Outstanding performance with simple operation
The Dolphin Oasis Z5i pool cleaner is one of Maytronics premium models, and as such, comes with loads of great features and certainly earns its place among the best robotic pool cleaners on the market.
Its innovative technology means that is it will happily be left alone to do its thing (cleaning your pool) but you can still have complete control using the accompanying app should you need any spot cleaning of a specific area.
If you have a pool that is under 50 feet (the maximum for this model) then keep reading, this may well be the pool cleaning robot for you.
Overview
Coming up in this Dolphin Oasis Z5i review
Affiliate disclosure: The links to tours or accommodation in this post are affiliate links. This means if you purchase after following one of these links, I make a small commission at no cost to yourself. Think of it like a win-win.
The two-minute review
If you are looking for a pool cleaning robot that offers fantastic performance for minimal effort, this could well be your model. While it is certainly not the cheapest robotic pool cleaner, the features and performance you will be getting from the Dolphin Oasis Z5i, match the financial outlay.
The Dolphin Z5i packs powerful scrubbing brushes and large cartridge filters. These work in conjunction with forceful suction that attacks debris, dirt, and other materials in a powerful circular motion leaving your pool squeaky clean. While this is happening. the patented anti-tangling swivel cable allows the device to move freely in the pool with no interruption.
Finally, we love the simplicity of the Dolphin Z5i. While there is a lot of technology under the hood, it is kept simple for the user. The single button means you can turn it on, drop it in and let it do its thing. But, if you would like more control, you can download the MyDolphin App and set automatic weekly schedules.
Efficient operation
The Dolphin Oasis Z5i features powerful yet efficient dual drive motors that mean the running cost of cleaning cycles is just 5 cent per hour.
Single button operation
It is effortless to use since it has a single button plug; thus, you only need to drop and leave the robot to clean your pool. It is efficient and cleans up to 50 feet deep.
Anti-tangling swivel cable
The anti-tangling swivel cable allows the device to move freely in the pool with no interruption and ensures effective cleaning sessions.
Bluetooth Connectivity
Via the MyDolphin app you can connect directly to the Oasis Z5i so should there be any spots that need extra cleaning, you’re in complete control of your robot.
Let’s take a closer look at the Dolphin Oasis Z5i
How it works
The Dolphin Z5i comes with packed with a power supply which you plug into an outlet and then the pool cleaning robot into the power supply. Once connected, it is as simple as dropping it in and letting it go to work.
When in the pool, the robot uses Maytronics patented CleverClean Technology to map your pool and work out the most efficient way to clean before setting to the task of filtering the dirt and debris from your pool.
The sensors will detect the dimensions of your pool and estimate with precision the amount of time it will take to clean it. It also spots the areas where dirt is hiding and tries to balance the areas that need the most cleaning.
Once underway, the Dolphin Oasis Z5i moves across the pool floor while on its belly, the powerful scrubbing brushes dislodge all the dirt and debris in the pool ready to be sucked up into the filters.
But it won’t just do the floor, the robot is able to climb the sides to ensure that the walls are kept clean and will even do submerged steps and the waterline.
One of the outstanding features that we love about the Z5i is the anti-tangling cord, this ensures that it just keeps on going without getting all tied up, something that some models of robotic pool cleaners have been known to do.
But to be fair, these features are all to be expected for the price.
When the program has finished, the pool cleaning robot will come to the surface of the pool for you to remove. The unit weighs about 30 lbs, so quite a lot, but even more with the water that will be inside. While it features what Maytronics like to call quick drain technology, it is still a hefty weight to have to remove.
Once out of the pool, we’re sorry to inform you that there is a small amount of manual effort required to clean the filters. It is important to empty and rinse the filters between uses to keep the robot in good condition. Luckily this has been thought of and they are conveniently placed with top access so just pop the lid and rinse.
Other Dolphin Z5i features
Another smart feature of the pool cleaner is the ability to program a schedule. Using the My Dolphin app you can set it to clean early in the morning or late at night so your pool is always ready when you want it to be.
When comparing the Z5i to the Dolphin Premier, another one of Maytronics most popular models, the app is one of the stand out differences.
Ease of use
A big question that many pool owners looking to buying an automatic pool vacuum is whether it will be easy to use and if the instructions of use are straightforward.
As we have already alluded to, there should be no concerns with the Dolphin Oasis Z5i pool cleaner. The machine comes pre-assembled and once you receive your package, all you need is to pull it out of the box, plug it in and lower into the pool.
Performance
Overall the Dolphin Oasis Z5i receives a lot of great feedback from many users across the internet. One particular buyer with a large swimming pool notes that it is very cost effective as she no longer has to hire pool cleaners and unlike manual cleaners, you don’t have to run your pump.
