Having your very own pool in your backyard or house is an incredible thing. Being able to sit back and relax in the water after a difficult day – or maybe to cool off after a very hot one – is an amazing addition to your home.
But if there’s one thing that strikes fear into the hearts of pool owners – it’s the cleaning! Whether you like it or not, you have to keep your pool (see also ‘ Pool Foam: Causes & How To Get Rid Of It ‘) clean for both safety and comfort.
RANK | IMAGE | PRODUCT NAME | RATING | |
1 |
| DOLPHIN Robotic Pool Cleaner | ||
2 |
| AIPER Cordless Robotic Pool Cleaner | ||
3 |
| DOLPHIN Quantum Automatic Pool Cleaner | ||
4 |
| Ofuzzi Cordless Robotic Pool Cleaner | ||
5 |
| Polaris 9650iQ Pool Cleaner |
The water must be constantly monitored, and the condition around and inside your pool must never be neglected. But this is the difficult part – how can you keep your pool clean?
This is where pool cleaners come in, and with modern technology, it’s easier than ever. Robotic Pool Cleaners were first invented by Mr. Bill Smith of Australia in 1989.
He was looking for a way to automate the process of cleaning his swimming pool, but he couldn’t find anything suitable at the time. So he decided to make one himself.
The result was the Robotic Pool Cleaner, which has been used all over the world since then. It’s a robotic device that cleans the bottom of pools, removing dirt and debris from the surface of the water.
This keeps your pool clean, safe and comfortable. And because it does the work automatically, you don’t need to do any of the dirty work yourself.
Robots are now available in many shapes and sizes. Some are designed to clean the walls of your pool, while others will clean the entire bottom.
You’ll also find some that are designed to clean the floor of your pool, as well as those that can clean the sides too. They’re all made to fit perfectly into your pool, so they won’t move around once they’ve started working.
So let’s say you want to get a robotic pool cleaner – but you don’t know where to start! If this sounds like you, then don’t worry! You’ve come to the right place.
We’re here to help! Below is a total guide that will outline the 5 best robotic pool cleaners on the market right now.
We’ve made sure to break each product down with a handy list of pros and cons so that you can easily understand the unique aspects of each.
We’ve also made sure to include an extensive FAQ section at the end of this article so to answer any additional questions you might have.
Table of Contents
1. DOLPHIN Robotic Pool Cleaner
First up we have a pool cleaner from DOLPHIN. This is one of the more pricey products on our list, but it has a whole host of great features that will allow you to rest easy whilst it does all the cleaning for you.
This product has a simplistic setup, simply place it on top of the water with one button, and it will start to do work. It also has a number of different filter options that you can navigate through using its touchscreen display.
All filters are interchangeable and will allow you to change them out depending on what type of filtration system you have installed in your pool. It also comes with a built-in LED light that allows you to see exactly what it’s doing.
It’s also got a powerful motor that helps it to remove even the smallest particles from your pool.
It’s also got a large tank that holds enough water to cover most areas of your pool. It’s a relatively big machine, but it’s perfect for smaller pools.
Pros
- Motor: Powerful Motor that works well.
- Easy To Install: For peace of mind.
- Weekly Timer: allows you to set cleaning in time periods.
Cons
- Wired: inferior to other wireless models.
2. AIPER Cordless Robotic Pool Cleaner
The second is a smaller cleaner that will only take up a small amount of space. It’s called the Aiper cordless robotic pool cleaner, and it’s ideal if you have a small pool or just want something compact.
You can use this cleaner anywhere in your pool without needing to drill holes. Simply plug it in and press the power button. It’s got a simple design, but it still manages to look sleek and stylish.
It also has a lot of great features including a self-charging battery that lasts for about 10 hours of continuous use.
It’s also very quiet, so you won’t be disturbed when it’s working. It uses a brush head that rotates 360 degrees, allowing it to clean every inch of your pool.
It also has a high capacity tank that can hold over 1,000 gallons of water.
Pros
- Battery Life: Can last for long periods of time.
- Quiet: Very quiet.
- Self Charging: Charges itself automatically.
Cons
- Power: Not as powerful as other more expensive and larger models.
3. DOLPHIN Quantum Automatic Pool Cleaner
Our third item on this list is another pool cleaner from DOLPHIN. The Quantum automatic pool cleaner is one of their most popular products, and it’s designed to be used in conjunction with their Dolphin Pool Monitor (see also ‘Best Smart Pool Monitoring System: Reviews & Buying Guide‘).
If you already own a Dolphin Pool Monitor, then you’ll be able to connect these two devices together, and they will form a complete automated pool cleaning system. They both work independently, but they also work really well together.
