The Automatic pool cleaner is a very efficient way to clean a swimming pool. However, like all equipment it requires periodic maintenance. This is especially important before opening the pool for the season. A clean, well maintained automatic cleaner will perform better and last longer.

This type of pool cleaning machine is independent of the swimming pools pump and filter system, but relies on its own internal motor to suck in water through an internally stored filter bag and expel the filtered debris back into the pool. It has a tractor-like rubber or synthetic tracks, brushes that resemble paint rollers and wings that grip the pool surface to remove debris.

These machines have many components that need to be checked and maintained, including the internal filter, motor and track drive system, and the vacuum and spray jets. If a component is not working properly, the entire unit will not function correctly and will require replacement or repair.

Many of these problems can be resolved by reading the owners manual for the specific model and checking the troubleshooting section that outlines common issues. In most cases, the problem will be described and an easy-to-follow step-by-step solution will be provided to resolve it.

Another important maintenance item to check on a regular basis is the condition of the tracks, wheels or wings. These should be inspected to ensure they are free of cracks or other damage that can affect how the robot moves around the pool and whether it is able to climb walls. The same is true for the skirts, the hose and all other areas of contact with the pool's surface. If any parts are damaged, they need to be replaced as soon as possible.

If the robot is getting stuck on ladders, stairs or handrails, this can be a result of the hose being too short, a lack of traction or a change in the cleaner's direction or cleaning pattern. Installing a ladder guard kit, adjusting the thrust jets, hose floats or adding weights to the hose can be used to create new cleaning patterns or redirect the machine's path.

The best advice for maintaining a robotic cleaner is to keep it out of the water and in an area where it will be safe from chemicals, sun and rain. If a client does want to keep the cleaner in the water, it should be anchored by using a caddy that will help protect the unit and prevent it from getting scratched or damaged.

Keeping the cleaning robot out of the water on a regular basis can also help reduce the number of times it needs to be serviced, which is usually done on a yearly basis prior to pool opening. This can extend the life of the cleaning robot and reduce the need for costly repairs. This is especially important for pools that are chemically-treated. These chemicals can be tough on plastic or rubber drives and other mechanical parts of the cleaning robot.