Using an automatic pool cleaner is remarkably straightforward, requiring just a few simple steps to maintain a sparkling clean swimming environment.
Step-by-Step Guide to Using Your Automatic Pool Cleaner
Automatic pool cleaners, especially robotic models, are designed for ease of use, automating the tedious task of pool maintenance. Following these steps ensures optimal performance and a consistently clean pool.
1. Prepare Your Pool and Cleaner
Before deploying your automatic pool cleaner, a little preparation goes a long way:
- Inspect and Clean: Ensure the cleaner's filter basket or bag is empty and clean. A clean filter allows for maximum debris collection efficiency.
- Remove Large Debris: Skim any large leaves, twigs, or other significant debris from the pool surface. While cleaners handle most debris, removing large items prevents potential clogging and improves overall cleaning performance.
- Check Water Chemistry: While not directly related to the cleaner's operation, balanced pool chemistry (pH, chlorine levels) is essential for overall pool health and cleaner longevity.
2. Deploy the Cleaner into the Pool
Gently lower your automatic pool cleaner into the water. Ensure it fully submerges and all air bubbles escape from the unit. This allows the cleaner to settle properly on the pool floor and begin its work effectively.
3. Manage the Floating Cable
Crucially, it's important to spread out the floating cable over the pool, ensuring there are no kinks or coils in the cable. Proper cable management prevents tangling, allows the cleaner to cover the entire pool surface efficiently, and protects the cable from wear and tear.
4. Select Cleaning Cycle and Start
With the cleaner submerged and the cable properly laid out:
- Select your cleaning cycle. Most automatic cleaners offer various cycles, such as quick clean, full clean, or specific modes for floors/walls. Choose the cycle that best suits your current cleaning needs.
- Press Start. It's that simple! The cleaner will then begin its programmed cleaning cycle, navigating your pool to collect debris.
5. Monitor and Maintain
- Let It Work: Allow the cleaner to complete its cycle uninterrupted.
- Empty After Use: Once the cleaning cycle is finished, carefully remove the cleaner from the pool. Immediately empty and rinse the filter basket or bag. This prevents collected debris from drying and becoming difficult to remove, and it prepares the cleaner for its next use.
- Proper Storage: Store your cleaner in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and harsh chemicals, to prolong its lifespan.
Tips for Optimal Automatic Pool Cleaner Performance
- Regular Cleaning: Emptying the filter after every use is the single most important maintenance step.
- Check Impeller: Periodically check the cleaner's impeller for any trapped debris that might impede its suction.
- Cable Care: Beyond spreading it out during use, store the cable properly (e.g., loosely coiled) when not in use to prevent damage.
- Schedule Cleaning: Running your cleaner regularly, perhaps every other day or a few times a week, is more effective than waiting for the pool to become heavily soiled.
By following these straightforward steps, you can effectively use your automatic pool cleaner to keep your pool sparkling clean with minimal effort.
