In order to select the most effective robot pool cleaner, it's important to know the characteristics of the pool. It is important to match the capabilities of the robot to your pool. A robotic pool cleaner is a costly investment. These details are important to take into consideration, since they can lead to the cleaning process being less effective or damage to the pool or machine, and even buyer's regret. This comprehensive guide lists the top 10 specs you should be aware of prior to making a pool purchase.
1. Primary Material for Surfaces:
This is the single most important factor. The kind of brushing device the robot uses will depend on the level of finish in the pool.
Concrete/Gunite/Plaster (including Pebble Tec & Quartz): These are rough, durable surfaces that often develop algae films. A robot must clean and scour the surface using bristles that are stiff and coated in vinyl or nylon.
Vinyl Lining: Vinyl is relatively elastic and soft. It is easy to puncture or scratch. The robots that work with vinyl must have non-abrasive, soft brushes (usually made from pure vinyl or Rubber) and wheels with no sharp edges. Utilizing a cleaner with rigid brushes designed for concrete could cause premature wear or tear to the liner.
Fiberglass Shells They are smooth and have gel-coated finishes. Abrasive materials may scratch vinyl. Robots that have soft rubber brushes, or brushless rolling systems, are the best. A robot that is able to clean more efficiently with less power and on the surface which is smooth can perform the task.
2. The form and complexity of the pool:
The geometry of your pool directly determines the needed distance of the cable and navigation intelligence.
The easiest pool to clean is a simple rectangular one. Most basic random-path robots will be able to handle it. The pools can be challenging for robots to navigate due to their curvatures and corners. In these cases, a robotic that has advanced algorithmic navigation (gyroscopic or smart-sensing) is highly recommended to ensure full coverage.
Coves & Ledges: This part of the pool that transitions between the wall and the floor (the cove) is where debris is likely to build up. Check that the robot is built to wash this curved surface. If your pool is large with flat ledges, or sun shelves, (Baja shelf), make sure the robot is able climb over them and keep them clean. Some models were designed for floors and walls.
3. Dimensions of the Pool (Length, Width, and the Maximum Depth):
These measurements aren't negotiable for choosing a model that has an appropriate power cable.
Cable Length - The most common norm is that the cable of the robot must be at least the length of your pool's longest dimension (usually its length), plus an extra few feet for routing around the edge and to ensure that the power supply is placed far enough away from the pool's water. 60 feet of cable is common for medium to large-sized pools. Before you buy, measure the length of your pool.
Depth Capability: Most robots today can clean up to a depth of 8-10 feet. If you have a deep end exceeding 10 feet (e.g. diving pool) it is essential to determine what robots are able to clean. By exceeding this limit, you could harm the pump motor and can void your warranty.
4. Water Level and Tile/Coping Details:
The water's interface and the pool structure is an essential area to clean.
Waterline Tile Cleaning: This feature is common for robots with a medium to high-end price. If you're experiencing constant scum lines on tiles, glass, or stone at the waterline, you need a machine that is specifically marketed as having superior waterline cleansing capabilities. The robot will have distinct climbing patterns, each with a dedicated brush on top.
Coping Material: The material used to protect the wall of the pool can be made of stone, concrete or pavers. If the wall's overhang is sharp and abrasive it is likely to cause damage to, or even snag the cable of the robot. Take this into consideration when routing cable.
5. In-Pool Obstacles, Features and Features:
It is easier to maintain a swimming pool that is clean than one that is cluttered with dangers.
Main Drains/Vents: Check that the covers of the main vents are in line with the floor, and that they are securely secured. Older drains that protrude can trap robots. In general, floor water return vents don't pose any problems.
Steps are a challenge for robots. Ladders also pose problematic. Ladders with legs that are on the floor could hold a robot. To clean or climb steps or benches, a robot must have enough strength and traction. They can be avoided using simple, random navigation robots, but smarter models can handle these types of areas.
These flat, large surfaces need to be cleaned exactly the same way as steps. Make sure that the robot is able to traverse the horizontal surface.
6. Pool Entry and exit points (for the robot)
Think about the possibilities of getting the robot into the water, and then out.
