Robotic pool cleaner

How does a pool robot work?

A pool robot uses a pump to circulate water through a filter that collects leaves and debris from the pool floor. It calculates the pool area, and some models can also climb and clean the walls.

What should I consider when choosing a pool robot?

Pool robots are available for different pool types and sizes. Robots with soft foam rollers are designed for fibreglass and liner pools, while those with brushes are better suited to concrete or mosaic pools.

Each pool robot has a recommended pool size for which it is suitable.

What types of pool robots are available?

Pool cleaners can be divided into two categories: electrically powered models and those connected to the skimmer or a pool outlet.

Electric pool robots have a long power cable of 12–16 m, although some models are battery-powered. The robot vacuums the entire pool floor, and some models also climb and clean the walls. Leaves and debris collect in a basket or bag inside the robot.

In cleaners connected to the skimmer basket, the water flow creates suction beneath the unit, holding it against the pool floor as it moves around. Dirt collects either in the cleaner itself or in the pool pump basket.

Choose cleaning to suit the pool surfaces

Pool robots have different cleaning coverage: floor only, floor and walls, or the waterline as well. Check the model's stated functions against the pool's shape, surface material, depth and any steps. A robot that performs well on a flat floor may not handle a broad seating bench or shallow ledge in the same way.

The range includes Pahlén Midi-Vac20 and cordless models such as Hayward iPowershark, Zodiac Freerider and XWarrior. Battery operation means planning charging and running time, while a corded model requires a suitable location for the power supply. Also compare how the robot is lifted out and how easily its filter container can be emptied.

Match the filter to the debris

Leaves, sand and finer particles place different demands on the filter. Check which filters are supplied and whether alternatives are available for the model. Clean the filter as instructed so water flow is not restricted. The robot's mechanical cleaning complements the pool's circulation and water treatment. For future maintenance, see pool robot spare parts; manual cleaning options are available under pool robots and pool care.