Robotic pool cleaners

What Should You Look for in a Robotic Pool Cleaner?

Published · By the BotLineup editors · Prices and specs as of that date, from the pages under Sources

Summary

Three things narrow the field fastest: whether your pool is in-ground or above-ground, how big it is, and whether you want the robot to clean only the floor or also the walls and waterline. Once those are settled, the remaining choice is between a corded robot and a cordless one.

Pool type and size

Manufacturers list which pool types a model supports and a maximum length or area. A robot built for in-ground pools won't necessarily work in an above-ground pool, so check that first. Some brands rate by length and others by square footage, so have both numbers for your pool handy.

How much of the pool it cleans

Some robots clean only the floor, some add walls, and some also scrub the waterline, where grime builds up at the water's surface. If leaves and sand on the bottom are the main problem, floor and walls are enough. If you see a ring at the waterline, look for waterline cleaning in the specs.

Corded or cordless

A corded robot runs off a power supply, so you can use it every day without waiting on a battery, but you have to manage the cable and deal with tangles. The power supply has to sit on the deck at the distance from the water the manual specifies (Hayward's manual says at least 10 ft), plugged into a GFCI-protected outlet, not an extension cord. A cordless robot keeps the deck clear, though battery life and charge time decide how often you can run it.

Three examples from the maker's pages

Shopping for one? Find a cleaner for your pool →

Sources

  1. maytronics.com/en-us/residential-pools/best-performance-cleaners/dolphin-nautilus-cc-plus-w-wi-fi_99996409-PCI.html
  2. aiper.com/us/aiper-scuba-s1
  3. wybotpool.com/products/wybot-c1-cordless-robotic-pool-cleaner

We have not tested these products. Specs, prices, stock and terms are as published on these pages on the date above and can change; check the manufacturer or retailer before you buy.

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