Tag: Swimming Pool

While there is no doubt these devices make it easy to clean a swimming pool, it is difficult to find a robotic pool cleaner that will give perfect results, there will almost always be a little bit of manual work required. When searching for the best robotic pool cleaner, it’s important that you know what to look for so you can spend less time cleaning the pool and more relaxing by it. In this post, we will have a long hard look at some of the top pool robots currently on the market and then a complete buyer's guide, including what to look for, maintenance advice and other FAQs. Top picks What is a Robotic Pool Cleaner? Surprisingly, robotic pool cleaners have actually existed since the early 1960s. These units are known as “robotic” since they contain motors, sensors, and chips. However, it's only relatively recently they have been becoming commercially viable and owning an automatic pool vacuum is more popular. Here’s how they work. A transformer is plugged into the wall outlet, and a cord from the robotic cleaner plugs into the outlet of the transformer for safety. The cleaners, vacuum the pool, and the drive motor, moves the robot cleaner across the pool’s underwater surfaces. Some units can also climb up the sides of the pool to the water line and scrub the pool’s tiles. The best robotic pool cleaners usually have computer chips or sensor bars that automatically adjust to the contours of the pool’s floor or walls. If you want the convenience, you can use robotic cleaners with remote control, this will allow you to sit in comfort to steer the machine. When selecting a robotic pool cleaner, you need to choose between an above-ground or in-ground cleaner as they are quite different. Above-ground pools are cheaper and more portable, but they’re also less durable and stable than underground pools. So in this day and age where robots are making life easier all around the house, why not let them look after your pool too! Best Above Ground Robotic Pool Cleaners 1. Escape by Dolphin The Sleekly designed Dolphin Escape above ground pool cleaner keeps your pool’s floor clean of dirt and algae using robotic scanning to optimize cleaning patterns. The Hypergrip continuous tracks ensure great traction during cleaning while the scrubbing brush removes hard contaminants and can be used on any pool surface including vinyl. Dolphin Escape key features Power/Motor The unit includes a 24-volt motor. Movement The lightweight cleaner weighs 14 lbs. and rolls on tracks instead of wheels for better traction. The 40 ft. power cord ensures it is capable of cleaning many sizes of pool. Cleaning/Debris There’s a Hyperbrush Active Scrubbing brush that gets rid of tough-to-remove contaminants in the pool. It comes with an over-sized debris cartridge that stores a maximum of 60% more debris than earlier models so you don’t have to empty them so often. Tech SmartNav 2.0 Robotic Scanning helps to optimize the unit’s cleaning patterns. Features/Extras This, one of the best dolphin pool cleaners for above ground pools, offers efficient cleaning at an affordable price and is also covered by a 1-year warranty. PROS High-capacity debris cartridgeDesigned specifically for above-ground poolsRuns on tracks not wheelsWeighs only 14 lbs. CONS Doesn’t always clean the pool floor thoroughlyDoesn’t ultra-filter the waterOccasional Shipping/defects have been reported 2. E10 Robotic Pool Cleaner by Dolphin One of our favorite Dolphin robots, the E10 by Dolphin is an easy-to-use drop and go robotic pool cleaner that offers excellent value. The simple operation is a big plus, as well as the large filter cartridges that are easy to access and clean. The above-ground robotic pool cleaner uses smart navigation to clean your pool quickly and efficiently. If you would like to know more about this model, be sure to check out our full Dolphin E10 review Dolphin E10 key features Power/Motor There’s one on/off button that saves time and energy. This unit is 8x more energy-efficient than pressure and suction type cleaners so you can save on energy bills. Movement The robotic cleaner is 8x more efficient than other types of cleaner on the market. Cleaning/Debris The unit removes both large visible debris and small debris such as sand, dirt, and algae. The active brushing action provides 2 times the scrubbing power for cleaning swimming pool floors. There’s also a large filter basket that’s easy to clean/access. This only takes minutes to rinse/reload. Tech Smart Navigation makes it easier to scan/clean your pool in as little as 1.5 hrs. It contains a new CleverClean tech, this helps to make sure the swimming pool floor is cleaned as efficiently as possible by avoiding any obstacles