Swimming has always been considered as a mode of relaxation. As time passed, folks graduated from taking dips in a lake to swimming in their own backyard. There are many upsides of having your very own pool. Spending time out in the sun is fun for not only the kids, but the old as well. Notice ‘sun’ being the keyword here. Having your own swimming pool is swell during those hot sunny days, but once the winter chills behind, you’ll want to stick close to the fireplace in your cozy home. Before winter, most people who own swimming pools decide to drain the water and give the pool a good scrub down before covering it up for the winter. This is where Robotic pool cleaners can be very useful indeed.
Why? You Ask
Keeping your swimming pool clean in crucial for so many reasons. The main reason being if your pool is not cleaned it will soon turn green, which is not as cool as watching your pool-less neighbors turn green with envy when you first got the pool. While cleaning your swimming pool the old fashioned way is fine, many people nowadays don’t have the time to go through the misery, especially when there is an easier, automated solution available. The point is, swimming pool maintenance is important regardless of the time of year, or whether or not it is being used. Cleaning the swimming pool ensures that the pool will be in good shape once you do decide to jump in for a swim.
How do Robotic Pool Cleaners Work?
The very first automated swimming pool cleaner was invented in 1912 by John Davidson. This invention completely revolutionized the way people cleaned their swimming pools and the automated swimming pool cleaner paved the way for the modern day, robotic swimming pool cleaners we see today. The first robotic swimming pool cleaner was invented in the 1930, which seems ions ago. Today, the robotic swimming pool cleaners that are available have progressed in ways that will leave you amazed. Now, let’s just take a quick look at just how these modern-day robotic swimming pools work and what makes them better than their predecessors.
There are many folks who do not have an idea of how robotic swimming pool cleaners work. That’s because any device that comes along with the word ‘Robotic’ is assumed to be extremely complex, and in the realm of the ‘nerds.’ Although, part of that assumption might be true! The key to gaining a better understanding of how robotic pool cleaners work is by taking a closer look at the basic mechanisms of the device and its functions.
The first thing that you will have to keep in mind is that a robotic pool cleaner is able to function independently from the swimming pool’s main filtration system, and also does not require the pump of the swimming pool. So, what does that mean? This means that the robotic pool cleaner does not end up putting your pool’s filtration system or its pump under undue stress. This dramatically brings down the cost of maintenance of these two devices that are extremely important to any swimming pool’s function.
Coming back to how these robotic pool cleaners work. A robotic pool cleaner is powered with two motors. The first one is used to power its in-built filtration system. This enables the robot to pump water into its self-contained filtration compartment. The water that passes through this compartment is filtered and then pumped back into the pool which ensures the water in the swimming pool remains clean and clear. Apart from that, this procedure also ensures that the water in the swimming pool is filtered a couple of times. Once in the filtration system that’s existing for the swimming pool and the second for the robotic pool cleaner itself, ensuring the pool stays as clean as possible.
The second motor in the robotic pool cleaner is the motor that is used to power the tractor-type wheels that enable the pool cleaner to move around under the pool. The four wheels are connected to blades or brushes depending on the type and model of the robotic pool cleaner which helps cleaning the floor of the pool without the need to drain out the pool water. With that task completed, the suction pump is able to suck up all the dirt and grime lying at the bottom of the pool as it moves along the swimming pool. The best part about using a robotic swimming pool cleaner is that it can be pre-programmed by the user to clear a specific area of the pool or the entire pool as per your instructions. The robotic pool cleaners also come with powerful sensors that enables it to move about in the pool without stalling or getting stuck. Now, that we’ve taken a quick look at just how these robotic pool cleaners operate its time for us to take a glance at some of the most recent robotic pool cleaner models that are available in the market.
The Best Robotic Pool Cleaner?
Answering that question with a single answer is not possible since all of the robotic pool cleaners mentioned here come with their own set of pros and cons depending on the type of pool you have and the kind of cleaning you require. The decision of choosing a specific pool cleaner depends ultimately on the few factors that have been mentioned such as the depth and size of the pool and your budget. Robotic pool cleaners come with a range of options so those interested in purchasing a robotic pool cleaner need to do their homework and find out the best option that suits their needs.
Technology is advancing and that makes our lives easier. But, it also means that as technology advances newer features are being included in robotic pool cleaners which may or may not appeal to certain people. The information you will find here can be used to find the best robotic pool cleaner for your needs. Apart from that, each company has its own select features that it focuses on when it comes to robotic pool cleaners depending on the climatic region the product is sold in and the user’s affordability. This means before one makes a choice they need to go through the various factors that will impact the type of robotic pool cleaner they purchase. Keeping that in mind, the following names of robotic pool cleaners can be used as a guide to getting you started in understanding what a robotic pool cleaner can do and how the different features can be used to keep you swimming pool in the best possible shape all year through.
