Pool Care /
How to Use an Automatic Pool Cleaner Safely and Effectively
Use an automatic pool cleaner by matching it to your pool type, preparing the water and baskets first, then running it according to the manual and watching for problems.
Archive date: this article was written for PoolSkimmer on Oct 24, 2026 and given the earlier archive date of Sep 14, 2025 so the blog reads as an organized archive. It was not published on that date.
The proper way to use an automatic pool cleaner The short answer is to follow the manufacturer’s instructions. For the most part, that involves prepping the pool, putting the unit in the water correctly and allowing it to complete its cycle. But there are nuances; a robotic model will go about its business on its own, whereas suction and pressure types are dependent on your plumbing and filtration system.
Identify your cleaner You should know what you have before you begin. Consult the manual for your particular model since operation and setup vary.
- Robotic: These are self-powered and can be set to tackle the floor, walls or waterline.
- Suction: They draw from the pool pump and filter.
- Pressure: These run off return pressure from the circulation system and sometimes a booster pump.
If you are not sure about a cord, hose or label, do not make an assumption. Verify the model.
Pre-cleaning preparation An automatic cleaner is only as good as the condition of the pool. Do some basic maintenance first. Skim the surface of any large debris and give the walls and steps a brush if you see settled dirt. Make sure the water level is adequate for the skimmer and that the equipment is undamaged and safe. And when you need to empty the skimmer basket or strainer, turn the pump off first. All of this goes a long way to prevent clogging and ensure the unit has free movement.
Putting the cleaner in the pool Be gentle when lowering the unit into the water; there is no need to force it or throw it in. With a robotic cleaner, the manual will tell you how to handle the cable and power supply and which mode to select. For suction and pressure varieties, connect only what is specified and be certain the fittings are in place.
Do not put your hands in operating suction equipment. If the pump is running and something does not look right with a connection, shut the system down and refer to the manual.
Is it doing its job? Give it a few minutes of observation. You want to see steady progress and normal debris collection. The unit should not be stalling on the pool floor or tangling its hoses. It should be gathering waste, not shoving it around, and if it is a wall-climbing model, it should be making contact with the waterline or side of the pool. Should it get stuck or lose suction, put a stop to it and find out why.
Once the cycle is done Remove the cleaner only after you have turned off the pump or power as the case may be. Empty the baskets and, if the maker says it is all right, rinse the filters. Put the unit away properly. Dirt left in the machine will hamper its performance next time around.
When to bring in a pro There is no point in guessing at electrical troubles, a faulty booster pump or damaged cabling. If the cleaner refuses to work after you have done your due diligence, or if the problem seems to lie with the pool equipment, call in a professional.
Mistakes to avoid Some owners will run the cleaner without skimming first, or open a basket with the pump on. Others might ignore a clogged filter or let a stalled robot sit unattended. None of these are advisable. An automatic cleaner is meant to handle the routine, but it is no substitute for a good brushing, skimming and an eye on the equipment.
Sources and further reading
- [Hayward: Weekly pool maintenance](https://www.hayward.com/maintenance/weekly-pool-maintenance)