Do I really need a pool cleaner?

Maintaining a swimming pool can be as enjoyable as it is exhausting. Brushing the sides, vacuuming up leaves, cleaning the bottom... so many repetitive tasks that eat into your free time. This is where the pool robot comes in. A truly autonomous assistant, it promises effortless maintenance, cleaner water and preserved equipment. But does this promise really justify the investment? Whether you own a small above-ground pool or a 50 m² in-ground pool, this guide will help you objectively answer the question: do I, or do I not, need a pool robot? 

Manual maintenance, effective but time-consuming

Cleaning your pool manually is possible, but it requires time and rigour. You have to brush the walls, vacuum the bottom, skim the surface, clean the skimmer baskets, maintain the filter... In high season, this easily represents 2 to 4 hours per week. And every oversight can lead to the appearance of algae, cloudy water or chemical imbalances. Manual maintenance is also more physically demanding, especially for in-ground or large swimming pools. If you are often away, if you rent out your property or if you simply prefer to enjoy your pool without the chore, the assistance of a robot quickly becomes essential. It doesn't replace everything, but it automates the essentials.

The real advantages of a robot cleaner

A pool robot does more than just vacuum up leaves. It brushes, filters, vacuums and improves water circulation in the pool's dead zones. It reduces the load on the main filtration system and limits the use of chemicals by preventing the formation of biofilm or algae. A top-of-the-range model such as the BEATBOT AquaSense 2 Pro cleans the bottom, walls and waterline completely autonomously, while capturing the microparticles that cause cloudy water. The time saved is obvious: once programmed or immersed, it works on its own, even in your absence. It is this ease of use that appeals to regular users. There is no need to monitor day-to-day maintenance, the robot takes over efficiently.

Which types of pools benefit most from a robot?

All pools can benefit from a robot, but some configurations make it almost essential. This is the case for in-ground pools of more than 30 m², pools with steps, submerged beaches or complex shapes, where manual cleaning becomes tedious. Pools that are highly exposed to leaves, wind or dust quickly accumulate debris. Family pools or pools that are very busy also benefit from more regular maintenance thanks to the robot. Above-ground pools, on the other hand, can make do with a more compact and wireless model, which is often more affordable. Whatever your configuration, a robot like the BEATBOT AquaSense automatically adapts to the bottom and optimises each pass to cover the entire usable surface area.

A robot isn't everything, but it does a lot

A pool robot is not a complete replacement for human maintenance. It does not control the pH, empty the skimmer baskets or clean the coping stones. Nor does it replace shock treatment in the event of green water. On the other hand, it eliminates up to 90% of the most difficult tasks: cleaning the bottom and walls, collecting impurities, and sometimes even clarifying the water. In addition, a surface skimmer robot such as the iSkim Ultra from BEATBOT makes it possible to capture leaves, pollen and grease as soon as they appear. The result: cleaner water, less strain on filters and more effective chemical treatments. The robot does not replace maintenance, it simply makes it faster, more reliable and much less restrictive.

What if I prefer to do the maintenance myself?

Some people enjoy maintaining their pool by hand: it's a ritual, a moment of relaxation, even a physical exercise. In this case, a robot may seem superfluous, especially on a small, well-exposed pool. However, even in this configuration, a robot can intervene occasionally, especially after a storm, during periods of intensive use, or during a prolonged absence. It then acts as a cleanliness insurance, a useful backup when you don't have the time or energy to do everything manually. Especially since many models are easily programmed or launched with a click from a mobile application. It is not necessary to have a robot for every day, but having one on hand is often a game-changer.

An investment quickly amortised in comfort and quality

The price of a pool robot varies between €300 for entry-level models and more than €1,200 for high-end wireless versions. This may seem like a lot of money, but it quickly pays for itself. Less chemicals, less wear and tear on the filter, more comfort, more free time... In just a few seasons, the investment pays for itself. What's more, models such as the BEATBOT AquaSense 2 Ultra offer high durability, low maintenance and professional cleaning quality. The choice of model will depend on the size and shape of your pool and your requirements. But in any case, if you want a pool that is always clean, without daily effort, then yes: you need a robot. This is not just a question of cleanliness. Adopting a pool robot transforms your relationship with maintenance: moving from a recurring chore to automated, reliable and hassle-free management. Whether you opt for a compact wireless model, a programmable robot, or a robot + floating skimmer duo, you gain peace of mind. Your pool is always ready and welcoming, without having to spend hours on it every week. And that changes everything. A robot is not a luxury, it is a modern response to today's demands for comfort. And from the very first uses, you will wonder how you ever managed without one.
Published on 07/04/2025
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