Hi, Susan! Great question, thank you for your interest! Zodiac MX6 is a less powerful cleaner that is developed for smaller pools. Though it features only 1 power turbine, 32 in. hose, and a shorter cleaning path, we note the same traction, very close cleaning technology and navigation. That’s why we think it is an up-to-date pool cleaner. It uses simpler technologies but is equal to other Zodiac devices.

Hi, Mark! Excellent question, thanks a lot! WiFi connection and app control don’t directly influence performance, but they will greatly contribute to the ease and comfort of cleaner usage. Polaris 9650IQ works as efficient as Polaris F9550 with remote control. However, with the IQ device, you can set a schedule, start and control cleaning from any place in the world (at work, for example). Besides, only Polaris 9650IQ will notify you of necessary replacements and maintenance. If you don’t need these options, grab the F9550.

Hello, Mason! Thank you for your question! The answer is yes, definitely. Since Pentair SuperFlo is a variable speed pump, you just need to figure out how much flow you need to turn your water over. The model is powerful enough for pools over 30 000 gallons. Real users’ reviews prove it works great.

Hi, Lila! A transport caddy is a pretty simple accessory, so there is no need to overpay for “special” or “brand” models. You can pick up any that fits you in size, functionality and price. On average, a transport caddy for a pool cleaner costs about $70-$120. Dolphin has its universal caddy that currently costs $145.

Hi, Maida! Thank you very much for your question! Zodiac G3 Barracuda diaphragm is made of flexibale yet durable plastic. The manufacturer doesn’t provide info on the exact materials however they state it’s safe and efficient in cleaning.

Hi, Mary! Thank so much for your kind words!) Our team really appreciates it. In fact, our experience proves that Dolphin offers the best balance between price, performance and innovations in its cleaners. If you’re looking for something intelligent, easy-to-control and fast but thorough, they are really ahead of the most other brands. By the way, Polaris and Hayward also have something to offer. If you’d like, you may read more about their leading products and find our comparisons with Dolphins in Polaris 9350 vs 9450 vs 9550 vs 9650iQ Comparison Review, Hayward Aquanaut 200 Cleaner Swimming Pools Review, Dolphin vs Polaris – Total Comparison of Best-Selling Brands. Hope you’ll find it helpful for yourself!

Hi, Ted! Thank you very much for your question! Dolphin robot pool cleaners have 2 year warranty. However, on average, these products last for 5-10 years.

Hi, Arthur! Thank you very much for your question! With Raypak 266,000 BTU heater users can have both options by simply switching between left and right-side outtake and intake positions.

Hi, James! Thank you very much for your question! Dolphin pool cleaners do not support individual zone cleaning and process all areas one by one. However, if you’re looking for options to make cleaning more spot-like and faster, please consider buying pool cleaners with the fast cleaning mode.

Hi, Martin! Thank you very much for your comment! Our team monitor all price changes and add special price rating tables to most comparisons. However, the prices noted in this review were correct for 2021 since the review was written for Black Friday Deals 2021. We do not change prices here on purpose for our readers to have an opportunity to compare price changes next year during Black Friday 2022, 2023, etc.

Hi, Mary! Thank you very much for sharing your experience with us! We really appreciate it)

Hi, Anthony! Thank you very much for your question! At the moment we’re working over the new Polaris comparisons and hope that we’ll be able to provide you with thorough Polaris Alpha vs Epic comparison in the near future. However, here is our brief opinion on these models.
The robots you’re interested in are very resembling as they occupy the top niche. The life proves that all high-tech gadgets of the latest generations usually share the same innovations. Anyway, Polaris Alpha IQ boasts Smart cycle navigation and exclusively adjusts to your pool features. This is a top personal addition if you have any “inconvenient” elements inside the pool (like lights or spa) or non-standard shape. Also, we like its huge canister (the hugest).
Polaris Epic IQ mostly offers the same functionality except for better brushes and Cyclonic debris suction. This model is a choice if you often face massive debris (leaves, aggressive algae, insects). But please mind a smaller canister.
With Dolphin Premium you’ll save about $200. It also has the same functions (WiFi/App control, big canister, waterline cleaning, schedule, etc.) but there is no extra innovative navigation or scrubbing or anything else.
Thus, we can offer the following “choose guide”: 1) choose the Alpha if you have non-standard pool shape/construction and need faster cleaning; 2) choose the Epic if you need more thorough cleaning; 3) choose the Premium if you need neither super-speed nor super-thoroughness but would like to get almost the same performance for better money. Hope you’ll find this info useful!
P.S. All robots suit you pool size and I think there is nothing bad in keeping your pool cleaner in the water (the manufacturers also allow for such storage).

