Best Pool Care Tools

Owning a swimming pool is an excellent luxury, particularly during the sweltering Australian summer months.

However, to keep the pool water inviting, proper maintenance is paramount.

The foundation of pool care is a collection of essential tools that make the task easier and more efficient, ensuring that the pool remains a safe and pleasurable environment for everyone.

The market offers a variety of pool care tools, each designed to perform specific functions such as cleaning the pool surface, vacuuming the bottom, balancing chemical levels, and maintaining the filtration system.

These tools play a crucial role in extending the life of your investment by preventing algae growth, removing debris, and ensuring the water is perfectly balanced.

When selecting pool care tools, there are several important factors to consider.

These include durability, ease of use, and compatibility with your pool type.

Opting for robust tools made from high-quality materials can improve longevity and performance.

Ergonomic designs enhance user comfort and efficiency, while the scale of the tool should fit the size and volume of your pool for optimal cleaning.

Top Pool Care Tools

Maintaining a pristine pool requires the right set of tools.

We understand that clarity and cleanliness are paramount for your swimming experience.

Our selection reflects the most efficient and reliable pool care instruments on the market, from skimmers to robotic cleaners.

Trust us to aid in keeping your pool in top condition throughout the seasons.

POOLWHALE Portable Pool Vacuum

We highly recommend this for anyone in need of a simple, manual option for pool cleaning that doesn’t require electrical power.

Pros

No electric power required, utilises garden hose water pressure
Easy to assemble and operate for quick clean-ups
Lightweight and portable for above ground pools and spas

Cons

The provided pole may be too short for some pools
Suction power is limited compared to automatic vacuums
Some customers have mentioned the pole is flimsy

We’ve had a genuine chance to put the POOLWHALE Portable Pool Vacuum to the test, and we’re quite impressed with how it stands up to routine maintenance tasks.

Its ability to run without electric power, drawing suction from a connected garden hose instead, is exceptionally convenient.

Particularly for those spontaneous clean-ups, this vacuum is a breeze to set up.

Upon its first use, the ease of assembly jumped out at us.

There’s no fiddling around with complex parts; you’re ready to go in no time.

The lightweight design also means manoeuvring the vacuum around the pool is almost effortless, even for those who might not be as strong or as mobile.

On the flip side, the pole length did pose an issue.

It can be too short for larger pools, requiring us to get in the water to reach across. This isn’t ideal for everyone.

Additionally, if you’re faced with a significant amount of debris, you may find the suction power lacking when compared to more advanced (and expensive) automatic pool cleaners.

For the most part, the POOLWHALE Portable Pool Vacuum accomplishes what it sets out to do.

It’s a great tool for quick touch-ups between more thorough cleanings, and for the price, it offers good value. Just bear in mind that you might have to get a little wet when using it!

Aqua Buddy Pool Cleaner

We reckon this cleaner is a top pick for hassle-free pool maintenance, with a design that seems to tackle debris without a hitch.

Pros

Effortless operation and assembly
Efficient navigation and surface adherence
Quieter performance than many alternatives

Cons

Struggles with some pebble surfaces
Limited durability with certain parts
May require manual assistance at times

Just had a go with the Aqua Buddy Pool Cleaner, and right off the bat, the ease of set-up impressed us.

There’s no need for fancy tools or excessive elbow grease. In a quarter of an hour, you’re sorted and it’s ready for a splash.

The cleaner’s performance is striking, especially the way it travels over different pool surfaces.

The anti-stick design and unique rotation foot ensure that it doesn’t miss those pesky nooks.

For us, watching it swirl and scrub its way around the pool felt like a serene dance – quite the therapeutic view from the deck chair.

Having some mates over for a barbie by the pool, we didn’t want a racket drowning out the banter.

The Aqua Buddy proved to be a quiet achiever, silently combating leaves and bugs without being a nuisance.

Yet, when mates’ pebblecrete pool was the test, the cleaner stumbled a bit – worth noting if your pool has that finish.

Truth be told, as much as we’d like a set-and-forget deal, sometimes this cleaner needed a nudge to redirect when it became a bit too cosy with a corner.

And while we’re not keen on replacing parts, the bonus Barracuda diaphragm does hint at eventual wear – something to keep in mind for the long term.

Aquabuddy Automatic Pool Cleaner

We reckon this pool cleaner could be a sound choice for those after simplicity and efficiency in pool maintenance.

Pros

Does its job with minimal supervision
Easily attaches to existing filtration systems
Comes with a replacement diaphragm

Cons

May struggle with wall climbing and stairs
Hose weight requires careful adjustment
Not the best choice for pools with pebbles

Our recent experience with the Aquabuddy Automatic Pool Cleaner showed us it’s quite the worker.

It hooked up to our pool’s system without a hitch, and we promptly saw it get down to business, its movements lively as it worked over the pool floor, taking care of debris with gusto.