The Quantum has a similar style to the product listed above, but it’s slightly bigger than the previous model.
It’s also got some extra features such as a remote control that allows you to operate it remotely.
It also has a touch screen display that makes navigation much easier. It’s got an easy-to-read LCD screen that shows all the information you need to know about how the device is performing.
Pros
- Remote Control: Allows you to operate the unit remotely.
- Touch Screen Display: Easy to navigate.
Cons
- Noisy: Slightly louder than other units.
4. Ofuzzi Cordless Robotic Pool Cleaner
Next up is probably the most efficient product on this list. The OFuzzi Cordless Robotic Pool Cleaner is a powerhouse of battery charge.
We found that it stays charged for over 7 hours, which is really impressive considering its size and power ratio.
It’s not the nicest looking pool cleaner on our list, nor is it packed with impressive additional smart features – but if you’re looking for something robust and efficient, look no further than the Ofuzzi.
It’s made from ABS plastic, so it’s durable and tough enough to withstand regular use. It’s also quite lightweight at around 3 kg.
This means that it’s easy to move around and maneuver into tight spaces. It’s also equipped with a powerful motor that spins at speeds of up to 400rpm. This helps it to get through even the thickest layers of dirt.
It’s also got a large tank that holds up to 1,500 gallons of water, and it comes with a filter attachment that lets you remove debris from the water.
You can choose between three different brush heads, each with a different level of filtration.
There are also five levels of suction, which allow you to adjust the strength of the vacuum depending on what kind of surface you have.
Pros
- Long Battery Life: Stays fully charged for over 7 hours.
- Durable: Made from strong ABS plastic.
- Lightweight: Lightweight design makes it easy to move around.
- Easy To Use: Simple controls make navigating the device simple.
Cons
- Not As Durable: A bit flimsy compared to other models.
5. Polaris 9650iQ Pool Cleaner
For the final pool cleaner on our list we’ve decided the Polaris 9650iQ. This is a great choice if you’re looking for something with a lot of power, but also something with some extra technology included.
This pool cleaner comes with a smart app that allows you to control it remotely. This is a great feature that means you can control your cleaner without having to get wet yourself.
This smart app has been designed to be operated by anyone, regardless of experience or skill level. The Polaris 9650iQ is built to last, and it’s backed by a 2-year warranty.
This pool cleaner is powered by a lithium-ion battery, which provides a long-lasting charge. It’s got a maximum runtime of 12 hours, which is pretty decent for a little robot like this.
It’s also got a large capacity tank that can hold up to 6,000 gallons of water, which should cover your entire swimming pool.
It’s also been designed to perform well in any kind of weather conditions. It’s got a heat-resistant coating that keeps it cool during hot days, and it’s also dustproof. This means that it’ll work just fine when there’s lots of rain falling.
The Polaris also comes with a number of accessories, including a cleaning head, a hose, and two brushes.
These accessories help you clean the bottom of your pool more effectively. They also help to keep the pool cleaner out of areas where you don’t want it.
Pros
- Powerful Motor: Powerful motor spins at speeds of up 600 rpm.
- Large Capacity Tank: Can hold up to 6, 000 gallons of water.
- Smart App: Comes with a smart app that allows you to control it remotely.
Cons
- No Smart Features: No smart features included, although some manufacturers offer add-ons.
Buyers Guide
So now that we’ve taken you through 5 of the best robotic pool cleaners on the market, we’re going to outline the reasons why we chose the products we did in a buyers guide section.
This guide will highlight each of the most important factors that you’ll need to keep in mind when searching online or in stores for your perfect robotic pool cleaner.
We’re going to go in depth on each feature so that you’ll be able to select with absolute confidence.
The Size Of Your Pool
First you need to think a little about the reason you’re buying a pool cleaner. Is it for your own house? If so, what size pool do you have?
This is something that is vital to consider because it will affect the pool cleaner you eventually pick.
If you’re planning to use your pool cleaner as an addition to a larger system, then you’ll probably want to look into getting one that’s big enough to handle your whole pool.
You could even find a model that’s capable of handling multiple pools at once.
However, if you’re only using your pool cleaner for personal purposes, then you might not need such a powerful machine. In fact, many people prefer smaller robots simply because they are easier to maneuver around their pool.
There are a few different sizes available, ranging from small ones that are ideal for small pools, all the way up to huge machines that are suitable for very large pools.
You’ll also need to take into account how often you plan on using your pool cleaner. Will you be using it every day?
Or maybe just occasionally? The size of the robot you buy will depend on these things. Small models tend to be cheaper than bigger versions, but they won’t last nearly as long.
