As a pool maintenance expert, I am often asked whether it is okay to leave a pool cleaner on all the time. Many pool owners believe that keeping the cleaner in the water will ensure a constantly clean and safe swimming area. However, this is not entirely true. In fact, leaving your automatic pool cleaner submerged in the chemicals and exposed to the sun can cause more harm than good. Let's start with the effects of sunlight on your pool cleaner.
Just like any other object, too much exposure to the sun can cause discoloration and damage to the rubber and plastic parts of your cleaner. This is because the sun's UV rays break down these materials over time. Even flowers, which rely on the sun for their source of life, wither and dry up after prolonged exposure to sunlight. But sunlight is not the only culprit. Pool water contains chlorine and other chemicals that are essential for keeping the water clean and safe for swimming.
However, these same chemicals can also damage your pool cleaner if left to soak for too long.
Chlorine, in particular, can corrode parts such as gaskets, wheels, and motors, especially in robotic pool cleaners.
This is why it is important to limit the amount of time your cleaner spends in the water. Long-term exposure to water imbalances or high levels of chlorine can also corrode other parts of your pool cleaner such as filters, hoses, and brushes. This is especially true for pressure-side cleaners that rely on water pressure to clean the pool surface and collect debris. To prevent damage, it is important to rinse these parts after use and store them properly. So, can you leave your pool cleaner in the water? The short answer is yes, but you shouldn't.The risks of damage to your cleaner are too great. Instead, it is important to carry out regular maintenance and care to protect your device and extend its lifespan. This includes consulting with professionals when necessary, especially if you own a high-end pool cleaner. One way to protect your pool cleaner is to ensure that your pool water is properly balanced. This will significantly reduce the likelihood of chemical damage during routine use.
However, even with proper water balance, certain chemicals can still be harmful to your cleaner. Therefore, it is best to limit the amount of time your cleaner spends in the water. But what about storms or strong winds? In these situations, it is important to remove your pool cleaner from the water and store it until it is safe to use again. Strong winds can cause debris and other objects to fall into the pool and potentially damage the cleaner. Excess dirt can also clog the cleaning mechanism, causing unnecessary wear and tear. Now that you know the potential risks of leaving your pool cleaner in the water, let's discuss the best ways to care for and store it.
One option is to invest in a large deck box that will not only keep your cleaner dry and shaded but also serve as an elegant decorative piece for your patio. Another important factor to consider is where you purchase your pool cleaner. Many manufacturers offer significant discounts during the summer season and may even provide extended warranties if you buy from a local pool supply store. For example, The Pool Boys in League City, Texas offers a standard 1-year warranty on all their products. Lastly, it is important to note that while most robotic pool cleaners have water-resistant power supplies, this is not enough protection in case of heavy rain. It is always best to remove the cleaner from the water after each use and clean the filter or bag and inspect them for any damage. In conclusion, while it may seem convenient to leave your pool cleaner in the water all the time, it can actually cause more harm than good.
The sun, pool chemicals, and other environmental factors can damage your cleaner and shorten its lifespan. By limiting the amount of time your cleaner spends in the water and properly caring for and storing it, you can ensure a clean and safe swimming area all year round.
