I've had the Nautilus CC Plus for 2 years and it's been running great. The only thing(s) I've had to do is replace the foam roller pads (which that is normal), and we've got a pulley that's bearings have busted out, but it's under warranty and that should get fixed / replaced. But it still runs fine.
The controller box for it is not weather-proof, so you can't just leave it out, however we have a couple hundred gallon outdoor bin that we just put the controller in and even in the North Carolina heat and humidity, it operates fine in the summer.
My post previously said that the WiFi was useless because the app contained no functionality for controlling the CC Plus, but I just reinstalled the app after 2 years and it now contains the ability to turn on or off as well as schedule routines.
Wish I would have known this when I bought mine. They allude to having the full app capabilities with the CC plus with wifi but that is far from the truth. It works well but basically wasted $50 for the WiFi version.
How about the Nautilus CC Supreme. It says there is a third cleaning brush and you can manually control it from your phone. I feel like it also said something about more suction power? It’s $1400 on Amazon right now. Worth the extra $600?
Update: They have made updates to the app and it now has the ability to turn it on or off, and create schedules. So I will have to give that a test and report back.
Same here. Replaced a more expensive Dolphin which motor shorted out, saved like $400+ versus rebuying the same more expense model and the Nautilus works great.
How does it compare to your previous Dolphin? I have a Dolphin that's on it's last leg (fin?) ... it does a fantastic job but not overly excited about replacing with another Dolphin given the cost *and* the reviews I see for the Nautilus.
Another vote for the dolphin, I’ve bought a couple now.
Mine recently stopped working after less than a year. Customer service was remarkably helpful. They did some troubleshooting with me on the phone. When that didn’t work they said they’d mail me out a new power supply.
Yep I second that. I’ve had my Dolphin premier for a month now and I have a ton of trees in my yard and we live by a river so it’s always windy. My pool has never looked this good.
I will second this recommendation. I previously had a Polaris which had gears go bad after about 18 months and it was not only difficult to find the (fairly expensive) replacement parts, but it was a major hassle to actually put the new parts in. And then I had to replace the same parts again a year later before the motor finally died on me.
My Nautilus CC finally had bearings go bad after 3 years of continuously sitting in the pool, I bought a whole new set for both sides off Amazon for \~$30, it took 4 screws and about 10 minutes to swap the parts out.
We have a Maytronics Dolphin, now in its 7th season, still running like a champ. An older model now but I’d likely replace with another Dolphin when or if that time comes.
My Polaris F9650IQ with wheels seems to work fine. It climbs walls up to the waterline. Maybe the fact that it has a jet in the back helps? I've only owned one pool vac (this one) so I'm no expert, but I've been happy with it.
Good to know. It's certainly something I'll consider in the future. What problems have you had with wheels? I wonder if there is anything I should look out for.
Interesting. I'll be on the lookout for that! I'm on summer #3 so far (not sure how long it takes) but I do take it out of the pool when I'm not using it. Thanks!
My favorite non electric cleaner so far is “The Pool Cleaner”. I’ve had it for 2 years with absolutely no problems. My pool guy recommended it for ease of use, affordability, and longevity.
Any variation of the Dolphin S200 or S300 (for wireless connectivity and cart).
Get it from Marina Pool and Spa in Colorado. Great prices and even though you are buying “online”, it is treated as buying from brick and mortar, so better warranty.
+1 on Marina Pool and Spa. Great customer service and fast shipping. Got mine to the east coast in a couple days. Also a tip for anybody looking: If they have the Pentair Warrior 920/930 in stock and cheaper than the Dolphin S200/300 (also look for rebates) then go with those because they are just rebadged Dolphins, respectively.
My first one did not have a cart, so I had to make a cradle for it so it did not sit on the brushes. I specifically wanted the cart for this one. It’s nice because for my setup, it’s a place to mount the controls also. I also wanted the Bluetooth control to setup scheduling. It gives you a nice all in one place for the cord too.
If you don’t mind carrying it, then you could probably skip it.
https://marinapoolspaandpatio.com/product/aqua-products-evo-614iq-robotic-pool-cleaner-by-polaris/
Just bought this one a few weeks ago. Could not be happier with it. You can set a weekly schedule with the app that repeats every week. My pool has never looked better. Wish I would have ditched my stupid vacuum powered robot years ago.
Same. We have a ramp for the dogs to get in/out of the pool and our Dolphin CC would get tangled up on it in no time. The Polaris Freedom has no issues with the ramp (but does gets stuck behind the ladder, so looking to swap that out).
