Robotic pool cleaners have changed the way pool owners clean their facilities in recent years.
They have made it simpler to clean pools of various sizes and all type of materials.
But what are the best robotic pool cleaners on the market?
Today we look at the best models you can find from Amazon, and we also provide you with a buying guide for these products.
Take a ride with us as we provide you all the information you would need to make an informed decision when purchasing your robotic pool cleaner.
Top Robotic Pool Cleaner for Inground and Above Ground Pools Review 2021
Every robot pool cleaner is unique, with some being perfect for inground pools while others are suited for above-ground facilities.
Dolphin Nautilus CC Robotic Cleaner – Best Robotic Pool Cleaner for Inground Pools
The Nautilus CC Robotic Pool Cleaner is a vacuum cleaner that cleans your pool as you do other things.
It is the perfect model for pools of up to 33-foot and leaves the facility spotless within 120 minutes.
Mainly for inground pools, the device can efficiently clean an above ground pool, making it a multi-purpose cleaner.
The Dolphin is 8x more energy efficient than most cleaners on the market today and does not depend on a pool filter or pump.
What more, the product lets you ditch the hose that can tangle. It is the perfect robot to clean your pool without any supervision.
Nautilus CC is highly rated by different consumer reports for being efficient and agile and guarantees superior filtering and scrubbing.
It is also highly rated for cleaning the walls and floor with ease. You can schedule this model to automatically clean a pool every day, after a day, or after 3 days.
Dolphin Escape Robotic Cleaner – Best Robotic Pool Cleaner for Above Ground Pools
You can’t go wrong with Dolphin Escape Cleaner for leaves if your above ground pool is near trees.
The model delivers top-quality performance at a reasonable price, minimizing your swimming pool cleaning cost.
One thing, the cleaner doesn’t use bags that can get messy when emptying the trash. It makes use of large debris cartridges that collect 60% more trash.
It is also a model made with the latest cleaning technology like the HyperGrip Continuous Tracks.
The robot also offers the HyperBrush Dual Scrubbing Brushes that help to remove all the stubborn material.
Another superb feature is the SmartNav 2.0 Robot Scanning for ensuring that the cleaner cleans every corner of your pool.
Dolphin Escape for above ground pool is among the lightest cleaners you can find out there, weighing only 14 pounds.
And it comes with an energy-efficient 24v DC motor to guarantee you more power when cleaning.
Review of Top-Rated Robotic Pool Cleaners
There are many excellent options when it comes to robotic pool cleaners, which are suitable for your above ground and inground pools beside Dolphin Nautilus CC or Dolphin Escape Robotic Cleaner. Let’s dive in.
Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus Robotic Pool Cleaner
You can purchase the Nautilus CC Plus for an affordable price and have the confidence it will keep your ground pool clean.
It is the perfect model for pools of up to 50-foot and offers powerful suction to collect small materials.
The best part, the cleaner offers top-load filter cartridges.
Dolphin Premier Robotic Pool Cleaner
This is a drop-and-go pool cleaner for inground facilities of up to 50-foot. It cleans such a pool within 3-hour.
The model is known for providing multiple filter options and powerful dual scrubbing brushes. You also get a 3-year warranty when you choose this cleaner.
Besides, the Dolphin Premier Robotic Cleaner offers three filter options: an oversized fine filter bag, ultra-fine cartridge filters, and bottom-load fine cartridge filters.
Dolphin E10 Automatic Robotic Pool Cleaner
The E10 Automatic Robot Cleaner is ideal for an above ground pool of 30-foot and under. It comes with top-load technology, making it easy to clean.
You can save energy with this model, and a 24-month warranty backs it. It also comes with superior floor scrubbing and filtering capabilities.
OT QOMOTOP Cordless Robotic Pool Cleaner
It is a cordless pool cleaner that uses a lithium-ion battery to clean your pool within 90 minutes, saving you cleaning time.
The model is waterproof and quite durable.
AIPER Smart Cordless Automatic Pool Cleaner – Lightweight 538 Sq. Ft.
AIPER Smart is battery-powered cleaners with solid suction thanks to the 2pcs upgraded motors.
