Articles

How does the Compass Vantage self-cleaning pool system compare to other in-floor cleaning options?

A self-cleaning pool is the ultimate time-saver, giving you more time to relax and enjoy your backyard, and less time worrying about vacuuming leaves and brushing down walls. But not all in-floor cleaning systems are created equal.
 
Compass Pools, have been leaders in self-cleaning pool technology since the early ’90’s. But we understand that making the right choice isn’t about taking a company’s word for it; it’s about doing your homework.
 
So, in this article, we’ll walk you through how our Vantage self-cleaning system compares to other in-floor cleaning options on the market, and we’ll also share some helpful questions to ask any pool builder offering these systems.
 

What is a self-cleaning pool system?

A self-cleaning system uses a series of pop-up floor jets to push water and debris across the pool surface and floor, guiding it toward a drain where it is filtered out. These systems also help improve chemical circulation and water temperature distribution.
 
They’re designed to replace robotic cleaners or manual vacuums, and, when done well, make pool maintenance simple, efficient, and near effortless.
 

How Vantage stands out from the rest

There are several in-floor cleaning systems available in Australia and New Zealand, but Compass Pools’ Vantage™ system has become the most trusted and widely used, and for good reason.

Here’s what makes it different:

1. A proven track record

Compass has been building self-cleaning pools since the 1990s, and over 35,000 families across New Zealand and Australia have chosen a pool with the Vantage system built in. That makes Vantage the most widely used in-floor cleaning system in the region.
 
It’s not just a feature — it’s part of our DNA.
 

2. The highest-rated self-cleaning pool system in the market

Across ProductReview.com.au, Google reviews, and other platforms, Vantage consistently ranks as the highest-rated self-cleaning pool system.

Why? Because it works. Our customers love the low maintenance, sparkling clean results and peace of mind it delivers year after year.
 

3.Fewer jets and zero dead zones

Thanks to intelligent system design, Vantage uses fewer in-floor jets than any other system, yet still manages to clean every square inch of your pool — with no “dead zones”.
 
Other systems may rely on more jets but still leave areas untouched or poorly circulated. Vantage’s engineering delivers better coverage, more efficiently.
 

4. Faster cleaning cycles = lower running costs

Many in-floor cleaning systems take over 2 hours to complete a single cleaning cycle. Vantage is designed to complete a full cycle in under 90 minutes, reducing run time and cutting down on electricity use saving you money in the long run.
 

5. Smarter Debris Collection

One of Vantage’s unique advantages is its engineered debris collection zone. The system doesn’t just push debris around aimlessly, it creates a current that funnels leaves and dirt directly toward the in-floor drain, where they’re efficiently captured and removed.
 
By contrast, some other systems simply agitate debris without clear direction, meaning dirt takes longer to make it to the drain which can lead to longer run times and less effective cleaning.
 

6. Factory-built for long-term strength

Vantage jets are fitted into the pool shell during manufacturing, not retrofitted after delivery. This creates a more robust, long-lasting connection and ensures the system is fully integrated and protected from the start.
 
Some other systems are installed on-site, increasing the risk of poor installation or long-term wear issues.
 

Here’s some advice before you commit:

Not all self-cleaning pool systems are created equal, and not all pool builders have the same experience with them. Before choosing a system, we recommend asking the following:

  1. How long have you been offering this system and how many have you installed?
    Look for a company with a proven track record, not one that’s just started offering in-floor systems recently.

  2. Can I speak to several local customers who have the system installed?
    Talking to real customers and even seeing the system in action can give you confidence that it works and that the builder stands behind it.

  3. Is the system factory-installed or retrofitted on site?
    Factory installation ensures better integration and long-term durability. Avoid systems that are tacked on during the install.

  4. What is the average run time for a complete cleaning cycle?
    Efficiency matters. Some systems take over two hours to clean a pool. Vantage completes its cycle in under 90 minutes, saving you energy and money.

Final thoughts for anyone considering a self-cleaning pool

Choosing a pool is a big investment, and choosing the right self-cleaning system can make or break how much you enjoy it. While there are a number of systems on the market, few have the track record, efficiency, and customer satisfaction of the Vantage system which is exclusive to Compass Pools.
 
It’s trusted by thousands of families, backed by decades of local experience, and purpose-built for the way Aussies and Kiwis live.
 
If you’re considering a self-cleaning pool, we’d love to show you how Vantage works and introduce you to some local families who can share their experience firsthand.