in the pool. Features/Extras The Dolphin E10 is a lightweight, easy plug & play, above-ground robotic pool vacuum. The unit is covered by a 2-year guarantee to help protect your investment. PROS Removes tiny debrisEasy to cleanVery energy efficientSimple one on/off button featureCleverClean tech scans and cleans the pool floor CONS Might not start up regularlyMight need weights to keep it downSome consider the previous version better 3. AJET122 by Aquabot This Aquabot AJET122 Pool Rover robotic pool cleaner can clean pools of all shapes and up to 50-ft. of surface area. It’s designed for above-ground pools up to 50 feet and can also clean floor/cove/wall intersections with a minimum radius of 6 in. AJET122 key features Movement The improved running tread, provides better traction. This cleaner is also equipped with an adjustable axle pin to help maximize coverage and prevent cable tangling Cleaning/Debris The Aquabot can remove debris as small as 2 microns. It is fitted with pumps giving it a filtering capacity of 80+ gallons per minute to remove more dirt and debris from your pool. This unit uses two brushes to loosen dirt and debris for better cleaning action, with a filter basket for fine dirt and debris. The unit filters 80 to 85 gallons per minute. Tech The S2-50 uses in-house Hydrorobotic technology to provide better cleaning with fewer parts or repairs required. Features/Extras Aquabot pool cleaners are tested thoroughly for safety and performance. They are also approved by the national independent organization ETU to guarantee compliance. You can save up to 30% on chemical usage by having improved water circulation and quality filtration. This can also give you savings of up to 40% on pool electric usage. The robotic cleaner comes with a 50-ft. kink and EZ swivel cable. PROS Designed for above-ground poolsFree swivel cableGood overall qualityFilters 80+ gallons/minuteRemoves 2-micron particles CONS Quite slow, cleans small spaces in hoursPoor overall qualityPlastic bristle doesn’t touch pool floor 4. Pool Rover Jr. above-ground pool cleaner (APRVJR) by Aquabot Aquabot's Pool Rover Jr. is a fully automatic robotic cleaner for any shape above ground pools. The little machine packs a powerful suction performance and comes with a floating, 40-foot cable to minimize any risk of tangling. Pool Rover Jr. key features Power/Motor The unit is powered by one pump motor that provides both the jet-drive propulsion and vacuum suction and is operated by pressing one button. Movement This cleaner is designed to operate and clean in under 1 hour, any shape of above-ground pool, whether round/oval or rectangular. Cleaning/Debris The Pool Rover Jr. includes a built-in reusable filter bag that filters down to 2-microns. Features/Extras It features an adjustable axle pin to maximize coverage and avoid cable tangling. The robotic cleaner comes with 40-ft. of floating cable and a power supply transformer. PROS Removes 2-micron debrisWorks on round/rectangular poolsCleans in under 1 hr.Full automatic cleanerIncludes a floating cable CONS Needs frequent repairsIt can get corrosion on the motor casingNot built to last The best in-ground robotic pool cleaners 1. Nautilus/Nautilus CC Plus by Dolphin Dolphin is a market leader in the robotic pool cleaning industry and their Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus is one of the best-selling Dolphin robots. It's no surprise given the outstanding value it offers balancing performance vs price. The energy-efficient Nautilus features smart cleaning routes and also auto-schedule to automatically clean for you on a schedule you set. The dual scrubbing brushes perform well on tough dirt and the dual top-loading filter cartridges ensure easy maintenance and cleaning. Nautilus CC key features Power/Motor No hoses/booster pumps are required for Nautilus to provide hassle-free cleaning. The Dolphin Nautilus operates with a single button for easy cleaning of in-ground pools. Cleaning/Debris The dual scrubbing brushes remove dirt and debris better. The unit can clean the pool’s floor and walls up to 50 ft.sq. in 3 hrs. Nautilus cleans by using a cartridge filter to remove tiny dirt and debris particles. The unit is 8 times more energy-efficient than most pressure/suction cleaners. Tech Cleverclean tech uses algorithms to clean your entire pool floor more efficiently. The swivel cable tech offers easy pool cleaning, making the process easier. Features/Extras The dolphin nautilus robotic pool cleaner includes a 1-year guarantee to protect your investment. PROS 1-year guaranteeVery energy efficientDual scrubbing brushesCleans the average pool in under 3 hrs.Easy operation with one on/off button CONS Medium overall