Its quiet operation was a pleasing surprise, barely a whisper as it swept around.

The added replacement Barracuda diaphragm in the package was a thoughtful inclusion, ensuring the cleaner’s longevity – certainly a smart move by Aquabuddy.

On the downside, we noticed it sometimes had trouble navigating walls and corners.

And those stairs? It gave them a wide berth as if they were lava.

Plus, getting the hose’s buoyancy just right took a bit of fiddling – it’s a delicate balance to maintain proper suction and coverage.

EZ SPARES Pool Vacuum Head

We reckon this vacuum head isn’t the best choice due to its low customer rating, but let’s discuss its features.

Pros

Made from sturdy ABS material
Fits both 1.25 and 1.5 inch hoses
Triangular design enhances corner cleaning

Cons

Subpar customer satisfaction
Only two reviews available
A rating of 1.8 suggests quality concerns

When we took the EZ SPARES Pool Vacuum Head for a whirl, we found its sturdy construction quite reassuring.

The ABS material felt durable in hand, and we could tell it’s made to last through many cleanings.

Compatibility is key for pool tools, and this one connects effortlessly with both 1.25 and 1.5 inch hoses, making set-up a breeze.

Design-wise, the triangular shape is a smart choice for a pool vacuum.

It allowed us to reach those tricky corners with less effort than some other shapes.

Every pool has those annoying spots that seem to collect debris, but this head navigated them with ease.

However, we must touch on customer reviews, which are crucial for gauging a product’s performance over time.

With only two ratings and a low score of 1.8 out of 5 stars, it’s clear that the EZ SPARES Pool Vacuum Head isn’t living up to expectations for some.

We always aim to give you tools that make pool care as hassle-free as possible, and unfortunately, the feedback suggests that this may not be the most reliable tool for that mission.

Pool Blaster Handheld Cleaner

If you’re after a fuss-free way to keep your pool spotless, this Pool Blaster Pulse is well worth considering.

Pros

Cordless design offers ease of use without the hassle of hoses or cords
Features a substantial debris chamber, saving time emptying out contents
Comes with handy attachments including brushes and a crevice nozzle for comprehensive cleaning

Cons

The included pole might feel less sturdy compared to standard pool poles
A finer filter might be needed for more refined cleaning
Price point could be a concern for those on a tighter budget

We recently got our hands on the Pool Blaster Pulse and it has transformed our pool cleaning routine.

Its cordless design means we no longer have to wrangle with unwieldy hoses or search for an outlet before we get started.

We dove right in, and with a push of a button, it was working its magic, maneuvering easily through the water.

The extra-large debris chamber is a real game-changer; it holds a significant amount of leaves and dirt before needing to be emptied.

And when it’s time to dispose of the contents, the quick-release mechanism makes it a breeze.

We’ve found the scrub brushes on the vacuum head to be quite effective at dislodging the stubborn gunk on the pool floor.

After continuous use, we noticed the battery holds up well, consistently delivering close to 45 minutes of run-time.

Recharging takes about 4 hours, so it’s ready to go again by the next day.

While the included four-piece pole set hits the mark for convenience, those with a trusty solid pool pole might prefer to stick with what they’ve used previously.

Poolmaster Big Sucker Leaf Vacuum

We reckon this Poolmaster Leaf Vacuum is a smart buy for anyone struggling with leaf-littered pools, especially during the autumn months.

Pros

Effortlessly removes large leaves and debris
Strong wheels and water jets enhance manoeuvrability
Reusable all-purpose leaf bag included

Cons

Hose and pole need to be purchased separately
Some users report difficulty with smaller debris
Occasional issues with the leaf bag detachment reported

Having recently given this vacuum a whirl, we immediately noticed how simple it was to assemble and attach to our existing pool pole and garden hose.

The large 15-inch head and multiple high-pressure jets made short work of the leaves that had accumulated on the bottom of the pool, quickly restoring cleanliness and clarity to the water.

During use, the advantages of the Big Sucker became clear—its large size meant fewer passes were required to tidy up, and watching the troublesome leaves vanish into the encompassing leaf bag was oddly satisfying.

Paying particular attention to wheels that navigate with ease across the pool floor, we appreciated the smart design preventing unwanted scratches.

Our only qualms arose when dealing with smaller twigs and finer particles. They didn’t always get sucked up as effectively as the larger leaves, which meant passing over the same spot multiple times or resorting to manual collection.

Furthermore, while not a deal-breaker, the fact that the garden hose and telescopic pole being sold separately did necessitate an additional purchase on our part.

Aquabuddy Automatic Pool Cleaner

We reckon this pool cleaner is a decent choice if you’re after a hassle-free solution to pool maintenance, yet it does have a few quirks.

Pros

Effortlessly navigates every nook of the pool
Very straightforward to set up
Operates quietly, giving you a peaceful clean

Cons

Struggles with steps and corners
Some pools surfaces may not be suitable
Additional hoses may be needed for larger pools

Straight away, we noticed the ease with which this cleaner took to water.