Hi, Mohammad! Thank you very much for your question! Concerning Dolphin E10 and Nautilus CC models we discussed in the review we should note that these models do not possess “smart” control through phones. But Dolphin company has designed more up-to-date cleaners that support app schedule and control. If you’d like to consider such products, we’d recommend you learning more about Dolphin Sigma or Dolphin Triton PS Plus. Besides, Dolphin’s closest competitor Polaris has also released Polaris 9650IQ model with app control.

Hi, Joseph! Thank you very much for sharing your experience with us! You comment will really help our readers make the more balanced choice. And we hope your new cleaner will become a great assistant for you.

Hi, Lana! Thank you very much for your question! Please try to start cleaning manually. If there is no problem in operation in that case, app connection will be the reason for errors. Then we’d recommend you reseting phone-WiFi-app connection. Hope you’ll find this helpful!

Hi, Lana! Thank you very much for your kind words and question! TOTO bidet seats are completely hygienic. Seats and sticks are adjustable so you can install them in the most convenient position for you and your family members. Family use is allowed.

Hi, Alec! Thank you very much for your question! In fact, these models belong to the same niche and offer very similar performance. Let us mention that they both suit inground pools with any covering. However, Polaris Alpha features a bit faster cleaning and boasts exclusive smart and adaptive cleaning through the app. If you have a large pool and some additional objects (like lights, spa points) we’d recommend choosing the Alpha IQ+. Dolphin M600 wins by its more attractive price for almost the same perfromance. Besides, its filter basket is a bit larger. So if you like smart app control, top level cleaning even with large debris but in the plain pool, Dolphin M600 is a more preferable option. And it’s your choice if you’d like to stay within strict budget. Hope you’ll find this information useful!

Hi, Nina! Thank you very much for sharing your experience with us! You really help our followers make the right decision for their conditions.

Hi, Paul! Thank you very much for sharing your experience with our audience.

Hi, Latisha! Thank you very much for your kind words and question! In your case we’d recommend HTH Pool Test Kit 6-Way Test Kit. It works great in salt pools and salt water, tests all main water components and agents. Besides, the kit is quite pocket-friendly if we can call it this way)

Hi, Colin! Thank you very much for your question! Polaris Vac Sweep 65 is a pool cleaner designed specially for above ground pools. Manufacturers recommend choosing cleaner models that are specially designed to fit exact pool type due to unique performance characteristics and difference in compatibility with certain pumps, filtration system, hose and cable length, etc. That’s why you can purchase the Vac Sweep 65 for your inground pool, but it wouldn’t be as efficient as its inground robot colleagues and you may lose your money.

Hi, Rob! Thank you very much for your question! You’re right, owners of pools with many obstacles like stairs, niches, underwater light systems, spa and massage zones should pay special attention to navigation system offered by the cleaner. In our review, we’d like to highlight Dolphin Escape and Quantum with SmartNav 2.0 systems as well as Nautilus and Proteus models with CleverClean technology.

Hi, Simon! Thank you very much for your question! Manufacturers recommend choosing cleaner models that are specially designed to fit exact pool type. It’s important since power/performance, compatibility with certain pumps, filtration system, hose and cable length of the cleaner may differ significantly.

Hi, Mira! Thank you very much for sharing your experience with us!)

Hi, Vik! Thank you very much for your question! Water state may directly influence performance and service life of your cleaner but, first of all, it can harm your health. That’s why we recommend monitor the amount of chlorine, saltiness, lead in your water and avoid exceeding the allowable content norm.

Hi, Nicolas! Thank you very much for your question! In our opinion, sand filters are the most universal yet efficient option for Pentair pumps. You can pick up the best model in our Sand Filters vs Cartridge Filters – Best Pool Filters Review.

