The Best Robotic Pool Cleaners – Ratings and Buyer’s Guide
Robotic pool cleaners make short work out of what was once a much-dreaded task. No one wants a filthy pool, but pools don’t clean themselves. You must be proactive about pool maintenance. Pool robots can shorten your cleaning time so you can take advantage of a cool dip any time you want during those hot summer days.
Being proactive about pool cleaning doesn’t mean you have to work harder. You just need to work smarter. This is where an automatic pool cleaner can save the day. But they’re not all created equally. Suction cleaners and pressure-side cleaners are okay, but they make your pool pump work harder. Therefore, we’ll show you how to find the best robotic pool cleaner in this handy guide.
What to look for in a robotic pool cleaner
To find a pool cleaner that’s right for you, there are 3 main questions you need to ask:
- What kind of pool do you have?
- How much cleaning do you want?
- What features on a pool cleaner are important to you?
Types of pools
Many robotic pool cleaners can tackle any kind of pool surface. However, some are made specifically for in-ground or above-ground pools. Also, if you have a vinyl, fiberglass or smooth tile pool, you won’t want a cleaner with a rough brush. You’ll want a robotic cleaner with a soft, grippy PVA brush.
Size matters, too. You’ll need a robotic pool cleaner that can reach all the way from one side to the other without you having to unplug it from one power source and plug it in somewhere else. Your power supply must also be 12 feet from the pool’s edge. Make sure you know your pool’s length, width and depth so you know how long of a cord you need.
How much cleaning do you want?
Depending on how much you use your pool or your budget, you may opt for a pool cleaner that only vacuums the pool floor. These may or may not come with brushes, and are often the simplest and cheapest. You could invest a little more in a premium pool cleaner that will be more efficient and cover more area.
Higher-end pool cleaning robots can clean the floor, cove, and part of the wall. They have rotating brushes and features that help them climb, so they’ll be more expensive.
Then you have the top-notch ones that can clean the floor, cove, the entire wall, and the waterline. These are the most advanced and often have smart features that can be controlled via mobile apps.
What features are important to you?
If you’re new to buying pool cleaners, you may not know exactly what features you want yet. That’s okay. Things you’ll want to consider are:
- Suction power
- Swiveling cables
- Filtration
- Power washing jets
- Warranty
- Programming features
Pool cleaning robot maintenance
If you spend a few hundred bucks on a new automatic pool cleaner, you want to make sure it lasts as long as possible. Unlike simpler pool cleaners such as brushes and nets, robotic pool cleaners need a little extra TLC to keep functioning well.
The best pool vacuums will keep going like the Energizer Bunny so long as you follow maintenance rules. First, you should ALWAYS follow the guidelines in the owner’s manual. Keep it handy for reference.
Here are some general tips to keep your pool cleaning robot running smoothly:
- When the cycle is complete, remove the robot from the pool. Prolonged submersion can damage the motor, and there’s always a risk of electrical shock if you swim with it in the water.
- Thoroughly drain all the water from the cleaner when you take it out. Your owner’s manual should tell you how. If not, look for videos online.
- Clean the unit after each cycle – clear brushes and wheels of debris, and empty and rinse the filters.
- Replace any worn brushes or filters ASAP.
- Store your pool robot out of direct sunlight, and protect it from the elements. The power supply is susceptible to damage if left in the rain.
Skip any of these steps, and you’ll be out a lot of money and time. It may not sound fun to clean filters and bother with proper storage, but just keep in mind all the hours of cleaning time you’re saving. That’s more time for you to enjoy a poolside drink and splash around with the kiddos.
Browse our reviews of the best pool robots to find one that fits your budget and pool cleaning needs.
MoreBest Robotic Pool Cleaners of 2020 – Ratings & Reviews
The GoodWith 4 cleaning modes and 3 filter options, this robotic pool cleaner removes debris from fine dirt to big leaves. The 360-degree swivel cord prevents tangling, and thanks to the long cord, it can clean even large pools without having to plug it into another power source.
A filter indicator shows you when the filter needs changing. It’s programmable so you can set it to automatically clean every day, every other day or every 3rd day. CleverClean smart mapping helps it learn the most efficient path to take for quicker cleaning.
