Maintenance Tips For The Robotic Pool Cleaner:
Since you spend a lot of money on the automatic pool cleaner, you have to purchase a model that lasts longer. So, robotic pool cleaners require a bit extra care than regular simple pool cleaners to make them work properly at their peak.
Here we have mentioned some general tips to maintain the smooth running of your pool robot.
- Take out the robot from the pool after completing the cleaning process. Submersion of the unit for a prolonged time will damage the motor and also a risk of electrical shock is associated when done swimming in this water.
- Drain out all the water thoroughly from the cleaner after taking it out. Your user manual has all the instructions that let you know how to. If not, simply browse online videos.
- A quick replacement of worn filters and brushes is compulsory for its efficient working.
- After each cycle, it is a must to clean the unit that includes brushes, and wheels of debris, along with emptying and washing the filters.
- Always store the pool robot out of direct sunlight, and protect them from the elements. If not, the power supply might damage, if exposed to torrential rain or other severe weather.
What Are The Drawbacks To Pool Robot Cleaners
As nice as they are to have for saving time and effort, there are a few cons when it comes to pool robots:
- Price: Pool robots are usually the most expensive type of automatic cleaner. The cheapest ones may be about the same price as a mid-range pressure or side-suction cleaner. However, these models dont have nearly as many features and tend to break down more often.
- Maintenance: With all the moving parts, theres more to break and replace on a pool robot. In fact, the most common complaints when it comes to robotic cleaners are all about them suffering mechanical malfunctions. Thats why you should probably purchase a machine with a decent warranty, including an extended warranty if its available.
- Filter cleaning: Unless you want to waste money on disposable filters, youll need to clean out the filter bags or cartridges after every cycle. If your pool is big and gets used a lot, youre going to have to clean them with annoying regularity.
- Tangled up cables: Because anti-tangle swivels dont always work, its a good idea to watch your unit the first few cleaning cycles to ensure the tangle-free swivel is doing its job.
Limited warranties and specialized internal parts mean repairs can be costly. Therefore, robotic pool cleaners require regular and specific maintenance.
Is A Cordless Pool Vacuum Worth It
It will depend on your needs and personal preferences.
If you are tired of untangling wires when using an ordinary pool vacuum, you will find a cordless model easier to handle. There is no need to worry about wires anymore. You can simply charge the vacuums built-in battery before cleaning your swimming pool. You will also enjoy lower electric bills. And depending on the specific model, you can take advantage of smart features.
All of these can be worth it if you do not have time to clean your pool manually and the patience to untangle wires.
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Is Your Pool Ready To Sparkle This Summer
Inground pools do require maintenance to stay swim-ready all summer, but the wide range of auto-vacs now available on the market can make day-to-day cleaning requirements easier to handle than ever before. Do you have a favorite auto-vac? Did we miss a model you think beats all of the robotic pool cleaners on this list? Let us know in the comments — we strive to provide the most accurate, up-to-date information in the industry, and your help is always welcome!
At River Pools, we manufacture world-class fiberglass pools for customers across North America. If you’re shopping around for a fiberglass pool, feel free to take a look at our catalog of models, visit our extensive video library, try out our pool cost calculator, or request custom pricing using the button below.
Different Types Of Robotic Pool Cleaners
Beyond above ground and in-ground, there arent any other major classifications for robotic pool cleaners.
But we can group them roughly based on various features and technologies.
Wheel-drive robotic pool cleaners: These are robot cleaners that move on wheels. Some models like the Polaris F9550 Sport have 4-wheels drive to increase power and traction.
Track-driven robotic pool cleaners: These robot cleaners use tracks instead of wheels. Tracks generally provide better grip and traction, especially when climbing the pool wall. Most Maytronics Dolphin pool cleaners move on tracks.
Jet-drive robotic pool cleaners: Most wheel and track-driven pool robots rely on a motor to power the wheels/tracks. Others rely on powerful water jets to drive and navigate around the pool.
Combined robotic pool cleaners: These have at least two mobility systems usually, wheels or tracks and water jets. The jet system provides extra power and traction.
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A New Age Of Automation
Automatic pool cleaners ushered pool cleaning into a new, technologically sophisticated age, where formerly tedious household tasks were made less so through automation. A pool robot cleaner has cutting-edge features such as Bluetooth and Wi-Fi capability, rudimentary artificial intelligence, and mobile apps to give you control over your bot wherever in the world you happen to be.
However, theyre not all created equally. While suction cleaners and pressure-side cleaners do an adequate job of cleaning your pool water, they put a lot of stress on the pump. Robotic pool cleaners work independently of your pools dedicated equipment, cutting down on expensive wear and tear.
A pool cleaner robot wont be able to eliminate all manual pool maintenance only about 99% of it. Youll still have to occasionally scrub the steps or parts of the wall, for example. However, instead of spending countless hours on the weekends arduously scrubbing and vacuuming your pool by hand, youll have more time to enjoy it.
