How to Clean and Maintain a Dolphin Robotic Pool Cleaner

Step-by-step instructions

Step 1: End the cycle and disconnect safely

Use the handle to bring the robot to the surface and let water drain over the pool. For a corded unit, turn off and unplug the power supply before opening the robot or touching the impeller. For a cordless model, switch it off and follow its manual; Maytronics notes that cordless products may need to be connected to the charger for the specified impeller-cleaning state. Never lift a robot by its cable.

Step 2: Remove and empty the filter

Open the lid or panel and lift out the basket, cartridges, or filter panels as the model shows. Empty leaves and solid debris into trash or compost rather than a household sink. Check the non-return flap and lower opening for wrapped hair, seeds, or stones. Do not force a latch or interchange fine and coarse panels without verifying their position.

Step 3: Rinse the filter immediately

Maytronics recommends rinsing filters as soon as the robot comes out so debris does not dry and restrict water flow. Spray from the clean side outward, then work around pleats, corners, and frame edges. The official FAQ says filters can be returned without drying for another immediate cycle, but they should be clean and later dried for storage. Replace torn mesh or damaged frames.

Step 4: Fresh-water rinse the robot

Rinse the housing, brushes, tracks, wheels, intake, and underside with ordinary fresh water. This removes pool chemicals that can age plastics, and Maytronics highlights the importance after saltwater use. Use normal hose pressure rather than a pressure washer. Keep the external power supply out of spray; it is splash-resistant, not submersible.

Step 5: Clear brushes, tracks, and intake

With power disconnected, rotate accessible rollers slowly by hand if the manual permits and pull away hair, string, grass, and small debris. Inspect the intake flap and track channels. Do not use a knife near rubber brushes or pry a track from its drive path. Toys or objects jammed beyond safe reach should be handled by a Maytronics service station.

Step 6: Inspect and clean the impeller on schedule

Maytronics recommends impeller cleaning about every two weeks, but access varies widely. Follow the exact manual to remove only the approved cover while the required power state is confirmed. Clear visible hair or debris without bending blades or opening the motor housing. Reinstall the guard and fasteners before the robot returns to water.

Step 7: Manage the cable and power supply

Lay a twisted cable flat after unplugging it, allow it to relax, and then coil it loosely like a garden hose without kinks. Keep the power supply shaded, at least 4 inches above ground and about 12 feet from the pool as Maytronics advises, while also following local electrical rules. Wipe its exterior with a dry cloth only; never rinse or immerse it.

Step 8: Inspect performance clues

After cleaning, a clogged filter should no longer restrict flow, and brushes and tracks should move freely. Reduced wall climbing, crooked travel, weak suction, or repeated stopping can indicate remaining debris, worn parts, water chemistry outside range, or a fault. Use model troubleshooting rather than disassembling a sealed motor or cable connection.

Step 9: Prepare for off-season storage

Drain all water, clean the filter thoroughly, reinstall dry panels or basket, and coil the cable without kinks. Store the robot protected from direct sun, rain, and frost between 41°F and 113°F (5°C to 45°C), per Maytronics. A caddy cover protects against dust and humidity; never leave the power supply where it could fall into water.