qualityCan get stuck in corners 2. Dolphin Oasis Z5i robotic pool cleaner Dolphins Oasis Z5i robotic pool cleaner is the next level up from the Nautilus. The powerful dual drive motor ensures precise movement and 360 degree pinpoint turning to make it great for even the weirdest shape of the pool. The heavy-duty scrubbing brushes leave your pool floor and falls free of debris and this model also cleans the waterline and if the smart cleaning route isn't smart enough for you and you spot debris, the Z5i can also be controlled via Bluetooth with the free app. Read our full Dolphin Oasis Z5i review Dolphin Oasis Z5i key features Power/Motor Equipped with a powerful dynamic dual drive motor for precise 360-degree pinpoint turning and great maneuverability Cleaning/Debris Powerful scrubbing brushes and oversized cartridge filters combine with maximum suction rate traps to forcefully attack tough dirt, leave and debris while also circulating the water leaving your swimming pool’s floor, walls and waterline exceptionally clean. Tech Connect your Oasis Z5i to your smartphone using Bluetooth to spot clean. Features/Extras Anti-tangling patented swivel cable allows Dolphin to move freely for maximum pool coverage, regardless of shape. The weekly scheduler allows you to set your cleaner to automatically clean your swimming pool for you- every day, every other day, or every 3rd day. PROS Effortless cleaningDual motorsLarge cartridgesLong anti-tangle swivel cord CONS Bluetooth connection requires line of siteSome have reported customer service issues 3. SharkVac robotic pool cleaner by Hayward The low-profile design and top-access filters ensure that the Hayward SharkVac pool cleaner is easy to maintain. the smart steering technology provides an efficient cleaning pattern, cleaning pool floors and coves in around 2 hours. SharkVac key features Movement The SharkVac uses smart steering tech that uses an efficient cleaning pattern. Cleaning of Debris The filter has an easy to clean top access so debris can be removed or cleaned easily by rinsing using a garden hose The unit runs separately from the filtration system. This reduces the frequency of backwash cycles. There’s also no hoses, pumps, or hookups required. It’s important to note that the SharkVac is designed to clean the swimming pool floor. Cleaning can be done in about 2 hrs. PROS Clean pool in about 2 hrs.Filter is easy to access/cleanCleans pool efficientlyEnergy efficientNo hoses or pumps required CONS Shipping/delivery issuesCan’t be used on vinylBad customer service 4. Kreepy Krauly Prowler 820 by Pentair The updated Kreepy Krauly Prowler 820 robotic pool cleaner scrubs, vacuums, and filters, cleaning most pools (including the waterline) in just two and a half hours. The Auto-reverse feature helps prevent hang-ups in corners and by steps and ladders for uninterrupted performance providing a simple, plug it in and place pool cleaning solution. Read our full Kreepy Krauly Prowler Review. Kreepy Krauly Prowler 820 key features Movement The Auto-reverse feature helps to prevent the unit from hanging-up in corners and on steps or ladders. This provides continuous performance of the robotic cleaner. Cleaning/Debris The Prowler 820 can clean by vacuum and filter the average pool in under 3 hours. The unit also helps to reduce the amount of chemicals needed in your pool and boosts the water clarity for safer swimming. Features/Extras No installation is required so you can use plug & play to operate the unit immediately. This is a self-contained cleaning/filtration system. PROS Auto-reverse feature helps prevent hang-ups in cornersOperating costs under 20 cents per dayScrubs/vacuums/filtersVery powerful cleaner CONS Doesn’t operate consistentlyIssues with power supply 5. Dolphin Sigma robotic pool cleaner If you’re looking for features, the Dolphin Sigma robotic pool cleaner packs them all. Independent tracks maintain grip even on slippery surfaces to ensure the pool floor, walls, and waterline are cleaned with precision. The smart navigation and tangle-free cord ensure easy operation while app connectivity means you can manually cover spots that may have been missed. The Sigma also boasts efficiency with the 24 volt DC motors requiring up to 87% less energy than cleaners with AC motors. Read our full Dolphin Sigma review Dolphin Sigma key features Power/Motor This unit features three powerful 24 volt DC motors which use nearly 90% less energy than previous units. Movement Sigma works like commercial robots, each track can turn in opposite directions to allow the unit to turn quickly. Cleaning/Debris Dual Filtration cartridges prevent the need to deal with messy bags. The robot is designed to clean the