What makes the best robotic pool cleaner? Performance? Longevity? Price? We believe it is a combination of these factors.
Price The best robot on the market should be reasonably priced in the middle of the price range. On the market today, good quality robots range from $1500 to $3899, we are exlcuding the cheap throw away robots and the high end commercial range. We feel that a robot costing around $2500 – $3000 is giving the customer the best bang for buck when looking at the typical lifespan of a robot.
Longevity How long should a robot last? We think all robots should give the customer at least 5 years of service, with small steps required by the end user to increase this to around 8 years. There are exceptions of course, some people just don’t look after them and they barely last beyond the warranty period, but for most people it is entirely possible to make your robot last 8 years.
What makes a robot last? Simplicity and servicing… The more simple the electronics and drive systems the more robust and reliable a robot will be, and like any mechanical device, robots need to be serviced reguarly. At least every two years.
Performance A high performance robot should be able to handle pretty much anything you throw at it, within reason.. When we talk about performance with robots typically we are looking at the flow rate provided by the motor. More flow equals more suction, and more cleaning power.
Which robot ticks all these boxes? The Maytronics Dolphin M550 is in our opinion the best bang for buck robotic pool cleaner on the market. The Dolphin M550 features include:
Highest suction rate motor
Large debris canister and dual filter options
Simplified motor, removing unnecessary features
WiFi and App features
Up to 4 years warranty
Priced at $3099
A Maytronics Dolphin M550, if looked after and serviced reguarly, should easily provide 5 years of service, and well beyond.
These days, it’s easy to fall into the habit of replacing products rather than repairing them. But when it comes to robotic pool cleaners, is replacement really the best option?
Let’s take a closer look at both choices so you can make the right decision for your pool—and your wallet.
🔄 Option 1: Replacement
There’s no denying the appeal of a brand-new robot. A new unit brings the latest technology, sleek design, and a full warranty—often up to four years. In the case of Maytronics Dolphin cleaners, this warranty even includes servicing during the covered period.
However, it’s worth asking: how much of that new technology do we actually use once the novelty wears off?
At a price point of $3,000 to $4,000, it’s important to consider the long-term value. For many customers, warranty coverage is the driving force behind their decision to replace. But here’s what we’ve seen firsthand: most serious issues with robotic cleaners are caused by misuse, not manufacturing faults.
Robots that are overused, left in the pool, or exposed to excessive chlorine often require repeated repairs—even within the warranty window. If you expect to be hard on your cleaner (and let’s face it, busy lives can make pool care a challenge), a long warranty can absolutely be worth the investment.
Example: A Dolphin M550 with a four-year warranty might cost you $3,000. If you use it three times per week over those four years—and never pay for repairs—your total cost breaks down to around $4.80 per clean. That’s great value.
On the other hand, if you’re someone who regularly tests their pool water, uses the robot responsibly, and stores it correctly, you might see your unit last six to eight years without needing a single repair. In that case, the extended warranty may offer less benefit.
Now let’s look at the numbers when you choose to repair instead of replace.
Example 1: Maytronics Dolphin M600
Let’s say you purchased a Dolphin M600 back in 2020. It’s now out of warranty, and it’s stopped working. This is a typical lifespan for many high-end cleaners—the more advanced the components, the more wear over time.
You bring it to Sydney Pool Robotics at five years old, and it needs a full rebuild: motor, LED, cable, and moving parts. The total cost? Around $1,800 plus labour, with a 12-month warranty on the new electronics.
Buying a new M600 today will set you back $3,599 RRP—so you’re already saving $1,799. Plus, if you return to us before that 12-month warranty ends, we’ll inspect the unit and replace any suspect parts.
If this rebuild gives you another 4 years of reliable use, you’re well ahead. And even if a second rebuild is needed down the track, you’d still come out close to the cost of a new unit—but with double the use.
The S300i has been a customer favourite for years, and many are still going strong. Originally retailing at around $2,700, it’s known for its durable design and simplified drive system, making it cheaper to maintain.
Today, the comparable model (the S400) costs $3,349. But a full rebuild of your S300i—including motor, cable, and moving parts—is only $1,379, saving you nearly $2,000.
Many of these units have logged over 1,000 motor hours, and in our experience, the S Series is built to last. In most cases, repairing makes much more sense than replacing.
✅ Conclusion: What’s Right for You?
If you’re someone who values maximum convenience and warranty coverage, and you tend to be a bit rough on your gear, replacement might be a smart move.
But if you’re confident in your ability to care for your robot and want to get the most value from your original investment, repairing your unit—especially with a quality team behind you—is often the better financial choice.