Battery Life
Another thing you’ll need to think about is how much time you expect you’ll spend using your new pool cleaner.
Do you plan on spending several hours per week cleaning your pool? Or perhaps you’d rather get a robot that lasts longer between charges.
A good rule of thumb is to make sure that the battery life of the robot you decide on is at least equal to the amount of time you plan on spending using it.
For example, if you plan on spending 2 hours per week cleaning your swimming pool, then you should definitely look for a robot that has a battery life of at least 3 hours.
This is especially true if you plan on charging the robot regularly. Most of the time, this means plugging it into a power source before you start using it. However, there are times when you can charge the robot while it’s running.
In these cases, you’ll need to ensure that the robot has a battery capacity that’s high enough to allow you to recharge it without having to stop using it.
Charging Time
When it comes to choosing a pool cleaner, you’ll also need to think about how quickly you can recharge it. Some robots come with built-in batteries that can be charged directly via USB ports.
Others require you to purchase additional accessories to help them charge.
It’s always better to decide a robot that requires fewer accessories since this will save you money and space. However, some robots don’t come with any extra chargers. Instead, they rely solely on their internal batteries.
These types of robots usually work fine, although they aren’t quite as efficient as those that have external chargers. They may also run out of energy faster than other models.
Cleaning Ability
When shopping for a robotic pool cleaner, you’ll need to think carefully about its ability to clean your pool.
Are you looking for a simple device that will sweep away debris and dirt, or would you like a more advanced unit that can actually remove algae and leaves from your water?
If you want something simple, then you’ll probably find that most of the best pool cleaners on the market today fall into this category.
These devices typically use brushes to clean your pool, which means that they can easily pick up loose debris and dirt.
However, they aren’t designed to deal with larger objects, such as leaves and algae. If you want something that can tackle both of these problems, then you’ll need to consider investing in a model with an automatic filter system.
The best pool cleaners on the planet today are capable of removing even the toughest stains from your water. This includes algae, leaves, and even oil spills.
Most of them feature high-quality filters that can remove even the smallest particles from your pool.
In fact, many of them can even detect when you’ve added new chemicals to your pool, so they can automatically adjust their settings accordingly.
Of course, not all pool cleaners offer the same level of performance. The best ones are able to handle virtually every type of stain imaginable.
Price
Finally, you’ll need to take price into consideration when buying a pool cleaner. As mentioned earlier, most of the best pool cleaner brands on the planet today fall into this category, but they’re certainly not cheap.
You can expect to pay anywhere between $150 and $300 for a decent quality robot.
Of course, you’ll have to factor in the cost of purchasing the necessary accessories, along with shipping costs if you live outside the United States.
In addition, you’ll also need somewhere to store the robot once it’s been fully charged. Most of the best pool cleaners today come with built-in storage compartments, while others include removable trays.
Regardless of whether you buy a robot that features built-in storage or one that needs to be stored elsewhere, make sure that it doesn’t take up too much room.
Otherwise, you could end up spending more time searching for things around your house instead of enjoying your swimming pool.
Brand
When trying to work out what the best kind of pool cleaner is for your home, you’re going to want to consider brand first and foremost.
Is the product you’re looking at from a trusted brand? Have they already made other pool cleaners in the past? Do their models show progression, like they are listening and trying to please their customers?
If you’re looking at an established brand like some of the products we chose above, you’ll be able to tell right away whether they care about their customers and how well they perform.
Other factors to consider include the warranty offered by the manufacturer, the number of years the company has been operating, and the overall customer reviews.
Deciding a good pool cleaner isn’t easy, especially if you don’t know where to start. Thankfully, our guide should help you figure out what makes the best pool cleaner for your home.
Wireless Features
If you’re planning on using your pool cleaner to clean your pool, then you’ll need a wireless remote control.
These devices allow you to operate your pool cleaner remotely without having to get out of the comfort of your own chair.
Some of the best pool cleaners on the market today feature Bluetooth technology, which allows you to use your smartphone to control the device.
You can easily switch between cleaning modes, adjust its speed, and change its direction.
However, there are still plenty of pool cleaners available that do not feature any form of wireless technology. They simply require you to manually operate the controls.
Wheels
The wheels on your pool cleaner will determine how effective it is at navigating through your pool.
Some of the best pool cleaners have four wheels, allowing them to move smoothly across the surface of the water. Others only have two wheels, making them less stable than those with four.
It’s important to note that the size of the wheel does not necessarily mean that it will be easier to maneuver. It’s actually quite the opposite.