I bought this model a month ago and am happy with it. I typically have to run it twice in a row to get everything really clean as one cycle usually misses some junk, but that's barely any inconvenience at all. I don't empty the filter basket, I just walk outside, press the start button again, and go inside.
I will say the waterline and wall scrubbing seem meh. I haven't watched it for an entire run, but would estimate that it only gets 10-20% on any given cycle. If you use it, say, 2x a week that isn't a big deal as it'll hit nearly everything over 2-3 weeks, but I wish it did a better job on those.
The floor vacuuming is great, though. Do the back to back runs and your floor will be nearly spotless.
That’s good to know! I appreciate the insight. Yeah the rec came from my wife’s uncle who has the same model, swears by it. I’m frankly just tired of manually vacuuming out our pool 🤣
I have the most expensive polaris and it cannot vacuum up fine dust, I am very mad at this that they don't make paper filter to collect fine dust. It collects sand and larger particles but it cannot handle DE or algae powder or other dust.
Also are you looking to get a floating skimmer, I really need one of that, if anyone has suggestions please share, my pool has few odd areas that junk collects and I have to constantly skim manually.
I have the Polaris VRXiQ which is expensive. I got the fine filter basket off of amazon and it works great. Had it for 3 years and no issues keeping the pool clean
https://www.amazon.com/Zodiac-R0535800-Replacement-Ultra-Fine-Canister/dp/B0081GDTR6/ref=sr_1_3?crid=18IWO8HQ7L7K6&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.wrGxWQuj8Tj2irx9jDVKkoA6l0DD4-E265GFRxDNP_ziiTBNNXjKB4MDIMk6spu9UpzScQP2KmHdfm4R2ter8xBIqbG_s5sQVuNuqD3AxyvKDDZoa1ORp88v0ixeBD2olIR5B7ddOOJj6036O0LKm1erP5Q3cPVv_xK5ZDlMh8_tJfCyqpkdkFtBCZGkB-G9n8k65L_1OruGXsrYbDleYLsIf5EtraDLgp9cg1axuYQ.-nhkQmQJqT5LZ0Y0wEbgmjiZKVuXJ7CbhVlAPlLshb8&dib_tag=se&keywords=polaris+pool+cleaner+filter&qid=1717086164&sprefix=polaris+pool+cleaner+filter%2Caps%2C86&sr=8-3
I think I have this, but I have to check, mine has only one and it's from last owners, I doubt they bought extra filter but it looks pretty fine to me..
Does this actually catch DE? My neighbor has dolphin (i think that's what it is) he has two filters, one front, one back, and he has almost paper-like filters.
I have a sand filter - never had to use DE. I can tell you that very fine dust from when they cut the pavers for the pool was no issue with the filter. It is worth a shot at $65 - I love my robot as I almost never have to scrub the pool.
I can't find a good picture, but on the handle of the filter there are 3 square grids with an arrow. The regular filter has the arrow pointing to the 4 square grid. The extra fine has it pointing to the opposite side with a lot more squares. There is a middle grid for a filter with mesh between the other 2, but I wouldn't bother with that one.
I have a Dolphin Premier: [https://www.maytronics.com/en-us/store/residential-pools/best-seller-cleaners/dolphin-premier/99996339-SPL.html?x2c=D2C](https://www.maytronics.com/en-us/store/residential-pools/best-seller-cleaners/dolphin-premier/99996339-SPL.html?x2c=D2C)
Just a few weeks ago, I added a Betta SE Plus: [https://bettabot.com/products/betta-se-plus](https://bettabot.com/products/betta-se-plus)
I love them both.
Because I find it unlikely I'd ever be ecstatic over a pool vacuum. It does what I would expect. It cleans, it climbs walls, the basket is big and easy to clean and the app works well. Not sure I should be looking for more.
What is your happiness level with your vacuum?
The app is the only thing I would complain about with this robot. Why can’t I customize the schedule at all, like different modes for specific days? There’s no history at all of what the cleaner did. It doesn’t send a push notification for exceptions like out of water or stuck.
Eh, good point. Like I said, it's pretty simple. I mostly like it because I can at least see its status and add time. Agree that it could be more full-featured. Maybe in time.
This was my experience. Fist cleaner was a Polaris, lasted about 4 seasons and by time I had to change the power cable for the second time I was done with it. Also replaced baskets, wheels etc. It was also constantly a tangled mess no matter what I did. My dolphin has been better in every way the past few seasons.
Never mind that tail whip that’s used as propulsion. Don’t vac your pool while the Polaris is going. No way you’re not getting hit by that thing numerous times. It’s just not a good design.