entire swimming pool including all in-water pool surfaces including the tile to waterline area. Tech This unit is a good alternative to the dolphin nautilus plus, due to its gyroscope-enabled feature that enables it to act like a commercial robot. The Dolphin Sigma can be programmed to clean automatically at any time or frequency you require such as daily, weekly or when required. It also has a SmartPhone Drive via Bluetooth Remote Control option so you can download the iOS/Android app, then operate the robotic cleaner by using your smartphone. Features/Extras The in-house tangle-free swivel includes 360-degree rotation to prevent all hose tangles. The robotic cleaner is covered by a 3-year warranty to protect your investment. PROS Bluetooth remote controlFast pool cleaningDual filtration cartridge3x 24 volt RPM motors CONS Can get stuck on drainsApp not very effectiveMight stop running after hours 6. Sport Robotic in-Ground pool cleaner (F9550) by Polaris The Polaris 9550 is a 4-wheel drive robotic cleaner with Aqua-Trax tires and rear water propulsion system is suitable for pool surfaces while the 70-foot cable will ensure it can cover very large pools. The oscillating brushes scrub away stubborn dirt and stains while the Vortex Vacuum Technology allows the cleaner to pick up larger debris quickly while maintaining maximum suction. Polaris F9550 key features Movement Sport can operate on all swimming pool services, this is due to its 4-wheel drive with Aqua-Trax tires. Cleaning/Debris Sport’s Vortex Vacuum Tech allows the unit to pick up large pieces of debris while not losing any suction power. You won’t have to deal with messy bags. That’s due to the big capacity filter canister. Its water propulsion system allows it to get to tight corners and under stairs easily. The unit’s brushes help to get clean off of tough dirt and stains in the pool. Tech This alternative to dolphin above ground pool cleaners includes ActivMotion Sensor tech for effective navigation even in big and free-form swimming pools. Features/Extras There’s a 7-day programmable timer, remote control, and alloy caddy for easy storage/transport. PROS Picks up large and small debrisWater propulsion system4-wheel drive cleanerProgrammable timerEasy navigation in all pools CONS Worries about durabilityNot the best cleaning performanceThe operation isn’t 100% reliable 7. Dolphin Premier robotic pool cleaner The Dolphin Premier has been around for a while now and still continues to be one of the best Dolphin pool cleaners. It is a premium robotic pool cleaner designed to automatically clean large in-ground pools up to 50 feet. Using HyperGrip rubber tracks, it stays firmly attached to the floor and walls of the pool while powerful dual scrubbing brushes attack and dislodge even the toughest dirt on the surfaces of your pool. Read our full Dolphin Premier review Dolphin Premier key features Cleaning/Debris Unlike most other pool robots, this gadget has multiple filter options for customized and optimal pool cleaning, it comes with; ultra-fine cartridge filter, fine cartridge filter, and debris bags. This means you can adapt it as necessary depending on the state of your pool. Tech This pool robot features a SmartNav scanning and navigation system for scanning and mapping your pool before deciding the most efficient cleaning route. Features/Extras The Dolphin Premier is covered by a 3-year limited warranty to protect your investment. It also comes equipped with a patented 60 ft anti-tangle swivel cable to supply power while ensuring glitch-free under-water movement. Pros Great at cleaning pool floor and wallsAnti-tangle swivel cableAdvanced navigationMultiple filter mediaNo set-up requiredA 3-year warranty Cons ExpensiveNot great at cleaning pool stepsManual mode is painfully slow 8. Paxcess automatic pool cleaner The Paxcess automatic pool cleaner is a reliable budget robot pool cleaner designed to thoroughly clean the floors and walls of swimming pools up to 50 feet. It’s lightweight with a compact design and features four scrubbing brushes for dislodging dirt, a powerful pump motor, and a large filter basket for trapping debris and circulating water. A smart navigation system ensures it smartly moves through the pool and gets every dirt particle, while a 50 ft long tangle-free power cord enables glitch-free movement. This robot is sturdily built and backed by a 2-year warranty. Read our full Paxcess robotic pool cleaner review Paxcess key features Cleaning/Debris Four high-speed PVA sponge roller brushes dislodge dirt and algae from the floor and walls of the pool. A powerful pump motor then forces the loosened dirt particles into a large top access cartridge filter where they’re locked