These machines are energy-efficient, durable, low maintenance, environmental-friendly, and water & money saver. Basic models can scrub only the pool floors, but not walls. If you want a model that ensures complete pool cleaning (including floor and walls), invest in a model that offers advanced features like customized cleaning modes, scheduled cleanings, and remote controls. Here is a quick outlook of other key factors to consider before investing in this robotic pool cleaner.
Supported Pool Size – The size of the pool is essential to consider before buying a robotic cleaner. Almost all models of robotic cleaners allow the use of an extension cord to get the perfect length for proper cleaning of the pool without any limitations. Also, the pool size will let you know the speed at which a robot performs its cleaning tasks. For instance, a 30-foot pool needs a different cord length and time for the cleaner compared to a 50-foot pool.
Filtration – Based on your geographical location, and climate, your pool might collect various debris like dirt, algae, leaves, dust, and pollen. So, your pool cleaner needs to have different filters to suck the debris out of the pool. Larger filters for collecting leaves, small filter for dirt and pollen, fine filters with small pores to clear debris like bacteria and dust. Some high-end models offer multiple filters that let you customize the required filter to clean the pool.
Pool Floor Material & Shape – Since the pool cleaning robots are not designed to work on all types of floor materials, it is essential to consider the floor type (flat, irregular, rocky, or having slopes) and material (made of tiles, vinyl, gunite, or plaster pools) of the pool along with its shape (round, rectangular, square or oval) before making its purchase.
To shorten your searching and shopping time for the best options, we compiled some Best Robotic Pool Cleaners. Also, we recommend you read our detailed “Buying Guide” to learn more about these cleaners and know how to select the best option, as per your requirements.
7 Best Robotic Pool Cleaners in 2023
Best Robotic Pool Cleaners in 2023: Reviews
1. Dolphin Robotic Pool Cleaner
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The Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus is an advanced technology-based pool cleaner that comes with 50 feet long cord; this means if you have a large swimming pool, this cleaner is suitable for you. Also, it comes with 360 swivel mechanisms that allow you to rotate or spin the cable without tangling or twisting. It is powered by CleverClean technology that completely scans your pool and allows it to clean it within two hours. The machine comes with two scrubbing brushes that take care of stubborn algae and debris dwelling in the waterline and floor. You get three options to schedule the cleaning cycle with just one click of a button – clean every day, clean every second day, and clean every third day. Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus comes with premium filtering capabilities that allow users to clean the pool deeply and efficiently. Best Features: Pros:
Suitable for a large pool It covers both floor and wall. Powerful robot and advanced technology. Reputed brand
Cons:
Premium price
2. Paxcess Robotic Pool Cleaner
The design and craftsmanship of this amazing pool cleaner separate it from the rest of the advanced cleaners that are already on the market. This cordless robotic pool cleaner is an ideal option for cleaning large and small pools with just a push of the button. All you need to do is charge the 5000 mAh battery of this incredible cleaner and adjust the settings. The lithium-ion battery can be charged fully within 4 to 6 hours and offer its services for 60 to 90 minutes which is more than enough to clean all the dirt, gunk, and debris from the pool. The cleaning brush is attached in the middle of the robot’s surface that loosens the unwanted material from the pool when it hovers over it. These materials then go to the filtration system that could be removed afterward. This model comes with a fast and powerful cleaning ability that moves approximately 16 meters per minute. The advanced battery detection will bring the cleaner to the shore once the cleaning cycle is completed or the battery gets drained. It can climb a wall of 15 degrees slope and is suitable for concrete floors, vinyl liner, and fiberglass pools. Best Features: Pros:
Cordless design Lightweight – Ideal for elderly Requires less maintenance Easy to use and charge. Extremely powerful Energy efficient
Cons:
Doesn’t clean walls and steps. Long charge hours. No remote controller
3. Aiper Robotic Pool Cleaner
Another cordless robotic pool cleaner in this list comes from AIPER SMART. This model is one of a kind that can clean every square inch of almost every pool type. It comes with a 2600 mAh battery that can be fully charged in 3 to 4 hours and clean a pool of 540 square feet in just fifty minutes. AIPER SMART Cordless Automatic Pool Cleaner has two powerful motors that provide strong suction. The two bottom brushes are built to remove tough dirt and debris, leaves, and sand to ensure you get a sparkling pool. The self-dock technology in this cleaner is extremely convenient as it signals the robot to stop at the shore of the pool once the cleaning cycle is completed or the battery is low. The lithium battery inside the cleaner is protected by an IPX8 waterproof system so you don’t have to worry about batteries’ life. Best Features: Pros:
No cord means no tangling. Lightweight Cleans nearly every pool type. Less charging time.
