Unlike suction cleaners that are connected to the pool pump and filtration system and draw debris through the system, robotic cleaners are self-contained and operate on electricity. They use a low voltage power supply to run two stepper or DC brushless motors; a pump motor that draws debris into the cleaner and discharges it at the top of the unit, and a drive motor that propels the cleaner over the pool surface.

The best robotic cleaners have sensors that help them avoid obstacles and ensure they cover the entire surface of your pool. They also learn the dimensions of your pool and follow pre-programmed cleaning patterns, so that it takes the same amount of time to clean each area every time. During the peak summer season, you should be running your robot cleaner daily or at least every other day to keep up with twigs, leaves and other debris that find their way into your pool water.

One of the most important things you can do to maintain a robotic cleaner is to make sure the tires are in good condition. They can be subjected to a lot of pressure during the regular operation of the cleaner and it is crucial that you regularly inspect and replace them when necessary. This will prevent them from wearing down prematurely and causing the robot to scrape against the bottom of your pool.

Another maintenance task that you should do on a weekly basis is to clean the robot filter. If it seems like your cleaner is not picking up as much debris as it should be, it is most likely due to an overloaded or dirty filter. This can easily be fixed by cleaning or replacing the filter bag or cartridge.

You should also perform routine maintenance on your pool itself. This can include inspecting the skimmer basket, hose and other hardware to make sure that they are free from debris and in working condition. The water chemistry needs to be monitored as well, as it can have an impact on the longevity of your pool surfaces and equipment.

Once you have finished using your robot cleaner for the day, be sure to remove it and store it properly. Ensure that the power cable is not wrapped around or tangled in any way and that it is stored in a clean dry area away from direct sunlight. This will keep it looking its best and ensure that it continues to work efficiently.