The Not-So-GoodThe user manual isn’t that helpful. Watching video tutorials on how to operate this pool robot is recommended. There’s also an optional remote control (purchased separately) that isn’t very responsive, but all you need to operate the machine is on the power source.
The filter bag is annoying to empty. Hosing it out takes a little time, but it can be machine washed.. This machine doesn’t come with a caddy either, but you can buy one separately.
What Customers SayCustomers agree that the user manual is terrible with vague instructions, and many suggest watching YouTube videos to learn how to operate the unit. They love how much debris this robotic pool cleaner can pick up, but some owners wish it was smaller so it could clean narrow steps better.
Most customers say it climbs walls just fine, but it may depend on your wall material/texture or the position of the floats on the power cord. For some users, customer service wasn’t helpful when they had problems.
The GoodThe 4-wheel drive Aqua-Trax tires help this cleaner glide over many different surfaces to clean the floor, wall, and waterline. ActivMotion sensors allow it to navigate even oddly-shaped pools. A rear water propulsion system helps it get debris out of hard-to-reach places like corners and under the pool stairs.
Vortex Vacuum technology assists in picking up large debris that can clog other cleaners. A 7-day programmable timer and smart mapping make it easy to set it and forget it. The large filter canister is easy to empty and clean.
The Not-So-GoodThough it reaches corners and behind stairs, it doesn’t clean steps and shelves very well. Newer versions have a swivel function for the cord, but it still tangles for some users. Winding the cord on the caddy when storing is also difficult.
It’s also expensive, which may be a deterrent if you don’t have a pool that needs frequent cleaning. The rear-propulsion may blow finer debris around rather than picking it up, so purchasing finer filters may be necessary.
What Customers SayCustomers like how well this unit climbs walls and cleans the waterline, which is something a lot of cleaners miss. They also like the easy-lift system, which makes getting it out of the water much easier.
Users suggest putting only as much cord as you need in the pool and leaving the rest out on the ground to reduce tangling. Several users weren’t happy with how the water jet stirred up fine dirt and made the pool cloudy instead of filtering it out. Repairs can be costly as well.
The GoodTop-loading filters are easier to remove than bottom-loading filters in older models. Dual filtration separates large, small, and ultrafine debris to prevent clogs. Simply rinse them out with a garden hose, and they’re good for another round.
The swiveling cord helps prevent tangles and is plenty long to reach the far corners of your pool (up to 50 feet). Automated cleaning can be set for daily, every other day, or every 3 days.
The Not-So-GoodThis unit does not come with a remote, so if it misses areas, you can’t redirect it unless you manually move it yourself. It can sometimes get stuck on steps and doesn’t clean the waterline.
Beyond a quick start guide, there’s no detailed owner’s manual. The smart mapping seems more random than it should. Also, it doesn’t come with a caddy, but you can purchase one separately.
What Customers SayFor the price, most customers say this unit has been a good investment. They like how well it climbs walls and doesn’t get stuck on raised drains. Several commented on how light it is, which makes it easy to drop in and take out.
Many customers mentioned the lack of a detailed manual. The videos on the Maytronics website weren’t much more helpful. If you need repairs, you must pay for shipping, plus repairs can be costly or take a long time.
Dolphin Nautilus CCPrice: AverageFunctionally, the CC is similar to the CC Plus. It’s cheaper, but it’s designed for smaller pools up to 33 feet, with a 50-foot cord, and a basket filter. It has the same CleverClean tech and 3 scheduling settings. It’s lighter at 13.8 pounds and comes with a shorter, 1-year warranty.
- Dolphin NautilusPrice: Average
The original Nautilus is a pool cleaning robot designed to clean inground pools up to 50 feet in 3 hours and has a 60-foot power cord. It’s similar in price to the CC, has the same CleverClean mapping and dual scrubbing brushes. Unlike the CC & CC Plus, it has bottom-loaded, cartridge filters and no automatic scheduling. Read Our Full Review of the Dolphin Nautilus.
The GoodVortex water jets on the top and sides of this unit allows it to move laterally along pool floors, walls, and up to the waterline. SmartNav 2.0 scanning technology keeps it from going over the same spots multiple times.
