Choosing a robot vacuum cleaner for the pool: TOP 10 best models + what to look for when buying
Caring for your own pool, equipped on the territory of a private household or suburban area, is quite complex and painstaking. This work can be greatly simplified by a robotic pool vacuum cleaner. By plunging directly into the water, it independently cleans the walls of the bowl and filters dirt from the liquid.
You will learn all about the best robotic cleaners for caring for an artificial pond from the article we presented. We will introduce leading-selling products, the reliability of which has been confirmed by operational practice. Our recommendations will help you find the optimal device option.
The content of the article:
- Features of underwater robots
- Criteria for selecting underwater robotic vacuum cleaners
- TOP 10 best models on the market
- Place #1 – iRobot Mirra 530
- Place #2 – Vortex OV3400/Vortex 3
- Place #3 – Dolphin Supreme M3
- Place #4 – Dolphin Dana 2
- Place #5 – AquaTron Aquabot Bravo
- Location #6 – Hayward SharkVac
- Place #7 – Zodiac RT3200 TornaX PRO
- Place #8 – Zodiac CyclonX RC 4360
- Place #9 – Aquatron Ultramax
- Place #10 – Dolphin Dana 100
- Conclusions and useful video on the topic
Features of underwater robots
To keep the pool clean in the summer, you have to regularly drain the water and clean every centimeter of the surface by hand. But smart technology can save you from such activities. Let's understand the intricacies of automated pool cleaners.
What is a "submariner"?
Underwater robots do not need to be connected to a stationary cleaning system, which is usually located near the pool. They have a separate filter mechanism built into them.Good traction is provided by a pump that pumps liquid, working on the principles of creating vortex water flows.
Along with the water, debris particles get inside the housing. Then they are retained by the filter, enter a special storage tank (bag or cartridge), and the purified liquid is returned to the pool bowl.
The cord, motor, electronics and other parts of the equipment are equipped with a high degree of protection against moisture. Opening mechanisms and connection areas are additionally insulated. To start cleaning, you just need to immerse the device in a pond, connect the cable to the power supply and start the movement with the appropriate button.
Moving along surfaces, the robot begins to collect dirt encountered along the way and at the same time filter water. The hard brushes and rotating rollers located on the bottom have a special shape. During cleaning, they reach even the most difficult places.
If necessary, you can intervene in the operation of the unit and control it via the remote control included in the basic package of most models. The selection of suitable routes and setting of precise parameters occurs thanks to a smart programmable module containing a number of pre-defined algorithms.
Different operating modes provided by the manufacturer help to adapt to individual circumstances. The optimal program is selected depending on the type of surface, level of contamination, and design specifics of the bowl.
The device runs on a battery, making virtually no noise. It sticks to the walls of the bowl due to a powerful water flow, which is continuously passed through filters.
The equipment maintenance procedure is usually not difficult. After completing the cleaning process, empty the tanks and rinse the filter under running water.
Key benefits of robotics
Smart vacuum cleaners do an excellent job of cleaning surfaces made of ceramic tiles, mosaics, plastic, and concrete.
Compared to manual and semi-automatic modifications of equipment for cleaning reservoirs, robotic equipment has much more positive qualities:
- minimal user participation in the painstaking maintenance of the artificial reservoir;
- high performance;
- possibility of servicing large areas;
- complete cleaning of all types of debris - mucus, sand, midges, mold, mildew, foliage, stubborn stains, algae accumulated on the walls;
- sophisticated security system;
- programming frequency and cleaning method;
- long-term operation with proper use.
The devices independently remove dirt from the waterline area, walls, and bottom of the pool, and also efficiently purify the water in just a few hours.
Robotic submariners work at depth without any problems, “stick” to walls, and climb steps. No device with manual control can cope with cleaning on a par with them.
Criteria for selecting underwater robotic vacuum cleaners
There are many models of self-contained cleaners on the market for home and commercial pools. Their cost is determined by the brand, technical indicators, performance and basic equipment.
Choosing robotic cleaner, you should carefully study the characteristics of a particular model. In this case, it is important to take into account the shape and size of the reservoir bowl, comparing them with the functionality of the vacuum cleaner. The price of units in this category is quite high.