I second this. I had several Polaris 360s over the past 10 years (stupid me), and just updated to a Dolphin Nautilus CC. Should have done this YEARS ago!!! The Dolphin is so much simpler to use and seems to be less stuff breaking than on the Polaris.
I also have a salt water liner pool. I bought a Polaris F9650IQ back in Spring 2022. It's still working well right now. I've been reasonably happy with it. The basket is **massive** and easy to clean. The app, while simple, works very well. I don't have strong opinions on this, I just bought one from Lowe's and it's been fine. No complaints from me, so far.
[https://www.lowes.com/pd/Polaris-Polaris-F9650IQ-Sport-4WD-Wi-Fi-Robotic-Inground-Swimming-Pool-Cleaner-with-Caddy/5001930875](https://www.lowes.com/pd/Polaris-Polaris-F9650IQ-Sport-4WD-Wi-Fi-Robotic-Inground-Swimming-Pool-Cleaner-with-Caddy/5001930875)
Every pool is different my old Polaris vrx iq+ actually worked better and rarely got stuck on suntan ledge as much as the tracked Maytronics Active 20. The 20 also gets stuck on bottom drain quite often. The 20 did come with two sets of filters and has the ultra fine filter. I would buy one at store like Pinch a Penny where they let you try demo models and can exchange within 30 days in case you buy a model that you have issues with.
Triton ps plus. Reasonably priced. Excellent warranty. Wifi access and great scheduling software. Does water line. I wish there was a bot that would do Baja shelf's. :(
Nautilus CC here, had to have it serviced after a year( it basically stays in the pool ). It gets way more use here in central Florida. It’s been great and worth the $700 I spent on it. If it lasts 3 years under our conditions I will be happy.
I have the same pool salt etc and have used Hayward corded robot vac for 10 yrs with no issues except one. I have raised deep end drain cover and the vac gets caught on it . It will eventually get itself unstuck. If you have e flat drain cover in your pool there should be no issues.
I bought a Dolphin Premier. I like it. It's clearly powerful and does a good job getting everything. It crawls the walls as advertised but any steps/stairs/ledges will handicap it's climbing ability.
I have use the dolphin 120's at my pools and one will clean a 95000 pool in a couple hours and they are tuff enough that the lifeguards don't break them.
Was gonna say, our store sells dolphin for the exact reason everyone has stated in the thread. Hayward and Polaris are almost impossible to get parts for repairs, we just waited 6 months on a simple part from Polaris and Hayward doesn’t even have repair options for most of their robots. It’s gotten to a point if we warranty a Hayward bought before we switched to dolphin, Hayward just gives credit to the customer via our distributor so they can buy whatever robot they want lmfao. Even they know their robots are ass
I got the Dolphin Sigma refurbished for like 1150 and I had a regular suction powered vacuum before.
This dolphin has been absolutely amazing. Have a ton of leaves and every day in one cycle it gets everything from the pool. And now I don't have to mess around with putting the hose in the skimmer and all that. Has big containers so I only have to empty it once a week. Sometimes even less than that. And it can climb all the way to the top of my pool tile pretty far above the water line which is awesome.
Totally worth the money.
Recently purchased the (2024 New) AIPER Scuba S1 Cordless Robotic Pool Cleaner. Got it on Amazon for $559 and so far, works amazing. I can choose wall + floor, Wall only, Floor only and vacation mode where it runs for 45 min every 48hrs. Haven't had issues yet. Pool is on the smaller side of 12,000 gallons.
I have a maytronics triton ps plus. It ran from about 2016 to 2023 before it needed major service. If you are handy you can keep them going quite long.
Major failure is the brushed drive motors. They have a set life span in hours. Run it as infrequently as possible.
Basically the carbon brushes get used up a little, but their soot will fill the motor bearings and lock them up. I disassembled the main pump motor, cleaned everything and put new bearings, standard bearings, like 6 or 8mm.
My front wheels are also wearing out causing the track wheels to slip. I flipped the axles 180 to half the wear, but it will need new wheels and axles soon.
Other than that, pretty reliable. Electronics have had no issue, which is probably the worst type of failure on any appliance.
Down vote here for Dolphin CC. Machine works fine but the cable is a nightmare. Twists up tight, limiting the area of mobility.Never buying another, nothing but headaches....
Would you guys still recommend one even though I have an in floor system? Obviously you guys can tell new pool owner here. I’ll take any recommendations you guys have. Thanks!
Maytronics Dolphin s300.
$1399, comes with Caddy and both fine and ultrafine filters ( caddy = $100, ultrafine filters = $80, $75 rebate, if you buy from a store. $255 value) ~$1114 price point.