Cons:
Battery life is relatively lower. Only supports in-ground pool cleaning.
4. Polaris Robotic Pool Cleaner
If you want an automatic pool cleaner with powerful in-ground cleaning capabilities look no further. Polaris F9550 Sport Robotic Pool Cleaner is designed especially for cleaning the flat surface of your swimming pool. The four eye-catching aqua-Trax wheels are crafted to drive the machine in any pool surface be it concrete, vinyl liner, or fiberglass. The F9550 model by Polaris comes with 70 feet long cable that can easily level a large pool. For quick and precise navigation, the cleaner is reinforced with ActivMotion Sensor Smart Technology. The powerful suction of this pool cleaner in conjunction with Vortex Vacuum Technology collects small and large debris from the pool. This model has been noted for the rear water propulsion system that allows the machine to reach tight corners, and stairs of the pool to collect debris. The cleaner comes with a seven-day programmable timer and can be remotely controlled by Sun Touch, Easy Touch, and IntelliTouch remote control systems. Best Features: Pros:
Intelligent navigation technology. Ideal pool cleaner for in-ground pool Long power cord. It scrubs the waterline efficiently.
Cons:
Not ideal for cleaning steps
5. Dolphin E10 Robotic Pool Cleaner
The brand Maytronics is mainly focused in providing best-in the class pool cleaning solutions to their customers. Their DOLPHIN E10 robot pool cleaner is a combination of quality and efficiency. It is specifically designed for cleaning above-ground pools with area up to 30 feet. This pool vacuum cleaner can clean your pool within 1.5 hours. So, the pool will be ready within no time and you can get back to your do to list quickly. This cleaner comes with superior floor scrubbing and filtering capabilities which leaves the pool free of any debris. It has a cable length of 40 feet which is adequate enough. It doesn’t require any booster pump, installation and extra hoses. Best Features: Pros:
Plug and play Top load filter basket Energy efficient Single active scrubber No booster or installation require Cleans all types of pool surfaces Weighs just 13.8 lbs 40 feet cable length 4000 GPH suction rate
Cons:
Cable is not anti-tangle Not smart connectivity features
6. Hayward Robotic Pool Cleaner
If you want an automatic pool cleaner that can target the floor, walls, and coves of the pool you must not miss out on this incredible SharkVac vacuum by Hayward. It is a four-wheeled driven cleaner that scrubs the entire pool surface, walls, and corners in just two hours. Hayward SharkVac pool cleaner comes with advanced technology and premium-quality components that combine to deliver maximum economical cleaning cycle and ease of operation. You don’t require extra pumps, hookups, or hoses to operate this fantastic machine. Cleaning and maintaining this robotic pool cleaner is extremely easy – simply remove the top access filter and there you go! The advanced sensors create a pathway before cleaning and then the mechanical motors automatically adjust to execute the cleaning cycle. Best Features: Pros:
Excellent intelligence. Ideal for in-ground, walls, and coves. High-quality components used in manufacturing.
Cons:
It is big and heavy. It cannot climb high walls.