Hi, Gram! Thank you very much for your question! Obstacle Escape System is a part of many Dolphins’ navigation kits that allows the cleaner to successfully avoid all obstacles like stairs still capturing dirt. It means that, when in the pool, the bot automatically activates its sensors to scan the environment. Obstacle Escape System notices dangerous elements like walls, stairs, steps, etc. to avoid hitting. Please mind that the cleaner does not see dirt. It builds the cleaning route taking into account obstacles and collect all debris it faces. You may learn more about Obstacle Escape and other navigation systems offered by Dolphin in our reviews – Dolphin E10 vs Escape Face to Face Comparison, Dolphin E10 vs. Nautilus CC Comprehensive Comparison, Dolphin Proteus DX3 vs DX4 vs Nautilus CC: Make the Right Choice and many others.

Hi, Amelia! Thank you very much for your question! Waterline cleaning is an extremely useful function for every pool cleaner, but it is not a compulsory option. From our point of view, wall cleaning is a more desirable cleaning cycle that should be included in all robots. Still, if you own a large/deep pool, waterline cleaning will help you keep it fresh and neat much longer.

Hi, Russel! Thank you very much for your question! No, you don’t have to do anything manually here. Dolphin pool cleaners with wall and waterline cleaning function climb vertical surfaces easily without any help. Just start the cleaning and enjoy result.

Hi, R! Thank you very much for your question. Skimmer is not a compulsory but very useful addition to any pool. It collects large debris like leaves and bugs which ensures longer cleanliness of the pool and releases load on the filtration. You can purchase a separate skimmer and install it in any pool.

Hi, Jo! Thank you very much for your question! Unfortunately, the manufacturer does not offer such an option of cable length change.

Hi, Karen! Thank you very much for your question. If you’d like to remove your ladder for safety measures, we’d recommend choosing a solid but light model such as Confer Economy 635-52X or Intex Deluxe Pool Ladder.

Hi, Lynne! We’re very happy that you found useful information and user’s experience provided by our reader)

Hi, Arthur! Thank you very much for your question! The manufacturer and user manuals provide no special information on the required pool depth or any restrictions. That’s why Dolphin cleaners can be applied in pools of any depth, although each model has limits of pool size/cleaning area.

Hi, Laura! Thank you very much for your question. Inflatable hot tubs allow manual cleaning only and are not compatible with automatic pool cleaners.

Hi, Sam! Thank you very much for your question! As far as we’re speaking about these two models, the manufacturer provides us only with a touch screen in the E10 modification. However, if you’re looking for a more sophisticated remote control, we’d recommend you considering other Dolphin models with app mobile control. You can find some products in our Polaris 9350 vs 9450 vs 9550 vs 9650iQ Comparison Review.

Hi, Vince! Thank you so much for sharing your experience with us! Indeed, though the construction is simple enough for everybody, we still recommend professional installation as some details may be too large and inconvenient.

Hi, Ree! Thank you very much for your question. Fiberglass features significant stability to physical impacts as well as chemical/temperature/ray resistance. That’s why all of our cleaners will suit you (among those designed for finerglass). We can offer you Zodiac, XtremepowerUS and Kreepy models as the most gentle yet efficient.

Hi, Nancy! Thank you very much for your question. Yes, Polaris 9650iQ cleaner is compatible with all phone models. The Polaris app is available on all platforms including popular Appstore and Google Play.

Hi, May! Thank you very much for your question! Dolphins’ scrubbers are all made of soft rubber-style material. It’s soft and extremely gentle to the pool surface, but its malleable structure allows for catching all dirt pieces. Brushes will not leave scratches or damage your pool in any other ways.

Hi, Max! Thank you very much for your kind words and opinion! Indeed, we also noticed a kind of deficit, but market is recovering. Many companies offer pre-orders, so we’d recommend you calling and getting in line perhaps. Usually the problem is solved very quickly. We’re speaking about several days or a week. Besides, the season is just gaining momentum, so we’ll notice no deficit closer to May we guess. Let’s hope for the best and stay healthy 🙂

Hi, Jessy! Thank you very much for your comment! You’re absolutely right, there may be difficulties with cleanliness when it comes to small pools. But large pools are not always suitable for families, especially if you have small kids. At the same time, the problem of bacteria and algae can be easily solved if you complement you pool with solid filtration system like cartridge filters. We recomment you take a look at our filter comparison reviews like Sand Filters vs Cartridge Filters Best Pool Filters Review.