It is waterproof and provides auto-dock technology. The product is recommended for in/above ground flat pools of 538 sq. ft.
AIPER Smart Cordless Automatic Pool Cleaner – 861 Sq. Ft.
This is another cordless pool cleaner for cleaning above and in-ground pools of up to 861 sq. ft. with ease.
It makes use of a battery and is perfect for steps.
Types of Automatic Pool Cleaners: Robotic, Pressure, and Suction Pool Cleaners
The first thing pool owners do when buying cleaning gears is deciding whether they want automatic or manual cleaners.
Manual cleaners include vacuum units, surface skimmers, and brush attachments. You can use them with a telescopic pool to reach the furthest part of the pool.
On the flip side, you need to manually connect the automatic pool cleaner to your pool system to operate.
These automatic cleaners come in three types: Robotic Cleaners, Pressure Cleaners, and Suction Pool Cleaners.
Robotic Pool Cleaners
These products work with almost all pool sizes and shapes and can clean large and small particles and debris.
They have motors and integrated microprocessors that enable them to scan the pool size and size.
The scanning makes them clean your pool effectively and thoroughly without missing some spots.
Buying Tips:
- There are high-end models for under $1000 that you can program with remote control.
- The cleaners are available in different types for in-ground and above-ground pools.
How to Install Robotic Pool Cleaners
You can install your robotic pool cleaners as follows:
- Install the cleaner’s carrier caddy
- Connect the device’s cord to a plug
- Place the robotic pool cleaner in the pool
- Sit back, relax, and watch the cleaner cleaning your pool
Installation Tip:
- Read the manufacturer’s instructions when installing your robotic pool cleaner.
How Does The Cleaner Operate?
These cleaners can tackle walls, stairs, waterline, and other pool areas. You don’t even need to know how they filter the water.
They have pumps on the side for pulling the pool water into the filtration system and then back to the pool.
That action creates a force that propels the cleaners around the pool and enable them to suck the debris and dirt.
The debris collects in a built-in filter bag.
Maintenance Tips:
- Always empty the filter bag when the cleaner is done cleaning the pool.
- Wash or rinse it in water and then leave it to dry
Why Choose a Robotic Pool Cleaner?
Here are the benefits of a robotic pool cleaner:
- Versatile and efficient – These cleaners are designed to clean all types of trash and are ideal for vinyl pools, fiberglass pools, and other surfaces.
- Low Maintenance – You only need to empty the filter bag, clean it, leave it to dry, and then re-install it.
- Eco-Friendly – They don’t produce any fumes or toxic chemicals that can contaminate your swimming pool.
- Time and Energy Saver – They save energy because they don’t use the pool’s filtration system. The models save time since you only need to drop them in the water.
What Are the Cons of Robotic Pool Cleaners?
- Expensive than pressure and suction pool cleaners
- Need regular cleaning to guarantee effective filtration
Suction Pool Cleaners
They are more economical than the Robotic and Pressure pool cleaners and are the ideal choice for vinyl pools, concrete pools, and other surfaces.
Suction cleaners are the commonly used models for both the in-ground and above-ground swimming pools.
The cleaners handle kinds of trash, including harmful bacterial and stubborn algae. You attach the devices to a dedicated suction port at the pool’s circulation system.
They work like underwater vacuums and use suction’s force to propel around the facility while scrubbing the surfaces.
The devices are mainly recommended for pools with pebbles and leaves. You can find these cleaners in two types: Automatic and Handheld Suction Cleaners.
Buying Tips
- Automatic suction pool cleaners are more potent than handheld suction pool cleaners.
- Automatic cleaner cleans pool walls, stairs, steps, and corners and handles obstacles.
- Automatic cleaner cleans all pool sizes and shapes.
- Handheld suction pool cleaners require a rechargeable battery and are ideal for medium-size pools.
- You can attach the handheld model to a telescopic pol to extend its reach.
How to Install Suction Pool Cleaners
It only takes minutes to install a suction pool cleaner as they come pre-installed and don’t require many attachments and accessories.
Here is how to install this model:
- Attach the suction pool cleaner hose to the pool’s filter line or skimmer port
- Or attach the model to the swimming pool wall if it has a separate suction line
Installing Tips:
- The hose may vary depending on the model and brand.