7. Instapark Robotic Pool Cleaner
The last product on our list comes from a reliable brand called Instapark. Their robotic pool cleaner comes with solar efficiency. It automatically removes debris like dead insects, leaves, dust, pollen and others over the water surface. It doesn’t come with cable connection and the built-in battery us charged up with solar energy. So, you can use it at night as well. This robotic cleaner comes with brushless motor which ensures there are no obstacles related to traditional reduction gears. It can be operated either remote control or automatic based on your requirements. It has a top handle basket design which makes it easy to life the cleaner. Best Features: Pros:
High-grade solar panel Convenient to use Unique debris basket Easy to operate Ultrasonic radar sensors Easy to clean
Cons:
Durability of motor is not up to the mark
How to Choose the Best Robotic Pool Cleaner:
Take a closer look at what factors to consider while shopping for the best robotic pool cleaners.
1. Pool Floor Material
The floor type and material of the pool are a must to consider while choosing the robotic pool cleaner. Usually, some swimming pool floors are flat, irregular, rocky, or have sloping floors, and also, consider the floor type to know it is made of either vinyl, fiberglass, gunite, tiles, or plaster pools. Keep in mind that all robotic pool cleaners won’t work well on all floor materials. Moreover, some robotic floor cleaners might damage certain types of floors. So, it is essential to choose the model that is related to the proper cleaning of specific floor types and materials of the pool.
2. Pool Shape
The shape of the pool is another deciding factor for pool robotic cleaners. If having a rectangular or round pool without any irregularities, then you can find a robot that scours each inch effectively. Also, consider the type of your pool – inground or above-ground pool. Usually, robotic pool cleaners clean the pool sides efficiently for inground pools, yet the unit undergoes a bit of stress while dealing with the walls of above-ground pools. Most manufacturers provide cleaner models with advanced smart features using artificial intelligence to know about the pool’s layout for its proper, efficient, and quick cleaning. If having an irregular-shaped pool or custom pool with built-in bars, rising slopes, and sharp angles, then go with a cleaner having advanced features like gyroscopic mobility, deflecting mechanism, and scanning software.
3. Pool Size
It is essential to consider the size of the pool before purchasing a robotic pool cleaner. Since length is a crucial factor, every robotic cleaner model has an extension cord. For instance, if you have a small pool of 20-foot, then the length of its extension cord will be shorter compared to a 50-foot pool. Moreover, the pool size will let you know the speed at which a particular robotic pool cleaner will perform its cleaning tasks. If a robotic pool cleaner takes 2 hours to clean a 30-foot pool, yet its extension cord won’t be long enough to do the cleaning task when used in a 50-foot pool. Although, if the cord is sufficient, the cleaner might take time twice to do the cleaning and also won’t have enough storage capacity to hold the collected debris. Generally, in-ground robotic cleaners are available with a 60-foot cable, in which they can easily cover a pool around 50-feet long. While above ground pool cleaners come with a 40-foot cable that means they are effective in cleaning a pool up to 30 feet long.
4. Pool Debris and Filtration
It is a good idea to know the type of debris landing in your pool before choosing the best pool cleaning robot. Mostly, it depends on several factors like the geographical location, climate, and landscape that might end up the junk floating in the pool. If your pool is located in a place with a lot of trees, then you need a robot with a large filtration basket to prevent you from emptying the filled device too quickly. If the pool is flooded with finer debris like dust or pollen, then go with a pool cleaning robot with ultra-fine filters. Some premium or high-end models offer multiple filters that let you switch to customize your required filter to collect small-large debris from the pool. It consists of a large debris filter (to pick large objects, such as leaves), a small filter (to collect dirt or pollen), fine filters (to pick out algae), and others filters with small pores (to pick bacteria and dirt). It is important to replace or clean the replaceable cassette or bag, which collects the debris after completing this cleaning cycle, and also check it before starting the next pool cleaning cycle. If not, clogging might result in poor performance and thereby eventually reduce the machine’s lifespan.
5. Wheels & Treads
Rear propulsion is used by robotic pool cleaners for driving through the water, yet the propulsion system is limited without having the right treads and wheels. You will find the robotic pool cleaners featuring wheels that can grip the slick pool floor. A model with rubber tread wheels is used widely for above-ground pools, why because they move across the pool’s bottom easily and thereby quickly complete the cleaning cycles. For tackling the grime and dirt on the walls, then prefer the wheels of the model designed with distinct tread patterns. Thus, it let the cleaner retain its position and balance on the pool’s side while propelling forward. Seek out several models and choose a cleaner using long, tank-style treads, as the treads get in contact with the pool surface and make its cleaning process quick and easy.
