How To & Tips

Dolphin Pool Cleaner Filter Guide: Quick Cleaning & Care Tips

13 October, 2025

A sparkling clean pool starts with a well-maintained robotic pool cleaner. If you own a Dolphin robotic pool cleaner, you already know how much time and effort it saves by scrubbing your pool’s floor, walls, and waterline automatically. But like any hardworking machine, it needs a little care to perform at its best.

One of the most important maintenance tasks is cleaning the filter. The filter is where all the leaves, dirt, algae, and fine debris your pool collects end up. Neglecting this step can reduce cleaning performance and shorten the life of your machine.

In this detailed guide, we’ll walk you through how and when to clean your Dolphin robotic pool cleaner filter and provide extra tips to keep your cleaner in peak condition.

Types of Dolphin Robotic Cleaner Filters

Dolphin robotic pool cleaners come with a filtration system that suits specific cleaning needs. Here’s a quick overview of the main types of filters and examples of models available from Maytronics Australia:

  1. Filter Basket: Large, top-load basket that’s easy to remove and rinse. Great for everyday cleaning.

  2. Ultra-Fine Filter Panels: Pleated filter cartridges are designed to capture fine dirt, sand, and algae. Rinsed individually for a deep clean.

  3. Filter Bag: Reusable cloth-style bag that traps both large debris and fine particles. Can hold more debris but needs to be turned inside out to clean.

  4. Bottom Lid Cartridge Filter:Filter Cartridges are accessed through the cleaner’s base, requiring the bottom lid to be removed for rinsing.

  5. Filter Panels: Flat, mesh-style panels that catch leaves and dirt. Easy to rinse but require cleaning on both sides.

  6. Rough Filter: Coarser panels designed to capture larger debris such as leaves and twigs before finer filtration. Ideal for heavy debris pools.

Why It’s Important to Clean the Filter

Your Dolphin’s filter is the powerhouse of its cleaning system. It captures everything from big leaves and twigs to tiny particles like sand, pollen, and even algae spores.

If you don’t clean the filter regularly:

  • The suction power of your cleaner can decrease.

  • Fine debris may slip back into the pool.

  • The motor can work harder than necessary, leading to wear and tear.

  • Dirty filters can develop unpleasant odours or even mould.

By giving the filter a quick clean after use, you’ll ensure the robot continues to deliver spotless results and lasts for years to come.

Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Your Filter

Before you start, it’s important to know that the cleaning process varies slightly depending on the type of filter your Dolphin robot uses. Here’s the general step-by-step process, with notes for each filter type.

1. Turn Off and Disconnect

Before handling your robotic cleaner, always switch off the power supply and unplug the unit. Safety is key, especially when working with pool equipment that’s been submerged in water.

2. Remove the Cleaner from the Pool

Carefully lift your Dolphin out of the pool using the handle (never by the cable). Allow excess water to drain out while resting it on the poolside.

3. Access the Filter

Depending on your model, open the filter compartment. Most Dolphin robots feature top-access filter baskets for quick removal, but some may have bottom-access panels.

4. Take Out the Filter Basket or Cartridges

Lift out the filter carefully - the type of filter your cleaner uses will affect how you handle and clean it:

  • Filter basket – Remove the basket and tip out large debris before rinsing with a hose. To give your filter panels a more thorough clean, remove them from the basket and spray down each side to dislodge trapped dirt. For ultra-fine filters, a light soak in warm soapy water will help to remove oil or fine particles from the delicate pleats.

  • Filter panels – Remove the panels and spray down both sides to dislodge trapped dirt.

  • Ultra-fine filter panels – Rinse gently, as the mesh is delicate. A light soak in warm, soapy water helps remove oils or fine particles.

  • Cartridge filter – Remove the filter cartridges one by one and rinse each thoroughly, ensuring all the pleats are clear of trapped dirt and debris.

  • Filter bag – Turn the bag inside out and rinse with a hose until all dirt and sand are removed.

  • https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KNOiH6TEoBg – Wave 90i filter bag

  • Bottom lid cartridge filter – Open the bottom filter access panel to release the filter cartridges, then rinse each under running water.