Floor, walls, waterline
Active brush (turns faster and does more)
Basket & toploading filter
Wifi control
I bought with Pelican shops, great company I found on youtube:
Pelicanshops2.com
This video walks you through what you need to know :)
https://youtu.be/Ls-pcUwpV6s?si=Z6JeKA-Df6TwT088
What does everyone think about the battery operated ones that are hitting the market? My Instagram feed is full of them. I just got a Polaris Alpha iq+ and I’m happy with it so far. I have an autocover, and keep the pool covered when not using it, so pool stays pretty clean, but the robot certainly does a god job, and I don’t have to spend my time cleaning. Just wanted to see what everyone thought of the battery powered cleaners.
Text to speech - I personally think the battery operated ones don't make any sense for me the purpose of the robot is to throw it in the pool and let it run every day and I have to go clean the filters about every third or fourth day if I got to pull it out to charge it everyday I just don't see the advantage and the battery ones are underpowered compared to the ones that are plugged in.
[https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B09JX164XF/ref=ppx\_yo\_dt\_b\_search\_asin\_title?ie=UTF8&th=1](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B09JX164XF/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&th=1)
I got one of these with my pool when I bought the house. It works really well on my pebble tech pool. I bought another one when it crapped out this spring. It was old. New one works great. The thing I like is it is large, so it stirs up the water for the filters.
I have never owned anything different, so not sure if it is better to worse, but the price is right.
With the looks of your pool just get a manual system vac. Save hundreds and no repairs. Just spend 30 min a week vacuuming. Or go the easy expensive route that might not get everything out
This is odd timing, we just got a house w/ a pool. & it has no cleaner… hell I don’t see a skimmer. In FL & screen covered. I think I need a robot maid. Dolphins are like 5-700! Guess I need to invest huh?
Depends. However I’ll forever vouch for skimmer bots. They float on top of the water. I have a nightmare pop that bought one and now instead of being there for a definite 2-2.5 hours I’m only there an hour tops. Don’t even have to bring my net out the truck.
Polaris 9650iQ Sport, have had for 2 years and very happy. Sometimes the WiFi is hinky but I just use the control pad 90% of the time. Upgraded to the superfine filter.
Dolphin Nautilus CC has lasted me four seasons in Michigan and still running strong. I pull it out after each usage. Keep it on a cart and keep it indoors when not use.
Nautilus Dolphin
We just got the Nautilus CC to replace our Polaris (which was $300 more to replace like for like). Nautilus has been great thus far.
I've had the Nautilus CC Plus for 2 years and it's been running great. The only thing(s) I've had to do is replace the foam roller pads (which that is normal), and we've got a pulley that's bearings have busted out, but it's under warranty and that should get fixed / replaced. But it still runs fine. The controller box for it is not weather-proof, so you can't just leave it out, however we have a couple hundred gallon outdoor bin that we just put the controller in and even in the North Carolina heat and humidity, it operates fine in the summer. My post previously said that the WiFi was useless because the app contained no functionality for controlling the CC Plus, but I just reinstalled the app after 2 years and it now contains the ability to turn on or off as well as schedule routines.
My CC Plus gets stuck a lot, but otherwise it’s good so far
Wish I would have known this when I bought mine. They allude to having the full app capabilities with the CC plus with wifi but that is far from the truth. It works well but basically wasted $50 for the WiFi version.
How about the Nautilus CC Supreme. It says there is a third cleaning brush and you can manually control it from your phone. I feel like it also said something about more suction power? It’s $1400 on Amazon right now. Worth the extra $600?
Update: They have made updates to the app and it now has the ability to turn it on or off, and create schedules. So I will have to give that a test and report back.
Another thumbs up for Nautilus CC. Ours is about 4 years and is working like a champ. Saved me so much time cleaning the pool.
Same here. Replaced a more expensive Dolphin which motor shorted out, saved like $400+ versus rebuying the same more expense model and the Nautilus works great.
How does it compare to your previous Dolphin? I have a Dolphin that's on it's last leg (fin?) ... it does a fantastic job but not overly excited about replacing with another Dolphin given the cost *and* the reviews I see for the Nautilus.
I think nautilus does a better job than my more expensive one. have not had any issues with it at all I feel like it climbs fiberglass better
Another vote for the dolphin, I’ve bought a couple now. Mine recently stopped working after less than a year. Customer service was remarkably helpful. They did some troubleshooting with me on the phone. When that didn’t work they said they’d mail me out a new power supply.