Hi, Ben! Thank you very much for your question! Walls of our models are made of a high quality steel frames and super-tough laminated material liner (most feature three layers). Materials are always tested to stand greater loads than they are going to face in use. That’s why they’ll definitely stand water load and adults’ weight.

Hello, Archy! Thank you very much for your question! If you don’t like A ladders, we’d recommend you Confer Staircase Style STEP-1-X. This model is more stable, has nice and safe railings and wide steps. Besides, the height is perfect for your pool.

Hello, Greg! Thank you very much for your question! Yes, robotic pool cleaners with multiple cleaning cycles or energy-saving modes will cost you as much as an ordinary vacuum cleaner or a fridge – i.e., you’ll hardly notice it in the bills.

Hello, Ben! Thank you very much for your question! Most Dolphins are developed for inground pools. However, you may try Dolphin E10? which is suitable for rigid above ground pools.

Hello, Din! Thank you very much for sharing your experience with us! Practice shows that the best way to get perfectly fitable products is to get them from one manufacturer. So, perhaps, you’ve got such a case.

Hello, NC! Thanks for your comment. You’re the first to notice) We’re glad this tribute cheered you up. Hope she would enjoy it too.

Hello, Mike! Thank you very much for your question! The models presented in this review cannot automatically turn off their pumps to avoid short circuit. However, we can recommend you Intex FBA_28211EH 12 ft x 30 in frame pool that offers such a smart filter pump with the inbuilt Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter.

Hello, Irena! Thank you very much for your question! Pentair WhisperFlo 011512 Single Speed Pool Pump is one of our favorites when it comes to pumps for above-ground pools. It’s affordable, universal, reasonably powerful (which is especially important for small above-ground pools).

Hello, Max! Thank you very much for your question! Polaris cleaners we’ve discussed in this review are designed for inground pools. Unfortunately, we cannot recommend using them with above-ground pools. You can find lots of decent alternatives in our other comparisons.

Hello, Greg! Thank you very much for your question! The only thing we can say for sure is that your pump and vacuum do not match each other. The problem can be solved in both ways you mentioned – you’ll need to change either the pump or the vac. For us, it seems more beneficial to replace the pump since the original Krystal Clear cartridge devices included in the Intex pool kits offer basic-level water processing. That’s why they are not very powerful and durable, and you’ll need to get a new one pretty soon. So why not do it now?

Hello, Phil! Thank you very much for your question! We mean that with Polaris 360, you don’t need to connect your cleaner with a pump for its proper work. Both the pump and the cleaner can work simultaneously but independent from each other. Other Pentair models require connection.

Hello, Eugene! Thank you very much for your question! If you’re looking for a quiet pump, we’d recommend you trying Pentair WhisperFlo series. This is the latest Pentair pump line that features super-silent performance.

Hello, Tom! Thank you very much for your question! Pentair produces very powerful pumps; that’s why they suit large inground pools mostly. But if you’d like to try Pentair pumps only for your above ground pool, we can recommend you Pentair WhisperFlo 011512 model.

Hello, Tom! Thank you very much for your comment and kind words! Your experience will greatly help our readers!

Hello, Bob! Thank you very much for your question! Dolphin robots described in this review work independently from pool pump systems. According to users’ reviews, a robotic cleaner costs several bucks per month, so it shouldn’t significantly increase your electricity bills.

Hello, Jan! Thank you very much for your kind words and such an interesting question! I should say your pool has a pretty complex shape with lots of slopes and steps. Indeed, Polaris 3900 will deal with most dirt inside, but some particles will be left since it has no special navigation. We’d recommend you trying robotic pool cleaners with navigation like Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus. The price is the same as in Polaris 3900. But here you get the CleverClean route planning, floor/walls/steps processing, ability to set schedule, and some other handy tips. You can find more information about Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus in our review. Hope our team will make a choice easier for you.

