Few people enjoy vacuuming their pool, but it is a maintenance task that must be done. Indeed, it limits the growth of algae and allows the chemicals present in the water to act more effectively.
The best cleaning tool you can get is an automatic cleaner. You can't beat the convenience of just dropping the cleaner into your pool without running your filtration system.
You'll find a few robot cleaners for less than $1,000, but most cost between $1,000 and $2,000. Cheap models will do the job. However, higher-end models come with convenient features like water line cleaning and programmable cleaning cycles. Additionally, it is possible to 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 our technicians, here are our recommendations.
The best robot for in-ground 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 path along the bottom and walls of your pool.
The Prowler 920 is equipped with two scrub brushes that provide more friction to pick up small and large debris. It works in pools up to 50 feet long. The filters are also easy to remove, empty, rinse and refill.
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 in-ground pool cleaner into a smaller package that will completely clean your above-ground pool in about two hours. It also has a choice of two types of filtration for precision work.
DISCOVER THE COMPLETE COLLECTION
How long do automatic cleaners last?
By taking care of your cleaner, you will keep it functioning 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 running smoothly.
- 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 the brushes and wheels for debris.
- Take the time to clean your filters, they are the lungs of your automatic cleaner.
- Monitor the wear of your brushes and replace them when they become worn. Think of it like buying a new toothbrush for your pool.
- Store your cleaner away from UV rays. Discover the protective covers here!
- If you notice the cord bending over time, wind it in the opposite direction to how you normally store it.
Advice: Maintaining your vacuum cleaner doesn't have to be difficult. Minor maintenance is nothing compared to the hours of cleaning it will save you!
How does it work ?
These powerful little machines pick up debris of all sizes. Additionally, automatic cleaners are not connected to your pool's filtration system. They simply work with 120v.
They operate at very low voltage and are submersible. They have a very long power cord that can only be plugged into outlets with a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI). These are outlets that 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 the grounding plug. However, for safety reasons, it is best to plug them into a GFCI outlet.
A pool cleaner goes 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 water line around your pool.
TRICK : These types of automatic cleaners also improve water circulation and act as a second filter for your pool. When water is sucked 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 expense you have ever made for your pool.
All robotic pool cleaners should be able to clean your pool in around three hours, depending on the size of your pool. Its performance can be significantly affected by routine maintenance, such as keeping filters clean and optimizing settings.
Even if you check every part of your cleaner after each use, the time and work required to keep it in tip-top condition will be insignificant compared to the time you currently spend cleaning your pool with a conventional brush.
