The 9 Best Robotic Pool Cleaners of 2024
Keeping your pool spotless has never been easier, thanks to tested robotic pool cleaners that deliver exceptional performance and convenience.
Swimming pools are a source of fun, relaxation, and exercise. However, keeping them clean requires regular maintenance. Many pool owners rely on pool cleaners, both manual and robotic, to keep their pools sparkling. But a common question arises: Is it safe to swim while the pool cleaner is running? In this blog, we’ll explore the safety of swimming with a pool cleaner in the water. We’ll look at different types of pool cleaners, potential risks, and some safety tips to ensure a worry-free swimming experience.
Pool cleaners are devices designed to clean the debris, dirt, and algae from your swimming pool. They come in various types:
1. Manual Pool Cleaners: These require a person to operate them. You attach a vacuum head to a long pole and manually guide it across the pool floor and walls.
2. Suction-Side Pool Cleaners: These connect to your pool’s filtration system and move around, vacuuming debris from the pool floor.
3. Pressure-Side Pool Cleaners: These are powered by water pressure from your pool’s pump, and they move around the pool, collecting debris in a filter bag.
4. Robotic Pool Cleaners: These are self-contained units with their own motors and filters. They move around the pool independently, cleaning the floor, walls, and even the waterline.
Each type of cleaner has its advantages and specific use cases. But when it comes to swimming with a pool cleaner in the pool, there are some factors to consider.
Robotic Pool Cleaners: These are powered by electricity but are designed to be safe for use in water. They have low-voltage motors and are usually connected to a power source through a transformer. However, it’s crucial to ensure that the power cord is properly grounded and kept away from the pool to avoid any electrical hazards.
Manual and Suction-Side Cleaners: These don’t have the same electrical risks as robotic cleaners, but they can still cause tripping or tangling hazards with their hoses or poles.
2. Physical Obstruction:
Robotic and Pressure-Side Cleaners: These cleaners move independently in the pool. There’s a possibility of swimmers bumping into them or getting tangled in their cords or hoses. Though these cleaners are designed to avoid obstacles, there’s always a slight risk.
Suction-Side Cleaners: These often have long hoses that can pose a tripping hazard for swimmers.
3. Chemical Safety:
Pool Cleaning Chemicals: If you’re using a chemical pool cleaner or have recently shocked the pool, it’s best to wait until the chemicals have dispersed before swimming. High levels of chlorine or other chemicals can irritate the skin, eyes, and lungs.
4. Water Circulation:
Suction and Pressure-Side Cleaners: These cleaners rely on the pool’s circulation system. Swimming in the pool while these cleaners are active can interfere with water circulation, reducing the effectiveness of the cleaner.
Now that we understand the risks, let’s address the main question: Is it safe to swim with a pool cleaner? The answer depends on the type of pool cleaner and some safety precautions.
Robotic Pool Cleaners: These are generally safe to use while swimming, but it’s best to exercise caution. Since they operate independently, there’s a chance of bumping into them or getting tangled in their power cord. To minimize risk, keep an eye on where the cleaner is operating, and avoid swimming in that area.
Manual Pool Cleaners: It’s not recommended to swim while using a manual cleaner. The long pole and hose can create hazards, and you may not be able to maneuver the cleaner effectively while people are in the pool.
Suction-Side Pool Cleaners: These cleaners can pose a tripping hazard due to their long hoses. If you must swim with a suction-side cleaner in the pool, be very cautious. Make sure everyone in the pool is aware of the cleaner’s presence and avoid areas where the hose is active.
Pressure-Side Pool Cleaners: These are also generally safe to swim with, but like robotic cleaners, they can move unpredictably. It’s a good idea to keep an eye on their movements and stay clear of them while swimming.
If you decide to swim while your pool cleaner is running, here are some important safety tips to keep in mind:
1. Supervision: Always supervise children and inexperienced swimmers if a pool cleaner is operating in the pool. Ensure they understand the risks and know to stay away from the cleaner.
2. Turn Off the Cleaner If Needed: If you or others feel uncomfortable swimming with the cleaner, it’s best to turn it off and remove it from the pool before swimming.
3. Keep the Power Source Safe: For robotic pool cleaners, ensure that the power supply is kept far from the pool to prevent any electrical hazards.
4. Monitor the Cleaner’s Movement: Always be aware of where the cleaner is in the pool. Avoid swimming near it, especially near the cords or hoses.
5. Chemical Safety: If you’ve recently added chemicals to the pool, wait until the water is balanced before swimming. Test the water to ensure that the chemical levels are safe.
6. Be Cautious of Hoses and Cords: If the cleaner has hoses or cords, be mindful of where they are. These can pose tripping or tangling hazards.
7. Regular Maintenance: Ensure that your pool cleaner is well-maintained and in good working condition. Regularly check for any wear and tear on cords, hoses, and other components.
There are certain situations when you should definitely avoid swimming with a pool cleaner:
1. During Chemical Treatments: If the pool has been recently treated with chemicals like shock treatments, it’s essential to wait until the chemicals have dissipated to safe levels before swimming.
2. When the Cleaner Needs Repair: If your pool cleaner is not functioning correctly or has visible damage, do not use it while swimming. Fix or replace the cleaner before using it again.
3. If There Are Young Children: Young children are more likely to trip or get tangled in hoses or cords. It’s best to remove the pool cleaner before allowing them to swim.
4. In Stormy Weather: Electrical storms can pose a risk when using any electrical device around water. If there’s a storm, turn off the pool cleaner and stay out of the pool.
Swimming with a pool cleaner can be safe, but it requires caution and awareness. Robotic, pressure-side, and suction-side cleaners can operate while you swim, but it’s important to be mindful of their movements and the potential hazards they present. Manual pool cleaners, on the other hand, should be avoided while swimming.
By following some simple safety tips and using your pool cleaner wisely, you can enjoy a clean pool without compromising safety. Remember to always prioritize the safety of everyone in the pool, and when in doubt, turn off the cleaner and remove it from the water before taking a dip.
Ensure your pool stays spotless and safe with the best robotic pool cleaner in Australia. Shop now for a hassle-free cleaning experience and enjoy crystal-clear water all year round!
Keeping your pool spotless has never been easier, thanks to tested robotic pool cleaners that deliver exceptional performance and convenience.
The Australian market is brimming with brands offering high-quality robotic pool cleaners, including PoolBot, Dolphin, Zodiac, and Maytonics. Each brand