Hello, Brittney! Thank you very much for your appreciation!)

Hello, Philip! Thank you very much for your question! Scrubbers in Polaris Sport pool cleaners are durable enough to serve you for years. As far as we know, the manufacturer doesn’t require any replacements here.

Hello, Chris! Thank you very much for your question! We’d recommend making a slightly bigger grounding for your pool for your comfort. A 15 x 33/35 ft grounding will be enough for a 12 x 30 pool.

Hello, Kimberly! Thank you very much for your question! There is no official information on Dolphin pool cleaners’ noise level. However, many users state they work pretty quietly. You will not hear it working or be disturbed by the bot.

Hello, Amanda! Thank you very much for your question! Indeed, Intex Krystal Clear series filter pumps are perfectly compatible with saltwater systems, especially those by the Intex brand. The best-selling models include Krystal Clear 12-inch, 14-inch, and 16-inch. You may learn everything about them in our Best Intex Pool Pumps for Above-Ground Pools review. The 14-inch model is a golden mean in terms of performance and price, which will suit your needs.

Hello, Beth! Thank you very much for your high appreciation and kind words!)

Hello, Robert! Thank you very much for your question! As far as we know, the manufacturer didn’t state any changes in hose sizes included in Polaris 380 pool cleaner. However, in case of any uncertainty, please contact the nearest retailer or Polaris Help Center.

Hello, Michael! Thank you very much for your question! Manufacturers and experts highly recommend preparing the ground for your pool regardless of its construction type. Even inflatable models need a flat, safe, clean surface. Thus, you’ll avoid punctures, leaning, and injuries.

Hello, Landon! Thank you very much for your comment and true user experience! Reductions in the energy economy are sometimes possible if you run a pump longer than it’s needed. Anyway, it’s great you shared your opinion with us to help other customers.

Hello, Tom! Thank you for your question! On average, a cartridge filter costs about $10. Prices start from $7 and reach $30 if you purchase a pack. Manufacturers recommend changing a cartridge filter in your pump every 2 weeks. So, the maintenance will cost you about $20 per month.

Hello, Bella! Thank you for your question! All suction pool cleaners presented in the review work equally well in pools of all shapes. So, you can safely get Hayward 2025ADV PoolVac XL Suction Pool Vacuum for your oval pool.

Hello, Yvonne! Thank you very much for your question! The manufacturer strictly recommends using only original liners and frames to make sure they fit each other and provide you with a safe, solid, and comfortable pool. The liner that comes with your pool frame is the best match. Other options will not fit.

Hello, Dean! Thank you very much for your question! As far as we know, these Pentair and Hayward pumps allow one way of installation with a fixed position. But with Hayward, the manual contains instructions for reorienting the discharge for those who’d like to rearrange the pump.

Hello, Frito! Thank you very much for your question! Polaris 360 pool cleaner doesn’t require a booster pump for its operation because it works with lower pressures. A booster pump may cause damage to your cleaner. However, you can still purchase Polaris 360 and use it for your pool cleaning. Please only don’t forget to turn the pump off during the cleaner’s operation. We’d also recommend consulting with Polaris customers’ support service before making the final decision.

Hello, Liz! Thank you very much for your question! As far as we know, pool manufacturers do not sell extra pool liners as a replacement kit. However, they offer lots of various tire repair methods to prolong your original liner’s life. You can try patches, epoxy and other adhesives. Look for more options and products here.

Hello, Ann! Thank you very much for your question! Unfortunately, just like manufacturers prohibit the usage of inground pool cleaners for above ground pools, it is not recommended to install an above ground device in inground reservoirs. Firstly, the reason is poor cleaning efficiency. Secondly, they will not fit each other during installation. And thirdly, this will lead warranty cancellation. In this case, you’d better try multifunctional pool cleaners that are made to fit both types of pools like Zodiac MX series models.

Hello, Andrew! Thank you for your question! It is absolutely safe to run your pump 24 hours per day as they are specially constructed for non-stop operation. They can deal with overloading and overheating themselves by changing the speed of operation from time to time. That’s why you can turn it on and forget about it.