The huge, top-loading filter cartridges easily snap apart and are easy to spray clean. A convenient carry handle and fast water release system makes this robotic pool cleaner more ergonomic. 3-mode weekly scheduling conveniently automates cleaning.
The Not-So-GoodThis is an expensive machine. For the price, there aren’t many extras. No caddy. No bluetooth. No remote control. You can purchase those separately, but they’re not cheap either.
Even though there’s supposed to be a swivel function, the power cord can easily tangle. Replacement filter screens are expensive. The jets can blow around debris at times rather than picking it up.
What Customers SaySome customers say tangling hasn’t been an issue so long as they carefully follow the directions about where to first drop the cleaner in the pool and where to place the power cord. They also say it will take some time for it to learn the best cleaning path, so patience is key.
A few customers wished there was bluetooth control like there are with similarly priced pool robots. Also, Maytronics customer service has been hit or miss when problems arise.
The GoodThe huge filter basket/cartridge is one of the biggest on the market, with top access removal. The wide intake mouth can suck up large leaves and twigs easily.
Just plug it in, drop it in the pool, and turn it on. SmartNav 2.0 scanning technology keeps the machine from going over the same areas multiple times, ensuring every part of the pool is clean, including the walls.
The Not-So-GoodDespite the scanning technology, this cleaner doesn’t have a programmable timer or remote control function. Though it can climb walls, it may or may not clean the waterline.
The default filter is just a mesh filter basket. Great for larger debris, not for small particles. If you want finer filtration, you’ll have to purchase a separate ultra-fine filter cartridge basket. There is no remote control or caddy included.
What Customers SayUsers like the HyperBrush which seems to do a great job of lifting debris and algae so it can be sucked up into the filter. If you find the front of the unit won’t meet the surface, one customer said the blue float bubble on the cord may be positioned wrong. Move it up to the waterline level.
Some customers highly recommend buying the extended warranty from the manufacturer, since this and other pool robots are prone to breakage right around the time the basic warranty ends.
The GoodIf you have an above-ground pool, this may be a great option for a robotic vacuum. If you have a small in-ground pool and just need something to keep it maintained between manual cleaning, this is also a good option.
This robot will clean a small part of the walls, up to 6 inches high, if there’s a curved transition from floor to wall. Plug-and-play operation makes it super easy to start. Top access filter bags are reusable and machine washable for easy filter cleaning and replacement.
The Not-So-GoodFor large, in-ground pools, this isn’t your best option since it will likely need several hours and can only reach 40 feet in length. It won’t climb above 6 inches up the wall or clean the waterline.
Since there’s no smart-mapping technology on this machine, it may end up running over the same path and missing part of the pool. There are no brushes, just suction, so don’t expect it to clean corners very well.
What Customers SayIt’s kind of hit or miss with this pool robot. For several customers, it worked fine for light cleaning of their small above-ground pools. But for others, it didn’t have the suction power they expected.
Customers with above-ground pools were a lot more impressed with the performance than those with in-ground pools. Some had to run it for a few cycles to get a thorough clean.
- Aquabot Pool Rover HybridPrice: Low
This fun-looking model built for above-ground or in-ground pools up to 40 feet. It has a top-loading filter, vacuums only the pool floor, and has a 41-foot cord. It can clean most pools in about an hour and comes with a 1-year bumper-to-bumper warranty.
Why buy a robotic pool cleaner?
When it comes to pool cleaning, you have several options. Most depend on your time and budget. Of course, for those who can afford it, hiring someone to keep your pool clean is the easiest option. But since most pool owners can’t shell out that kind of cash, they need to invest in some good pool cleaning tools. Robotic pool cleaners are a big investment, but for most people, they’re worth it.
The cheapest options are manual brushes, nets and vacuums, but they’re also the most labor and time intensive. A happy medium lies in automatic pool cleaners, including suction-side, pressure-side, and robotic cleaners.
Robotic cleaners tend to be the most expensive, but not always. They are also the least labor-intensive of the automatic cleaners. Here are a few reasons to invest in one:
- You don’t have a lot of spare time. If you’re working full time and raising a family, you’d rather be in the pool when you get some time off rather than cleaning it. We get you.