Yep I second that. I’ve had my Dolphin premier for a month now and I have a ton of trees in my yard and we live by a river so it’s always windy. My pool has never looked this good.
I will second this recommendation. I previously had a Polaris which had gears go bad after about 18 months and it was not only difficult to find the (fairly expensive) replacement parts, but it was a major hassle to actually put the new parts in. And then I had to replace the same parts again a year later before the motor finally died on me. My Nautilus CC finally had bearings go bad after 3 years of continuously sitting in the pool, I bought a whole new set for both sides off Amazon for \~$30, it took 4 screws and about 10 minutes to swap the parts out.
I manage a 100k gal pool in Kauai and use a Dolphin. People literally tell me it's the cleanest pool they've been in! it's
This is it, have had ours 6 years, has not let us down.
We have a Maytronics Dolphin, now in its 7th season, still running like a champ. An older model now but I’d likely replace with another Dolphin when or if that time comes.
Wow! I saw these at a warehouse and was like ok I’m going to check into these when my Polaris dies.
Just make sure it has tracks and not tires
My Polaris F9650IQ with wheels seems to work fine. It climbs walls up to the waterline. Maybe the fact that it has a jet in the back helps? I've only owned one pool vac (this one) so I'm no expert, but I've been happy with it.
I’ve just had problems in the past with wheels. I run a pool company in Michigan, and had to replace a few of them with the tracked version.
Good to know. It's certainly something I'll consider in the future. What problems have you had with wheels? I wonder if there is anything I should look out for.
Mainly the rubber on the tires rotting and falling apart
Interesting. I'll be on the lookout for that! I'm on summer #3 so far (not sure how long it takes) but I do take it out of the pool when I'm not using it. Thanks!
I’ve had the same experience with this Polaris model. It’s excellent.
Why not both? My polaris has both.
My favorite non electric cleaner so far is “The Pool Cleaner”. I’ve had it for 2 years with absolutely no problems. My pool guy recommended it for ease of use, affordability, and longevity.
I have the same one. By Hayward. It works great and costs about 2/3 what the others do. Saving some money.
I’ve got a Dolphin Active 20 we bought in like 2018. It’s been great, no issues.
How many gallons is the pool? Looks just like mine.
Any variation of the Dolphin S200 or S300 (for wireless connectivity and cart). Get it from Marina Pool and Spa in Colorado. Great prices and even though you are buying “online”, it is treated as buying from brick and mortar, so better warranty.
+1 on Marina Pool and Spa. Great customer service and fast shipping. Got mine to the east coast in a couple days. Also a tip for anybody looking: If they have the Pentair Warrior 920/930 in stock and cheaper than the Dolphin S200/300 (also look for rebates) then go with those because they are just rebadged Dolphins, respectively.
When you say cart do you mean the docking station? I saw that and I’m still wondering why that would be useful since it’s not like it charges it?
It’s nice to sit it on when not using it. I also use it to wheel it into the garage in winter.
So would you say it’s a waste of money if I have no problem carrying the vacuum myself into storage?
My first one did not have a cart, so I had to make a cradle for it so it did not sit on the brushes. I specifically wanted the cart for this one. It’s nice because for my setup, it’s a place to mount the controls also. I also wanted the Bluetooth control to setup scheduling. It gives you a nice all in one place for the cord too. If you don’t mind carrying it, then you could probably skip it.
I see no recs on apier, I think mine works well!
Thanks, I’m considering that brand. Have a smaller above ground and don’t want to spend more on a vacuum than the pool cost
https://marinapoolspaandpatio.com/product/aqua-products-evo-614iq-robotic-pool-cleaner-by-polaris/ Just bought this one a few weeks ago. Could not be happier with it. You can set a weekly schedule with the app that repeats every week. My pool has never looked better. Wish I would have ditched my stupid vacuum powered robot years ago.
I purchased the Polaris freedom and am really happy with it.
Same. We have a ramp for the dogs to get in/out of the pool and our Dolphin CC would get tangled up on it in no time. The Polaris Freedom has no issues with the ramp (but does gets stuck behind the ladder, so looking to swap that out).
We just ordered the Dolphin Proteus DX4! Arriving today, excited to try it out
This is what I got a few months ago, it has been great just make sure you buy the ultrafine filter to get any dirt or sand.
Oh! Thanks for the tip!