5. Dispose of Large Debris

Tip out the larger debris (such as leaves, sticks, or insects) into your garden waste or bin. Avoid shaking the filter panels too hard, as it can damage them.

6. Rinse With a Garden Hose

Using a medium-pressure garden hose, spray the filter thoroughly from the inside out. This pushes trapped debris away from the mesh instead of deeper into it.

  • For stubborn dirt, gently tap the filter on a solid surface before rinsing again.

  • Avoid using high-pressure cleaners as they can tear or weaken the mesh.

7. Deep Clean for Oils and Grease

Over time, your filter may accumulate oils from sunscreen, body lotions, or natural pool residue. Every few weeks, soak the filter in a bucket of warm water mixed with a mild detergent or a specialised filter-cleaning solution. Rinse it thoroughly afterwards to prevent soap from re-entering your pool.

8. Inspect for Damage

While cleaning, check the filter for cracks, tears, or worn edges. A damaged filter won’t trap fine debris effectively and should be replaced promptly.

9. Let It Dry Completely

Place the filter in a shaded, well-ventilated area and allow it to dry fully before reinstalling. A dry filter prevents mould and unpleasant smells from forming inside your cleaner.

10. Reassemble and Store

Once dry, place the filter back into the cleaner and ensure the compartment is securely closed. If you’re not using your pool cleaner straight away, store it in a cool, shaded location away from direct sunlight.

How Often Should You Clean the Filter?

The frequency depends on how much debris your pool collects:

  • Heavy use or leafy pools: Clean the filter after every cycle.

  • Regular use: Rinse the filter once or twice a week.

  • Light use or covered pools: Every 2–3 uses may be enough.

Tip: During autumn or after a storm, you may need to clean the filter more frequently due to the extra debris.

Smart Filter Indicators on Selected Models

Some Dolphin robotic cleaners, such as the Dolphin M600 and M700 take the guesswork out of maintenance with smart filter notifications.

  • Check Filter Status in the MyDolphin App – The app lets you know when the filter is full, ensuring your cleaner is always running at peak performance.

  • 5-Stage LED Filter Indicator – The Dolphin M700 features an advanced LED display that shows exactly how full the filter is. With five stages of measurement, you’ll know whether it’s only partially full or completely blocked, so you can clean it at the right time rather than by guesswork.

This feature is helpful for busy pool owners who want a simple way to keep track of maintenance and make sure the robot is always ready for its next cycle.

Extra Tips for Filter Care

  • Rotate spare filters: Owning a second filter lets you alternate between them, giving one time to dry while the other is in use. Check out spare filters here.

  • Use the right filter for the job: Dolphin robots have different filter options, such as fine filters for dust and sand or ultra-fine filters for small particles. Choose the one best suited to your pool’s needs.

  • Don’t store it wet: Always dry your filter before reassembling or storing it to prevent mould and bacteria growth.

Where to Buy Spare Filters and Parts

Eventually, your filter or other components may need replacing. It’s important to buy genuine Dolphin spare parts to ensure quality, durability, and compatibility with your robotic cleaner.

You can:

  • Order online via the official MyDolphin website.

  • Visit a Maytronics authorised Elite Dealer for expert advice on which filter type or replacement part is best for your pool.

Elite Dealers have the knowledge and training to guide you in choosing the correct spare parts for your specific Dolphin model, ensuring your cleaner performs at its best. They can also provide hands-on support if you’re unsure about installation or maintenance.

Keep Your Dolphin Cleaner in Top Shape

Cleaning your Dolphin robotic pool cleaner filter is a simple task that makes a big difference. By taking just a few minutes after each use to rinse and check the filter, you’ll keep your cleaner running efficiently, extend its lifespan, and enjoy crystal-clear water all season long.

Your Dolphin takes care of your pool - give it the care it deserves, and it will keep working hard for you.

Need more tips on caring for your Dolphin? Check our YouTube channel for more: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_lM1QROikgHNOTCnA8UXyQ

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