in. Tech The Paxcess robotic pool cleaner is equipped with an advanced intelligence computer program that intelligently navigates your pool, knowing where it left off and always circles back to continue from there. You can schedule it to clean your pool using one of the 3 cleaning settings; 1-hour setting, 2-hours setting and 3-hours setting and the auto shut-off prevents the need to turn off the robot pool cleaner manually. Features/Extras The Paxcess comes with a 50 ft. anti-tangle floating cord. Pros Easy and intuitive operationHigh-speed sponge roller brushesTangle-free swivel cable Cleans both pool floor and walls Traps both large debris and fine particlesBudget-friendly2-year warranty Cons Struggles to clean the waterline Doesn’t efficiently clean the pool steps Bonus - NX2 Robotic Solar Pool Cleaner by Solar-Breeze The Solar-Breeze is a solar powered pool skimmer that will reduce the need for hand skimming and being solar powered, it requires no cords, hoses or attachments. A rear paddle powers the pool cleaner through the water, while a front paddle scoops the debris into a collection chamber. This helps to prevent debris reaching the bottom of your pool where it will decompose and promoting algae growth. the result is that less cleaning with your pool robot is required, lowering your energy costs with free and (hopefully) unlimited solar power. You can also leave Solar-Breeze on up to 23 hours a day, ensuring your pool is ready to dive in at any point of the day. NX2 key features Power/Motor The NX2 uses solar power, so it reduces the costs of standard motors on robotic pool cleaners. You can also reduce the pump operation time by a maximum of two-thirds. Cleaning/Debris The NX2 works constantly to remove dirt and debris from the pool’s surface. This is done before it’s able to sink and decay in the pool. Water goes through a mesh filter to remove dust and bugs and keep your pool cleaner. You can also use the trichlor tablets held in the chlorine tray. This helps to sanitize the pool. Features/Extras The cleaner is powered by solar energy, which provides benefits like a “green” option and lower electric bills. PROS Eco-friendlyReduces pump’s run timeEasier pool maintenanceReduces power bills CONS Questions ove durabilityReported customer service issuesFront paddle wheel is a bit flimsy Robot pool cleaner buyers guide Now that you have seen our top picks for the best pool cleaning robots currently on the market, let's delve a bit deeper in the other world of automated pool cleaning. Key features to look for in a pool robot Pool cleaner connectivity Today the Internet of Things (IoT) has been a game-changer in terms of home appliances. Some pool cleaners offer connectivity through remote control or smartphones/tablets. This provides more flexibility since you can operate the robot from a convenient place such as a beach chair. Model speed You should also consider how long a robot will take to clean your pool. Factors to consider are the total size and number of coves, steps, and ladders. Robots typically take about 2-3 hours to clean a pool and 1 hour for a “quick clean.” An X-factor to consider is the quality of the cleaning. Make sure to pick a robot that can clean the pool not only quickly and efficiently but also thoroughly. A machine that spends half its time spinning in circles isn’t really useful. Robot motor Make sure to consider various factors related to the motors. How many are there? What kind are they? How much power do they produce? These are all big questions to take up when picking a new robotic cleaner. In general, you’ll want the motor to be powerful enough yet not a power hog. Besides mains power cleaners there are solar-powered robotic pool cleaner to consider. These get 100% of their power from sunlight, so are not only an eco-friendly option but can also reduce your electric bills. Climbing Scrubbing the pool’s floor typically won’t be a problem for robotic pool cleaners. The walls are a different story. Make sure to pick a unit that’s able to climb the walls effectively and give them a good scrub. In fact, some units can even climb and scrub all the way up to the water line. Not all units are able to do this and if your cleaner does not do this then you will need to do it by hand or some other means making these cleaners not very practical. Cleaner tracks or wheels These are the main ways the programmed machines move around inside the pool. Which one should you look for? Both options can include complex systems like 4-wheel drive. What’s most important is whether the tracks or wheels provide an effective grip to the pool’s floor or walls. If they can do that, then it will improve the unit’s overall cleaning