Best Pool Cleaners
By the end of these reviews we hope that those of you who are scoping the market for a robotic pool cleaner have the information that’s needed to make a more informed decision. That said, the robotic pool cleaners that have been mentioned here are great in terms of quality and effectiveness when it comes to cleaning swimming pools of all sizes. So, without further ado, let’s get started.
Hayward Tigershark Qc Rc9990gr
Features
- On-board pump vacuums dirt and debris from the bottom, walls, inclines and steps of your pool.
- I calculates the size of your pool and programs itself into the most time and energy-efficient cleaning pattern.
- Easy to clean filter cartridge system. Remove and rinse with a garden hose.
- Designed for pools up to 20 by 40-feet, Cord Length 55-feet
Overview — Hayward TigerShark QC RC9990GR
The Hayward TigerShark QC RC9990GR has just about all of the features need to keep your pool in top shape during the summer or winter. Haywards, the manufacturer behind the design of this robotic pool cleaner comes from a long line of Hayward units that have always been considered as reliable and effective devices for pool maintenance, and the Hayward TigerShark QC RC9990GR is no exception. This is mainly due to the way that this particular pool cleaner has been calibrated to calculate the dimensions of the swimming pool and the cleaning requirements that will be needed to keep the pool clean.
Clean Debris up to 5 Microns in Size
For those of you who do not know how small that is, well 5 microns is really tiny and is something that only top-shelf pool cleaners have the power to accomplish. So, just the little detail right there is enough to tell you that the Hayward TigerShark QC RC9990GR is not joking around. This robotic pool cleaner can filter dirt and grime particles that are so small they can’t even be seen by the naked eye.
Two Different Work Modes
One other fascinating feature of the Hayward TigerShark QC RC9990GR is that it comes in two different modes of operation. This means, two settings that can be used to clean out a pool. The first mode is the automatic mode and allows the users to just set the Hayward TigerShark QC RC9990GR and let it do what it was built for. In this mode the pool cleaner can scan the size of the pool and determine how much energy is required to clean the pool. The second mode of operation is the quick-clean mode which allows the users to let the unit calibrate the easiest way of cleaning the swimming pool. The decision it makes will depend on the data that it is able to collect while it scans the size and the shape of the swimming pool.
Top-Notch Sensor Technology
The Hayward TigerShark QC RC9990GR isn’t just able to take the length of the swimming pool into consideration but is also designed to clean the swimming pool by analyzing other data such as depth and the amount of dirt in the pool.
Three Hour Cleaning Cycle
The Hayward TigerShark QC RC9990GR has a three-hour cleaning cycle which is more than enough to get the job done. Once the pool cleaner completes its task it automatically shuts off, saving you the need to have to keep track of the pool cleaner and turn off the power manually. The automatic turn-off feature of the pool cleaner is a great feature for any robotic pool cleaner to have and its expected when you have the word ‘robotic’ in the name.
Top Quality Filtration Cartridges
The Hayward TigerShark QC RC9990GR makes good use of its filtration cartridges, which is better than the traditional filtration bags used by most robotic pool cleaners available in the market today. What this means is that the cartridges are easier to clean and can be used multiple times before the need to be changed. This alone can help reduce the cost of maintenance of the Hayward TigerShark QC RC9990GR.
Pentair 360032 Kreepy Krauly Prowler 830
Features:
- Auto-reverse feature helps prevent hang-ups in corners and near steps for uninterrupted performance
- Built-in weekly timer allows for scheduled cleanings
- Costs less than 20 cents per day to operate
- Cycle selector remote control (830 model only)
- Full cartridge indicator lets you know when cleaner needs attending
- Includes convenient caddy for easy handling and storage
- Plug-in convenience requires no installation, booster pump or hoses
- Remote control functions allow you to override automatic cleaning modes to perform quick spot clean-ups
- Size: 23.5″ x 19″ x 19″
- Vacuums all types of debris and helps remove algae
- Weekly timer with full bag indicator (830 model only)
- Weight: 60 lbs.
Overview — Pentair 360032 Kreepy Krauly Prowler 830
The Pentair 360032 Kreepy Krauly Prowler 830 is another name that has become synonymous with quality, durability and function when it comes to robotic pool cleaners. The Pentair 360032 Kreepy Krauly Prowler 830 has one simple function, which is, it’s able to clean a pool automatically without the need for the user having to lift a finger.
Best Automation System in Pool Cleaners
The Pentair 360032 Kreepy Krauly Prowler 830, by far has one of the best automation systems. This means it can achieve maximum efficiency without the user having to do any settings beforehand. The intelligent brain on the Pentair 360032 Kreepy Krauly Prowler 830 allows it to determine which is the most efficient route to take while navigating through your swimming pool so that it is able to perform optimum levels of cleaning.