Hello, Henry! Thank you for your high appreciation! The frequency of filter backwashing depends on how often you run your filter. If you’re an active swimmer and clean water daily, backwash the sand filter once per week. If you filter water less often, do it at least once per 2-3 weeks. Backwash the sand filter until you see that water runs clear from it.

Hello, Roy! Great question, thank you very much. Both suction and pressure side pool cleaners offer nice water and pool processing. The main difference lies in the principle of operation.
Suction cleaners use the filtration system of your pool. They attach to it and suck water with dirt and debris. Consequently, no additional equipment and cleaner emptying are needed.
Pressure side cleaners work independently from your pool systems but require a separate booster pump. They use your pool’s return water to create a suction vortex to lift dirt and collect it in their own bags.
Suction cleaners are more affordable and need no extra investments. However, they deal worse with large debris and may clog.
Pressure cleaners are better for massive pollutions and bigger pools. But please be ready to buy an additional pump and install it.

Hello, Maria! Thank you for your question and trust! All three models would fit your pool size. Besides, the cleaner is connected to the pool’s filtration system through a special hose and doesn’t need anything else. Thus, there is no need for additional power sources and outlets.
However, we’d recommend you choosing Zodiac MX8 and MX8 Elite models as they offer longer 39″ hoses to reach any filtration system.

Hello, Mr. Harton! Thank you so much for your question!
Both models will suit your pool in terms of the size (as far as it’s inground one, of course, as Polaris 360 and 380 don’t work in above ground models). Here we see the same hose length, filter bag capacity, drive system, inlet size, number of jets.
Polaris 380 deals with more complicated surfaces and is more powerful. With this unit, you can process all surfaces, including steps. Polaris 360 cleans the floor and walls only. We’d recommend you the 380 if you need a more thorough cleaning and easier maintenance. Though both cleaners come with a 2L standard bag, and the 380 package includes a bag with a zip fastener.
However, it would help if you mind that the 380 requires an additional booster pump, which leads to more investments and higher electricity bills. Besides, it’s about $250 more expensive. Polaris 360 is our favorite here. It will become a more reasonable choice if you have no or simply don’t need cleaning on steps. It requires no pumps and consumes less energy. A zip bag can be purchased separately. And other differences between the 380 and 360 don’t seem sufficient enough to cost an extra $250.
Anyway, both devices have their pros and cons, which should be considered separately in each case. The final choice of the right pool cleaner is always up to you.

Hello, Jeff! Thank you for your question! Even if you have crystal clear water in your supply, a filter will prolong the service life of your pump. That’s why though manufacturers don’t provide us with built-in filters, we’d recommend you purchasing and installing your own unit.

Hello, Colin! Excellent question, thank you very much! Polaris pool cleaners of this series can be left in the water after cleaning. Thus, there is no need to pull them out and then sink again.

Hello, Jhonny! Thank you for your question! Indeed, the assembly was planned as simple as possible so that even inexperienced customers could try it. Still, it would be best if you minded that self-assembly will take much more time and can lead to accidental breaks or even warranty cancellation. The manufacturer highly recommends resorting to professional services in Intex pools assembly.

Hello, Liam! Excellent question, thank you! Yes, Polaris allows us to adjust the Vac-Sweep hose length to meet our pool depth perfectly. If the hose is too long for your pool, you can Separate the hose at the center swivel or cut it. Cut the leader hose from the end attached to the feed hose and then attach it to the feed hose and connect the hose to the pool wall. Please make sure you measure your pool depth correctly! This is essential for accurate cutting. Also, consult the user’s manual beforehand for more details and instructions.
If, on the contrary, your hose is too short, you can purchase an additional feed hose section, one swivel, and two hose nuts from an authorized dealer.

Hello, Alex! Thank you for your question! Hayward and Pentair do have manufactures located in the USA, and many of their pool pumps are made in America.

Hello, Ann! Thank you for your question! Polaris has its own official shop on Amazon, so it’s absolutely safe to purchase bags and other accessories there. Besides, the platform guarantees 24-hour customer support on all stages of order and delivery processing. If you still feel uncomfortable, you can do your shopping on the Polaris official site in this section.