ability. For example, if the robot can move in reverse or turn on a dime, it will make cleaning more efficient. Also, be sure to check if the robots drive system is compatible with your type of pool. While most robotic pool cleaners are safe to use on vinyl pools or more delicate surfaces, it is good to confirm before you pull the trigger on your purchase. Pool navigation Automatic pool cleaners have a built-in computer that tries to “learn” the pool’s layout. It then uses algorithms to determine the most efficient path to clean the pool. It also has to watch out for obstacles like ladders and steps. This highlights the importance of picking a unit with quality navigation. This will make the pool’s cleaning faster, which is definitely a plus. If the cleaner does not have a good navigation system the robot could have problems like running into objects and even going in circles. Brand Some of the top brands include Dolphin, AquaBot, and Polaris. These are all established companies, so they’re a good option if you’re looking for solid quality and good customer support. Like other types of products watch out for robot pool cleaners from generic and off-brands. This will likely cause issues related to durability, functionality, warranties, etc.and they usually have poor customer service if any. Pool cleaner filter size You should always make sure to pick a robot cleaner with an easy-to-clean filter. This will make the process faster and easier and thus reduce down-time when you’re cleaning the pool. The filter size is another key issue and matters. What should you look for? Pick a model with a filter that’s large enough to clean your entire pool without you having to clean the filter. This will make the cleaning session more efficient. This is an issue that is just as important as the unit’s motor or connectivity, but if you have to keep cleaning the filter, it can make cleaning the pool very tedious and frustrating. Price What’s the “average” price of units like the best above ground pool robotic cleaner? If you’re looking for a residential unit, you should expect to pay about $400 to $1,300. Yes, high-end units will have bells and whistles. However, you can find solid units at both extremes of the price range. Robotic cleaners are generally more expensive than other types. That’s due to factors like their ease of use and performance. However, the higher price tag might be worthwhile if it means cleaning will be faster and easier. The top brands like Dolphin offer a wide range of different models at different price points. Make sure to consider your particular wants and needs to pick the right unit at the right price. Warranties The warranties for robotic pool cleaners tend to range from 1 to 3 years with high-end units offering longer warranties. These are sometimes comprehensive warranties that cover “everything.” However, in most cases, they’re limited warranties that only cover things like defects due to materials, manufacturing, or shipping. Always read the warranty terms & conditions, so it’s clear what it does and doesn’t cover. Vacuum pressure This typically won’t be an issue if the robot is floating and starting its work. However, if the filter bag gets full, that’s often when the vacuum loses pressure. So, look for a unit that maintains its pressure, whether the filter bag is full or empty. The pros and cons of a robotic pool cleaner PROS Circulates Water Pool cleaning robots continuously take in and expel water, which helps to circulate the pool’s water. This is critical to balance the pool’s chemicals. It boosts the overall safety of the pool water and also provides more accurate readings when you check the pH balance, for example. Removes big and small particles You can use the same unit to handle this goal while it could require several different machines or tools when you do it manually. Both big debris (e.g., acorns and leaves) and small debris (e.g., dirt and algae) should be regularly removed from your pool to keep it as clean and safe as possible. Easy to install, use and maintain These are all key factors when operating any type of pool equipment like robotic cleaners. The overall ease of use will be based on the model itself. However, robotic cleaners are generally easy to install, use and maintain. Keep in mind the initial costs will be high since the cleaners cost hundreds of dollars. While maintenance tends to be easy repairs can be quite pricey due to the mechanics and electronics built into the models. Cleaning convenience If you have lots of time and energy, then you should probably consider manually scrubbing your swimming pool. However, the task can be quite time-consuming and tiring. This is one of the main benefits of a