No matter which model you end up investing in, all pool pumps will come with a strainer basket. This is one of the most important portions of them as besides collecting debris, it also has a direct impact on how efficiently the filter and heater will operate. If you allow the basket to stay dirty for quite some time, and leave all the debris inside, it can significantly reduce the efficiency of both the heater and the filter.
However, it can also put an unhealthy amount of stress on the motor and cause it to work harder than it needs to. Thus, this could lead to damage and a hefty repair bill for you. Due to all of this, you should check the strainer basket at least once a week.