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A popular model, the Polaris Vac-Sweep 380 is often picked by in-ground pool owners for two reasons. The first is the convenience offered by its debris storage system, which gathers the dirt in a chamber prior to the filter and thus increases the filter’s lifespan. The second one has to do with the large opening which allows big debris like leaves, pebbles, or acorns to pass through. We may also add that it has a low power consumption rate, so it is pocket-friendly as well.
If you want to keep the pool clean with no effort on your part, check out the best robotic pool cleaners before you leave as these products generally fare better than pressure-side cleaners.
Cleaning Performance
It is provided with 3 wheels that allow it to turn easily underwater and perform operations like scrubbing, vacuuming, or sweeping. The mechanism is put to movement by a motor-belt system, which is responsible for helping the unit climb the walls and stairs of the pool. Additionally, the triple-jet feature makes it faster than its competitors and, thus, reduces the time it needs to spend cleaning. Some of its features are:
- Superior Suction Power – This allows it to vacuum large leaves, pebbles, and so on
- Filter Bag – The dirt is further collected in the large-capacity bag, which is quite great because it helps extend the duration of your pool filtration system
- Back-up Valve – It ensures that it will perform a continuous cleaning by freeing it in case it gets cornered
Design and Accessories
Being a pressure-side unit, it looks a little different if we compare it to a robotic pool cleaner, but still highly efficient. The dimensions of the unit are 9.8 x 20 x 22.5 inches and it weighs 16.1 pounds. Furthermore, it comes with a 31-foot hose kit and a deck or wall mount. Some of its characteristics are:
- Wheels – It has a unique 3-wheel design that will allow it to glide on any type of surface
- Filter – It has a large opening which means that it can pick up leaves, acorns, and pebbles
- Bag – Is stronger due to the dual jet vacuum
Specifications Sheet
| Polaris Vac-Sweep 380 specs | |
|---|---|
| Pool Suitability | In-ground pools |
| Floor Suitability | Gunite, Vinyl, Fiberglass, Pebble and Tile |
| Power Cord Size | 31 feet |
| Filtration | 3 Venturi Jets |
| Duration of Cleaning | 3 hours |
| Navigation | All-Wheel Belt Drive |
| Warranty | 1-year limited warranty |
| Check Price at Amazon | |
Ease of Use
Maintenance is made easy by the debris-capturing system, which doesn’t allow them to reach the pool’s filter. Thus, all debris and particles are filtered by the bag and the risk of the pump basket getting clogged with acorns, for example, is considerably reduced. Additionally, as the filter bag is generous, the cleaning process can reach its end without requiring you to remove the bag and empty it. You will do need to check at the belt regularly though and replace it when it has run its course.
Operating Costs
An important fact you should consider is the operating cost. So, regarding this model, you have to know it’s not the most energy-efficient unit on the market because the optional booster pump will increase electricity usage. However, you shouldn’t worry too much about this aspect because you won’t see a significant change in your energy bills. There’s still the advantage that with the help of this unit you will be able to reduce filter cleanings up to 80% since it features great suction power.
Warranty and Support
The manufacturer of this product offers a limited 1-year warranty against any defects in material and workmanship. However, it doesn’t cover items like tires, bags, or sweep hoses that are worn out by normal use or improper installation. Furthermore, the frame is warranted for a period of 10 years. At the same time, the warranty doesn’t apply if the failure is caused by improper handling or usage, improper installation or storage, freezing, and so on. Also, the manufacturer specifies the fact that the warranty doesn’t cover the damage on vinyl liners which may be caused by certain objects in the pool, including the automatic pool cleaner. As for the support, the cleaner comes with operational instructions, and the customer support will be at your disposal for any additional questions.
Final Thoughts
You can confidently use it in your pool for all types of cleaning operations, including scrubbing, washing, and filtering. It is perfect for picking up big debris due to the wide opening, while the high-capacity filter bag allows for a complete cleaning cycle. However, you will have to buy the booster pump independently in order to get it working at the optimal power, and this will be a considerable additional cost. You must decide if you are willing to spend the money, but, when analyzing the benefits and drawbacks, remember to consider the low power consumption it features.