robotic pool cleaner. You can even sit on a lounge chair and enjoy your favorite cold beverage while operating the robot via remote control. Filters water A swimming pool already has a filter, but it often works overtime to keep the pool water as clean as possible. Different conditions can influence how hard your filter has to work such as the number of people in the pool, mount of debris it collects and the climatic conditions and so on. A robotic cleaner can be very effective in filtering out unwanted debris and chemicals from your pool. This, in turn, will help to keep the water cleaner and healthier which is better for your health and enjoyment. Scrubs pool’s tile lines/walls The best robotic pool cleaners can “learn” and remember the pool’s shape. The units then use their brushes to scrub the tiles and walls, so they’re super-clean. You can even find high-end robots that clean pool ladders, which are tougher due to their shapes. CONS Built-in filter cleaning The good news is some filters are quite easy to clean and will just require you to remove them, then use a standard hose to clean the filter. Research this particular issue when considering a particular unit. The problem is the small size of the robotic pool cleaner vs. a swimming pool filter. This means you might have to clean the filter either after every use or even while you’re operating the unit. Cleaning effectiveness The effectiveness of robotic cleaners differs from model to model. Some units are very efficient at cleaning your entire pool, so it’s sparkling clean. Others might run for several hours and just tidy up a small section of your pool. This is based on several factors, but is mostly related to the robot’s quality. A high-end unit will have the latest and greatest tech and features, but will also have a sky-high price tag, so it’s an issue to consider. High price tag The price of robotic pool cleaners differs based on various factors like the brand, power, tech, features, and quality. That said, you should be prepared for a steep price and repairs. This is due to the complex tech and mechanics of today’s robotic cleaners. If you require your cleaning machine to connect to a remote control or mobile device you should expect to shell out more money. Cord length limits Robotic pool cleaners are limited based on the length of their power cords. The actual length of will affect how much area it covers. Another key factor is the power outlet location. This will affect how much cord you’ll need just to get to the pool itself. So, it’s important to consider this issue when determining which model to pick Robotic pool cleaner FAQs Why buy a robotic pool cleaner? It is recommended that you buy the best quality pool cleaners you can afford because they are very effective at removing large and small debris from your pool. These units work separately from the pool’s pump and filter units as well as being much quieter. They’re also relatively affordable and fast. These robotic cleaners can cost under-$500 and do a decent job at cleaning your pool’s floor, walls, and coves. They can also often complete the job in under 3 hrs. so you can quickly prepare for a pool party and have your pool looking great. The units are also easy to install, use, and maintain. In fact, many plug & play units require no installation at all. Simply drop the robot in the water, then let it do its job. The robot’s operation is also quite easy. Make sure to read instructions so you’ll know how to operate it properly. Routine maintenance includes cleaning the filter. This often just involves removing it from the machine, then using a standard hose to clean it out. How does a robotic pool cleaner work? A swimming pool is always equipped with a pump and filter system that circulates pool water and cleans it and lets the cleaned water back into the pool. The goal of robotic pool cleaners is to scrub the pool’s walls and floor and get rid of any dirt or debris that does not float and get sucked through the main filter system. Robotic cleaners scrub the floor and walls and some of today’s units not only scrub the pool, but also filter water at the same time. An indirect benefit of the robots is they reduce the workload and cost of the pool’s pump and filtration system. As a result, you can enjoy a cleaner pool and save money. The operating costs of the robotic cleaners are quite low with solar-powered units costing absolutely nothing to operate. Are robotic pool cleaners any good? If you’ve read pool robot reviews, you might be wondering this question if you’ve encountered some bad reviews. So, what’s the bottom line? In general, these units are just as effective as manual pool cleaners. The main benefit is the process