Thats because pool robots can shorten your cleaning time to a fraction of what it used to be, giving you the glorious opportunity of having a deliciously delectable Mai Tai on your patio as you watch your mechanical friend selflessly toil for your benefit.
Final Thoughts On The Best Pool Vacuums
Long, loungy days spent by the pool are arguably the best way to experience summer, and a pool vacuum will only make those days that much more enjoyable. Find the best pool vacuum for you by figuring out your prioritiesprice, efficiency, or technological innovationand your pool care will be set for years to come.
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The Best Suction Side Above Ground Pool Vacuum
The Pentair Kreepy Krauly suction cleaner will quickly and effectively clean any above ground swimming pool, even pools with dished out bottoms up to 72 inches with the help of the flapper. With just one moving part, its exceptionally easy to maintain and provides remarkably quiet operation while vacuuming.
Robotic Pool Vacuum Cleaners
Much like robotic vacuums, robotic pool vacuum cleaners are the most advanced models on the market. Rather than hooking up to a pools filtration system, these vacuums have their own built-in filters. Not only does this make vacuuming easier for you, but it also means your pool filters will last longer as they dont have to deal with the dirt your vacuum sends to them.
When using a robotic vacuum cleaner all you have to do is place the robot in your pool, and it will get to work. Youll hardly have to lift a finger. Plus, most robotic pool vacuum cleaners can pick up all types of dirt and debris, including sand, leaves and other grime.
Furthermore, like many household robotic vacuums, some robotic pool vacuum cleaners can create a digital map of a pool to ensure every square inch is cleaned during any given vacuuming session.
Of course, this type of automation comes with a price. The best robotic pool vacuum cleaners cost upwards of $1,000.
- Pros:Robotic vacuum cleaners require very little input from the user as they dont need to be hooked up to a pools filtration system.
- Cons:These vacuums can be significantly more expensive than their counterparts.
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How We Test Robotic Pool Cleaners
We meticulously analyze the performance of robotic pool cleaners by running each one through a six-hour cleaning cycle in a swimming pool best suited to that models use. We start the rigorous process by cleaning the pool and filter before dumping a precisely measured amount of contaminants in the water, such as leaves, pebbles, and twigs. Then, we set up and place the bot in the water according to the manufacturers instructions.
We meticulously record the number of times the unit gets stuck and what caused the stoppages. We measure how much debris it collects and how good it is at scrubbing away stubborn debris to assess cleaning performance. We look at how simple it is to clean all the junk out at the end of a cleaning cycle. We also look at anything else directly related to the user experience, such as the smartphone app and voice assistant compatibility.
However, we dont stop there. We pore over hundreds of reviews on manufacturers websites, forum posts, and other places to see what buyers really think of their pool-cleaning machines. Most importantly, we update our buying guides at least once a year, so you always have the latest information at your fingertips.
Easy To Clean Debris Canisters:
The filtration system of a robot is vital for cleaning performance. Choose a model having a cloth filter bag or a basket with a fine mesh screen for filtering. Yet remember filter bags are a bit difficult to clean and require more time to dry. While filter baskets or cartridges need a quick hosing down.
The multimedia ability of some bots offers multiple filters for clearing different types of debris. For instance, some models come with a bag for leaves and acorns, and a basket to capture small scraps. While some other models offer cartridges for fine and ultra-fine debris.
The models having archaic technology will offer filters from the bottom. Among these models, you have to use the unit having a bag or cartridge.
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How Can You Clean A Pool Without A Vacuum
While a pool vacuum will help you keep your pool super clean, it is possible to clean a pool without a vacuum. However, be warned, that this method takes a lot of work and you wont end up with the same squeaky clean result.
1. Clean your water filter pump filter every 10-14 days. Purchase a new one when it gets too dirty.
2. Run your pump for at least one hour every day.
3. Skim the top of the pool with your pool skimmer net.
4. Shuffle around the pool with your feet to loosen dirt and then scoop up the dirt with your skimmer net
5. Use a plastic rake to remove the leaves off the bottom.
6. Disinfect the pool with chlorine.
7. Cover your pool when you arent using it.
Cleaning Power And Performance
Power has a direct correlation to the performance of robotic pool cleaners. In general, higher suction power means a cleaner pool, and their ability to use electricity means robotic cleaners can offer significantly higher suction than pressure-powered or suction-powered cleaners.
Not all robotic pool cleaners are created equal in terms of cleaning ability though. I looked at the suction rate measured in GPH , the cleaning cycle time , and the quality of the brushes on the cleaner. The brushes need to be able to stand up to tough dirt and debris and get your pool surface clean in just one cycle.
I also looked at extra features here like programmable timers and digital displays. Having a programmable timer, in particular, is a big advantage â you want to be able to “set it and forget it” when it comes to cleaning your pool.