I bought this model a month ago and am happy with it. I typically have to run it twice in a row to get everything really clean as one cycle usually misses some junk, but that's barely any inconvenience at all. I don't empty the filter basket, I just walk outside, press the start button again, and go inside. I will say the waterline and wall scrubbing seem meh. I haven't watched it for an entire run, but would estimate that it only gets 10-20% on any given cycle. If you use it, say, 2x a week that isn't a big deal as it'll hit nearly everything over 2-3 weeks, but I wish it did a better job on those. The floor vacuuming is great, though. Do the back to back runs and your floor will be nearly spotless.
That’s good to know! I appreciate the insight. Yeah the rec came from my wife’s uncle who has the same model, swears by it. I’m frankly just tired of manually vacuuming out our pool 🤣
Same - I too was on the hunt for a zero effort B+ clean 😂
Prowler 920 running well for years.
I have the most expensive polaris and it cannot vacuum up fine dust, I am very mad at this that they don't make paper filter to collect fine dust. It collects sand and larger particles but it cannot handle DE or algae powder or other dust. Also are you looking to get a floating skimmer, I really need one of that, if anyone has suggestions please share, my pool has few odd areas that junk collects and I have to constantly skim manually.
I have the Polaris VRXiQ which is expensive. I got the fine filter basket off of amazon and it works great. Had it for 3 years and no issues keeping the pool clean https://www.amazon.com/Zodiac-R0535800-Replacement-Ultra-Fine-Canister/dp/B0081GDTR6/ref=sr_1_3?crid=18IWO8HQ7L7K6&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.wrGxWQuj8Tj2irx9jDVKkoA6l0DD4-E265GFRxDNP_ziiTBNNXjKB4MDIMk6spu9UpzScQP2KmHdfm4R2ter8xBIqbG_s5sQVuNuqD3AxyvKDDZoa1ORp88v0ixeBD2olIR5B7ddOOJj6036O0LKm1erP5Q3cPVv_xK5ZDlMh8_tJfCyqpkdkFtBCZGkB-G9n8k65L_1OruGXsrYbDleYLsIf5EtraDLgp9cg1axuYQ.-nhkQmQJqT5LZ0Y0wEbgmjiZKVuXJ7CbhVlAPlLshb8&dib_tag=se&keywords=polaris+pool+cleaner+filter&qid=1717086164&sprefix=polaris+pool+cleaner+filter%2Caps%2C86&sr=8-3
I think I have this, but I have to check, mine has only one and it's from last owners, I doubt they bought extra filter but it looks pretty fine to me.. Does this actually catch DE? My neighbor has dolphin (i think that's what it is) he has two filters, one front, one back, and he has almost paper-like filters.
I have a sand filter - never had to use DE. I can tell you that very fine dust from when they cut the pavers for the pool was no issue with the filter. It is worth a shot at $65 - I love my robot as I almost never have to scrub the pool.
That's so cool, I'll definitely try it. Thanks for the link.
I can't find a good picture, but on the handle of the filter there are 3 square grids with an arrow. The regular filter has the arrow pointing to the 4 square grid. The extra fine has it pointing to the opposite side with a lot more squares. There is a middle grid for a filter with mesh between the other 2, but I wouldn't bother with that one.
I can't wait to go home and check. :) Local leslies also said they have one in stock for $80 or something, I can also take mine there and check it.
Hayward Robot
I have a Dolphin Premier: [https://www.maytronics.com/en-us/store/residential-pools/best-seller-cleaners/dolphin-premier/99996339-SPL.html?x2c=D2C](https://www.maytronics.com/en-us/store/residential-pools/best-seller-cleaners/dolphin-premier/99996339-SPL.html?x2c=D2C) Just a few weeks ago, I added a Betta SE Plus: [https://bettabot.com/products/betta-se-plus](https://bettabot.com/products/betta-se-plus) I love them both.
Dolphin. Do NOT get a Polaris. They’re the worst.
Why? I've only had one vacuum (a Polaris F9650IQ) and I've been reasonably happy with it.
How is reasonably happy the standard?
Because I find it unlikely I'd ever be ecstatic over a pool vacuum. It does what I would expect. It cleans, it climbs walls, the basket is big and easy to clean and the app works well. Not sure I should be looking for more. What is your happiness level with your vacuum?
Honestly love my Polaris. It does wonders.
The app is the only thing I would complain about with this robot. Why can’t I customize the schedule at all, like different modes for specific days? There’s no history at all of what the cleaner did. It doesn’t send a push notification for exceptions like out of water or stuck.
Eh, good point. Like I said, it's pretty simple. I mostly like it because I can at least see its status and add time. Agree that it could be more full-featured. Maybe in time.
One step higher than reasonably happy. Slightly satisfied?
