How to Read a Pool Cleaner Specification Sheet

Why read the spec sheet?

Pool cleaner spec sheets are the best way to compare models on paper before you buy. Understanding these numbers will help you avoid buying a cleaner that cannot handle your pool's size or debris load. But they are only useful if you know what each number represents and how it affects real-world cleaning. This guide walks through the most common terms and explains what to look for.

Start by identifying the type of cleaner you are considering: robotic, suction-side, or pressure-side. Each has a different power source and set of specifications, so you need to read them differently. For example, robotic cleaners are self-contained, while suction-side and pressure-side rely on your pool pump. See robotic vs suction vs pressure for a detailed comparison.

Flow rate: how much water it moves

Flow rate tells you how much water the cleaner moves per unit of time, often expressed in gallons per minute (GPM) or gallons per hour (GPH). For robotic cleaners, this is a measure of the pump's capacity. For suction-side and pressure-side cleaners, it depends on your pool pump.

According to ENERGY STAR, filtration only requires half the flow rate of running a pool cleaner. That means a pool pump must move water at a higher rate when driving a cleaner than when just filtering. When you see a flow rate on a cleaner's spec sheet, it is telling you the water movement capability, not necessarily the cleaning power. Variable speed pumps can adjust flow to match the task, improving energy efficiency, as both ENERGY STAR and Pentair note. Learn more in pool cleaner flow rate explained.

Suction power: how it is measured

Suction power is often listed in inches of water column, also called water lift, or in terms of flow rate. There is no single standard, so it is important to compare same-unit numbers. Some manufacturers, like Aiper, list suction as a flow rate, with their premium cordless robots rated up to 8,500 gallons per hour. That is a useful reference, but it does not directly measure how well the cleaner picks up debris.

For suction-side cleaners, the suction is generated by your pool pump, so the spec sheet may list the minimum pump flow rate required. For pressure-side cleaners, you need to know the water pressure available at the cleaner inlet, often given as PSI. See suction power in inches of water column for more on this metric.

Voltage and power source

Robotic pool cleaners are powered by low-voltage electricity, as ENERGY STAR explains. They come with a transformer that converts household power to a safe voltage for underwater use. Cordless robots use rechargeable batteries instead, so battery life becomes a key spec.

Suction-side and pressure-side cleaners get their power from the pool pump, so they have no voltage spec of their own. Instead, you need to check the pump's horsepower and flow rate to ensure the cleaner will operate correctly. For more on power consumption, see pool cleaner power consumption and battery life and charging.

Cable length: reach and maneuverability

For corded robotic cleaners, cable length determines how far the robot can travel from the power outlet. A longer cable lets it cover more area without being moved. However, the cable also needs to stay out of the way, so pay attention to the swivel and tangle-resistance features.

For suction-side and pressure-side cleaners with hoses, hose length is similarly important. It needs to be long enough to reach every part of the pool, but not so long that it creates extra friction and reduces suction. Measure your pool's dimensions and consult the cleaner's recommended hose length. See pool cleaner cable length guide and hose selection.

Other specs that affect performance

Beyond the basics, spec sheets include filter type, navigation method, runtime, and debris capacity. These affect how well the cleaner handles your pool's specific conditions.

Finally, check for compliance with recognized safety standards. The Pool & Hot Tub Alliance (PHTA) is an ANSI-accredited standards developer for pool and hot tub equipment, so products that carry PHTA-related compliance are likely designed with safety and performance in mind.

• Filter type and micron rating: How fine a particle the cleaner can capture. See filter micron rating.
• Navigation: Whether the cleaner uses random bounce or systematic mapping. See navigation systems.
• Battery life: For cordless models, how long the robot runs per charge. See battery life and charging.
• Debris bag capacity: How much dirt the cleaner holds before you need to empty it. See debris bag capacity.
• Wall and floor coverage: Some robots only clean floors, others climb walls and waterlines. See wall climbing.

What to pick for your use

Questions

What does flow rate mean on a pool cleaner spec?

Flow rate indicates how much water the cleaner circulates per minute or hour. For robotic cleaners, it reflects the pump's capacity. For suction and pressure cleaners, the flow rate of your pool pump determines performance. High flow rates help move debris, but they must be matched to your pool's size and pump capabilities.

How do I know what suction power I need?

Suction power depends on your pool type and debris load. For light-duty cleaning in a small pool, a lower suction rating may suffice. For heavy leaves and larger pools, look for a higher rating, whether expressed in water lift or flow rate. Compare numbers only within the same unit of measurement.

Do I need to match voltage when replacing a robotic cleaner?

No. Robotic pool cleaners use low-voltage power supplied by a transformer, so you don't need to match any specific voltage from your home's wiring. Just ensure the transformer and power cord are rated for the pool environment. For cordless models, check the battery type and charging requirements.

How long should a pool cleaner cable be?

The cable should be long enough to reach the entire pool from the nearest outlet. Measure the distance from the outlet to the farthest corner of the pool and add some slack. Check the cleaner's maximum cable length in the spec sheet and consider using a swivel to prevent tangling.