A larger wheel means that the robot will be heavier, so it may struggle to keep itself upright as it moves around.
On the flip side, a smaller wheel may be lighter, but it won’t be very sturdy either. This means that it may topple over easily if you try to push it across the floor.
Storage Capacity
One of the most common complaints about pool cleaners is that they don’t store enough dirt.
While this might seem like a minor issue, it can quickly become a problem when you realize that you’ve spent all day cleaning your pool, and now you have no way to dispose of the waste.
Most pool cleaners come equipped with a small bag that stores the dirt that they collect. However, these bags aren’t large enough to hold all the debris that comes off your pool during a single session.
This is why many people choose to invest in a robotic pool cleaner that also includes a removable storage compartment.
When you run low on space, just empty the contents into the container and place it back inside the machine. The next time you use it, the unit will automatically refill itself.
Final Thoughts
So there you have it! Those were 5 of the best robotic pool cleaners around right now, as well as an extensive buyers guide to highlight all the most important features of those products.
We hope that you now know a lot more about robotic pool cleaners and the most essential things to look out for when buying one.
If you still need some extra help, keep reading for our extensive Frequently Asked Questions section below!
Happy pool cleaning, we’re sure your new robotic friend will help you out!
Frequently Asked Questions
How Waterproof Are Pool Cleaners?
Waterproofing is probably the most important thing to consider when purchasing a pool cleaner. After all, you want to make sure that your investment doesn’t end up getting damaged by the elements.
Fortunately, most of the top-rated models on Amazon are rated “watertight” or “waterproof”. So, if you’re looking for a product that will withstand harsh weather conditions, you should definitely take a closer look at those options.
What Is The Best Type Of Remote Control For My Pool Cleaner?
When shopping for a remote control, you’ll find that there are several types of remotes available. Most of them are made from plastic and include buttons that you press to activate certain functions.
However, others are made from metal and feature touchpads instead of buttons.
The main difference between the two is how easy it is to navigate through the menu system. With a button-based remote, you’ll need to press each button individually.
But with a touchpad based remote, you simply slide your finger along the surface to select items.
Of course, you’ll also want to pay attention to the overall design of the device. Some designs are better suited for indoor pools than outdoor ones, while others are designed specifically for swimming pools.
You’ll also want to check out the number of buttons included. Some models only offer a few basic controls, while others allow you to customize the settings to fit your specific needs.
You’ll also want to think about what kind of functionality you’d like to see in the remote. Do you want to be able to adjust the water level?
Or maybe you’d like to set the timer (see also ‘The Best Pool Timers‘) so that the robot runs automatically every day at a certain time? These are all great reasons to buy a high quality remote control.
Which Features Should I Look For In A Pool Cleaner?
There’s no denying that pool cleaners can be pretty expensive. As such, you’ll want to make sure that you get the absolute best model possible. Here are some of the features that you should look for:
- High Quality Motor – This is arguably the most important part of any pool cleaner. It’s responsible for propelling the entire device across the floor of the pool. Make sure that the motor has plenty of power and is built to last.
- Long Battery Life – Many pool cleaners come equipped with rechargeable batteries. While this is convenient, it means that they won’t work if the battery dies. As such, you should always choose a model that comes with replaceable batteries.
- Easy To Use Controls – When you first start using a pool cleaner, you might not understand all the various buttons and switches. Luckily, many of the top-rated pool cleaners are very user-friendly. They usually come with clear instructions that explain everything you need to do.
- Multiple Functions – Some pool cleaners are designed to clean both above and below the water line. Others are just meant to clean the bottom of the pool. Still other models have multiple cleaning modes. If you want a cleaner that does more than one type of job, then you’ll want to ensure that it offers these additional functions.
How Much Does A Pool Cleaner Cost?
Depending on the size of your pool, you can expect to spend anywhere from $100-$400 on a pool cleaner. There are even models that cost upwards of $1,000!
Of course, price isn’t the only factor to consider. You’ll also want a model that fits your budget and lifestyle.
What Is The Best Way To Clean Pool Walls?
One of the biggest problems with pool walls is algae buildup. Algae grows quickly when there is too much sunlight and too little oxygen. Fortunately, there are several ways to keep algae from growing on your walls.
The easiest way to remove algae from the pool wall is by using an automatic pool cleaner.
Most pool cleaners will run continuously throughout the day and night. This allows them to clean the pool wall as often as necessary.
Another option is to use a manual pool cleaner. Manual cleaners are typically used during peak hours when the pool is being cleaned less frequently.
Since they require human intervention, they’re generally slower than their automated counterparts. However, they’re still capable of removing algae from the pool wall.