“It scrubs all the dirt and the algae from the bottom and walls of the pool as well as water line. It sucks all the dead bugs and leaves. It’s a super mover saver that does not disappoint.”
The commercial motors, split brushes, Bluetooth connection, warranty, and large filters are some of the features that impress when it comes to performance. However, there is some feeling that the Bluetooth connection is typically limited to a small area.
Perhaps, for the price, Wi-Fi would be a better option since you can track the pool robot even inside the house and can start the cleaner even when far from the pool.
Reliability
The inbuilt systems of the Z5i ensure that it learns and understands the shape and size of your pool leading to the most efficient cleaning routes. This, in turn, results in less wear and tear on the device and hopefully a longer life span.
However, the pool cleaners lifespan can also be affected by other factors such as the size of the pool and the amount of debris it is cleaning regularly. If you have a large pool surrounded by trees that regularly drop debris, then the machine will have to work harder and maybe lead to an increased chance of breakdown.
As it is still a relatively new model, it is hard to honestly know how long it can be expected to reliably operate. But delving into some online reviews can give us some clues.
One reviewer says:
“Awesome and reliable product, I use it daily, easy to use, I am very satisfied.”
While another says
“1 Year into owning it and still rocks! What a beast! Both screen filters and ultra fine filters are still in great shape!”.
Undoubtedly, most of the reviews about this product are positive. However, one reviewer had this to say,
“It works perfectly; however, it occasionally gets stuck on the main drain.” and another who had the same problem added, ”I called Maytronics for advice and they had nothing to offer.”
The above concerns about the drains seem to be affecting a few people, as are the concerns for the slow response of the customer service. But overall when compared with other models on the market, few come close to the Dolphin Oasis Z5i in terms of reliability, effectiveness, and practicability.
Read more customer reviews on Amazon.
Frequently asked questions
Should I remove the Styrofoam from the motor unit when unpacking?
No, do not remove, this is not packing material. These help the Dolphin with buoyancy within the pool.
Can you leave the power supply out in the weather?
The power supply is water resistant but not waterproof. It is highly recommended to cover the power supply if bad weather approaches. Certainly, do not leave the power supply in standing water or allow the power supply to be submerged in the pool.
Can you leave the Dolphin Oasis Z5i in the Water?
Yes, you can leave it in the water when not in use. However, (when adding chemicals to the pool) please remove the pool cleaner until the proper chlorine and PH balance are obtained.
Can I use my Dolphin pool cleaner with an extension cord or surge protector?
No, it is not designed to be used with an extension cord or surge protector and any damage done while using one will more than likely invalidate the warranty.
Can I use a Dolphin pool cleaner with my fiberglass or vinyl pool surface?
Yes, it is suitable to use in fiberglass or vinyl pool surfaces.
How long is the cable?
From the power supply to the robot is about 50 feet. From the base to the power outlet is around 6 feet.
Does this cleaner come with caddy?
Not included but you can order on separately. Check out the Dolphin Caddy on Amazon.
Is the caddy necessary?
No, it will happily work without it.
Conclusion of the Dolphin Z5i review
Pros
- A quality product
- Great cleaning results
- The anti-tangling cable
- Cheap to operate
- Simple to use
- Weekly Timer
- 3-year warranty
Cons
- It is not cheap
- Reports that is can get stuck on drains
- Customer service is not great
- Quite a weight to remove from pool
- Bluetooth control isn’t as good as we’d expect
The Dolphin Oasis Z5i is an incredibly useful robot that will keep your pool clean and drastically reduce (but not totally eliminate) manual pool maintenance chores. Say goodbye to dirt, debris, slimy floors, and walls in your pool and with regular maintenance, it should last up to eight years.
It is easy to use, a simple plug and play device, but bear in mind, the removal from the pool takes some effort.
The 3-year warranty is a great safety blanket for buyers that want to be sure they are getting value for money and a product that performs well,
If you are looking forward to making a considerable investment in your swimming pool, this is arguably the best pool vacuum robot that will give you value for the money.
Related Products:
- Dolphin Ultra-fine Filter Panels
- Dolphin Robotic Pool Cleaner Caddy
- Dolphin Replacement Brushes
- Spare Maytronics Tracks
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About the author
Matt is the founder of the Little Robot Shop, who has spent much of the last decade hacking home cleaning with various robots and devices to make keeping his home clean as easy as possible. Not an easy task with two young children.
When not working on the Little Robot Shop website or YouTube channel, he works as technical support and product specialist for a fast-growing digital company. He does his best to get his younglings to code, which will be an essential skill in the future.
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