In order not to waste your time and money, you should pay attention to every small nuance:
- Power cable length. The longer the wire, the greater the amount of work the device can handle. Ideally, the length should exceed the parameters of the bowl.
- Performance. The duration of cleaning and energy consumption will depend on its indicator.
- Types of filter elements. Their quality and recommended replacement intervals affect overall maintenance costs.
- Additional attachments. Such details will improve the quality of cleaning of relief areas.
- Devices that make it easier to transport the device. Most robots are characterized by impressive weight. The cart or wheels included in the kit will help you move the equipment to the work site without any extra effort.
In addition, it is advisable to make sure that a remote control is included as standard or that it can be purchased additionally.
A remote control is especially necessary if the vacuum cleaner is purchased for a large pool. Settings and modes can be easily adjusted through it.
TOP 10 best models on the market
When considering different underwater vacuum cleaners, it is more advisable to give preference to reliable manufacturers that have many positive ratings from buyers of this type of equipment.
According to the latest ratings, the unchanged leaders of the segment remain iRobot, Zodiac, AquaTron, Dolphin and several other companies. The robots they produce are distinguished by their efficiency, well-thought-out ergonomics and durability. The following models made it into the top ten.
Place #1 – iRobot Mirra 530
A vacuum cleaner for cleaning a swimming pool from the flagship company of robotic technology costs about 90 thousand rubles. It is designed for small domestic and commercial ponds. The package includes a remote control.
The iRobot brand vacuum cleaner moves easily on both vertical and horizontal planes. It can handle even very slippery surfaces. For example, ceramics or vinyl. PVA wheels are responsible for high-quality grip.
Characteristics of the model under consideration:
- power – 180 W;
- length of floating wire – 18 m;
- duration of the harvesting cycle – 180 minutes;
- the volume of water filtered per hour is 20 cubic meters. m.;
- device dimensions – 35x40.6x30.8;
- equipment weight – 9 kg.
The robot performs tasks completely autonomously, without the need for additional control and management.Before starting the cleaning cycle, he studies the geometry of the pool, calculates the amount of work and draws up a plan for the upcoming process, focusing on current circumstances.
Thanks to the powerful suction force, it collects not only large particles of debris, but also small ones measuring about 2 microns. Active motorized PVC brushes remove dirt accumulated on the bottom, walls and steps. Each area of the site is vacuumed 3-4 times. The built-in pump pumps up to 265 liters of liquid per minute.
Place #2 – Vortex OV3400/Vortex 3
One of the most successful developments of the Zodiac manufacturer, endowed with innovative technological solutions, is available to Russian buyers at a price of 140 thousand rubles. This vacuum cleaner works with bowls of different shapes and any lining, covering an area of up to 70 m2.
The mutual layout of the engines and the specific design of the filter box in the device contribute to the highest filtration power, which does not decrease at the final stage of the operating cycle.
Unit characteristics:
- power – 150 W;
- length of sealed wire – 18 m;
- duration of the cleaning cycle – 90 minutes (bottom), 150 minutes (bottom + walls);
- the volume of water filtered per hour is 16 cubic meters. m.;
- dimensions (WxDxH) – 43x48x27;
- weight – 19 kg.
In its work, the robot uses several cleaning algorithms: moving forward along the bottom of the bowl, spiraling along the walls, or simply along the waterline. The special tread pattern of the four wheels makes the device more maneuverable and stable.
Since the porosity of the installed filter element is 100 microns, the device does not allow even the smallest pollen to pass through. The wide suction opening easily picks up large debris.
Place #3 – Dolphin Supreme M3
A robot vacuum cleaner from the Dolphin brand, designed for use in private economy class swimming pools, is sold at a price of 82 thousand rubles.
The advanced scanning program optimizes the cleaning process. The Supreme M3 model is energy efficient and very easy to maintain.
Specifications:
- power – 150 W;
- length of moisture-resistant wire – 18 m;
- duration of the harvesting cycle – 180 minutes;
- the volume of water filtered per hour is 16 cubic meters. m.;
- device dimensions – 27x48x43;
- weight – 8.5 kg.
The vacuum cleaner has a system that prevents the cable from tangling while moving. An additional indicator indicates when the trash container is full.
Three rapidly rotating rubber brushes actively collect debris from the bottom covered with mosaic, composite, PVC film and other types of cladding. Two-level fine filtration technology allows the vacuum cleaner to efficiently clean areas with any degree of contamination.