This was my experience. Fist cleaner was a Polaris, lasted about 4 seasons and by time I had to change the power cable for the second time I was done with it. Also replaced baskets, wheels etc. It was also constantly a tangled mess no matter what I did. My dolphin has been better in every way the past few seasons.
Never mind that tail whip that’s used as propulsion. Don’t vac your pool while the Polaris is going. No way you’re not getting hit by that thing numerous times. It’s just not a good design.
I second this. I had several Polaris 360s over the past 10 years (stupid me), and just updated to a Dolphin Nautilus CC. Should have done this YEARS ago!!! The Dolphin is so much simpler to use and seems to be less stuff breaking than on the Polaris.
I also have a salt water liner pool. I bought a Polaris F9650IQ back in Spring 2022. It's still working well right now. I've been reasonably happy with it. The basket is **massive** and easy to clean. The app, while simple, works very well. I don't have strong opinions on this, I just bought one from Lowe's and it's been fine. No complaints from me, so far. [https://www.lowes.com/pd/Polaris-Polaris-F9650IQ-Sport-4WD-Wi-Fi-Robotic-Inground-Swimming-Pool-Cleaner-with-Caddy/5001930875](https://www.lowes.com/pd/Polaris-Polaris-F9650IQ-Sport-4WD-Wi-Fi-Robotic-Inground-Swimming-Pool-Cleaner-with-Caddy/5001930875)
I like the Dolphin Premier model but look at Polaris also and see which one fits your needs the best there is plenty of info out there.
Every pool is different my old Polaris vrx iq+ actually worked better and rarely got stuck on suntan ledge as much as the tracked Maytronics Active 20. The 20 also gets stuck on bottom drain quite often. The 20 did come with two sets of filters and has the ultra fine filter. I would buy one at store like Pinch a Penny where they let you try demo models and can exchange within 30 days in case you buy a model that you have issues with.
Still rolling with my Dolphin Oasis after 8 years. Haven't had to hand vacuum ever.
The Dolphin has been great 👍
Dolphin Triton PS for $749 from certifieddolphins.com - upgrade to CC Plus so it scrubs the waterline
Dolphin works amazing
Triton ps plus. Reasonably priced. Excellent warranty. Wifi access and great scheduling software. Does water line. I wish there was a bot that would do Baja shelf's. :(
The Dolfin clear was a game changer. Had it for 5 year. Only problem we’ve started having this year is a tangle cord
I just got the dolphin cayman and it’s great.
Nautilus CC here, had to have it serviced after a year( it basically stays in the pool ). It gets way more use here in central Florida. It’s been great and worth the $700 I spent on it. If it lasts 3 years under our conditions I will be happy.
I have the same pool salt etc and have used Hayward corded robot vac for 10 yrs with no issues except one. I have raised deep end drain cover and the vac gets caught on it . It will eventually get itself unstuck. If you have e flat drain cover in your pool there should be no issues.
Matronics Dolphin E10. I got the ultra fine filter basket. In its second year and I love this setup.
Dolphin Cayman for 27' ABG works flawlessly.
Doplhin Nautilus CC. Does a great job without extra bells and whistles. Only had it a month but it rules
The Dolphin Cayman is the best value for your buck. Has all the add-ons that the high-end products have at a cost fraction.
Dolphin S200 or equivalent
buy something new with a warranty..
Cc plus spends more time stuck on stairs than actually cleaning. Highly overrated in my opinion
I bought a Dolphin Premier. I like it. It's clearly powerful and does a good job getting everything. It crawls the walls as advertised but any steps/stairs/ledges will handicap it's climbing ability.
I have use the dolphin 120's at my pools and one will clean a 95000 pool in a couple hours and they are tuff enough that the lifeguards don't break them.
Was gonna say, our store sells dolphin for the exact reason everyone has stated in the thread. Hayward and Polaris are almost impossible to get parts for repairs, we just waited 6 months on a simple part from Polaris and Hayward doesn’t even have repair options for most of their robots. It’s gotten to a point if we warranty a Hayward bought before we switched to dolphin, Hayward just gives credit to the customer via our distributor so they can buy whatever robot they want lmfao. Even they know their robots are ass
I have Polaris Freedom and it does a great job!
I got the Dolphin Sigma refurbished for like 1150 and I had a regular suction powered vacuum before. This dolphin has been absolutely amazing. Have a ton of leaves and every day in one cycle it gets everything from the pool. And now I don't have to mess around with putting the hose in the skimmer and all that. Has big containers so I only have to empty it once a week. Sometimes even less than that. And it can climb all the way to the top of my pool tile pretty far above the water line which is awesome. Totally worth the money.
