As a pool expert with over a decade of experience, I have seen the evolution of pool cleaning technology firsthand. From manual pool vacuums to robotic cleaners, the industry has come a long way in making pool maintenance easier and more efficient. One question that I often get asked is whether a robotic pool cleaner is worth the investment. My answer? Absolutely. But before you go out and buy just any robotic pool cleaner, it's important to understand what makes a good one.
A high-quality robotic cleaner should be able to do it all - climb walls, scrub steps and walls, and clean the waterline. And after testing numerous models, I can confidently say that the Dolphin Explorer E50 is the best option for cleaning any inground pool. Equipped with a powerful motor and excellent suction, this cleaner effortlessly cleaned every inch of our test pool. Its exceptional cleaning ability earned it the nickname "the Ferrari of cleaners." One important factor to consider when choosing a robotic cleaner is its debris capacity. You want one that can handle large amounts of debris without needing to be emptied halfway through the cleaning cycle.
The Dolphin Explorer E50 excelled in this aspect, making it ideal for sweeping up pollen and smaller debris. However, it did struggle with larger debris like leaves. One of the biggest advantages of robotic cleaners is their efficiency and convenience. Some models even come with a smartphone app that allows you to program cleaning times and designate specific zones in your pool for targeted cleaning. As someone who has tested all types of pool cleaners, I can confidently say that robots are by far the most efficient and least labor-intensive option.
And with features like notifications when the cleaning cycle is complete, you can easily keep track of your cleaner's progress. I'm not the only one who sings the praises of robotic pool cleaners. Claudia Duncan, owner and CEO of Professional Pool Management and member of the Pool & Hot Tub Alliance, also recommends them for their efficiency and convenience. And with models like the Dolphin Explorer E50 capable of cleaning a 30-foot-wide pool with its 40-foot-long cable, it's no wonder why. Jeremy Laukkonen, an update writer at The Spruce with extensive experience in outdoor recreation and swimming pools, also agrees that robotic cleaners are the way to go. These cleaners use the suction created by your pool's main circulation pump to suck up dirt from the pool floor.
And while some models are limited to just vacuuming the floor, the best ones can also scrub, climb walls, clean waterlines, and even skim the surface for floating debris. One of my personal favorites is the Aiper Scuba S1, which shares the same ease of use as the Dolphin Explorer E50. With its simple setup and user-friendly design, it's no wonder why Aiper is a top choice for many pool owners.