- Ensure the model has the ideal water flow to continue working accurately and effectively.
How Do Suction Pool Cleaners Work?
The cleaner randomly moves around the facility, collecting every material on the way. It moves due to the water flow created by the suction when collecting debris.
The medium and large debris are collected at the skimmer basket while the smaller pieces get into the filter.
Usage Tip:
- Change the valve suction regularly to ensure it gets enough power to drive the cleaner around.
- Turn the pool pump off when the suction pool cleaner is running.
- Empty the skimmer baskets when it is done cleaning the pool.
Why Choose a Suction Pool Cleaner?
Here are the benefits you get when you choose the suction pool cleaner:
- The cleaner is ideal for cleaning minute particles as it is reliable in sucking all kinds of debris.
- It is perfect for cleaning the pool’s walls since it climbs them with ease.
- One benefit of suction pool cleaners is their affordability.
What Are the Cons of Suction Pool Cleaners?
- Not the right model for stairs and drains
- Easily get stuck at corners
Pressure Pool Cleaners
An automatic pool cleaner or a booster pump cleaner is ideal for collecting large debris and items from the pool like twigs, pebbles, acorns, bugs, and leaves.
It is the perfect model for a pool near trees or people who live in windy places with lots of debris.
These types of cleaners are often used by pool owners with powerful pressure side port on their facilities.
However, you can make it work without the port as follows:
- Connect it to the main pool circulation pump
- Use a separate booster pump
Tips to Note:
- A booster pump offers consistent and higher power
- A booster pump is least affected by dirty filters
How To Install Pressure Cleaners
The installation process of pressure cleaners is the same no matter the method you choose. Here are the steps to follow:
- Adjust the hose to reach the furthers section of your pool
- Adjust the floats
- Assemble the pool cleaner by removing the nut from its hose and then connecting the feed pipe
- Connect the cleaner’s bag to the feed hose
- Make sure all parts are secured
- Test the cleaner
How Do Pressure Pool Cleaners Work?
The pressure pool cleaners use water pressure to pump and move around the pool while vacuuming debris.
All debris and dirt collected go straight into the filter bag. The water getting into the device gets divided into three parts during this process.
Some go to the sweeper tail at the back to collect minute material from the pool surface and take it to the filter.
Some go down the cleaner’s thrust jet at the back and guide the machine around the pool in a random way.
The third part goes down the venture or port at the bottom to pull debris and leaves into the filter bag.
Note that the pressure cleaner features an in-line backup valve in the feed hose for dealing with obstacles on its path. It reverses the flow and changes the cleaning pattern.
Why Choose a Pressure Pool Cleaner?
- The pool’s filter experiences less clogging since the cleaner collects most large debris.
- It helps to reduce the pool’s filter wear and tear since it works separately from the pool system.
- It comes with a filter bag.
What Are the Cons of a Pressure Pool Cleaner?
- Only operate when the pool pump is running.
- Small particles can clog its backup valve.
Things To Consider When Buying
Buying a robotic pool cleaner is easier than you think. Here are the things you should consider when choosing this pool cleaning device.
Your Swimming Pool Type
Pools come in two main types: Above Ground and In-Ground.
- Above Ground Pools – You can assemble an above ground pool without seeking professional help.
It has a simple size and shape and is ideal for family use. You should get a robotic pool cleaner designed for this kind of pool.
- Inground Pools – The pool is made up of concrete, giving it a solid foundation. It is better done by a professional who digs up the ground and then creates it.
Some Tips to Note:
- It is easier to find a robotic pool cleaner for an above-ground pool than an inground one. There are only a few modes for the former than the latter.
Swimming Pool Purpose
Understanding how you use your pool is vital when buying a robotic pool cleaner. A residential pool can be cleaned with most cleaners.
Commercial pools are more complex and heavily used, requiring cordless robot cleaners that can cover more ground.
Swimming Pool Floor Type
One critical factor to consider when choosing a robotic cleaner is the type of swimming pool floor.
You should ensure that you get a cleaner that is compatible with your facility. Note that most models do well for flat and uneven surfaces.