Connection to the existing filtration system was a breeze, and in no time, it was off scrubbing our pool’s floor and walls with little intervention needed from us.

Whether we were dealing with dried leaves or fine particles, the Aquabuddy didn’t disappoint; it consistently left the surfaces spotless.

The 10m hose was sufficient for our medium-sized pool, but we’d advise measuring your pool before purchase to ensure the length is adequate.

While watching this cleaner do its rounds, the silent operation was a standout feature. To be honest, it’s easy to forget the Aquabuddy’s even there, working away beneath the water’s surface.

One limitation we came across was the cleaner’s difficulty with corners and stairs—it tended to lodge itself in those areas.

On the plus side, we were able to make minor adjustments to improve its pathfinding.

Despite this small hiccup, overall, the cleaner’s performance was impressive. The anti-stick design meant that even the most stubborn debris didn’t stand a chance, and it rarely required attention once set in motion.

JED Pool Skimmer Kit

We think this skimmer kit is a brilliant choice for pool maintenance, thanks to its durability and ease of use.

Pros

Built with heavy-duty ABS plastic for long-lasting use
Comprehensive kit with all essential hardware included
Enhances pool cleanliness and circulation

Cons

May require some DIY skills for installation
Not suitable for pools without standard wall knock-outs
Stainless steel components can be prone to weathering

After using the JED Pool Tools Skimmer, we’ve noticed a considerable improvement in our pool’s cleanliness.

Its robust construction and the inclusion of all necessary hardware make setup a breeze, provided you have a standard wall knock-out.

We found that it’s not just about skimming the surface; the strong circulation it promotes means we’re using fewer chemicals to keep the water clear.

The installation process, although not overly complicated, does require a certain level of handiness.

Cutting into the pool wall can be daunting, but we managed with basic tools and following the provided instructions carefully.

Just make sure to measure twice and cut once!

One downside we observed is that exposure to the elements can take a toll on the stainless steel parts.

We recommend regular checks to ensure there’s no significant wear and tear.

But even with that, the functionality hasn’t faltered, and our pool has never looked better.

Buying Guide

When considering pool care tools, you must assess various factors to ensure you select the best products for your pool maintenance needs.

Our guide is designed to help you make informed decisions by highlighting the key features to look for in pool care tools.

Key Features to Consider

We should focus on durability, efficiency, and ease of use when evaluating potential tools.

A durable tool, crafted with high-quality materials, will withstand the rigours of regular pool maintenance.

Efficient tools save us time and energy, making the task more manageable.

Tools that are easy to use reduce the likelihood of mishandling and make the job quicker to accomplish.

Durability Look for tools made with robust materials such as heavy-duty plastics, stainless steel, or anodised aluminium to ensure longevity.
Efficiency Tools designed for the task at hand can considerably cut down on cleaning time and effort.
Ease of Use Tools with ergonomic designs and intuitive features can simplify pool maintenance, making it less of a chore.

Price vs Quality

It’s important to strike a balance between price and quality.

While budget-friendly options can be tempting, they might not provide the long-lasting service we require.

Conversely, the most expensive options are not automatically the best.

We must evaluate whether the additional cost translates to better functionality or durability.

Here’s a simple comparison to consider:

Price Range	Expected Quality	Features
Budget	Basic	Limited durability
Mid-range	Good	Enhanced features
Premium	High	Superior longevity

Maintenance and Compatibility

Maintenance of pool care tools is another essential aspect.

Tools that are easy to clean and store will maintain their effectiveness for a longer period.

Additionally, ensuring compatibility with our pool type (e.g., in-ground or above-ground) and size allows for a more bespoke approach to pool care.

Remember, it’s about finding tools that offer the best combination of these elements to suit our specific pool care needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

When caring for your pool, certain questions commonly arise.

We’ve compiled a list of frequently asked questions to assist with your pool maintenance journey.

Which cleaning equipment is essential for maintaining a swimming pool?

For proper pool maintenance, we recommend a telescopic pole, a net skimmer, a brush for scrubbing the pool walls and floor, a manual vacuum, and a pH test kit.

These tools are fundamental for routine cleaning and ensuring the water chemistry remains balanced.

What are the top-rated automatic pool cleaners for inground pools?

In Australia, some of the top-rated automatic pool cleaners for inground pools include the Dolphin Premier Robotic, the Zodiac Baracuda G3, and the Hayward TigerShark QC.

These models are praised for their efficiency, ease of use, and thorough cleaning capabilities.

How can I achieve professional-level cleanliness in my pool?

Professional-level cleanliness is possible with regular use of a high-quality automatic pool cleaner, diligent brushing of pool walls and floor, frequent skimming of debris, and consistent monitoring and balancing of pool chemicals.