Physical Access - Do your need to move the robot across an area of decking or down a flight of steps? The weight of the machine becomes an important factor. A robot that weighs 25 pounds is much easier to manage on a regular basis than one weighing 40 pounds. It is important to have a cart for storage in this situation.
Robots for Above-Ground Swimming Pools While not as common but there are some robots available specifically designed for above ground pools. They tend to be lighter and designed to not be able to climb walls.
7. The volume and type of debris:
The primary "job" that you require the robot to do will define the necessary features.
Fine dust, pollen or sand: The filtration system is your top priority if this is the thing you are most concerned about. The robot should be outfitted with and capable of using ultra-fine cartridges, such as pleated paper or very tightly woven mesh so that it can effectively capture microscopic particulates.
Leaves, Twigs, and Acorns If you want to collect larger quantities of debris, you'll need a robot that has a large bag, canister or pump. It should also include an intake system that's not prone to blockage. Certain models that are high-end come with impellers that can macerate large leaves to prevent blocking.
8. Location of Power Source and Outlet Type:
Robotic vacuum cleaners operate on low voltage DC power provided by a transformer plugged into an outlet that is standard.
GFCI Outlet Safety: To ensure safety reasons, the power source MUST be plugged in to the Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter outlet (GFCI). It is not a matter of negotiation. If you do not have one close to your pool, you must have one installed by an electrician.
Distance from Pool In order to ensure that the transformer is safe from splashes of water and weather conditions, it must be set 10 feet or more away from the pool. It is important to ensure that the cable can reach the furthest point of the pool from this point.
9. Local Climate Environment and Storage Environment
How you store your robot could alter its lifespan.
Storage during the off-season Many manufacturers warn against placing a robot in the water or in direct sun for prolonged periods of time is not recommended. UV rays can degrade cables, plastics, and other materials. When not being used, you should to store your cable and robot in a location which is cool, dry and shaded (such as the garage or shed).
Storage caddy are ideal for in-season use. If you are frequently using the robot, it should be placed neatly beside the pool. The cord will not get caught on the deck.
10. Existing Pool Circulation & Filtration
The robot isn't independent, but it does exist in the pool ecosystem.
Additional functions - The robot's primary job is to remove sediment and debris from the surface. It is not meant to replace the primary circulation and filtration system in your pool. It is responsible for filtering dissolved particles, disperse chemicals and prevent algae. Robot cleaners are a supplemental system that dramatically reduces your pool's primary filter burden.
Chemical Balance: Even a well-maintained surface may be prone to the growth of algae if the water chemical balance in your pool is not balanced. Robots can aid in maintaining cleanliness, but it does not replace proper sanitization, or balance of water. Read the best pool cleaning tips for more examples including robot for the pool, pool sweeper robot, pool by you, pool sweep cleaner, pool cleanliness, poolside cleaning, pool cleaner pool, pool waterline cleaner, pool waterline, robot for the pool and more.
Top 10 Suggestions For Robotic Pool Cleaners On The Power Supply And Energy Efficiency
It is essential to know the source of power and efficiency of energy when you are evaluating robot cleaners. This will impact your operating expenses overall, as well as the environmental impact of your pool and ease of use. They are not dependent on the high-horsepower pool main pump. They are controlled independently by an efficient low-voltage motor that is high-efficiency. This fundamental distinction is what makes them unique in terms of energy savings. All robots are not created in the same way. Delving into the details of their power consumption, operating modes, and required infrastructure ensures you select one that has the highest performance while minimizing the impact on the electricity in your home, transforming an expensive convenience into a sensible, cost-effective investment.
1. The Key Advantage: Independent Low-Voltage Operation.
This is the core concept. Robotic cleaners have its own motor and pump, which are powered by a plug-in transformer. It typically operates on low-voltage DC (e.g. 24V, 24V, 32V), which is inherently safer and more efficient as compared to running an 1.5 to 2.5 HP main pool pump for several hours every day. This lets the robot operate without running the main pump.
2. Watts and Horsepower. Horsepower.
It is important to understand the savings you could make. A typical pool's pump draws between 1,500 to 2,500 Watts per hour. A top-quality robotic pool cleaner, by contrast, draws between 150 and 300 watts each hour throughout its cleaning process. This represents an approximate 90% decrease in energy. Running a robot through a three-hour cycle consumes about the same amount of energy as couple of household lights for the same amount of time as the main motor, which uses the energy required by a huge appliance.
