Automatic cleaners can be a huge time saver, reducing manual labour and helping to keep water quality high. But just like any other piece of pool equipment, it requires regular maintenance to ensure peak performance and longevity. This article is a handy guide to keeping your robotic or pressure side cleaner running as efficiently as possible.

One of the most common problems encountered with automated cleaners is a lack of suction. This can be due to a number of issues including holes in the hose, clogged filters, faulty brushes or an incorrectly fitted vacuum hose. In most cases, simply bleeding off excess pressure at the return wall fitting will remedy this issue. A quick hose inspection will also reveal any loose connections which can easily be tightened or sealed with silicone.

Other common problems with robotic cleaners include getting stuck on or under ladders, stairs and handrails. Ladder guards can be installed to prevent the cleaner from wrapping around the ladder or railings. If your cleaner tends to get stuck on or under your main drain cover, a Unicover can be used to prevent the cleaner from entering the water. If your cleaner gets stuck on or under a raised entry step, you can install a ladder guard kit or shorten the cleaner hose slightly for better clearance.

Most premium robotic cleaners come with a 7-day programmable timer which is ideal if you plan on going on vacation. Some even have a delay timer that switches off your pool pumps at night to allow suspended particles to settle in the pool and then switch on the robot cleaner for an initial run before turning the pumps back on.

Regardless of which type of cleaner you have, it is recommended that you regularly remove the debris basket and empty it before each use. This will reduce the amount of time your pump is running while cleaning and will help your filters work more efficiently. Some cleaners also have a “scrubbing brush” that rotates with the movement of the cleaner to actively scrub the surface of your pool. These should be hosed off and the tracks and wheels cleaned as well.

Leaving your automatic cleaner in the pool for long periods of time will speed up the deterioration of the mechanisms and moving parts. It is a good idea to clean the cleaner thoroughly with a hose nozzle after each use and to store it in a cool shaded area when not in use. By keeping your robotic cleaner in excellent shape, you will not only make sure that it is running at its peak but also will extend the life of your filters and other equipment. Although automatic cleaners are a great way to save on labor time and improve water quality, they should never be considered as a replacement for manual pool cleaning. Regular water testing and correcting along with a manual clean on a weekly basis will always be necessary to achieve optimum water quality.