At Sydney Pool Robotics, we’re here to help you make the decision that’s right for you—no pressure, just expert advice.
Are you looking to buy a robotic pool cleaner and don’t know where to start? Below are a few of our favourite robotic pool cleaners and a breif rundown on why we love them.
Maytronics S150
Maytronics S150 Dolphin
The Maytronics Dolphin S150 is reasonably priced at $1999, but even though it is one of the cheapest robotic pool cleaners on the market, it is a brilliant machine. The Maytronics S series – also available rebadged as the X, Trident Hydro, AW5, plus many more, is a durable and easy to use robotic pool cleaner. In the S Series these models range from the S50 and S100 which are budget options for smaller pools, to the S150, S250 and S400. The S150 to S400 are all essentailly the same robot, however the prices range from $1999 to $3349. What’s the difference?
The S150 utilises the same chassis, filter and motor as the top of the range S400 however to bring the price down, Maytronics have removed features from the S150. The S150 features a shorter 15m swivel cable, no timer features, no WiFi and a 2-year limited warranty as opposed to the 4-year comprehensive warranty of the S400.
For smaller pools and customers who dont need these extra features, the S150 is a brilliant robot with a durable motor and simply drive system. We love the price, the simplicity and the low cost of servicing.
The Dolphin M550 was released to the market in 2024 and in our opinion has been a game changer. The M550, priced at $3099, is based on the flagship Dolphin M700, and while the M700 is a great machine, the price at $3899 is just out of reach for some.
The Dolphin M550 is a dual drive robotic pool cleaner, meaning that the robot contains two drive motors, one for each track. This allows the robot to turn on the spot and efficiently navigate any pool. The key difference between the M550 and other robots, is that the motor has been simplified by removing the Servo motor and LED card. This both reduces the price, and increases durability.
What did the servo motor and LED do you ask? The servo motor is what allows other robots from travel horizontally along the waterline, the LED was simply flashing lights. Whilst some may miss the waterline cleaning, the removal of the servo motor mans there is one less component that can fail as the robot ages.
If you are in the market for a Robotic Pool Cleaner, chances are you’ve come across the new cordless options. Every manufacturer has one, but are they worth the money and do they actually make cleaning your pool easier?
Cordless V’s Corded, Pro’s and Cons
Corded
A traditional Robotic Pool Cleaner typically comes with a floating cable of around 18 meters, enough for most backyard pools. These cables feature a swivel connection to prevent tangling and connect the robot to the control system.
Pro’s High performance motors allow for high suction Unrestricted run times Easy to remove from the pool using the cable Always connected to WiFi Larger debris basket capacity Cheaper to service and will last longer Can be used over and over again without needing to remove from the pool.
Con’s Cable can be considered unsightly
Cordless
Cordless Robotic Pool Cleaners are smaller than their corded predecesers and designed for lighter duties.
Pro’s No unsightly cable Have to be removed from the pool so less exposure to damaging water chemistry.
Con’s Not suitable for large pools Smaller size restricts debris collecting capacity Battery requires charging after each use Battery requires replacement after 3 years Difficult to remove from the pool
Conclusion
Overall the removal of the cord on a robotic pool cleaner leaves you with a less capable and more expensive Robotic Pool Cleaner when it comes to the full lifetime of the robot. Replacement batteries are expensive and the performance of the robot will likley deteriorate as the battery ages. Compare that to a traditional robot that will work tirelessley for years, the cable is in our opinion a feature that whilst unsightly, gives the best value for money. There are also new cable options on the market that allow the cable to be connected inside the pool, giving the best of both worlds.
As a pioneer in Sydney’s Robotic Pool Cleaner service industry, Sydney Pool Robotics stands as a trailblazer in the transformative wave sweeping across the pool maintenance sector. A decade ago, the sight of a Robotic Pool Cleaner in a backyard was a rarity, as the majority of pools relied on traditional cleaning methods such as the classic Kreepy Krauly suction cleaner or the Polaris and Jetvac pressure cleaners.
In today’s landscape, the once-prevalent traditional pool cleaners have fallen out of favour, making way for the ascendancy of the Robotic Pool Cleaner as the undisputed ruler of pool maintenance.
Nevertheless, the transition comes with a shift in dynamics. Unlike the straightforward, low-cost nature of the old-fashioned pool cleaners, Robotic Pool Cleaners represent a more sophisticated breed of electronic devices that demand a level of care far beyond their predecessors. In times gone by, a Kreepy Krauly could be purchased for under $1000, effortlessly installed into the pool, and then essentially forgotten about. It would dutifully navigate the pool for hours each day, gathering leaves and debris with a certain clumsiness, only necessitating attention when its parts wore down to dust. Replacement spares were a minimal expense, typically costing under $100, allowing pool owners to swiftly resume their pool maintenance routine.
