Stop Wasting Time: Modern Robotic versus Traditional Pool Cleaning!

Remember the days when cleaning the pool meant hours of manual work or wrestling with pool hoses and poles? As pool cleaning technology has advanced, so have our choices, from manual methods to sophisticated robotic cleaners. Let’s dive in and compare robotic pool cleaners versus traditional pool cleaning and see whether pool robot cleaners are worth it.

1. Traditional Pool Cleaning Methods: A Walk Through History

Back in the early days of the Aussie backyard pool, pool maintenance consisted of manually vacuuming, painstakingly removing each bit of dirt or fallen leaves, brushing the surface and scooping leaves. It was a chore … and that was before you had time to enjoy your pool.

Then came suction cleaners, which, driven by the pool’s pump on a long hose, randomly roamed around like underwater vacuum cleaners. Brands like the Kreepy Krauly or The Pool Cleaner (common suction cleaners of the day) took over some of the manual cleaning, but it was still a task connecting and disconnecting when the kids wanted a swim. The downside of these cleaners is that it also meant the skimmer basket was blocked from doing its job … skimming leaves. Pressure cleaners, like the JetVac or Polaris, further changed the game, using pressurised water to move and collect debris to an onboard filter bag. But still, they were cumbersome with a long hose attached to the pool wall and a second booster pump required. Generally, suction and pressure cleaners only suck up debris; they don’t scrub and clean the surface or waterline. They are good for what they do and for what you pay, but if you’re looking for a better cleaning solution, it might be worth checking out pool robot cleaners.

2. The Rise of Robotic Pool Cleaners

Enter the robotic pool cleaner. These self-contained units, such as the ones by Maytronics or Zodiac, brought automation to a whole new level. The key advantage? More efficient cleaning – scrubbing the floor, the walls & the waterline – without relying on the pool’s main pump and filtration system.

3. Efficiency, Effectiveness, and Time Savings: Robotic Pool Cleaners in the Spotlight

Comparing a robotic cleaner to traditional methods is like comparing a sports car to a bicycle. Leave a Maytronics Dolphin or a Zodiac 6050 running for a few hours and when you come back the pool will be looking good. They’re fast, efficient, and can handle almost anything – from leaves to sand to algae.

Speaking of algae, customers often ask, “Do you still need to brush the pool if you have a robot?” While these robots are efficient, it is always recommended to give a quick manual brush of the walls, the stairs or bench seats, or nooks and crannies to keep your pool surface in tip top condition.

The latest pool robot cleaners are battery-operated and cordless. So no more tangled or messy cables. Keep an eye out for the Zodiac Freerider or Maytronics Dolphin Liberty cordless robotic pool cleaners due on the Australian market for the 2023 summer.

4. Powering Up: Energy Consumption and Costs

Another question we are commonly asked is whether robotic cleaners consume a lot of electricity. The leading brands like Maytronics, Zodiac and BWT are designed to be energy-efficient, often more so than running a pool’s pump for hours with a suction cleaner. Or the extra booster pump of a pressure cleaner. Pumps are some of the highest usage household appliances. So, is a robotic pool cleaner worth the investment? For the convenience, efficiency, and energy savings – absolutely!

5. Water Quality: Impact of Cleaning Methods on Pool Health

Water quality isn’t just about clarity; it’s about health. A robotic cleaner reduces the need for excessive chemicals, as it can effectively remove debris. This contrasts with some traditional methods which sometimes distribute debris rather than remove it, affecting both clarity and chemical balance. And by keeping the skimmer box free of pool hoses and open to skim water, you’ll get a better turnover of your pool water, and that’ll improve the chemical balance across your pool.

6. The Nitty Gritty: Addressing Specific Questions and Concerns

Understanding the nuances is essential. For instance, the difference between robotic and automatic pool cleaners often confuses people. Common cleaners like the Kreepy Krauly, The Pool Cleaner, Pentair Rebel, JetVac or Polaris are all types of automatic pool cleaners as they run around the pool – automatically – while you get to put your feet up. While all robotic cleaners are also automatic pool cleaners, simply put, not all automatic cleaners are robotic. The real advantage of pool robot cleaners is in how they work – separate to the main pool equipment and typically scrubbing the floor, walls & waterline – for shorter periods of time.

Another common question we get at Pool Robots Australia is, “Can I leave my robot in the pool all the time?” While it’s tempting, it’s a good idea to remove it after each cycle to extend its lifespan. Just like your lawn mower, you wouldn’t leave it out in your yard in the rain with grass clippings rotting in the catcher. Even though the top brands of robotic pool cleaners are very well made, anything left underwater in a high chlorine environment like your pool isn’t going to last forever. Pool robots are a hefty investment. If you keep this in mind, and put a little time into looking after them, they’ll be looking after your pool for many years to come.

As for the drawbacks of pool robots? Like all technology, they aren’t immune to occasional malfunctions. Remember, they’re designed to work in water, not live in water full-time. There will be wear and tear on the bearing, bushing, wheels & tracks. Chlorine can be tough on plastic and rubber so pull them out of the pool regularly, clean out the filter basket and give them a hose down before giving them a rest poolside. For further advice on common issues, check out our recent article A Step-by-Step Guide to Troubleshooting Your Robotic Pool Cleaner or call and speak with one of our experienced technicians.

7. In a Nutshell

In our fast-paced lives, a robotic pool cleaner offers convenience and efficiency unparalleled by traditional methods. They’re not cheap … they’re an investment. Our years in the industry repairing and selling robotic pool cleaners have taught us that the more you can afford to spend, the more features, benefits, and generally the longer the machine will last, if looked after properly. After all, whether robotic or traditional, the end goal is the same: a clean, sparkling pool ready for a refreshing dip.

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