- You have health issues. Manual cleaning can be good exercise, but all that reaching and scrubbing can be a nightmare if you have a bad back or other physical limitations.
- You want a healthier pool. A good robotic cleaner has just the right scrubbing and filtration power to remove things you can’t see with a regular pool vacuum. Those with smart navigation ensure every part of the pool gets a good cleaning.
- You want to prolong the life of your pool pump. Many pool cleaners and vacuums rely on your pool’s pump to power them, which puts extra strain on it and your pool filters. A robotic cleaner uses its own power source and filters, which prolongs the life of your pool system.
- You care about the environment. A clean pool means fewer chemicals are needed, plus robotic cleaners are very energy efficient.
What to consider before buying a robotic pool cleaner
What you buy will depend on your type of pool, its features, and how much cleaning you’ll need. Write down all these things so you can easily refer to them to find the best robotic pool cleaner that fits your budget.
- Type of pool – Some cleaners are meant to work for both in-ground and above-ground pools, but others are made for one or the other. Also, some are better at reaching corners than others, so the shape of your pool matters.
- Size of pool– Cord length on the machine will determine how far it can reach across your pool. The larger your pool, the longer the cord you’ll need. Too short, and you may have to move the power supply from one side of the pool to another.
- Steps, stairs, walls, and waterlines – Pretty much every pool cleaning robot can tackle the pool floor with no issues. But some can’t clean stairs and steps or climb walls. Some can’t clean sharp corners. Others won’t clean up to the waterline. Generally the more abilities the cleaner has, the more expensive it gets.
- The debris your pool collects– Depending on where you live, your pool may collect a lot of small particles like dirt, sand and pollen or a lot of large debris like leaves, seeds, and twigs. If you tend to have a lot of large debris, you’ll want a cleaner with a big filter basket so it doesn’t fill up too quickly. For very small debris, look for those with ultra-fine filters.
Once you’ve determined what you need, you’ll want to look for those extra features that can help make the difference between an okay cleaner and a great cleaner.
Robotic pool cleaners have a wide array of cleaning methods. For instance, cleaners that come with good scrub brushes can do a better job at dislodging debris like algae so it can be sucked up. Some cleaners only have suction power, so any additional brushing will need to be done manually.
Smart scanning systems work to map out the shape and size of your pool for an efficient cleaning path. These can be great for oddly shaped pools so that the cleaner doesn’t end up going over the same area multiple times, therefore wasting energy.
How much the unit weighs is also important since you’ll need to lift it out of the pool. Remember that the water and collected debris will make it weigh more. For heavy units, wheeled caddies can be a real lifesaver as well, so you can roll the cleaner from storage rather than carrying it.
Swivel cords are also a good feature since they keep the cord from tangling up. They don’t always work, but they’re important if you’re not going to be there while the pool cleaner is running.
Other features that are nice but not really must-haves are remote controls and programmability. If you want to run your cleaner on a set schedule while you’re not home or at night, etc, then a programmable timer would be a benefit.
What are the drawbacks to robotic pool 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, but the cheapest ones don’t have nearly as many features and tend to break more often.
- Maintenance – With all the moving parts, there’s more to break and replace on a pool robot. The most common complaints are about the machines breaking down. Hint: Look for machines with good warranties, and purchase extended warranties if available!
- Filter cleaning – Unless you want to waste money on disposable filters, you’ll need to clean out the filter bags or cartridges after every cycle. If you have a big, busy pool with lots of debris, you may have to clean them a lot.
- Tangled up cables – Swivel cables help, but don’t always work. There’s always a chance your cable can get tangled on something or be a trip hazard. It’s a good idea to watch it the first few cycles to see if it will be a problem.
- Can damage some vinyl surfaces – If you have a vinyl-lined pool, make sure the cleaner is compatible with it. Some of the brushes can scratch the ink or remove the patterns on the vinyl. Always make sure your vinyl’s in good shape before using a pool robot with brushes.
- Can’t swim with it in the pool – All pool robots are grounded with GFCI plugs that are supposed to shut off at the first hint of any electrical imbalance. However, there’s always a risk of electric shock any time you have electricity and water together. So, while it’s running, you should play it safe and keep everyone out of the pool.