Overall, cleaning power and performance accounted for 25% of my total score for each robotic cleaner.
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Pool Size And Cord Length
One of the most important factors to consider when shopping for robotic pool cleaners is the size and depth of your pool. Robotic pool cleaners have varying cable lengths so you want to make sure you choose one that’s going to reach that entire span of your swimming pool, from your power source to the furthest, deepest point of the pool. Most robotic pool cleaners come with cables that range from 50 to 60 feet.
Dolphin Advantage Robotic Pool Cleaner
ENERGY-EFFICIENT PICK
This energy-efficient pool cleaner is great because, like other Dolphin brand cleaners, it doesnt need to connect to your filter or pump to do its magic, making it a great energy saver. Its automatic so you can walk away and let the robot do its thing for you in just two hours. And then its time to get swimming again. Whats more, you can even schedule it to clean your pool either daily, every other day or every third day. Youll never be caught cleaning your pool alone again.
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Why Trust The Spruce
This article was written by Camryn Rabideau, a freelance writer, and product tester for The Spruce. While researching the pool cleaners, she spoke with Stewart Vernon, COO and founder of Americas Swimming Pool Company for insights on how to select the best option for your pool. As she evaluated different robotic cleaners, she considered factors such as their setup, ease of use, versatility, and overall cost, aiming to select top-rated products at a wide range of price points to cater to different shoppers.
Aiper Cordless Seagull 1000 Robotic Pool Cleaner
The Aiper Cordless Seagull 1000 Robotic Pool Cleaner is a great pool cleaner for anyone who wants a hassle-free, cordless option. This pool cleaner has dual-drive motors and can clean at a speed of 52.5 ft/16 meters a minute. It also has a 5000mAh rechargeable battery, which is enough to clean larger sizes of pools. The Aiper Cordless Seagull 1000 Robotic Pool Cleaner also comes with 2 wider suction nozzles , which helps to increase the suction power and make the cleaning process more efficient.
Additionally, this pool cleaner has an upgraded larger filter volume, which helps to capture more dirt and debris. It also has an integrated self-parking technology that allows the pool cleaner to park next to the pool wall when the battery is running low or after finishing a cycle of cleaning for easy retrieval. Lastly, the Aiper Cordless Seagull 1000 Robotic Pool Cleaner is easy to use and comes with a detailed instruction manual.
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Hydrotools Pool And Spa Venturi Vacuum
Best Handheld Vacuum for Kiddie Pools
You dont need to invest money in the most high end product if youre just cleaning out your kiddie pools.
This vacuum is perfect for small pools. However, because it uses pressure from the garden hose, it may fill up the pool a bit. So we recommend emptying some water beforehand so you dont cause an overflow.
As well as kiddie pools, you can use this for larger above-ground pools, too.
What We Like
Works With Any Garden Hose
Setting up this pool vacuum is super easy. You can attach it to any garden hose, submerge it in water, turn the water on and then watch the Venturi effect begin. This will cause pressure and create suction to pull up dirt and debris.
Captures Small Particles
The fine mesh bag is really useful for capturing and trapping small particles, like sand, dirt and stones. You can remove the bag to clean it out afterwards.
Cleans Quickly
One huge advantage among customers was how quickly they cleaned their pool with this vacuum. A large above ground pool only took 30 minutes, with smaller ones taking as little as five minutes.
What We Don’t Like
Flimsy Pole
The included pole is pretty flimsy. Many people noticed that it broke off or bent during use, creating a pretty frustrating cleaning routine.
Not for Large Pools
While you can use this for average above ground pool sizes, its not intended for large pools or in ground pools.
Product Specs
Dolphin Premier Robotic Pool Cleaner
Perfect for in-ground pools up to 50 feet, Premier climbs the walls and stairs, performing a great cleaning of the waterline. This is the best cleaner for hotel pools or gyms.
Featuring dual 24 Volts DC motors, Premier robotic cleaners use 90% less energy than older suction and pressure cleaners. The Smart Navigation software makes sure that the dual scrubbing brushes reach any corner of your pool.
Our experts noticed the ability of this device to clean large debris like leaves or sticks. It also comes with an oversized leaf bag and three filter options with the cleaner.
As a plus, Dolphin Premier comes with a 3-years warranty.
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Reasons For Buying A Robotic Pool Cleaner
Apart from being cool to own a high-tech gadget, a robotic pool cleaner saves you a huge amount of time and money. These devices use less energy to run compared to a standard pool filtration system.
And since you will regularly use the robotic cleaner, you wont have to change the pool filter too often. All the waste is picked up and contained by the cleaner.
Using the robotic cleaner helps you reduce the number of chemicals needed in your swimming pool, and this has many health benefits.
Lastly, although it might seem expensive, a robotic cleaner will save you a lot of time and money especially when you know how to properly use a vacuum or the robotic cleaner no more spending time under the scorching sun or risking back pain.