Some machines come labeled for fiberglass pool, and such a model will not clean concrete or glass floors.
Determine the Amount and Size of Debris Getting in Your Pool
Is your swimming pool near trees? It will have lots of leaves, twigs, acorns, flowers, and debris floating around.
It’s best to choose a robot cleaner that can deal with all the material lying on and under the water.
That means getting a model that can clean the pool bed and run along the pool’s surface.
Some models have large filter bags for collecting more trash, reducing their cleaning frequency and time.
What Are Your Pool Dimensions and Elements?
Some pools have steps, slopes, or inclines. These need a robot pool cleaner that can climb the steps and inclines.
Avoid any model that can’t climb or only cleans corners that are challenging.
Don’t go for a cleaner that climbs the pool vertically if you have an above ground swimming pool.
And ensure the pool’s walls are strong to allow the cleaner to suck dirt with power without causing damage.
How to Choose the Best Robot Pool Cleaner: Buying Tips
Here are more things to keep in mind when choosing the perfect robotic pool vacuum for your facility.
Suction Power
Keep an eye on the suction power. It is measures in GPM or Gallons Per Minute. Anything Above 70 GPM is suitable for cleaning a swimming pool.
A higher GPM means the cleaner is more powerful.
Micron Value
Debris and dirt sizes are measured in microns. It is short for one-millionth of a meter or micrometer.
A filter’s micron value states the minor material can trap or remove from the pool water. Consider getting a model with a low micron value.
The lower the micron value, the better your robot cleaner. Hence, choose a cleaner with a low-micron basket or filter bag since it can clean and disinfect the pool water.
A Tip to Note:
- Terms such as mesh and fine don’t matter when cleaning the pool—concentrated on the micron value.
Power Washing Jets
Some pool cleaners come with power washing jets. They are recommended for pools with fine dirt, sand, and silt particles.
These jets help to clean surfaces that are irregular or where cleaners’ brushes can’t reach.
Warranty
Always ensure you get a warranty when buying any pool equipment. You are covered if something goes wrong with the cleaner.
It is easy to get a refund, repair, or replacement if you get a valid warranty.
Quality Build
You should ensure your pool cleaner is built with suitable material and can withstand years of usage.
Avoid a model that feels flimsy or is cheaper than the market average. A model can go for under $500 and be of quality built.
Features You Should Be Aware Of: Using – Buying Tips
Here are more helpful and valuable tips you need to know before you make the purchase.
Lightweight Model
A tiny robotic pool cleaner might be heavier than a large one.
Choosing a big cleaner is vital if you have a large pool, but ensure it is lightweight enough to allow you to carry it to/from the pool with ease.
Wheels
Go for a robotic pool cleaner with a wide 4-wheel-drive made of rubber. It can easily navigate your pool and get through slippery surfaces and bumps.
Swivel Cord
A pool cleaner can easily get tangled as it cleans vertical walls, stairs, and other areas of the facility.
You can prevent the tangles with a swivel cord that gives the machine the freedom it needs to clean your pool thoroughly.
Programmable Timer
The ideal robot pool cleaner should offer some form of timer. That lets you set it up and leave it to clean the pool without any supervision or daily setting.
Brushes
It is advisable to choose a model with brushes that rotates. They can be hard-bristle or rubber brushes since they are ideal for almost of pool surfaces.
How Do Robotic Pool Cleaners Work?
Robot pool cleaners may differ in many ways, but they have several things in common. Here is how these models work:
Electric Motors
They feature electric motors that drive them around while creating suction.
They don’t require the pool’s filtration system to function and are 100% autonomous. These models work like vacuum cleaners we use at home in many ways.
Power Supply
Robotic cleaners plug into the standard household power outlet and features a power supply system near the electric source.
This power supply converts the power coming from the source into a manageable voltage of about 24V.
That process makes them safe to use in the pool and can’t cause electrocution. A long cord runs from the power supply to the robot pool cleaner.
Suction Power
These units use a super-efficient electric motor that uses little energy to create suction and power to move them around.
The suction helps to suck the debris from the water and is trapped inside the robot. There are filters for collecting the dirt, and only clean water gets back to the pool.
