If you’ve ever owned a swimming pool, you know how time-consuming and labor-intensive the upkeep can be. Enter robotic pool cleaners – the tech-savvy solution to pool maintenance. Much like a Roomba of the deep, these automated pool cleaners chart their course, scrubbing every nook and cranny of your pool, leaving it pristine and inviting.
But as with any technology, to keep these pool robots performing at their best, proper storage’s a crucial aspect that often goes overlooked.
The importance of proper storage during the off-season for your robotic pool cleaner cannot be overstated. Good storage habits ensure the longevity of your device, maintaining its efficiency and effectiveness. After all, automated pool cleaning is an investment in time and resources; it’s only sensible to protect that investment.
In the upcoming sections, we will explore the importance of proper storage, the consequences of neglecting this critical aspect, and professional tips on how to store your pool robots best. Let’s dive in!
Why proper storage matters for robotic pool cleaners
Robotic pool cleaners, while robust, contain intricate parts and electronic components that can be sensitive to harsh conditions. Proper storage protects these parts, reducing wear and tear and minimizing the risk of mechanical or electronic failures. This simple yet critical step in pool cleaner maintenance can extend your device’s lifespan, saving you from costly repairs, replacements, or even irreversible damage.
Storing your pool cleaning robot isn’t just about tucking them away anywhere convenient. It’s about considering factors like temperature, moisture, and potential contaminants. For instance, storing the device in a cool, dry place can prevent overheating and corrosion, which are common culprits behind performance degradation.
Moreover, proper storage ensures your cleaner is ready for its next use. Following proper maintenance routines before storage – like removing debris from the brushes and ensuring the device is dry – ensures the cleaner’s effectiveness for its next cleaning cycle.
In essence, the benefits of proper storage are twofold: it not only prolongs the life of your robotic pool cleaner but also maintains its cleaning efficiency. Both of which can save you time, money, and potential headaches in the long run.
How to store robotic pool cleaners: A step-by-step guide
Storing your robotic pool cleaner is not as simple as just taking it out of the pool and stowing it away. To ensure your cleaner remains in optimal condition, there are specific steps and precautions to take. Here, we provide a detailed guide on how to store your robotic pool cleaner properly.
Step 1: Cleaning before storage
Before you store your robotic pool cleaner, it’s important to clean it thoroughly.
- Remove dirt, leaves, or other small debris from the brushes and wheels. This helps prevent wear and tear and keeps the cleaner ready for its subsequent use.
- Empty and clean the filter basket or bag. Leaving it filled with months-old debris can clog the system and lead to mold or mildew.
- Rinse the entire cleaner with fresh water. This helps remove pool chemicals that may cause corrosion or other damage over time.
Step 2: Ensure complete dryness
After cleaning, allow your cleaner to dry completely before storing. Any leftover moisture can lead to corrosion or other damage. Leave the cleaner in a well-ventilated area out of direct sunlight for a few hours to ensure it dries thoroughly, and if necessary, wipe with a microfiber towel or similar to get any last drips. Be sure to check the scrubbing brushes, as, in my experience, they are easy to miss.
Step 3: Remove or disconnect batteries
If your cleaner has a removable battery, it’s recommended to take it out before storage. If not, make sure it’s completely turned off or disconnected. This helps prolong the battery life and prevent any potential damage.
Step 4: Coil the power cable properly
The power cable is an often-overlooked part of a robotic pool cleaner. Make sure to coil it loosely to prevent any kinks or strains. A cable caddy can be a handy accessory to organize your power cord.
Step 5: Use a storage caddy or cover
Store your cleaner on a storage caddy or with a protective cover if possible. These accessories, such as the Dolphin Universal Caddy, help protect your cleaner from dust, moisture, and accidental damage.
Step 6: Store in a cool, dry place
Finally, store your cleaner in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight or extreme temperatures. This helps preserve the longevity of the device and its components.
By following these steps and precautions, you ensure your robotic pool cleaner remains in excellent condition, ready to get back to work whenever needed. In the next section, we’ll delve deeper into the accessories that can aid you in this storage process.
Potential issues resulting from improper storage of robotic pool cleaners
Proper storage of robotic pool cleaners may seem like a minor detail, but neglecting this aspect can lead to many problems. Understanding these potential issues is crucial in appreciating why correct storage is not just an afterthought but an integral part of owning and caring for your automated pool cleaner.
- Damage to pool cleaner components – Improper storage can lead to premature wear and tear on your robotic pool cleaner. This could mean frequent and costly replacements of parts. For example, the robot’s brushes could become misshapen if stored improperly, reducing its ability to scrub your pool’s surfaces effectively. Similarly, the drive tracks can wear out, hindering the cleaner’s movement in the pool.
- Internal component issues – Robotic pool cleaners are complex devices with numerous internal components working together seamlessly to keep your pool clean. Storing your cleaner in conditions that are too hot or cold or where there’s a risk of water intrusion could damage these components. This can lead to performance issues or even total device failure.