Fast forward to the present, and the landscape has shifted dramatically. Robotic Pool Cleaners, while offering unparalleled efficiency and capabilities, come at a higher price point due to their advanced technology. The days of a pool cleaner being a set-and-forget investment are a thing of the past. These electronic marvels require a more conscientious approach to maintenance and care, necessitating a departure from the ease of the traditional pool cleaning era.
Optimising the Performance and Longevity of Your Robotic Pool Cleaner
One recurring concern among owners of Robotic Pool Cleaners is the expectation that these devices can be left in the pool continuously, operating daily. Disappointment arises when, despite the initial investment, the expensive Robotic Pool Cleaner exhibits signs of wear and lasts only three years. It’s crucial to understand that this expectation is a carryover from outdated practices, as Robotic Pool Cleaners are not designed for continuous, daily operation.
So, how can you ensure that your Robotic Pool Cleaner remains efficient and lasts for an extended period? This guide outlines three key rules often overlooked during the purchase of a Robotic Pool Cleaner that are essential for promoting the longevity of the unit.
Strategic Use Patterns
Robotic Pool Cleaners, being intricate mechanical devices, share similarities with automobiles in terms of wear and tear. The more these devices are in use, the faster their components degrade. Drawing an analogy to car maintenance, consider that if you accumulate 100,000 kilometers on your car in a year, it would need servicing ten times based on the typical 10,000 km service schedule. Similarly, a Robotic Pool Cleaner benefits from less frequent servicing when used less frequently.
Quality Robotic Pool Cleaners log operational information onboard, tracking cycles, hours of operation, and faults such as being out of water, part cycles, and motor overloads. Historical data analysis reveals that an average Robotic Pool Cleaner requires a running gear check after 250 runs and electrical component servicing after 500 runs. While these are average figures, it’s important to note exceptions to the norm. We recommend using Robotic Pool Cleaners twice a week whenever possible, accumulating around 100 runs annually. This approach necessitates servicing every second year, allowing the unit to operate smoothly for at least five years before major intervention is required. Conversely, daily operation mandates annual servicing, with a likelihood of major failures within two to three years.
This critical information is often overlooked during the purchase of a Robotic Pool Cleaner but is indispensable for managing customer expectations. Running your robot every day is not a sustainable practice for its longevity.
Water Chemistry
Robotic Pool Cleaners operate in arguably the harshest domestic environment, exposed to water, sunlight, and chemicals designed to break down and destroy foreign substances. Following the guidelines outlined in your Robotic Pool Cleaner’s manual, maintaining the ideal water balance is imperative:
Chlorine levels should not exceed 5ppm
pH levels between 7.2 and 7.8
Salt levels should not surpass 5000ppm
This balance is crucial because the components of your Robotic Pool Cleaner are designed to tolerate it. Deviations from this range result in rapid degradation of components, particularly in high chlorine environments. Rubber tracks and seals degrade swiftly in such conditions, and once the seal fails on the motor block, the inevitability of your robot’s failure becomes apparent.
Regular Servicing
Similar to automobiles and other mechanical devices, Robotic Pool Cleaners require routine servicing. Components such as foam rollers, climbing rings, and brushes are vital to the robot’s operation. These are wearing parts, and once worn, your robot may struggle to perform tasks such as climbing walls. Continued attempts to climb under stress can put excessive pressure on the motor, shortening its lifespan.
At Sydney Pool Robotics, we strongly recommend an annual check for all robots. Conducting this check during the winter ensures that, barring any unforeseen events, your robot will dutifully maintain your pool’s cleanliness throughout the swimming season.
By adhering to these guidelines, you not only optimize the performance of your Robotic Pool Cleaner but also extend its operational lifespan, making your investment in cutting-edge pool maintenance technology truly worthwhile.
Maytronics is pleased to launch Ecoclear®, a new complete range of pool equipment, including high-performance pumps, filters, and heaters. Now both our professional and residential pool owner customers can secure the very best pool products from one place and benefit from Maytronics excellent customer support and warranty. The Ecoclear® range of heaters, pumps and filters are manufactured by market leaders Pentair, the world’s leading manufacturer of pool and spa equipment, who offer innovative products to make pool and spa ownership simpler, more enjoyable and more energy efficient than ever before.
This blog outlines the Maytronics Ecoclear® pool equipment range and the important features of each product and what to look for when choosing your swimming pool equipment.