is done automatically by using the using the unit’s built-in programs or allowing it to “learn” your pool’s size and shape. However, the degree of a robot cleaner’s effectiveness is based on various factors. Some units tend to be quite reliable while others might run around your pool for several hours and only clean a small area or worse—just move around the debris. So, it’s important to shop around for a quality unit. If a particular robot cleaner model has received mostly negative reviews, it’s a red flag, and you should probably shop around. Are robotic pool cleaners safe? This is a big question when you consider units like the best inground robotic pool cleaner. As with other electric equipment, it’s important to take certain steps to make sure the operation is as safe as possible. Here are some helpful tips to get you started: 1. Remove pool tools Before you start using the automatic pool cleaner, it’s critical to remove all pool tools since they can get stuck in the machine’s wheels and cause it to stop or move in circles. This will reduce the unit’s efficiency. 2. Check backup valve You should do this if your machine keeps getting stuck in the pool’s corners. Replace the valve if it isn’t working correctly, so you get maximum performance. 3. Check head float If this unit is cracked, then it will fill up with water. Make sure to check the float by first detaching it then, shaking it. If you hear or feel the water, then you should replace the head float immediately to improve the unit’s operation. 4. Check suction This will help to make sure debris won’t get left behind. Just put your hand a little below the water’s surface under the machine. If the suction is weak, it is most likely that the airway is clogged, or the cleaner bag is full. 5. Check full bags This is important because if it’s full, the cleaner will leave behind debris and also won’t function effectively. Check the bag before you start cleaning your pool, then check it periodically. 6. Check wheel gears If the robotic cleaner goes in circles, it will likely be related to 1+ of the wheels not working properly. So, check the wheel gears to verify they’re not worn out. If they are, you should replace them immediately. What robotic pool cleaner should I buy? If you’re looking for the best automatic pool cleaner, it really depends on various factors. Which features do you want the unit to have? How much are you willing to spend? Has a particular unit received mostly positive or negative reviews? As with other products, the term “best” is relative. However, by first considering your wants and needs it will be easier to select the unit that’s right for you. What kind of maintenance is needed for a robotic pool cleaner? Even if you pick the best inground pool cleaner, you’ll have to do some routine maintenance for the unit. One of the main ones is cleaning the filter. This highlights the need to pick an easy-clean filter that can be easily removed and washed using a hose. There are also routine checks you should do on the unit. They include the: BagSuctionWheel GearsHead FloatBackup Valve These items are relatively easy to replace, so it’s a matter of researching how to do that. On the other hand, other mechanical and electronic repairs will likely require hiring a technician. Due to the complex design of today’s units, you might have to deal with high costs for these repairs. How long do robotic pool cleaners last? It depends on various factors like the unit’s overall quality and how well you maintain it. In general, you should expect the unit to last 3-5 years and as long as 8 years. An added bonus is you’ll likely need to replace few parts. If you want to make a big investment in your pool, then consider a robotic cleaner that’s covered by a warranty. They usually range from 1-3 years but is arguably worthwhile in terms of protecting your investment. Final thoughts on the best robotic pool cleaner We’ve just reviewed some must-know info about the best robot pool cleaners on the market. This includes reviews of some of the top models, what to look for, and FAQs. All of the information can help you select an automated cleaning device for your above or in-ground swimming pool. It’s been over half a century since Florida’s (USA) Robert B. Myers invented the first electric-powered robotic pool cleaner in 1967. Today’s models are exponentially more complex with powerful motors, complex algorithms, and mobile apps. However, their goal is still to reduce cleaning time and boost swimming time! Do you have any feedback on these products or would like to make your own recommendation? Let us know in the comments.

Tag: Swimming Pool

The Best Robotic Pool Cleaner Reviews: Top 12 & Buyers Guide