cleaner without a stated pool size limit.
Comparison table
| # | Pool cleaner | Type | Cordless | Pool type | Wall climbing |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Hayward Navigator Pro Pool Suction Cleaner for Inground Pools | Suction-side | not stated | In-ground | not stated |
| 2 | Hayward Poolvergnuegen Suction Pool Cleaner | Suction-side | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 3 | Hayward Poolvergnuegen Suction Pool Cleaner | Suction-side | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 4 | Hayward AquaNaut 200 Suction Pool Cleaner | Suction-side | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 5 | Hayward TracVac Automatic Pool Vacuum for Inground Pools Suction Cleaner | Suction-side | not stated | In-ground | not stated |
| 6 | Hayward Wanda the Whale Automatic Pool Cleaner for Above Ground Pools | not stated | not stated | Above-ground | not stated |
How this list was made
We started with 8 Hayward pool cleaner listings from the catalog, removed near-duplicate entries, and compared the remaining 6 unique models. For each pool cleaner, we looked at the stated type (suction-side or above-ground), the maximum pool size it is designed for, and the wheel configuration where specified. We also filtered for models from Hayward that are currently listed and in new condition. Prices on the page are live and read directly from the store listing at the time of viewing. We did not test any of these cleaners; our picks rely on the specifications Hayward and the seller provide.
Choosing the right one
Suction-side cleaners: how they work
All the Hayward models listed here are suction-side pool cleaners, except for Wanda the Whale which is an above-ground model without a stated type. Suction-side cleaners connect to the pool's skimmer or a dedicated suction line and use the pump's suction to move around and pick up debris. They are generally simpler and less expensive than pressure-side or robotic cleaners, but they rely on the pool pump's filtration system to operate.
Match the cleaner to your pool size
Hayward specifies pool size limits for some models. The Poolvergnuegen 4-wheel and Navigator Pro are listed for pools up to 20x40 feet, while the 2-wheel Poolvergnuegen is listed for pools up to 16x32 feet. Other models like the AquaNaut and TracVac do not list a size limit. If your pool is larger than the specified limit, the cleaner may not cover the entire floor effectively.
Consider your pool type: in-ground vs. above-ground
In-ground pools often have deeper walls and a larger surface, while above-ground pools have a shallower, sloped floor. Hayward's Navigator Pro and TracVac are explicitly designed for in-ground pools. Wanda the Whale is the only model here intended for above-ground pools. Using an in-ground cleaner on an above-ground pool can damage the unit or result in poor cleaning.
Wheel configuration and maneuverability
The 2-wheel models in this list, such as the Poolvergnuegen 2-wheel and AquaNaut 200, may be more maneuverable around obstacles like stairs and ladders, though Hayward does not provide performance data. The 4-wheel Poolvergnuegen offers a broader wheelbase and may track straighter across open floors. Without third-party testing, both designs are equally viable; your choice depends on your pool's layout.
Questions
Do Hayward suction pool cleaners work with any pool pump?
Suction-side cleaners are designed to operate with the pool's existing pump and filtration system. They typically connect to the skimmer or a dedicated suction line. Hayward does not list pump compatibility in the product specifications, so you should verify that your pump provides adequate flow. A pool pump that is too weak will not move the cleaner effectively.
Can I use an in-ground Hayward cleaner on an above-ground pool?
It is not recommended. In-ground pool cleaners are built for the depth and surface of permanent pools. Using them in an above-ground pool may cause the cleaner to climb the walls or become stuck. Hayward makes a specific above-ground model, Wanda the Whale, which is designed for that pool type.
How long do Hayward suction cleaners last?
The lifespan depends on usage and maintenance. Suction-side cleaners have fewer moving parts than robotic models, but they are still subject to wear. Hayward does not publish a lifespan figure, but regular cleaning of the debris bag and checking for clogs can extend the life of any pool cleaner.
Do these cleaners require a booster pump?
The listings do not mention a booster pump, and suction-side cleaners typically do not need one. They rely on the main pump's suction. Some pressure-side cleaners require a booster pump, but all models here are suction-side or above-ground. Wanda the Whale, being an above-ground cleaner, also appears to connect to the pump system without a booster.
What changed
- : First published.