Remote Control Included
For those who want the Pentair 360032 Kreepy Krauly Prowler 830 to go over a certain area of their swimming pool again, the manufacturers have included a remote control that comes along with the unit. While the remote is not really needed for the device, it does provide an extra level of control for the Pentair 360032 Kreepy Krauly Prowler 830 whenever necessary. Besides, since we all like to control devices using a remote control it is a welcome addition for this robotic pool cleaner.
Two Automatic Cleaning Options
The Pentair 360032 Kreepy Krauly Prowler 830 comes with two cleaning options. The first one being for the pool bottom and the other is used for both the bottom and the sides of the swimming pool. The two automatic cleaning options of this pool cleaner to perform its task better and makes sure it doesn’t miss a spot while cleaning your swimming pool.
Cleans the Floor, Wall and Steps of Your Swimming Pool
The Pentair 360032 Kreepy Krauly Prowler 830 has been designed to keep the floor, walls and even the steps of your swimming pool clean. This means that the Pentair 360032 Kreepy Krauly Prowler 830 can go in all the nooks and crannies, and between the tile lines of your pool to make sure every area has been properly scrubbed before it shuts off automatically. The superior cleaning capabilities of the Pentair 360032 Kreepy Krauly Prowler 830 ensures that you do not have to clean your swimming pool over and over again.
Dolphin 99996356 Triton
Features:
- Convenient cartridge filter system that’s easy to clean and includes a spring clean-up option!
- Includes caddy for portability and storage
- Incredibly efficient – costs less than 15 cents to clean the pool.
- Patented swivel cable helps prevent tangling
- Plug-n-play! No pre-installation needed, no connections to pool system.
- Scrubs, vacuums and filters all pool surfaces in just 3 hours.
- Self-programmed for optimal pool scanning.
- 24-month warranty (spare parts and labor).
Overview —Dolphin 99996356 Triton
The Dolphin 99996356 Triton has earned its position on our list of best robotic pool cleaners for your money. This pool cleaning unit features a number of advancements that make it a great option for people who are looking to get their swimming pools cleaning without the hassle. It’s no wonder that the Dolphin 99996356 Triton has been listed as one of the best robotic pool cleaners out there.
Portable Design and Easy Storage
One of the reasons why many people prefer the Dolphin 99996356 Triton is its portability, which makes it easier to handle and store once you’re done. Compared to other larger units, the Dolphin 99996356 Triton is also easier to transport if needed.
Cleans Pools up to 50ft.
Don’t let the small size of the Dolphin 99996356 Triton fool you. This robotic pool cleaner has been designed to clean swimming pools that reach up to 50 feet in length. It has superior scanning technology which enables it to scan the area that needs cleaning and determine which path to use. The scanning features of the Dolphin 99996356 Triton extends to the coves, corners, walls and the floor of the swimming pool.
Special Design Swivel Cable
The swivel cable on the Dolphin 99996356 Triton makes sure that the wires don’t get tangled up once inside the pool. The Dolphin 99996356 Triton also comes with a remote control which is handy for spot cleaning or if you think that it needs to go over an area again. The ability to control the movement and route of the Dolphin 99996356 Triton makes it a versatile robotic pool cleaner that will be worth the investment.
Hayward AquaNaut 400
Features:
- Optimal suction at virtually any flow
- Consistent suction
- Complete pool coverage
- Cleans large debris without clogging
- Can navigates any surface
- 4-wheel drive capability
- Quick and easy to clean after use
Overview — Hayward AquaNaut 400
The Hayward AquaNaut 400 is known for its flexibility and improved suction performance that makes quick work of cleaning even the largest of pools. With its three easy to change throats you get better and more efficient performance as compared to other robotic pool cleaning devices.
4-Wheel Drive
The Hayward AquaNaut 400 features an efficient and robust 4-wheel drive mechanism that enables the unit to maintain an efficient level of power and balance throughout the cleaning process, and especially while doing the deep end of the swimming pool. It’s also quick and easy to clean after use.
Multiple Pre-Programmed Steering Sequences
The Hayward AquaNaut 400 features multiple pre-programmed steering sequences will cover your entire pool. This ensures that you get the most efficient cleaning with the Hayward AquaNaut 400. This also makes the unit ideal for using alongside variable-speed pool pumps.
Other Amazing Features
Other great features of this robotic pool cleaner includes V-Flex variable vane turbine that eliminates clogs while maximizing power.Impressive tire treads provide great climbing abilities and maneuverability. Then, there’s the patented adjustable roller skirt which helps the unit maintain optimal levels of suction even on uneven surfaces.
Ending Note
Nobody wants to relax and unwind in a pool filled with debris and dirt. Finding a reliable pool cleaner that can suck up the muck from your pool is just the thing you need. This is where the robotic pool cleaners make great options in terms of both efficiency and affordability. Keeping your swimming pool clean not just during pool season, but all through the year can be made easy with a robotic pool cleaner. All you have to do is find the right one for the job. Keeping that in mind, the reviews that have been shared here can be used as a useful guide to find out your needs and requirements when choosing to buy a robotic pool cleaner.