3. The DC Power Supply/Transformer and its Essential Role
The black device that sits between your outlet cable and the robot's power cable isn't just a power plug and a transformer. It transforms the 110/120V AC power that you get from your home into low voltage DC power, which can be used by robots. This component's quality is crucial for the safety and performance of the robot. It contains the circuitry that regulates programming cycles. It also includes Ground Fault Circuit Interruption Protection (GFCI) which cuts power instantly in the event an electrical malfunction.
4. Smart Programming to Enhance Efficiency.
The robot's programming will directly impact the energy consumption. The ability to select specific cleaning cycles is an efficient feature.
Quick Clean/Floor Only Mode This cycle runs for a limited time (e.g. one hour) and can only activate the program that cleans the floor, using less power than a full cycle.
Full Clean mode: A standard cycle of 2.5 up to 3 hours for thorough cleaning.
It is crucial to only utilize the energy is required for the job in hand. This will help you avoid the expenditure of time and money for extended runs.
5. The Impact of Navigation on Energy Consumption.
The amount of energy used by a robot is directly related to the path it takes while cleaning. It can take up to four hours for a robot that relies on random "bump and turn" navigation to cleanse the pool. This is not efficient, as it consumes more energy. A robot with systematic, gyroscopically-guided navigation cleans the pool in a methodical grid pattern, completing the job in a shorter, predictable timeframe (e.g., 2.5 hours), thereby using less total energy.
6. GFCI Outlet Placement and Requirement.
To be safe, the robot is required to be connected to a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter outlet (GFCI). The outlets with "Test" or "Reset" buttons are typically located in bathrooms and kitchens. A licensed electrician is required to install a GFCI before you can utilize the cleaner if the pool isn't equipped with one. The transformer should be at least ten feet from the edge of your pool in order to protect it from splashes of water or elements.
7. The length of cables and the voltage falls
For long distances, the power that flows through the cable will be subject to "voltage drops". Manufacturers specify a maximum length of cable (often 50 to 60 feet) in order to make a point. Overcoming this limit can cause the robot to be ineffective or move slower or even have less ability to climb. Be sure that the cable for your robot is long enough to extend your pool's furthest point from the outlet, but avoid using extension cords as they increase voltage drop and are dangerous to your safety.
8. Comparing Efficiency to other types of cleaners.
In order for the price of the robot to be justified, it's important to be aware of the things you're comparing him to.
Suction-Side Cleaners: These depend on the main pump for suction. The main pump has to be operated for up to 8 hours every day. This can result in high energy bills.
Pressure-Side Washers: These washers make use of your main pumps to create pressure. Often, they have a separate boost pump that provides an additional 1 1/2 HP of power.
In the long run, the robot is the most cost-effective choice because of its effectiveness.
9. Calculating Operating Costs
The price of operating your robot is calculated. The formula to calculate cost is: (Watts/1000 x Hours) x Electricity Cost ($ perkWh)
Example: A 200-watt machine that is used for 3 hours 3 times a week, with electricity costing $0.15 per kWh.
(200W / 1000) = 0.2 kW. 0.2 power x 9 hours per week = 1.8 kWh. 1.8 kWh divided by $0.15 equals $0.27 per week, which is about $14 per year.
10. Energy Efficiency as a Measure of Quality.
In general, high-quality items have motors that are of more efficiency and advanced. A robot that's proficient in cleaning effectively in a shorter amount of time and with less power indicates higher quality engineering, a superior navigation system, and a more effective yet powerful pump system. While a higher-wattage motor might suggest higher power for climbing or suction, it's the combination of efficient cleaning in a short low-wattage time frame that defines true efficiency. Investing in a well-engineered, efficient motor will pay dividends on your monthly bill for many years to come. Read the most popular swimming pool robot cleaner for blog examples including discount swimming pools, swimming pools stores, the pool cleaner pool sweep, pool sweeper robot, swimming pool sweeper, robotic cleaners, waterline cleaning, pool robot, swimming pool in, technology pool and more.