6. Tangle-Free Cabling
Most models come with cords that won’t be designed to tangle. Most models use a mechanical swivel on the cable and let freely rotate the cable. A few high-end models have gyroscopic systems stabilizing the cord to prevent tangling, and top-tier models featuring motor-driven systems to reduce the tangle ability of the cord. Prefer to buy a robotic pool cleaner with a swivel whose range is larger than the pool, and thus it’s worth investing in an expensive anti-tangle system.
7. Automatic Settings
A pool cleaning robot offers a better convenience to do the cleaning process, yet needs to instruct them for its cleaning. Until and unless you choose a model offering automatic settings, as these cleaners let you program in advance. Some high-end models are differently programmed for every day of the week. So, you can schedule perfect cleaning for days where you won’t use the pool, and touch clean-ups where you anticipate to use the pool. Thus, it is quite easy to maintain a perfect level of cleanliness without any need to run the cleaner. Low-end models let you set regular cleaning automatically once a week and thus provide a bit less control over the cleaning timing.
8. Programming & Scheduling
All robotic pool cleaners aren’t up to the mark in terms of technological capabilities and therefore let you start the unit manually. Some units will let you set a cleaning cycle of either daily or weekly for their operation. Though staying the cleaner in the pool is not at all a good idea, so, prefer to remove them to store properly and use them as per the scheduled time for pool cleaning.
9. Weight
It is vital to consider the weight of the unit before making its purchase, why because you have to lift for setting and removing the cleaner in the pool. Remember that collected debris and water will make the unit a bit heavier. We suggest you choose wheeled caddies, as they are considered the best back-saver that prevent you from carrying the cleaner, instead let you roll them from the storage area.
10. Smart Scanning Systems
Usually, a pool robot wastes its energy by moving over the same place several times while dealing with oddly shaped pools. So, to get rid of this issue, robotic pool cleaners feature smart scanning systems that use advanced algorithms and mapping technology to plot a cleaning path efficiently.
11. Active Scrub Brushes
Models featuring active scrubbing will perform well to dislodge debris effectively from the pool surface rather than models not having this feature. Some machines offer only suction power, yet you have to perform manual brushing for proper cleaning of the pool.
12. Steps, Walls, Stairs, and Waterlines
Generally, every model can handle the pool floor without issues, but some models cannot clean steps, and stairs or are unable to climb walls. While other models won’t properly scrub the waterline. So, a cleaner with more capabilities is a bit more expensive.
13. 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.
14. Other Features
Though these additional features aren’t compulsory, yet ease the use of your robot cleaners. The smart features include remote control, Wi-Fi & Bluetooth capability, and programmability. Remote control will let you navigate the robot easily to a particular place to have a precise cleaning of the pool. When you want to run the cleaner at night or not at home, then simply go with a model that allows you to set a schedule by programming weekly cleaning cycles. But due to this action, the cleaner has to stay in the water all the time. Hence, the chlorine or other pool chemicals might shorten it’s the machine’s life.
15. Price
Based on the functionality and features, the price range of these pool cleaners will vary greatly. We suggest you consider your budget, pool’s size and the amount of debris you notice regularly will help you to determine the price range. The general price range will be from $500 – $1200, in which budget robotic pool cleaners will come around $200 – $300 (yet has limits in their features and cleaning capacity). If you can spend a bit more, then go with a higher-end model offering built-in Bluetooth or Wi-Fi, advanced programmed steering, and multiple filter media types.
16. Warranty
Since the pool robots contain a motor, suction pump, cable, or container, the warranty is another deciding factor for most people. The warranty period on the unit will provide peace of mind for its durability and longevity. Most models offer a minimum of a 1-year warranty, while some other models give a 2- or 3-years warranty. Keep in mind that some models won’t offer any warranty, so check this before making your purchase. Also, go through its online ratings and reviews, and its customer support system while selecting the model.
