Pool Cleaner Connection Types: Skimmer, Return, or Dedicated Line

Why Connection Type Matters

The way a pool cleaner connects to your pool's plumbing determines how it gets its power to move and collect debris. Suction side cleaners are driven by the suction of your pool pump, so they need to attach to a point in the circulation system that provides that vacuum. Pressure side cleaners are driven by pressurized water, which comes from a return jet or a booster pump. Robotic cleaners are self-contained and do not use the pool's plumbing at all.

Which connection you use matters because it affects cleaning performance, installation effort, and whether you need extra equipment like a booster pump. The right choice depends on the age of your pool, the fittings already in place, and whether you are willing to install a new line.

Skimmer Connection

A skimmer connection is the most common hookup for suction side cleaners. You attach the cleaner hose to a vacuum plate that fits into your pool's skimmer basket. The pump pulls water through the cleaner hose and into the skimmer, and the debris collected by the cleaner goes to the pool's filter.

This is the simplest setup because it requires no additional plumbing. The downside is that while the cleaner is running, the skimmer is not catching surface debris as effectively. You can reduce the suction from the main drain or adjust the skimmer float to balance flow, but the cleaner will still compete with the skimming action for pump flow.

For many above-ground and smaller in-ground pools, a skimmer connection works well. It is also the easiest to set up and remove when you want to switch between cleaning and normal filtration. You can read more about the trade-offs in our article on Skimmer Connection or Dedicated Line.

Return Line Connection

Pressure side cleaners connect to a return fitting, the nozzle in the pool wall where preheated water re-enters the pool. The pressurized water from the pump, or from a separate booster pump, flows through the cleaner and powers its motion and suction. This connection is used by many pressure side models, including those that use a dedicated hose to sweep debris into the pool filter or a bag.

A return line connection is simple because it uses an existing outlet. You can install a quick-disconnect fitting on the return during the initial pool build or retrofit it later. However, not all return fittings are suitable. The fitting must accept a threaded adapter, and the pump must supply enough pressure. If your pool has a variable speed pump, you may need to run it at a higher speed when using a pressure side cleaner, which can increase energy use.

For pools with a dedicated booster pump, the pressure cleaner often connects to a dedicated pressure line instead, which we cover in the next section.

Dedicated Line Connection

A dedicated line is a separate pipe installed in the pool wall, used only for the pool cleaner. It can be a suction line that runs back to the pump, or a pressure line fed by a booster pump. Dedicated lines are the cleanest solution because they do not interfere with skimming, main drain operation, or return flow.

Suction side cleaners on a dedicated line get full suction without stealing flow from the skimmer. Pressure side cleaners on a dedicated pressure line receive constant, high-pressure water from a booster pump, which is why many high-performing pressure cleaners are sold with a booster pump. This setup is the most reliable and delivers the best cleaning results, but it requires professional installation during pool construction or as a retrofit.

If you are building a new pool, asking for a dedicated cleaner line is a good idea. For an existing pool, installing one involves cutting into the shell and plumbing, so it is a larger project. Weigh the installation cost against the performance benefit. For many owners, a skimmer or return connection is sufficient.

Robotic Cleaners Need No Connection

Robotic pool cleaners are the exception: they do not connect to your pool's plumbing at all. These self-contained units are powered by low-voltage electricity from a transformer, and they filter water through their own built-in filter. According to ENERGY STAR, robotic pool cleaners are 'powered by low-voltage electricity, rather than your pool pump or a booster pump.' This means they do not require a skimmer, return, or dedicated line.

Because they rely on their own motor and filter, robotic cleaners can run independently of your pool's circulation system. This makes them easy to use: you simply place the unit in the water and plug in the power cord. They also avoid the flow trade-offs that come with suction or pressure connections. Many brands, including Dolphin and Aiper, offer robotic models that are popular for both in-ground and above-ground pools.

Comparing the Three Connection Types

The table below summarizes the main characteristics of each connection type.

How to Choose the Right Connection for Your Pool

Start by looking at your pool's equipment. If you have a skimmer with a vacuum plate and a single-speed pump, a suction side cleaner on the skimmer is the lowest-friction choice. It will work on most in-ground and above-ground pools and is easy to set up.

If you already have a booster pump, or you are prepared to add one, a pressure side cleaner with a dedicated pressure line gives the strongest cleaning action. This is often the right call for larger in-ground pools with heavy debris loads.

If you want to avoid any plumbing consideration, or if your pool has limited fittings, a robotic cleaner is the most flexible. It also lets you clean the pool while the pump is off, which can save energy. Our picks for Best Suction-Side Pool Cleaners 2026, Best Pressure-Side Pool Cleaners 2026, and Best Robotic Pool Cleaners in 2026 can help you narrow down the model type.

Installation Considerations

Skimmer and return connections are the easiest to install. You may need to buy an adapter or vacuum plate that matches your skimmer or return fitting. For suction side cleaners, you also need a hose that is long enough to reach the entire pool. See our guide on Pool Cleaner Hose Length and Diameter for more.

Dedicated lines are typically installed during pool construction. Retrofit installations are possible but require cutting into the pool shell and running new plumbing, which is a job for a professional. If you are planning a new pool, discuss a dedicated cleaner line with your builder. Also, if you are considering a pressure side cleaner, review Pressure-Side Pool Cleaner Booster Pumps before committing.

What to pick for your connection type

Questions

Can I use a pressure side cleaner with a skimmer connection?

No. Pressure side cleaners need pressurized water from a return fitting or a dedicated pressure line. The skimmer provides suction, not pressure.

Do I need a booster pump for a dedicated pressure line?

Yes, a dedicated pressure line for a pressure side cleaner usually requires a booster pump to supply enough pressure to drive the cleaner effectively.

Can I convert a skimmer connection to a dedicated line?

Yes, but it requires professional installation. A dedicated line needs new plumbing cut into the pool shell, so it is a significant retrofit project.

Do robotic cleaners need any connection?

No. Robotic cleaners are self-contained and powered by low-voltage electricity, so they do not connect to the pool's skimmer, return, or dedicated lines.

What is the easiest connection type for a beginner?

A skimmer connection is the easiest if you have a suction side cleaner, because it uses the existing skimmer with a vacuum plate. For pressure side cleaners, a return fitting is the simplest to use.