Robotic pool cleaners are more than just underwater vacuums. These self-contained devices combine powerful suction, rotating brushes, internal filters, and smart navigation systems to clean your pool thoroughly and independently—without connecting to your pool’s pump or filtration system.
In this post, we’ll explore the key components that make up a robotic cleaner’s operation. From suction force to scrubbing ability, from filter types to navigation paths, you’ll see exactly how these machines deliver reliable, efficient cleaning with minimal effort on your part.
💨 Suction Power and Water Intake
At the heart of every robotic pool cleaner is its ability to suck in debris. Here’s how it works:
The cleaner uses an internal motor to pull water and debris into the unit
Water flows through a built-in filtration system, trapping leaves, insects, dirt, and dust
Clean water is expelled back into the pool
This suction power is usually measured in GPH (gallons per hour) or GPM (gallons per minute). Higher GPH means faster water circulation and better debris capture—especially useful for large or leafy pools.
👉 Example: A model rated at 4500 GPH will cycle more water than a 3000 GPH unit, picking up fine debris more quickly.
🟦 Recommended Reading: Robotic Pool Cleaner Flow Rate: GPH vs GPM Explained Simply
🧼 Active Brushes for Scrubbing
Suction alone won’t remove everything. That’s where active brushing comes in:
Many cleaners have rotating brushes on the front or both ends
These brushes scrub pool surfaces—loosening algae, grime, and biofilm
Some premium models use dual high-speed brushes for added power
This feature is especially useful for:
Pools prone to algae buildup
Vinyl or fiberglass surfaces where slick film collects
Removing grime from tile grout and seams
🟦 Recommended Reading: Active vs Passive Brushes in Robotic Pool Cleaners: What’s Best for Inground Pools?
🗑️ Filter Baskets and Debris Trapping
Once debris is dislodged and sucked in, it needs somewhere to go:
Robotic cleaners have internal filter trays or cartridges
Filters range in size from 200μm (coarse) for leaves and twigs, down to 10–50μm for silt and algae
Most units are emptied by removing the filter tray and rinsing it with a hose
Premium models may include dual-filter systems to handle multiple types of debris in one cleaning cycle.
🟦 Recommended Reading: Filter Basket Access in Robotic Pool Cleaners and Skimmers
🧭 Navigation and Coverage Systems
Unlike random handheld vacuums, robotic cleaners follow a defined path:
Basic models bump around in random patterns
Mid-range models follow preset or patterned paths
High-end models use gyroscopes, accelerometers, or onboard mapping to track where they’ve been
This ensures complete coverage without wasted motion or missed areas.
👉 Example: A pool with steps and a tanning ledge will benefit from a robot with smart navigation to reach tricky zones efficiently.
🟦 Recommended Reading: Navigation Systems in Robotic Pool Cleaners Explained
📐 Floor, Wall, and Waterline Cleaning
Different models offer different cleaning coverage:
Entry-level units clean just the pool floor
Mid-tier models also climb and clean walls
High-end units reach the waterline, scrubbing where oils and scum collect
For full-service cleaning, wall and waterline capabilities are strongly recommended.
🟦 Recommended Reading: How Robotic Cleaners Clean Floor, Wall & Waterline
🧠 How It All Comes Together
Let’s look at the full cleaning cycle:
Active brushes scrub and dislodge dirt from surfaces
Suction motor pulls loosened debris into the unit
Internal filter captures and traps dirt and fine particles
Navigation system ensures complete pool coverage
This creates a looped, efficient system that reduces manual cleaning and helps keep your pool crystal clear with minimal intervention.
🟦 Recommended Reading: What Makes a Robotic Pool Cleaner “Smart”?
🔍 Compare Robotic Cleaners by Cleaning Method
Use our interactive filters to explore models that match your cleaning priorities:
- Smart pathing for efficient coverage
High vs low flow suction (GPH/GPM)
Full-surface cleaning (floor, wall, waterline)