Choosing a Pool Cleaner
What is a Booster Pump?
The booster pump is a small ¾ HP pump, with a motor and wet end but no strainer pot or basket. It is plumbed to the return line of the pool, as shown by the red line in the illustration (below). Three manufacturers make booster pumps, all of which look like or very similar to the Polaris PB4 Booster Pump in the photo. Booster pumps can be plumbed using either rigid ¾” PVC pipe or flexible hoses with threaded plastic connectors.
The benefit in this type of sweep is that you get consistent pressure to the cleaner for consistent performance.
How do I know if I have the Dedicated Pool sweep Line?
As shown by the red plumbing line in the illustration (at right), the dedicated pressure line runs from the pool return line to the Booster Pump and then from the Booster Pump to a return fitting on the pool wall.
This return fitting is of the universal type, a 1.5 inch fitting threaded on the inside to receive the Universal Wall Fitting to which automatic pool cleaners can be attached, regardless of brand or model.
Click on diagram to enlarge if needed.
What do I need to make this work?
- Booster Pump
- Dedicated Pool sweep Pressure Line
- Timer
- Booster Pump Driven Cleaner
Why choose a cleaner with a booster pump?
The Booster Pump provides consistent pressure to the cleaner for consistent performance.
Booster Pump Models
If your pool is already equipped with a dedicated booster pump for the pool sweep, you have several very good options in pool cleaners.
Available Booster Pumps include these:
Requirements:
- Dedicated Pool sweep Line
- Booster Pump
- Timer
