Pool Buster vs Pool Blaster

[karrde97]

Need some input before I make a decision. I bought a Pool Buster Max CG 2 years ago. I left it charging over night the other day and now it doesn't work at all. I contacted Water Tech and they offered me (3) options:

[Option 1, you can send in your machine in for repairs, now we charge a $45.00 labor fee plus parts it can range from $65.00 to $135.00 depending on what part you would need. That comes with a 3-month warranty. Option 2, you can purchase a new motor box for $90.00 plus shipping. It comes out to be $100.00. That replaces the battery, motor, and charger; basically it replaces all the electric components in the machine. That comes with a 3-month warranty. Option 3, we have a program called the Trade Up Program. Since you are an existing customer we offer you a brand new machine for only $155.00 for the Pool Blaster Max. Now if you wanted to upgrade to the Pool Blaster Commercial Grade machine that would cost $225.00. Shipping and tax is included in both prices, and also both machines come with a new one-year warranty.]

What's the difference with Blaster vs Buster? I feel like if I'm going to spend $100, I may as well upgrade but I'm worried I'll be back in the same position in the next year or two. I've trolled the boards and people are either for it or against it.

Any input will help as I can't go back to a regular vacuum hose since I replaced my o-ring(air leak) on the pump and now I don't have enough suction. An issue I'll deal with next year.

[Charrua2]

I don't think there is a difference between the poolbuster and poolblaster. I believe they must have changed the name at some point. I bought the Poolbuster CG Max from some website and when the package arrived it said Poolblaster CG Max. I called watertech and they told me that the poolblaster is all they sell. Considering you purchased the CG Max, you already have the best they offer. The poolblaster max (not the CG) for $155 would be a downgrade for you.

I'm not 100% certain of the above so you might want to double check with watertech.

good luck

[karrde97]

I think I'm going to go with the motor replacement for now. Hopefully it's better than the original.

[Jimmy C]

My Bool Blaster Max CG, less than 20 minutes usage cannot be sold for 1/2 price. People think I'm taking them and they wouldn't dare spend that much for a 'used' pool cleaner. In a way they are correct because this product is IMHO junk. I realized it was too 'light weight' for my needs and the exchange policy expired once it was wet. It sits in a box so my wife can scream at me for wasting $320 without telling here about it first . By next year it will be on the 25 cent table in a garage sale along with a few LP's and 8 track tapes.

[tphaggerty]

Hey, I might be breaking the board rules, but I'll take that off your hands for the right price. Mine has been a Pain in the A** recently, been through 2 battery box replacements and such, but it is working well now. Part of the trick is to NOT overcharge it, especially if you have one of the "1-Hour" chargers. PM me if you are interested.

[Jimmy C]

I just sold it finally for about half what I paid for it. It was used twice, and bought only last month. Selling anything used related to pool equipment is tough unless you provide a huge discount.

So the PB problems include:

* overcharging leading to battery issues, i.e no smart charger available
* moisture in motor/battery box from failing shaft seal on motor
* rusted motor leading to seized motor
* failing batteries or maybe blown fuse or fusible link
* Lack of capacity in filter bag
* inadequate suction for many jobs
* inlet throat too small for leaves and twigs
* inconsistency in name, blaster vs. buster
* inconsistency in provided accessories. Some say there's came with two chargers and a fine mesh filter bag. My Max CG came with one charger and a coarse bag.
* The marketing picture showed a beautiful young lady operating the PB, and the PB was picking up 100% of what was in it's path. This is "double fantasy."
* I hear of many customer no-service stories
* The PB versus the PB Max CG specifications do not make since because the two units weigh virtually the same, and have the same run time. The Max CG says the flow is about 30% greater. This cannot be since a larger motor or pump will need a larger battery for the same run time. Either change would add additional weight. On the surface of things it appears that the main difference between the two models is just the price. If this is true, then this product may be a candidate for the "hall of shame".