An in-floor cleaning system is one of the most asked-about upgrades for new concrete pools. It keeps the pool cleaner with less effort and gets rid of the hose, cord or robot sitting in the water. But it is not the right choice for every pool. Here is how it works and how to decide.
What is an in-floor pool cleaning system?
An in-floor cleaning system is built into the pool itself. Small pop-up nozzles are set into the pool floor and steps. When the pump runs, the nozzles push water across the floor and walls in a set pattern, moving dirt and debris towards the drains so the filtration system can catch it.
At Aqua Living Pools we install the Paramount In-Floor Cleaning System as an optional upgrade on new custom concrete pools.
The benefits
- Less manual cleaning. The system cleans the floor and walls automatically, so you spend less time vacuuming and brushing.
- Nothing floating in the pool. No cleaner hose or robot cord, so the pool always looks ready to swim in.
- Better circulation. Moving water through the whole pool helps distribute chemicals and heat more evenly.
- Designed in, not added on. Because it is planned with the pool shape, plumbing and equipment, it works with the design rather than around it.
The trade-offs
- It has to be planned before construction. The nozzles and plumbing go in when the pool shell is built, so it is very hard to add later.
- It costs more upfront than a suction or robotic cleaner.
- It is not essential. If budget is the main priority, a good robotic cleaner does a solid job.
Is it worth it?
An in-floor system is usually worth it if:
- You are building a new concrete pool and want the cleanest look possible
- You would rather swim than maintain the pool
- Your pool is a feature of the home and visible from inside, where a robot in the water would spoil the view
- You are building near trees, or in a leafy area of the hinterland, where debris builds up quickly
It is usually less worth it for small plunge pools on a tight budget, or for pools where a robotic cleaner is easy to manage.
In-floor cleaning is one of our specialties. You can see it in projects such as our Helensvale pool and spa, and read more on our in-floor pool cleaning page.
Frequently asked questions
Can I add an in-floor cleaning system to an existing pool?
Generally no. The system is plumbed into the pool structure during construction, so it needs to be included in the design of a new pool.
Does an in-floor system replace the filter?
No. It works with your pump and filtration system, moving debris to where the filter can catch it.
Which in-floor system does Aqua Living Pools use?
We install the Paramount In-Floor Cleaning System on selected new custom concrete pools.
Thinking about in-floor cleaning for your new pool? We can talk it through at your free on-site visit and show you how it fits into your design in our 3D design studio.
