Few people enjoy vacuuming their pool, but it is a maintenance task that must be done. In fact, it limits algae growth and allows the chemicals in the water to work more effectively.
The best cleaning tool you can get is an automatic cleaner. You can’t beat the convenience of simply dropping the cleaner into your pool without running your filtration system.
You’ll find a few robotic cleaners for under $1,000, but most cost between $1,000 and $2,000. The inexpensive models will get the job done. However, high-end models come with convenient features such as waterline cleaning and programmable cleaning cycles. In addition, you can control the cleaner with the mobile app.
But how do pool owners choose the best pool robot? What features should you look for? What should you know before buying one? With the help of our customers and technicians, here are our recommendations.
The best robot for inground pools
Pentair Kreepy Krauly Prowler 920 robotic pool cleaner
This cleaner continues to dominate and remains, in our opinion, the undisputed choice.
Instead of relying on random patterns to navigate your pool, this automatic cleaner scans your pool to optimize its route across the bottom and walls.
The Prowler 920 is equipped with two scrubbing brushes that provide more friction for picking up small and large debris. It works in pools up to 50 feet long. The filters are also easy to remove, empty, rinse, and reinstall.
The best automatic cleaner for above-ground pools
Pentair Kreepy Krauly Prowler 917 robotic pool cleaner
The Prowler 917 robot is an amazing and affordable choice! It packs all the power of an inground pool cleaner into a smaller unit that will completely clean your above-ground pool in approximately two hours. It also offers a choice of two filtration types for precision cleaning.
DISCOVER THE COMPLETE COLLECTION
How long do automatic cleaners last?
By taking care of your cleaner, you’ll keep it working properly and it will be able to do its job for a very long time. Always read the instructions that come with the device before releasing it into your pool. Perform general maintenance to keep it working well.
- Take the vacuum out of your pool once its cycle is complete. This will help preserve the motor and make your pool a safer place to swim.
- Empty and rinse your automatic cleaner after each use. This means checking that the brushes and wheels are free of debris.
- Take the time to clean your filters; they are the lungs of your automatic cleaner.
- Monitor the wear on your brushes and replace them when they are worn. Think of it as buying a new toothbrush for your pool.
- Store your cleaner away from UV rays. Discover the protective covers here!
- If you notice that the cord kinks over time, wind it in the opposite direction from the one you usually use to store it.
Tip: Maintaining your vacuum doesn’t have to be difficult. Minor maintenance is nothing compared with the hours of cleaning it will save you!
How does it work?
These small, powerful machines pick up debris of all sizes. In addition, automatic cleaners are not connected to your pool’s filtration system. They simply run on 120v.
They operate at very low voltage and are submersible. They are equipped with a very long power cord that can only be plugged into outlets with ground-fault circuit interrupter protection (GFCI). These outlets automatically shut off if an electrical imbalance is detected, so you are not at risk of receiving an electric shock.
Some models are also “double-insulated,” meaning they are designed to operate safely without a grounding plug. However, for safety reasons, it is preferable to plug them into a GFCI outlet.
A pool cleaner moves around your pool, cleaning the walls and bottom with small brushes and vacuuming everything up. Most models clean the bottom and walls of your pool, while some can even clean the waterline around your pool.
TIP: These types of automatic cleaners also improve water circulation and act as a second filter for your pool. When water is drawn into the robot, debris is collected in a basket that can filter the water down to two microns for a truly clean pool.
Are automatic pool cleaners worth it?
Yes! Automatic pool cleaners are 100% worth the investment. It will be the best purchase you have ever made for your pool.
All robotic pool cleaners should be able to clean your pool in approximately three hours, depending on the size of your pool. Their performance can be significantly affected by routine maintenance, such as keeping the filters clean and optimizing the settings.
Even if you check every component of your cleaner after each use, the time and work required to keep it in perfect condition will be insignificant compared with the time you currently spend cleaning your pool with a conventional brush.
