With robotic cleaners, keeping your pool clean and clear is easier than ever before. In the last ten years, these devices have become very sophisticated, with tangle managing mechanisms for the power cord and models that can clean every inch of the pool right up to the water line. Some models even have apps to control it with your phone.
But how do you decide which pool cleaner is right for youA decent cleaner is a large investment of money, at least several hundred dollars, so you want to make the right choice the first time. While you have several good options for any basic cleaner, finding the right one for you will take a little planning.
Fortunately, we have researched and reviewed several different models and found lots of great options for under $1,000. Read on to learn more about finding the right one for you.
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What are the Basics of a Decent Pool Cleaner?
These seemingly simple machines have several factors that can impact their ability to provide the quality cleaning you expect. Overall, however, every pool owner should keep the following traits in mind.
What Type of Pool Do You Have?
How slippery or textured are the floor and walls of your pool, how large is it, and what features does it haveAlmost all pool cleaners can move around easily on most floor types, but if you have an especially smooth or slippery surface, you may need a cleaner with exceptional grip in the wheels and cleaner.
The size and features of the pool will impact how long of a cable you need. Larger and more complicated pools will need a longer cord to reach every inch safely.
What Do You Want the Cleaner to Do?
Most people are looking for a cleaner that can clear every nook and cranny of their pool, including the walls, up to the waterline, and any coves or steps. Many cleaners have these abilities, so be sure to assess the overall maneuverability of the cleaner you are purchasing to make sure.
What is Required for a Good Pool Cleaner?
Once you’ve narrowed the options down, there are still many great models of robotic pool cleaners for under $1,000. To narrow it down more, these are the other features to consider.
Lighter is Better
It may seem inconsequential, but you want to consider the weight of your cleaner! You are going to be hauling this thing in and out of your pool regularly, so keeping it on the lighter side may save you a lot of trouble.
Wider Wheels and Longer Cords are Crucial
As mentioned, many robotic pool cleaners have great wheels that enable them to handily navigate many pools. Most models also have a cord management system that keeps it from becoming tangled while it scoots around in the water.
Still, you want to check both. For wheels, it’s always better to opt on the side of wider wheels that will further guarantee a good grip. While most models have a cord management system, make sure that this is a feature.
High-Power Suction and Low Micron level Get the Job Done
Simply put, the suction power determines how quickly your cleaner can clean your water. Most models will list the time it takes for the cleaner to finish than the actual volume it processes. With ranges from 90 minutes to 3 hours or more, find the right time for you.
The filtration can include a lot of buzzwords, like ultra-fine, mesh, or more. The point you want to focus on here is how many microns does it filter down toThe lower the number here, the better. High-end models can get as low as 2 microns.
As Always, Durability and Efficiency are Important
If you are spending hundreds of dollars on a robot pool cleaner, it would be great to know that you won’t be buying a new one six months later. While pool cleaners will need maintenance and even replacement, you should look for a model that will last at least a few years.
Energy efficiency can be important because sometimes, robot cleaners can surprise you with much higher power bills. Avoid unpleasant surprises and check how much draw your cleaner will need.
For Under $1,000 There Are Many Great Robot Pool Cleaners
As you can see, while a great investment for your pool, finding the right cleaner for you can take a little work. Buying the right robot can seem intimidating, but by following the ideas laid out in this article, you should have an easier time finding the right machine for you. Whether you have a simple above ground pool or a swanky lagoon style model, there are many great options for under $1,000 to take care of you and your pool. Happy swimming!
| Best of the Best! | "Budget" Pick | Also Great |
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| Dolphin Nautilus CC Supreme | Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus | Dolphin Oasis Z5i |
| • In-ground Swimming Pools • Pool Size: Up to 50 ft. • 1,5 | 2,5 | 3,5 hrs Cleaning Time • WIFI Connectivity • Twin Cartridges - Extra Large |
• In-ground Swimming Pools • Pool Size: Up to 50 ft. • 2 hr Cleaning Time • - • Twin Cartridges - Large |
• In-ground Swimming Pools • Pool Size: Up to 50 ft. • 2,5 hr Cleaning Time • Bluetooth Connectivity • Twin Cartridges - Extra Large |
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