Robots vs. Manual

[cheshamjim]

I just purchased a Polaris Diagnostic. After reading the positive posts concerning Polaris pool cleaning robots I made the move.

I am expecting this rather expensive device to allow me to forego manual brushing. Am I expecting too much?

-Jim

[Bleach=Chlorine?]

I just purchased a Polaris Diagnostic. After reading the positive posts concerning Polaris pool cleaning robots I made the move.
-Jim

Jim,
Are you referring to the Dolphin Diagnostic? If so, it should clean the pool well enough that you can store that brush in the back of the shed. All the Polaris equipment I know of are automatic cleaners that run off pump (not robotic).
-Dennis

[cheshamjim]

Yes I am referring to the Diagnostic. I guess I am not understanding what distinguishes a robotic cleaner from other types and probably misspoke when I described the Diagnostic as a robotic cleaner.

Anyway, thanks for your answer (very reassuring).

- Jim

[jmpeterson]

Jim,

I don't think Dennis was suggesting that you misspoke when you called the Diagnostic a robotic cleaner (which it is). I think he was clarifying that you meant the Dolphin Diagnostic -- you wrote that it was a Polaris Diagnostic. To my knowledge, Polaris does not make a product called the Diagnostic.

--Jeff

[Bleach=Chlorine?]

Jim is correct, that is what I was trying to get across. A robotic cleaner has a 'brain' and is electric while an automatic cleaner like a Polaris is more of a 'random' cleaner and does not provide the level of cleaning that a robotic does. If you have the Dolphin Diagnostic I think you will be very pleased.

[jcarroca]

I have thought about robotic cleaners, but some thing steer me away, 1. upfront cost 2. increased energy bills 3. unsightly power cords.

Also, are all robotics created equally, ie cleanability, longevity, ease of operation. Just some of the things that come to mind.

[sharknj]

jcarroca, I've been using a Dolphin Dynamic for about a year now. The upfront cost is somewhat high, but I haven't noticed any increase in my electric bill. Obviously it's costing me something to run it once a week, but it doesn't seem to be very significant. As for the unsightly power cord, it has a 65' low voltage cord that runs to a transformer which plugs into a 110V outlet. I don't think this is an issue, since it's only plugged in while it's in the pool. The rest of the week, it's stored away. I haven't used any of the suction-side or pressure side cleaners, but I would imagine the hoses are just as unsightly and even tougher to deal with.

The only downsides I've seen is the upfront cost and the possible need to purchase bottom drain cover(s). Mine kept getting stuck on the drains, so I bought a pair of Polaris drain covers. Pricey yes, but it never gets stuck anymore. You may or may not have this problem, depending on your pool. I can't speak for the other robot cleaners, but from what I've read the Aquabots seems to be very good too.

[VOLDADDY]

The upfront cost is high, but it will actually save money on the electric bill part. I run my pump 24/7, only cutting off to run my Aquabot. It uses a lot less electricity than the pump. Your pool can look great, and when the Aquabot ends its cycle, you'll be amazed at the stuff in the bag. Does a good job of cleaning the walls, too. Hate to say it, but I haven't brushed my pool in a long time now. It still looks great and not a single sign of a speck of algae. They are worth every penny IMO.

[Jeffski]

How many pennies?

[Bleach=Chlorine?]

I was totally sold on an aquabot or dolphin until I asked questions about the useful life. I was told to expect 5 years before the machine needs to be totally replaced which was too short a lifespan for $1000 bucks. With a 3-month pool season that would be INSANE... now if it 5 years of use year-around then I would feel better. Anyone?