Pool robots exist alongside a range of pool cleaner options such as suction-side cleaners, pressure-side cleaners or manual vacuums. Additionally, different characteristics in cleaning coverage, cycle times, energy efficiency and smart features translate into a variety of pool robot options that are available today for commercial pool operators.
The choice of pool robot is not trivial, as maintaining pristine pool conditions in commercial environments — from hotels to wellness centers and public pools— is a marker of quality user experience and, ultimately, business success. Additionally, accessing efficient and reliable cleaning solutions through the right pool robot choice can revolutionize pool maintenance by offering autonomous, smart, and energy-efficient cleaning.
From this perspective, this article explores the diversity of options when it comes to pool robots today, including questions like what are pool robot cleaners exactly, the types and benefits and a comparison of different models, all to help you guide your decision in which pool robot option is the best for your project.
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What are robotic pool cleaners and how do they work?
Pool robot cleaners are autonomous devices designed to scrub, vacuum, and collect debris from the pool water and its surfaces without manual intervention.
What are the different cleaning options for commercial pools?
The following is a list of the different types of solutions for commercial pool cleaning ordered from the less autonomous (manual) to the most autonomous (pool robots):
- Manual vacuums: a labor-intensive cleaning method, it is included here for reference and comparison but it’s not an advisable option for large commercial pools.
- Suction-side cleaners: these solutions operate using the pool’s filtration system, and are a less autonomous option compared to pool robots, only being a smart option for smaller pools with a low intensity of use.
- Pressure-side cleaners: these solutions are characterized by using water pressure as a cleaning method. Often requiring additional equipment like a booster pump, this type of cleaners offer moderate autonomy and cleaning power.
- Robotic cleaners: the key distinction of pool robots compared to other options in this list is the incorporation of AI or smart navigation. Thanks to this feature, pool robots emerge as fully autonomous pool cleaning solutions that are also highly energy-efficient, providing an ideal system for commercial facilities.

Why are pool robots essential for commercial pool maintenance?
These technologies represent an ideal solution for commercial environments because they reduce labor required for cleaning, save energy, and improve cleaning consistency.
This is particularly important considering how, in commercial settings, pool hygiene is not just a matter of aesthetics, but a key factor that has an impact on multiple issues: from customer satisfaction to health standards and operational efficiency.
Conventional cleaning methods often required significant manual labor while also providing inconsistent results and higher energy consumption. On the contrary, pool robot cleaners have emerged to address these challenges by offering:
- Autonomous operation: able to clean without human intervention, freeing up staff for other tasks.
- Smart navigation: through the incorporation of advanced sensors, these solutions ensure complete coverage, even in complex pool shapes. Additionally, thanks to being equipped with intelligent programming, pool robots can implement optimized cleaning routes, avoiding missed spots while also minimizing cycle time.
- Cost savings: pool robots operate independently from the pool’s filtration system, thus reducing strain on infrastructure and lowering energy consumption
- Consistent results: through daily cleaning cycles, operators can maintain water clarity and hygiene, crucial for high-traffic facilities.
The combination of these benefits thus represents a key strategic movement for hotels, wellness centers, and public pools, for which investing in pool robots means cleaner water, happier guests, and lower maintenance costs.

How to choose the right pool robot for your facility? A comparison of key features and benefits
When selecting a robotic pool cleaner, consider the following features to ensure optimal performance and long-term value:
- Cleaning coverage: does it clean floors, walls, and waterlines?
- Cycle time: shorter cycles save energy and allow for more frequent cleaning.
- Energy efficiency: look for low-voltage models with efficient motors, which can cut down electricity use during operation. As both consumers and institutions such as the World Aquatics push pool operators to minimize their environmental impact, every effort in improving energy efficiency counts.
- Smart features: remote control, programmable schedules, and diagnostics are all useful characteristics to take maintenance programs to the next level in terms of efficiency.
- Ease of maintenance: features such as accessible filters and modular parts simplify upkeep operations and should be taken into account.
- Ideal use cases: some operators can offer specific success stories or use cases for hotels, public pools, or wellness centers.
- Performance metrics
Additionally, the table below includes a comparison of the main characteristics of top pool robots for commercial pools by Fluidra available today:
| Model | Recommended pool size | Filtration | Suction power | Navigation type | Ideal use case |
TRX 8500 iQ | Up to 20 m | Dual-stage: 60 to 150 microns | Cyclonic suction | Smart Navigation + Sensor Mapping | Hotel, spa, medium-sized commercial pools |
TRX 8700 iQ | Up to 25 m | Dual-stage: 60 to 150 microns | Cyclonic suction | Smart Navigation + Sensor Mapping | Commercial facilities with daily maintenance |
| ARCO | Up to 30 m | Dual-stage: 5 to 250 microns | High debris collection capacity | Preprogrammed Routes + Remote Control | Public pools, sport clubs, hotels, campsites |
| ARCOMAX | Up to 50 m | Dual-stage: 5 to 250 microns | High debris collection capacity | reprogrammed Routes + Remote Control | Large commercial pool with intensive use |
Picking the best pool robot: a key decision with impact on commercial pools
As seen above, pool robot cleaners emerge as a powerful solution for commercial pool maintenance. By understanding the technology, comparing models, and evaluating key features, facility managers can select a pool robot that enhances hygiene, reduces costs, and simplifies operations.
All in all and along with other key commercial pool installation tips, the choice of the right pool robot can have a profound impact on multiple issues surrounding commercial pool operations.
In this context, having access to expert opinions represents a key movement for choosing which pool robot technologies should be incorporated in your aquatic facilities. Browse robotic pool cleaners in Fluidra’s catalogue and get in touch to access insights on how to pick the right one for your project.