Some robotic cleaners feature rotating brushes that remove stubborn dirt and algae from the surface.
And most models are propelled by tracks or wheels. Cleaners with tracks are effective when negotiating sharp corners and climbing walls.
Computerized Intelligent
The primary difference between a robotic pool cleaner and an automatic pool cleaner is the former computerized intelligence.
With that in mind, the processing abilities and electronic sensors in these units vary from one model to another.
A more expensive robotic pool cleaner is often more intelligent and is often more effective in cleaning.
These sensors help the cleaner scan the pool and map the path to clean the facility with minimal time.
The high-end models have memory and regularly update to improve their cleaning abilities.
Some sensors help the cleaner to determine the waterline, letting it backup and turn back to avoid getting out of the pool.
Placing the Robot Cleaner in Water
The robotic cleaners still require the pool owner’s input, although they are mainly hassle-free. You need to place your cleaner in water and remove it.
It is a simple process that involves dropping it into the water. You should be careful when placing the cleaner to prevent the cord from getting tangled.
These machines also need cleaning after every pool cleaning cycle to ensure they function optimally.
How to Use a Robotic Pool Vacuum
Here is a guide on how to set up and use a robotic pool vacuum when you purchase it for the first time.
- Assemble the cleaner. You might need to install the filter bag/basket and other parts.
- Connect the power cord to the pool cleaner and power unit. Only let out the correct length of the cable to prevent tangling.
- Plug the cleaner’s power into the GFCI power source.
- Submerge the cleaner into the water and let it sink.
- Head to the control panel and set the cleaning schedule. These can be in hours, days, and weeks or even walls, floors, floors and walls, etc.
- Press the ON/START button.
- You can link the cleaner to your smartphone app if it has Bluetooth connectivity and is configured using your phone.
- The cleaner will start to clean in a specific or random pattern. Be around during the first hours to ensure it doesn’t get stuck.
- You can empty the basket or bag halfway if your pool is highly dirty. Some cleaners have “filter full” light to notify you when they are full.
- Pull the cleaner upwards using its cable when it finishes cleaning your swimming pool. Grab it when it is within reach, lift it out – water will drain, and never pull the cord.
- Empty the debris and clean the basket or bag.
- Store the robot cleaner and power unit, it is a cool, dry place under shade. Some models can remain in the pool safely.
Robotic Pool Cleaner FAQs
Here are some commonly asked questions about the robot pool cleaners to help you know them better.
How Long Do Robotic Pool Cleaners Last?
The best robot pool cleaners can last for about four or five years. Some models even provide service for up to eight years when maintained properly.
You can find more affordable models that provide the same lifespan, but these require better care and maintenance.
How Often to Run Robotic Pool Cleaner?
You are recommended to run your pool cleaner daily or once per day if you use the pool every day.
Running it at least weekly or after two weeks is ideal if you don’t use your pool and it is not near trees.
You can even run it once per month if you use a pool cover to prevent debris from accessing the water.
Can You Swim with a Robotic Pool Cleaner?
You can swim when the robotic pool cleaner is running, but it would be better if you didn’t. Swimming churns the water up.
The current from the cleaner can buffet the water and make it harder to remove the debris. Your robot will have to work harder to clean the pool thoroughly.
Can You Leave Robotic Pool Cleaner in the Pool?
You can leave your pool cleaner in the pool when it is done, but you shouldn’t because:
- The water can increase its wear and tear
- The power supply can get damaged although it is water-resistant
- You need to clean the filter after use – a clogged one can damage the robot
- You can only inspect the cleaner for any damage when it is out of the water
How Do You Keep a Pool Cleaner from Getting Stuck on Steps?
The best solution is using a flow keeper valve. This is a valve that helps to regulate the water flow via the hose to the cleaner.
The valve can’t attach to the skimmer, so you need an additional hose to connect to the skimmer port.
Are Robotic Pool Cleaners Worth It
Wrapping up, the top rated robotic pool cleaners are worth every penny. They help to clean your pool and minimize electricity bills.
These cleaners also provide you with free time since you don’t need to be around to watch them when running.