Above-ground pool robots

It is recommended to remove the robot from the pool after each use to prevent premature wear of parts and maintain proper functioning. This also prevents the robot from accumulating dirt or debris as it dries in the water. It is also important to protect it from the sun and bad weather to extend its lifespan.

Maintaining a pool robot includes

• Clean the filters: After each use, empty and rinse the filters to ensure proper operation of the robot.

• Check the robot's condition: Inspect the wheels, brushes, cables and seals to ensure there is no debris stuck and that everything is working properly.

• Store the robot properly: After each use, store it in the shade to prevent premature wear of the plastic and extend its lifespan.

It's important to choose the right robot for your pool. There are robots suitable for different types of pools, such as above-ground and in-ground pools. Some robots only clean the bottom of the pool, while others can clean both the bottom and the walls. Therefore, it's essential to understand the characteristics of your pool before choosing a robot to ensure effective and appropriate cleaning.

When choosing a pool robot, several criteria come into play, such as the size of your pool, the type of cleaning you want, and your preferences for convenience. There are different types of robots to suit these specific needs. Here's an overview of the most common options:

•Electric robot with wire: It is connected to a power source by a cable, and it is one of the most popular. It is powerful, autonomous, and cleans the bottom, the walls, and the waterline. It is an excellent option for deep cleaning.

•Battery-powered electric robot: This newer model is cordless and doesn't need to be connected to a power source during use. It's convenient for smaller pools or if you prefer more freedom of movement without cables. However, you'll need to remember to recharge the battery regularly.

Generally, using the robot 2 to 3 times a week is sufficient to keep the pool clean. During periods of heat, algae growth, or after heavy swimming, more frequent use may be necessary. For pools surrounded by woods or exposed to wind, daily use can be beneficial.

A pool robot operates using an internal motor that draws in water, filters debris, and moves along the bottom and sometimes the walls. Electric robots use their own low-voltage power supply, while hydraulic robots operate using the suction power of the pump. Their movement is programmed to autonomously cover the entire pool.

To use a robotic pool cleaner, simply place it at the bottom of the pool, plug its cable into the power supply (for electric models), and select the desired cycle. Let it run until the program is complete, then remove it, empty and rinse the basket or filters. Store it out of direct sunlight when not in use to prolong its lifespan.

A robot may miss areas if there are obstacles, if the cable is too short or tangled, if the brushes are worn, or if the filter is clogged. Some robots also follow a random path, which can leave uncovered areas on some cycles. Clean the brushes and the basket regularly, and make sure the cable is fully extended to maximize coverage.

The "best" robot depends primarily on your pool. Electric robots like Dolphin (Maytronics), Hayward, or Wybot are the most effective at cleaning the bottom, walls, and waterline. For most residential pools, an electric robot with active brushes, a large basket, and an intelligent cleaning cycle offers the best performance-to-maintenance ratio.

Generally, it's not a problem if the robot is in the pool while you're swimming. However, we still recommend removing the robot before swimming, both for safety and comfort reasons: this prevents the risk of tangling with the cable, collisions with the device, and allows for greater freedom of movement in the pool. Ideally, you should let the robot work on its own, then take it out of the water before enjoying your swim.