These quick tips and hints come from customers who’ve used the products listed above. They might help you if you need some troubleshooting.
- If debris tends to fall out when removing your cleaner from the pool, try either removing it really quickly or really slowly and keep it upright at all times.
- If you have a beach entrance style of pool, a robotic cleaner may get flipped over if it’s climbing a nearby wall. The water at the entrance may be too shallow for it to turn itself back over. Most cleaners have auto-shut off if this happens.
- To help prevent cord tangling, try stretching the power cord out straight and leave it in the sun for a few hours.
- Make sure the filters are completely enclosed with the door fully locked down, or the cleaner may not run.
- Don’t neglect the usual pool maintenance with regular brushing, testing water pH and chemistry, etc. There’s only so much your pool robot can do. If your pool is neglected and filthy, you need to manually clean it first, then use the pool robot for maintenance cleaning.
- The tracks on the rollers will stretch and loosen after a while, so if you notice it’s not climbing like it used to, try replacing the tracks.
Pool Maintenance Tips & Tricks
I have a Vanishing Edge pool. Are the robotic pool cleaners that climb on walls suitable or the robot will fall at the gap?
Hi, thanks for your question. A vanishing edge (also called infinity, negative, or zero edge) pool can be tricky when it comes to cleaning since you have to worry about both the main pool and the catch pool. However, most robotic cleaners should be fine in a vanishing edge pool. As soon as they reach the waterline and determine they’re coming up out of the water, they’ll stop and go back down.
It most likely won’t be able to clean your catch pool since catch pools are usually so narrow. You’ll have to manually clean that part.
Customers who have used the Dolphin Premier, Dolphin Nautilus, and Polaris F9550 Sport have all commented that they work well in infinity edge pools. Just to be safe, it wouldn’t be a bad idea to call the manufacturer of whichever pool robot you are considering.
My wife keeps saying we should get a robot pool cleaner. I’m really on the fence after using suction cleaners for the last several years. Are robotic pool cleaners really worth the money? Do they actually work as well as the suction cleaners?
Ten years ago, that would have been iffy. Like robot vacuums (ex: Roomba), robotic pool cleaners have come a long way in technology in the last decade. They’ve also become much more affordable.
In many cases, you still get what you pay for with a pool robot, so if you’re concerned about performance, opting for a premium model with an extended warranty would be your best bet. It’ll last longer and have the tech to clean more efficiently than the simpler, cheaper robots.
The Dolphin Nautilus Plus CC offers a lot of functionality for the price, so that might be a good one to start with.
I just got a Dolphin Premier robotic pool cleaner. How long should I expect it to last?
One of the downsides to robotic pool cleaners is once they’re done, they’re done. While there are a few parts that can be replaced such as brushes and filters, the electronics within can’t be replaced easily. So, you can expect between 3 – 5 years with most models.
The Dolphin Premier and other higher-end models can often last up to 8 years so long as you practice good maintenance and maintain your pool’s chemistry to lessen the chances of corrosion to the internal parts. Always opt for an extended warranty when you can, which will likely save you money if your pool robot dies young.
Hi, my neighbor leaves his robotic pool cleaner in the pool all the time, I think he said even over the winter. We do have mild winters, but his cleaner is still running after a couple years. The guy down at the pool store says that’s not a good thing to do, that we should take it out after every cycle. So, who’s right? Can I leave my robotic pool cleaner in the pool?
Thanks for your question. As far as leaving a robotic cleaner in the pool, your pool guy is right. You really should take it out and store it out of the elements after cleaning cycles and definitely over the winter, even a mild winter. Pretty much every owner’s manual will say the same thing.
While you may luck out like your neighbor and not have any issues, what you’re risking is damage to the rubber seals and plastics, hardware corrosion, etc. This is even more likely if your pool chemistry is off, which can easily happen over the winter.
Think about it this way. If you keep your car in a garage, it’s less prone to damage from rust, salt, hail, and so forth. If you leave it on for a cycle and go to work and take it out when you get home, this would probably be fine. Just take it out when you home, drain out the water, clean off the filters and brushes and store it in a dry, covered place out of the elements.
One of the best pool cleaner buyer’s guide for newbies. Thanks a lot for sharing!