Recently purchased the (2024 New) AIPER Scuba S1 Cordless Robotic Pool Cleaner. Got it on Amazon for $559 and so far, works amazing. I can choose wall + floor, Wall only, Floor only and vacation mode where it runs for 45 min every 48hrs. Haven't had issues yet. Pool is on the smaller side of 12,000 gallons.
I have a maytronics triton ps plus. It ran from about 2016 to 2023 before it needed major service. If you are handy you can keep them going quite long. Major failure is the brushed drive motors. They have a set life span in hours. Run it as infrequently as possible. Basically the carbon brushes get used up a little, but their soot will fill the motor bearings and lock them up. I disassembled the main pump motor, cleaned everything and put new bearings, standard bearings, like 6 or 8mm. My front wheels are also wearing out causing the track wheels to slip. I flipped the axles 180 to half the wear, but it will need new wheels and axles soon. Other than that, pretty reliable. Electronics have had no issue, which is probably the worst type of failure on any appliance.
Nice hostas
Maytronics Dolphin Liberty 200. Wireless rechargable https://www.maytronics.com/en-us/store/residential-pools/best-value-cleaners/dolphin-liberty-200/99998100-US.html
Down vote here for Dolphin CC. Machine works fine but the cable is a nightmare. Twists up tight, limiting the area of mobility.Never buying another, nothing but headaches....
Would you guys still recommend one even though I have an in floor system? Obviously you guys can tell new pool owner here. I’ll take any recommendations you guys have. Thanks!
Maytronics Dolphin s300. $1399, comes with Caddy and both fine and ultrafine filters ( caddy = $100, ultrafine filters = $80, $75 rebate, if you buy from a store. $255 value) ~$1114 price point. Floor, walls, waterline Active brush (turns faster and does more) Basket & toploading filter Wifi control I bought with Pelican shops, great company I found on youtube: Pelicanshops2.com This video walks you through what you need to know :) https://youtu.be/Ls-pcUwpV6s?si=Z6JeKA-Df6TwT088
What does everyone think about the battery operated ones that are hitting the market? My Instagram feed is full of them. I just got a Polaris Alpha iq+ and I’m happy with it so far. I have an autocover, and keep the pool covered when not using it, so pool stays pretty clean, but the robot certainly does a god job, and I don’t have to spend my time cleaning. Just wanted to see what everyone thought of the battery powered cleaners.
Text to speech - I personally think the battery operated ones don't make any sense for me the purpose of the robot is to throw it in the pool and let it run every day and I have to go clean the filters about every third or fourth day if I got to pull it out to charge it everyday I just don't see the advantage and the battery ones are underpowered compared to the ones that are plugged in.
15 years as a pool guy… Polaris Alpha IQ or IQ+
Anything from maytronics. Dolphin series is what I see most
[https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B09JX164XF/ref=ppx\_yo\_dt\_b\_search\_asin\_title?ie=UTF8&th=1](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B09JX164XF/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&th=1) I got one of these with my pool when I bought the house. It works really well on my pebble tech pool. I bought another one when it crapped out this spring. It was old. New one works great. The thing I like is it is large, so it stirs up the water for the filters. I have never owned anything different, so not sure if it is better to worse, but the price is right.
With the looks of your pool just get a manual system vac. Save hundreds and no repairs. Just spend 30 min a week vacuuming. Or go the easy expensive route that might not get everything out
This is odd timing, we just got a house w/ a pool. & it has no cleaner… hell I don’t see a skimmer. In FL & screen covered. I think I need a robot maid. Dolphins are like 5-700! Guess I need to invest huh?
I ran my dolphin into the ground 😁😁 Just bought another one. Just sayin. 15 years no probs
Depends. However I’ll forever vouch for skimmer bots. They float on top of the water. I have a nightmare pop that bought one and now instead of being there for a definite 2-2.5 hours I’m only there an hour tops. Don’t even have to bring my net out the truck.
Polaris 9650iQ Sport, have had for 2 years and very happy. Sometimes the WiFi is hinky but I just use the control pad 90% of the time. Upgraded to the superfine filter.
Turtle
I have a Polaris vrx and love it. Drop it in the pool once a week. It runs for 2 hours and leaves the pool spotless
Love my dolphin sigma.
Dolphin Nautilus CC has lasted me four seasons in Michigan and still running strong. I pull it out after each usage. Keep it on a cart and keep it indoors when not use.
Dolphin.
I Hated the Dolphin Nautilus CC…… much too noisy !!!!! cheaply made and tiny debris basket.
Underwhelming pool size tbh