- Battery life reduction – Most modern pool robots are equipped with rechargeable batteries. If stored in inappropriate conditions, the battery lifespan could be significantly reduced. Not only does this mean your cleaner won’t last as long during its cleaning cycles, but you could also find yourself replacing expensive batteries more often.
- Increased maintenance – If you fail to store your robotic pool cleaner correctly, you may face more frequent and more intensive maintenance. This consumes time and resources and may lead to more significant issues if maintenance tasks are performed improperly or overlooked.
- Voided warranty – Finally, improper pool cleaner storage can void the manufacturer’s warranty. If your cleaner gets damaged due to incorrect storage, the cost of repair or replacement may come out of your pocket.
So, as you can see, properly storing your robotic pool cleaner is an important task. Improper storage could lead to damage, reduced efficiency, voided warranty, and increased costs over time. The following section will discuss the right way to store your pool robot, ensuring its longevity and optimal performance.
Common mistakes made while storing robotic pool cleaners and how to avoid them
Properly storing a robotic pool cleaner may seem straightforward, but there are common mistakes even experienced pool owners can make. Understanding these pitfalls and how to avoid them can make a big difference in extending the lifespan of your pool robot.
Leaving the cleaner in the pool:
One of the most common mistakes is leaving the robotic pool cleaner in the pool when it’s not in use. This can expose the cleaner to unnecessary wear and tear and damage its components over time. Always remove the cleaner from the pool after each cleaning cycle to avoid this.
Ignoring the power supply
The power supply is a vital part of your robotic pool cleaner. Leaving it exposed to the elements can lead to electrical faults and potential safety hazards. Always disconnect the power supply and store it in a dry place away from direct sunlight.
Incorrect coiling of the cable
Incorrectly coiling the cleaner’s cable can lead to tangles and kinks, damaging the cable over time. Ensure the cable is loosely coiled and stored to prevent unnecessary strain.
Not cleaning before storage
Storing the cleaner without cleaning it first can lead to a buildup of debris and chemicals, which can affect the cleaner’s performance and potentially cause damage. Always clean your pool cleaner thoroughly before storing it away.
Storing in inappropriate conditions
Storing your cleaner in places with extreme temperatures or high humidity can lead to premature wear and tear. Always store your cleaner in a dry and cool place, away from direct sunlight or freezing conditions.
Additional resources and reading for robotic pool cleaner storage
While this article provides comprehensive guidance on the importance of properly storing a robot pool cleaner, there’s always more to learn. Below are some recommended resources that offer a wealth of additional information. These will help you get the most out of your robotic pool cleaner, ensuring it remains in tip-top shape and continues to provide the efficient and effective pool maintenance you’ve come to expect.
- Robotic pool cleaner manufacturer guides: Each robotic pool cleaner comes with a manufacturer’s guide that offers detailed instructions on care and maintenance. It’s crucial to read and follow these guidelines, as they are designed for your particular model.
- Online forums and discussion boards: Websites like PoolSpaForum and Trouble Free Pool host many discussions on pool care and maintenance. These forums can offer real-world insights and practical tips from other pool owners.
- YouTube tutorials: Video tutorials can be beneficial for visual learners. Channels like Swim University offer a range of videos on pool care, including detailed guides on maintaining and storing robotic pool cleaners.
- Pool maintenance blogs: Blogs like In The Swim and Swim University offer a wealth of articles on all aspects of pool care. These can be particularly useful for understanding the nuances of robotic pool cleaner maintenance and storage.
- Pool equipment retailers: Retailers such as Leslie’s Pool Supplies sell robotic pool cleaners and accessories and offer resources and expert advice on their care and maintenance.
Final thoughts on robotic pool cleaner storage
In conclusion, properly storing your robotic pool cleaner cannot be overstated. This ensures the longevity and efficiency of your cleaner and guarantees a sparkling clean pool ready for you to enjoy at any time.
To recap:
- Proper storage is crucial to prevent unnecessary wear and tear on your robotic pool cleaner. Remember to remove the cleaner from the pool after each cleaning cycle.
- Avoid common storage mistakes, such as leaving the cleaner in the pool, ignoring the power supply, incorrectly coiling the cable, not cleaning before storage, and storing in inappropriate conditions.
- Use expert storage tips to store your cleaner in a dry, cool place, away from direct sunlight or freezing conditions.
- Invest time in further reading and resources. From manufacturer’s guides to online forums, YouTube tutorials, and pool maintenance blogs, there’s a wealth of information to help you make the most out of your cleaner.
Remember, your robotic pool cleaner is a significant investment in your home and lifestyle. Treating it with care and respect will pay dividends in the form of a consistently clean pool and a longer lifespan for your cleaner.
As you take a dip in your sparkling clean pool, you’ll know that investing the time in proper storage and maintenance of your robotic pool cleaner was well worth it. Happy swimming, and here’s to enjoying a beautifully clean pool with less effort!
This concludes our guide on storing robotic pool cleaners. Feel free to reach out if you have any questions or anything else you’d like to learn about pool maintenance. We’re here to help make your pool ownership experience as easy and enjoyable as possible.
Great info I work on a lot of pools myself. Its always good to read about people that know what their talking about when it comes to the upkeep of their pool.