Zodiac / Baracuda MX8 Suction-Side Pool Cleaner
High-Performance Cleaning with Dual Cyclonic Suction and Advanced maX-Drive Navigation
Product Overview
The MX8 is a high-performance suction-side cleaner for in-ground pools. It uses the pool’s filtration system to operate and requires no additional power source. It features dual cyclonic suction, maX-Drive navigation, and a wide vacuum path, offering strong cleaning capability with up to 30% less flow requirement compared to its competitors.
Key Features
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Dual Cyclonic Suction: Enhances vacuum power, draws in larger debris, and reduces clogging.
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maX-Drive Navigation (X-Trax): Dual gear/track system enables agile movement, wall climbing, and corner coverage.
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Flex-Power Turbine: Maintains performance even at lower flow rates—great for solar, two-speed, or variable-speed pumps.
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Adjustable Vacuum Inlet: Remove inlet plug for larger debris pickup.
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Twist-Lock Hose + Quick Connect: Covers 39 ft (≈12 m) with secure, leak-free attachments.
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FlowKeeper Valve: Regulates suction flow for optimal performance, especially when connected to a single skimmer.
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Optional Scrubbing Brushes (MX8 Elite variant): Actively scrub stuck-on debris.
Technical Specs
Feature | Specification |
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Pool Compatibility | In-ground pools—concrete, tile, vinyl, fiberglass |
Connection Method | Skimmer or 1½″ vacuum line |
Flow Requirement | ~22 GPM (~2250 RPM pump speed) |
Navigation | maX-Drive with X‑Trax track system |
Hose Length | 39 ft (12 m) twist-lock sections |
Adjustable Inlet | Factory-installed inlet insert (for small debris) |
Dirty/Leaf Inlet Path | Wide vacuum inlet for larger debris |
Warranty | 1 year standard |
Flow Regulation | Built-in FlowKeeper™ valve |
Surface Coverage | Floors, walls, waterline |
Dimensions & Weight
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Product Dimensions: ~40″ L × 9.5″ W × 18″ H (102 × 24 × 46 cm)
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Weight: ~17.5 lb (8 kg)
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Cleaned Path Width: ~36″ (91 cm) wide
Why It Stands Out
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Energy Efficient: Designed to work on low-flow pumps, saving up to 30% on energy.
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Robust Cleaning Coverage: Wide inlet and maX-Drive navigation ensure thorough coverage of floors, walls, and waterline.
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Simple Debris Management: Quick-connect hoses and adjustable inlet allow readiness for both leaves and finer debris.
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Reliable Build: Features durable X‑Trax tracks, twist-lock hose, FlowKeeper valve, and optional scrubbing brushes.
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Wide Pool Coverage: According to The Spruce, it “never overturned even when attempting to climb curved steps” and achieved full floor, wall, and waterline cleaning.
Summary
The Zodiac/Baracuda MX8 is a top-tier suction-side cleaner offering powerful cyclonic suction, smart maX‑Drive navigation, and a user-friendly, energy-efficient design. Ideal for in-ground pools where you want reliable, hands-off cleaning using existing filtration — with minimal setup and maximum coverage.