FILTRATION
Pool Pumps
Choosing the correct pool pump is critical for pool water circulation and maintaining crystal clear water. It is important that you invest in a high-quality pump which will take your pool water to be filtered, sanitised, and returned to your pool. An energy efficient design will ensure you save money and reduce any environmental impact, while a whisper quiet pump will allow your family to relax and enjoy the pool. Your pool pump is the heart of your pool’s circulation. Maytronics Ecoclear® pumps are manufactured by Pentair who have incorporated innovative hydraulic engineering, refined over nearly 50 years, to circulate water more efficiently and quietly than competitor pumps. They have also been designed with convenient features to make routine maintenance easy and fast. Ecoclear® pumps offer the latest in breakthrough efficiency and have met all rigorous tests for certification. Ecoclear® single and variable speed pumps are engineered and manufactured to the highest standards of precision and quality for safe, dependable, and long-lasting operation, and with new technology incorporated are whisper quiet.
Ecoclear® Variable Speed Pump
Maytronics Ecoclear® variable speed pool pumps are ideal for new or existing pools. Utilising an advanced hydraulic design and the latest technology in permanent magnet and variable speed motors, the ecoclear® variable speed pool pumps are the perfect combination of efficiency and performance. These pumps deliver energy savings and the power when you need it. You will also have the peace of mind that you are doing your bit for the environment and reducing your carbon footprint.
FEATURES
Variable speed pumps, with up to 4 programmable speeds, allows you to effortlessly select the most efficient setting to meet your filtration, cleaning and water feature needs.
Brushless, permanent magnet motors deliver high efficiency, low noise levels and serviceability.
Fault protected motors prevent damage by automatically shutting down the motor in the event of a locked rotor, under-voltage, over-voltage or over-current condition and will automatically reduce the speed during an over-temperatureover temperature condition.
Precision-fit internal components and superior hydraulic design deliver effortless performance, energy savings and extended pump life.
Constructed with durable, thermoplastic, composite resin, so you can be sure it will stand up to the harshest conditions.
The Cam and Ramp™ lid is easy to remove and locks in place with a quarter turn, making inspection and cleaning a breeze.
The high-capacity trap holds a large quantity of debris, so you need to clean less often.
Quick-disconnect plumbing unions.
3 years warranty (T&C’s apply)
Ecoclear® Single Speed High Performance Pump
Maytronics ecoclear® single speed pumps, deliver maximum water circulation efficiency at the lowest running costs as it uses less horsepower than other pumps to produce the required water flow. The hydraulic design has been refined over 40 years and is designed to give a long, trouble-free life with minimal maintenance.
FEATURES
Unique FunnelFlo™ diffuser and high-efficiency impeller maximise water flow and energy efficiency while minimising turbulence and noise.
Energy-efficient motor with commercial-grade frame, rustproof stainless-steel shaft, and permanently lubricated, sealed bearings for long life.
Specially engineered design assures whisper-quiet operation as documented in rigorous ETL tests.
Oversized strainer basket extends time between cleanings.
See-through lid makes inspection fast and easy—engineered polymer remains clear and strong for years.
User-friendly Cam and Ramp™ lid is easy to remove and quickly locks in place with a quarter-turn.
3 years limited warranty (T&C’s apply)
POOL FILTERS
A pool filter is vital for sparkling clear water. The filter removes unwanted waste, keeping your pool water healthy. Chlorine and chemicals act as pool cleaners, killing bacteria and contaminants in the pool water, with the pool filter removing them. The filter prevents the pool water going cloudy and being filled with unpleasant debris. The Maytronics Ecoclear® range offers a choice of two different filter technologies – Cartridge or Media Filter. The filter you decide on will depend on your pool’s size and needs.
By removing impurities such as dirt, leaves, grass, hair, body oils, sunscreen, and even bacteria from the water, our highly efficient pool filters will keep your pool clean, clear, and inviting.
Ecoclear® Cartridge Filter
The Maytronics Ecoclear® Cartridge Filter, combines top-end filter performance with low maintenance. This dependable design uses special filter elements to strip tiny particles from your pool water – particles as small as 8 microns (an average grain of beach sand is 1,000 microns). Plus, cleaning is a breeze. Open the top, remove the cartridge, hose it off and the Cartridge Filter is ready to go again.
All components of the Ecoclear® Cartridge Filter have been designed using Finite Element Modelling for maximum strength at high pressures, ensuring years of life. The Lid and Locking ring have been ergonomically designed making the filter a breeze to use.
FEATURES
Built from highly durable UV resistant plastics.
Lid and locking ring have large handles for easy grip.
2 inlet ports and 2 outlet ports, 90 degrees opposed, allows fitting to any plumbing configuration.
40mm and 50mm barrel unions included.
Small footprint.