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.
Tips to Use Robotic Pool Cleaners
Here are some quick tips and tricks mentioned by customers who are using these robotic pool cleaners. This might help you when you experience some troubleshooting.
If debris falls out while removing the cleaner from the pool, then remove it either quickly or slowly, and ensure to keep it upright every time. For a beach entrance style of pool, then robotic cleaner might flip over when it climbs a nearby wall. The water at the entrance is too shallow to make it turn itself. Several cleaners offer an auto-shut-off feature to prevent this issue. Stretch the power cord straight and let it sit in the sun for some hours to prevent cord tangling. Ensure that filters are enclosed completely with the fully locked door or the cleaner won’t run. It is a must to perform pool maintenance using regular brushing, and test water pH and chemistry. Yet remember that your pool robot can do much more. If the pool is neglected and filthy, then you have to clean it manually at first and then use the robot for its proper maintenance and cleaning. Usually, the roller tracks might stretch and loosen over time. In case, if you found the robot is not climbing as usual, then it’s time to replace the tracks.
Trouble Shooting
It is quite common to break down the robotic pool after using it for some time. If the model is under warranty, then call the manufacturer’s support to allow the company pay for fixing the issue. In case, if not, then check the problem to know how to tackle them before calling the professional. If the pool cleaning robot won’t work properly, then here are some of the troubleshoots and their solutions.
1. Check the Power Supply
Check the power cord to ensure that it is not damaged, and then plug it firmly into the power supply transformer, which is plugged into the GFCI outlet. Check all these connections properly. An indicator light will let you know about power flow through it. In case, if there is a proper power supply, yet the robot cleaner is not working, then the problem is somewhere else. The problem can be due to the shortage of power cord, which means the wires might break from inside the rubber casing connection. It occurs quite often at a spot having greater stress on the cleaner’s cord. If the operator exerts much force in pulling the cord for removing the cleaner from the pool, then the wires might break. If the cord is in proper shape, then check for the motor resistance with a test meter to know whether the power is reaching the motor or not. If the power is reaching properly, and the motor is not working, then it’s time to install a new motor.
2. Mobility Issues
If you find your robot is not climbing walls as it would do (or) performing slow, then it might be due to old brushes, cracked bearings, or worn-out drive tracks. Also, this happens when the debris is stuck in the brushes, tracks, or impeller. A full of debris baskets might interfere with the capability of the machine to move around the pool. If these are not at all source of the problem, then partially lift the robot out of the water to check whether air sucks in it or not. If you don’t know the problem, then you need to hire a professional.
3. Leaving Areas Untouched
If the cleaner untouched some areas even after you program it for an automatic cleaning cycle, then it may be the cord not having sufficient slack. The cord requires enough length to reach every part of the swimming pool.
4. Got Stuck
It is quite common that some models to get stuck behind handrails and ladders. An affordable ladder guard will prevent it from happening. Also, move the control box to a different place or adjust the cord length to get rid of this issue.
Conclusion
Robotic pool cleaners are one of the best inventions we have come up with, they save us time, energy, and efforts. Why get down into the pool and scrub the walls and floors when you know there is a powerful alternative that can do the same more efficiently. And meanwhile, you can chill in the corner. However, choosing the best robotic pool cleaner among the bests could be a daunting task and we get that. So, if you are still confused on what model to bring home you can rely on our top three picks:
Dolphin Robotic Pool Cleaner –This pool cleaner is suitable for people who are looking for excellent cleaning performance that also has advanced intelligence. If you can compromise with the cable length or you have a small pool, it might be the best option for you. Polaris Robotic Pool Cleaner – If you are willing to invest in a machine that is fully loaded with advanced technologies, features, and can deliver unmatchable results, this is the perfect option. You will need to have a high budget though. Aiper Robotic Pool Cleaner – For overall value at a decent price, this award-winning pool cleaner can come in handy if you can manage without a daily or weekly programmable system.
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