Place #4 – Dolphin Dana 2
The average market price of a premium model with a memorable bright design and compact shape is about 84 thousand rubles. With the modern development of the Israeli manufacturer, it is easy to maintain the cleanliness of reservoir bowls up to 12 meters long, lined with PVC film.
The vacuum cleaner easily goes through steps and drops, and stays well on the walls.Powerful rubber brushes effectively clean corners and joints. After finishing work, the vacuum cleaner automatically turns off.
Characteristics of Dolphin Dana 2:
- power – 150 W;
- length of moisture-resistant wire – 18 m;
- duration of the harvesting cycle – 180 minutes;
- the volume of water filtered per hour is 16 cubic meters. m.;
- device dimensions – 40x42x28;
- equipment weight – 10 kg.
Before starting work, the robot scans the area using a self-learning program, choosing the optimal path. A convenient float handle at the top of the structure constantly controls the position of the equipment throughout the entire cycle.
A volumetric, finely porous bag-type filter traps small allergenic debris, dirt, and large debris. Regular use of Dolphin Dana 2 prevents the growth of various types of bacteria and algae in the pool bowl, reducing the need to use cleaning chemicals.
Place #5 – AquaTron Aquabot Bravo
A reliable and efficient underwater robot from an American brand can be purchased at a price starting from 83 thousand rubles. Experts advise choosing it for open artificial reservoirs up to 15 meters. A remote control is included in the package.
Rubberized tracks and soft rotating brushes with a compacted PVC construction provide good grip on the surface. Rising along the vertical plane, the high-performance vacuum cleaner also captures the upper water line.
Main characteristics of the model:
- power – 120 W;
- length of floating wire – 18 m;
- duration of the harvesting cycle – 90-180 minutes;
- the volume of water filtered per hour is 17 cubic meters. m.;
- device dimensions – 38x44x27;
- equipment weight – 7.5 kg.
AquaTron Bravo can serve bowls with mosaic, tile, and fiberglass finishes. It uses smart AquaSmart technology, thanks to which it is possible to efficiently collect dirt without missing a single centimeter of area.
The built-in pump moves liquid through the filter at a speed of 284 liters per minute. At the same time, the cells of the filter element retain particles up to 2 microns in size. Cleaning is performed in two modes - standard and super cleaning.
Location #6 – Hayward SharkVac
The tough and durable robot of the American company is sold at a price of 65 thousand rubles. It is used to clean small home pools up to 12 m. It is also suitable for areas with complex configurations. For example, with overflow transitions, high steps or protruding sides.
The SharkVac pleated filter, made from cellulose, captures debris down to 5 microns. It can be accessed with the click of a button.
Hayward SharkVac Features:
- power – 120 W;
- floating wire length – 15 m;
- duration of the harvesting cycle – 120-180 minutes;
- the volume of water filtered per hour is 17 cubic meters. m.;
- device dimensions – 45x40x28;
- equipment weight – 10 kg.
The robot perfectly performs accelerated and complete cleaning in water with any level of salt balance. The device has a built-in microprocessor that processes the information received and creates routes. The bottom, slopes, inclined surfaces and the waterline area are fully cleaned by rubber tracks with brushes.
Place #7 – Zodiac RT3200 TornaX PRO
The average cost of a simple but functional robot model from Zodiac, which cleans artificial reservoirs with a side length of up to 15 meters, is 78 thousand rubles.
The robot’s movements are controlled by a smart program that prevents it from missing corners, joints and other areas of the area. The material of the bowl lining does not matter for the device: plate PVC brushes clean mosaic, tile, and PVC surfaces.
Characteristics of Zodiac RT3200 TornaX PRO:
- power – 100 W;
- floating wire length – 16.5 m;
- duration of the harvesting cycle – up to 150 minutes;
- the volume of water filtered per hour is 10 cubic meters. m.;
- dimensions – 30x30x37;
- unit weight – 10 kg.
The vacuum cleaner offers the user a choice of one of the modes - Perfect or Turbo, designed for faster and more thorough cleaning of the bottom, walls, and top. Powerful vortex flows are created in the middle of the Zodiac RT3200 TornaX PRO filter element. They increase suction power and prevent filter clogging.