Stainless steel, oil-filled, pressure gauge.
Internal bypass valve prevents exceedingly high pressures.
5-year tank warranty (T&C’s apply)
Ecoclear® Media Filter
The high-performanceMaytronics Ecoclear Media Filteris incredibly simple to operate, easy to maintain and built for long term reliability. Its highly efficient design provides crystal clear and clean water, year after year.
The pool water moves through the media-filled pressure vessel. The media traps particles so small they are undetectable to the naked eye. Over time the dirt accumulates in the gaps between the media particles, causing the pressure in the vessel to rise. This signals to you to backwash the filter. Simply reverse the water flow to expel the dirt.
Pool filter operation doesn’t come any easier than this. The multi-port valve puts all the 6 filter functions right at your fingertips, simply rotate the handle to the desired position and the filter does the rest.
FEATURES
Large capacity 25” and 28” models.
Spun-woven fibreglass construction for exceptional strength, chemical resistance and long life.
UV resistant tank.
Stainless Steel clamp for corrosion resistance and allows 360-degree rotation of multi-port valve to simplify installation. Top diffuser ensures even distribution of water over the top of the media bed.
Top Mount 6-function 2” multi-port valve features a pressure gauge, sight glass and manual air relief for optimum filtration efficiency.
Internal design ensures that water is exposed to maximum sand surface area for superior filtration performance and efficient backwashing.
10 year warranty (T&C’s apply)
For exceptional results Maytronics recommends using premium, Australian Made Ecoclear glass filter media. Ecoclear Filter Media is made from 100% recycled glass. The environmentally friendly filter media lasts up to 3 times longer than traditional silica filter sand, saving you money and giving you a cleaner, healthier pool.
POOL HEATING
As the peak time in our swimming season, late spring and summer are all about hopping in the pool and having a fun time, but that comes to an end once the temperatures start to drop. Many people close their pools at night time and when temperatures start to dip below 18°C. For most people, ideal pool water is between 28-30°C. This is cool enough to be refreshing but warm enough to be inviting. When it comes to kids, 30°C is often the best temperature for swimming, so as air temp drops, swimming becomes less exciting for kids.
Add to your home’s value and all year-round fun and memories by adding an ecoclear® Heat Pump to warm the water to perfection. These heat pumps are economical to run as they essentially steal heat from the air and transfer it to your pool with incredible efficiency. Unlike a solar pool heater, the Ecoclear® heat pump can reliably heat your pool in rail, hail or shine, meaning you can swim comfortably during any season, at any time and make full use of your swimming pool investment.
Ecoclear® Inverter Heat Pump
The Maytronics Ecoclear® Inverter Heat Pump, is a powerful and efficient heat pump, which automatically heats or cools your pool according to the desired temperature. It adapts to outdoor conditions to ensure optimum bathing comfort while minimising energy consumption. Equipped with full-inverter technology, the Maytronics Ecoclear® Inverter Heat Pump is quiet, yet delivers powerful performance, thanks to the combination of a variable speed compressor and fan motor. Self-diagnostic software continuously monitors the system and adjusts for peak performance.
The Maytronics Ecoclear® Inverter Heat Pump is built for Australian conditions with a tough UV resistant, rust proof thermoplastic case, designed to withstand the elements, in an attractive compact design which blends neatly into any environment.
FEATURES
High efficiency. The inverter compressor gives you the power and efficiency to meet your preferred heating demands.
Intuitive, easy to use colour LCD touch screen, makes set-up and operation clear and simple.
Titanium threaded heat exchanger guarantees a longer life span, free of corrosion.
Intelligent thermostat automatically heats and cools.
Auto Defrost.
15 Years warranty (T&C’s)
Other Maytronics Pool Equipment To Consider
pH Drive Series
Adding a Maytronics pH drive will make your life easier. The pH levels in your pool must be balanced for comfortable swimming conditions and maximum sanitiser efficiency. In a new pool, acid must be added daily for maintenance. A Maytronics pH drive will do this for you. It will automatically add the correct, optimum level of acid to your pool, so you don’t need to manually handle pool chemicals. It takes any guesswork out of adding acid to your pool and maintaining your pool’s water chemistry. It prevents getting a green pool and makes your pool water balanced, for comfortable swimming any time.
CONCLUSION
Swimming in a warm, well-maintained pool is one of the best feelings out there. It feels even better knowing that your pool is always clean. Having the right pool supplies is essential to the health and safety of your pool. Choosing high-quality, energy efficient and eco-friendly pool equipment is a good long-term investment and will give you real cost savings.
For further advice on choosing the right pool equipment contact your nearest professional Elite Dealer or Elite Builder.
