Robotic Pool Cleaners- How Do They Work? And What Sets Them Above Other Pool Cleaners?
Us Aussies are pool fanatics. We love everything about them except pool cleaning, of course. The good thing about having a swimming pool today is the high-tech equipment and accessories you can purchase for them. One that can simplify pool care and make cleaning a breeze is a robotic pool cleaner. We’ve put together this post to share everything you need to know about these superior pieces of equipment and why you should consider one for your pool.
What is a robotic pool cleaner?
Put simply, a robotic pool cleaner is a compact electronic device that works autonomously to manoeuvre across the pool floor, steps and walls scrubbing the surface and sucking up debris as it goes. They come with either wheels or tracks, and these enable it to move in the pool. Inside the machine, you’ll find a filter bag, and this is where the smallest of dirt particles can be collected. Robotic cleaners have integrated programming and sophisticated sensors that allow them to navigate their way around the entirety of the pool without any prompting.
How do robotic pool cleaners work?
Other automatic pool cleaners such as pressure-side cleaners and suction cleaners depend on the pools circulation system to work, whereas robotic pool cleaners run independently using low voltage electricity. The amount of electricity they consume is so minimal, it is only around the same as a standard household light globe. Robotic pool cleaners have an anti-tangle swivel cord attached which is plugged into a regular power outlet. This is what powers the device.
How much do robotic pool cleaners cost?
The price can vary greatly depending on the model and brand you choose. To give you an idea, at the cheaper end, robotic pool cleaners start at around $600 and work their way right up to $4,000.
How long do robotic pool cleaners last?
Like anything, robotic cleaners need to be looked after to ensure they last. When proper care is taken, and you follow the user manual properly, you can expect your robotic pool cleaner to last for up to 8 years. It is worth choosing a brand that has a good reputation for making quality cleaners to ensure it lasts the longest time.
What sets robotic pool cleaners apart from other pool cleaners?
Robotic pool cleaners offer some major advantages, and while they are more expensive to purchase, the long term benefits they provide make them a smart investment. Here are some of the things that set robotic cleaners apart:
Better for the environment
There’s no denying that inferior or outdated equipment pool equipment will send your electricity bills soaring. Robotic pool cleaners use a fraction of the electricity that other pool cleaners do. By choosing this type of cleaner, you can effectively reduce your carbon footprint.
The need for high chemical doses is significantly minimised
All swimming pools and spas need adequate doses of chemicals to keep the water safe and sanitary to swim in. Robotic pool cleaners meticulously clean every crevice. As it brushes along the surfaces of the pool it collects noticeable debris and also minuscule fragments of dirt, algae and bacteria that would otherwise go unnoticed. The need for high doses of chemicals is significantly reduced as the water is kept in optimal condition due to the robotic pool cleaner. Using fewer chemicals is not only better for the people using the pool but the environment too.
Preserve water
Without a robotic pool cleaner, large particles of dirt can clog up the pool’s filter. The solution to fixing this is typically backwashing. This involves expelling water back through the filter to remove any stuck nasties. Doing this consumes a lot of water. A robotic cleaner can effectively prevent your filter from getting clogged, and backwashing your filter needs to be done far less. As a result, you are minimising your pool’s water consumption.
More money in your back pocket
Everyone loves to save money where they can, and a robotic pool cleaner can drastically reduce your pools running expenses. They can not only cut down on your energy bill but also your water and chemical consumption.
Less pool maintenance
One of the biggest selling points of a robotic cleaner for many pool owners is the fact that they can drastically reduce the amount of time you have to spend manually cleaning the pool. No one wants to spend more time cleaning their pool than they have to.
Superior cleaning
The clean that a robotic pool cleaner offers is simply unrivalled by other cleaners. It can crawl right up the waterline, into tight corners and over steps, leaving no section behind. It clears out contaminants in the water including, but not limited to:
- Leaves
- Twigs
- Pollen
- Urine
- Bacteria
- Sweat
- Algae
- Lotions such as sunscreen and tanning oils
- Chemicals
The best robotic pool cleaners have:
A generous vacuum bag
The smaller your robotic pool cleaners internal vacuum bag is, the quicker it will fill up, and the more often you’ll have to empty it. For convenience, choose a robotic cleaner with a generous bag capacity.
Intelligence
When you choose a robotic cleaner that has intelligence, it can cleverly identify the layout of your pool to get the most beneficial clean in the shortest time. If it doesn’t feature this, it will randomly clean the pool as it goes. Another thing to look for is its compatibility with smart technology, or at the very least, it should have a remote control. Smart technology allows you to control your robotic cleaner from anywhere and at any time with a touch of a button on a smart device.
Superior traction
To be able to manoeuvre up walls and over steps without slipping down, the robotic cleaner you choose needs to have great traction. Those with caterpillar tracks, 4WD or big rollers, tend to offer good gripping properties. The better the traction, the better it can clean your pool.
Water emptying upon removal
All robotic cleaners should be removed from the water and stored out of the sun when not in use. When you choose a cleaner that doesn’t propel the water inside of it upon lifting, it can be heavy and difficult to get out of the pool. Some more sophisticated models have jets that expel the water as it reaches the waterline. This makes it far easier and safer for your back when lifting it out.
Premium cleaning capabilities
It is one thing for a cleaner to remove leaves and dirt but for the ultimate clean, choose a robotic pool cleaner that has premium cleaning capabilities and can pick up pollutants that are invisible to the naked eye. Less effort is then required from you to keep the water crystal clear.
Do you have questions about a robotic cleaner for your pool? Or perhaps you’re looking for a new swimming pool for your home? Either way, our professional team of fibreglass pool specialists here at Factory Pools Perth can help. We install luxurious swimming pools and spas right across Perth and know a bit about pools, and all their inclusions. Contact us today for more information, or check us out online.
