Top 7 Features to Look for in a Robotic Pool Cleaner

Here in Australia, a backyard pool is more than a luxury—it’s a lifestyle. But pool ownership comes with the responsibility of regular maintenance, which can be both time-consuming and physically demanding. That’s where robotic pool cleaners come in. These smart devices offer an effortless way to keep your pool clean, hygienic and swim-ready.

However, not all robotic pool cleaners are created equal. To ensure you're investing in the right one, here are the top seven features to look for, along with why each feature matters.

1. Intelligent Navigation and Coverage

Why it matters: Traditional pool cleaners often rely on random patterns or your pool’s pump system, leading to missed spots and wasted energy. Robotic pool cleaners, on the other hand, utilise onboard software and sensors to scan your pool’s shape and size, then create an efficient cleaning path.

What to look for: Look for systems with smart navigation algorithms, such as CleverClean™ or gyroscopic mapping, which can systematically cover the pool floor, walls, and waterline with minimal overlap. This feature ensures quicker and more thorough cleaning, reducing wear on the cleaner’s components.

2. Waterline Cleaning Capability

Why it matters: The waterline—the area where the pool wall meets the water's surface—is notorious for collecting oils, sunscreen residue, pollen, and floating debris. If left uncleaned, this grime can harden, stain your tiles, and lead to costly repairs.

What to look for: Choose a robotic cleaner that can climb the pool walls and scrub the waterline. This feature is particularly important for tiled or concrete pools, which show build-up more easily than fibreglass ones. Waterline cleaning ensures your pool not only stays clean but looks pristine too.

3. Advanced Filtration System

Why it matters: A robotic cleaner’s filtration system is what captures debris from your pool water. Many cheaper models only filter large debris, such as leaves, but miss fine particles like sand, dust, and algae spores. Poor filtration leads to cloudy water and increases chemical use.

What to look for: Opt for models with multi-layer or interchangeable filters, such as fine and ultra-fine mesh, that can trap both small and large debris in one cycle. Look for a robot with a top-loading filter that is easy to remove, empty out and rinse.

4. Active Scrubbing Brushes

Why it matters: Vacuuming alone isn’t enough to remove stuck-on grime or algae. Active scrubbing brushes that rotate twice as fast as the robot moves give the cleaner extra power to agitate and remove stubborn contaminants from your pool surfaces. This reduces your reliance on manual brushing and helps extend the life of your pool’s surfaces.

What to look for: Look for models with dual-active scrubbing brushes that effectively lift dirt from floors and walls, even in textured or tiled areas.

5. Energy Efficiency and Sustainability

Why it matters: Robotic pool cleaners are already more energy-efficient than suction or pressure cleaners, but energy usage can still vary. Choosing an energy-efficient model helps you save on electricity bills and reduces your carbon footprint—something more Australians are prioritising.

What to look for: Look for Climate Care Certified robotic cleaners, which have been tested for energy efficiency and water conservation. Efficient models utilise low-voltage motors and require no connection to your pool’s filtration system, resulting in reduced wear on your equipment and greater cost savings over time.

6. User-Friendly Features and Smart Connectivity

Why it matters: Robotic pool cleaners are designed to make pool care effortless. Advanced robots with Wi-Fi connectivity allow you to control, schedule, and monitor cleaning from anywhere at any time using an app - perfect for busy households or those who want a set-and-forget experience.

What to look for: Look for models with Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity that can be controlled via an app. User-friendly apps such as the MyDolphin Plus app allow you to drive the robot manually, schedule cleaning remotely, select custom cleaning cycles, receive notifications, and access other advanced features such as temperature monitoring, filter status, and pick-me-up mode, depending on the model.

7. Lightweight Design and Easy Handling

Why it matters: Even the best robotic pool cleaner can become a hassle if it’s difficult to lift in and out of the pool. A bulky, water-logged cleaner can cause back strain or be awkward to handle, especially for older users.

What to look for: Prioritise models that are compact, lightweight, and have ergonomic handles. Some cleaners are designed with rapid water release systems that drain water quickly when lifted, reducing their weight by several kilos in seconds. Caddies and storage options are also useful for transport and protection.

Final Thoughts

A robotic pool cleaner should make pool ownership easier, not harder. By focusing on intelligent navigation, waterline scrubbing, advanced filtration, energy efficiency, scrubbing power, smart connectivity, and user-friendly design, you can find a model that meets your needs and keeps your pool in sparkling condition all year round.

Maytronics' wide range of Dolphin robotic pool cleaners tick all these boxes, making them an ideal starting point for your pool care journey.