Place #8 – Zodiac CyclonX RC 4360
An economical model of a purifier from a French manufacturer costs from 80 thousand rubles. Zodiac CyclonX RC 4360 is suitable for all types of pools with sides up to 12 m long, and can overcome steps and other minor obstacles.
Model characteristics:
- power – 150 W;
- floating wire length – 15 m;
- duration of the harvesting cycle – 90-180 minutes;
- the volume of water filtered per hour is 16 cubic meters. m.;
- dimensions – 41x42x28;
- weight – 9 kg.
The robot cleans the walls and bottom of the bowl using rollers, firmly holding onto the surface thanks to a mechanical and gear transmission. A navigation system consisting of many sensors helps him avoid obstacles, handle joints, corners and navigate in space.
The device has a built-in hard block filter, which is convenient to wash after each cycle. Cleaning it one hundred percent of accumulated dirt contributes to the most efficient implementation of the next cleaning.
The suction power of the device remains at a high level until the end of cleaning. Its regular use is guaranteed to reduce the likelihood of algae growth in water and reduce the amount of chemical reagents consumed.
During operation, Zodiac CyclonX moves along the bowl of the pool, overcoming steps, and climbs walls, clearing them of dirt deposits.
Place #9 – Aquatron Ultramax
An underwater robot designed for cleaning large public swimming pools, including Olympic-type ones, can be purchased at a price of 415 thousand rubles. The kit includes a wireless control panel.
Aquatron Ultramax operates in six modes on all surfaces. Information about the status of the cartridge and the ongoing process is displayed on the liquid crystal display built into the power supply.
Characteristics of the unit in question:
- power – 230 W;
- length of floating wire – 36 m;
- duration of the harvesting cycle – 210-300 minutes;
- the volume of water filtered per hour is 37 cubic meters. m.;
- dimensions – 77x42x33;
- weight – 20.4 kg.
This professional vacuum cleaner quickly cleans bowls up to 50 meters in length, helping to minimize the duration of technical interruptions in the operation of the pool. It performs thorough cleaning over many hours and allows you to set a timer run schedule.
Its 2-micron porous filter, combined with rotating brushes and two powerful electric motors, ensures the highest performance. The sensor system automatically determines the size and shape of the bowl, recognizes obstacles and corrects routes.
Place #10 – Dolphin Dana 100
A professional modification of the Dolphin robotic cleaner with increased power and improved technical characteristics costs from 245 thousand rubles. The main purpose of the model is to clean large commercial and public pools up to 25 meters in length. The package includes a remote control.
Characteristics:
- power – 150 W;
- length of floating wire – 30 m;
- duration of the harvesting cycle – 240/360/480 minutes;
- the volume of water filtered per hour is 17 cubic meters. m.;
- dimensions – 40x42x28;
- equipment weight – 12 kg.
This vacuum cleaner has very high performance. An intelligent system that plans efficient routes ensures that the entire area is thoroughly treated.
Original brushes CB-Combi And WB-Super Ideal for cleaning any facing materials, and the ultra-thin filter does not allow any collected particles of debris to pass out.
The robot uses a double motor, which improves its maneuverability under water. Movable hinges prevent cable tangling.Using the wireless remote control, you can set different settings and cleaning programs: frequency of visits to walls, cycle duration, etc.
It is also more convenient to clean a pavilion built to protect the pool from precipitation using a robotic cleaner. Rated the best washing robot vacuum cleaners The following article will introduce you. We recommend reading very useful, systematic information.
Conclusions and useful video on the topic
On what principles do robotic pool cleaners work:
The design of robots for underwater cleaning, the procedure for caring for them in the following video:
Purchasing a smart automated assistant is the right decision for owners of private and public pools of all shapes and sizes. The robot will take on all the worries of maintaining cleanliness, thereby saving a lot of personal time and energy costs for the user.
Please leave comments in the block below, ask questions, post photos on the topic of the article. Tell us about your experience in selecting and operating a robotic pool cleaner. Perhaps you have information that will be useful to site visitors?
Is it possible to leave such a robot vacuum cleaner in the pool for a long time? Sometimes I go away for a week or two and want the pool not to be overgrown with greenery when I return. Do they have some kind of timer to turn it on once a week?