Are Cheap Robotic Pool Cleaners Worth the Money?
We’ve seen it all when it comes to robotic pool cleaners. In recent years, there's been a surge of cheap pool robots flooding the market. Brands like Aiper, Beatbot, PoolBot, and Hy-Clor from Bunnings have captured the attention of pool owners looking for a budget-friendly way to keep their pools clean. But the question remains—are these cheap pool robot cleaners really worth it?
The short answer? Not really. Let us walk you through the reasons why.
The Temptation of Cheap Robotic Pool Cleaners
We get it—on the surface, these cheaper models can be tempting. A flashy ad, a great price, and the promise of automated pool cleaning are enough to make anyone think, “Why not?” But, as the saying goes, you get what you pay for.
Disposable TechnologyThink of these pool robots like disposable cameras. Sure, they'll do a reasonable job for a short period, but they aren't designed to last. The appeal of paying less upfront is quickly outweighed by the frequent need to replace or repair these units.
For example, what do Aiper robotic pool cleaner reviews say:
This is a story we’ve heard many times from customers who bought these cheaper robots and then bring us their faulty robotic pool cleaners, frustrated with the lack of support they’ve received from the manufacturer.
The Hidden Costs of Going Cheap
Sure, these pool robots might cost less initially, but over time, the costs and inconvenience pile up. Here’s why:
Build QualityCheap robotic pool cleaners are often built with low-quality materials. This is one of the biggest differences between brands like Aiper, Poolbot, and Hy-Clor, compared to premium brands such as BWT, Maytronics or Zodiac. The internal components, like motors and brushes, wear down much faster, often within months of use.
A customer who purchased a PoolBot model left this review:
Unfortunately, once components wear out, it’s often not worth the hassle or cost to repair them. Typically, they’re not designed to be repaired and it can be impossible to get parts. Sadly, you might find yourself shopping for a new robotic pool cleaner sooner than you'd expect.
Warranty and After Sales SupportOne of the biggest pitfalls of cheap robotic pool cleaners is the lack of reliable after sales support in Australia. These brands often come with limited warranty, and when issues arise, customers are left with little to no assistance.
In contrast, higher-end brands like Maytronics, BWT and Zodiac warranty support is comprehensive, and local service centres can handle repairs quickly, getting your pool robot back in the water without long delays.
Shorter Lifespan
Cheap pool robots generally have a lifespan of just a couple of seasons, at best. The wear and tear on their low-quality components, coupled with a lack of serviceability, means you'll be replacing them more often than you'd like.
This reviewer shared their experience with the Bunnings Hy-Clor robot pool cleaner:
I took it back, useless! Sat in the middle of the pool going back and forth till the battery went flat.
Long-Term Value of Investing in High-Quality Pool Robots
Now, let’s talk about why investing in a high-quality robotic pool cleaner from a reputable brand is worth it in the long run.
Durability and LongevityPremium brands like Astral, Maytronics, BWT, and Zodiac have spent decades refining their technology. These pool robot cleaners are built with durable materials that are designed to last, giving you years of hassle-free cleaning. Take the Maytronics Dolphin series, for example. Models like the Dolphin X20, X40 Plus , M600/Active X6, and the cordless Liberty 400 are engineered with precision to ensure superior performance over many seasons. Zodiac also has a long pedigree of high quality robots like the Zodiac Duo-X, Evolux, or Freerider models. And BWT are starting to challenge the Australian market with cleaners such as the F1R, F1RX, F1RXT which are very popular in Europe and America.
One key advantage is that they are not only more durable, but their parts are also easily sourced. Instead of throwing the whole pool robot away when a part fails, you can simply replace the faulty component.
Ease of Repair and Maintenance in Australia
We often see customers who have purchased cheap robots online, only to discover that no one in Australia can repair them. They’re not designed to be opened easily and you just can’t get the parts. With high-quality brands like BWT, Maytronics or Zodiac, not only are the robots more reliable, but parts are readily available in Australia. This means repairs are quick, easy, and affordable.
We’ve helped countless customers by repairing their premium pool robots, often extending the life of the machine by several years. And with a nationwide network of retail and service centres, premium brands ensure that warranty issues are resolved promptly.
Cost-Effectiveness Over TimeAlthough a premium robotic pool cleaner might have a higher upfront cost, it’s an investment that pays off over time. You avoid the constant cycle of buying cheap robots that wear out quickly and need replacing.
As one satisfied customer of a Maytronics Dolphin model put it:
In comparison, a customer gave a Zodiac Freerider review:
What to Look for When Choosing a Pool Robot?
Here’s what we recommend:
- Build Quality: Look for robots made from durable materials with high-quality internal components.
- Serviceability: Opt for robots that are simple to maintain—like clearing a blocked impeller—and where parts are easily available.
- Warranty: Choose a brand that offers a solid warranty and has local service centres in Australia.
- After Sales Support: Make sure you can speak with someone or have your robotic pool cleaner repaired in Australia.
CHOICE recently released a review of pool cleaners including brands such as Aiper, Hayward, Hy-Clor, Maytronics, Pentair, Poolbot and Zodiac. It’s a really extensive assessment worth reading before you invest in a robotic pool cleaner.
Our #1 Advice
When it comes to pool robots, repairability is key. A quality pool robot cleaner should be easy to take apart for routine fixes. For example, you should be able to access the impeller without hassle to clear out palm fronds, hair, or any debris that tends to get tangled as this is a common problem. And for common wear-and-tear issues, it should be simple to replace parts like wheels, tracks, bearings, bushings, or gears. Finally—and this is where the big $$$ come in—you want a model with easy access to the motor unit and power supply, like the battery, so you can swap them out when needed … rather than throw out the cleaner. If a pool robot doesn’t allow for these straightforward repairs, we don’t recommend it. Spending a little extra upfront on a repairable, high-quality robotic pool cleaner will save you time, money, and frustration down the line.
We pride ourselves on offering honest, expert advice. That’s why we only sell pool robots we trust to perform and last—machines we know can be easily repaired to keep your pool sparkling season after season.
Conclusion
In the end, while cheap robotic pool cleaners might seem like a good deal at first, they often come with hidden costs—poor build quality, lack of warranty support, and a short lifespan. Investing in a high-quality pool robot ensures durability, reliability, and long-term value.
If you’re considering purchasing a robotic pool cleaner or need repairs, feel free to reach out to us at Pool Robots Australia. With years of experience in both repairs and sales, we can help you choose a pool robot that suits your needs and budget without the risks associated with cheaper, lower-quality options.
For more helpful advice on looking after your pool robot and extending its life, check out our other Expert Tips.
Or maybe our blog post Stop! Are You Ruining Your Expensive Pool Robot Without Realising?
For troubleshooting if your cleaner is not working properly, have a look at A Step-By-Step Guide To Troubleshooting Your Robotic Pool Cleaner.
Need More Help? Feel free to call and consult our expert technicians.
