RoboPool Clean Lab
Index
  1. Reviewsevery model, claimed vs measured
  2. Choose by poolby pool type
  3. Battery dataclaimed vs measured
  4. RecallsCPSC database search, dated
  5. How we rateno hands-on testing

About RoboPool Clean Lab

Researched, no hands-on testingUpdated By the RoboPool Clean Lab editorial team

Sunlight ripples over clear turquoise pool water next to a pale stone pool edge
Sunlight ripples over clear turquoise pool water next to a pale stone pool edge. Photo: Marcus Ganahl / Unsplash

RoboPool Clean Lab (robopoolcleanlab.com) is an independent data lab for robotic pool cleaners and pool skimmers. We compare the numbers makers publish, track what independent reviewers and owners report, and show where the two disagree.

What we do

  • Normalize specs. We put maker specs from manuals and spec pages into one format, so two models can be read side by side.
  • Record runtime by mode. A runtime figure is always shown with the mode it applies to, because a floor-only or Eco figure is not the same as a run that covers the walls and waterline.
  • Score pool fit on a published method. Our Pool-Fit Score checks a model against a stated pool size, type and depth. The method is on Methodology and Pool-Fit Score.
  • Synthesize owner reports. We summarize what owners report, in our own words, with the source and review count.
  • Track recalls. We record recalls from regulators such as the US Consumer Product Safety Commission, with the recall number, date, models and remedy.
How the Lab works: four kinds of source, one spec cardMaker specs, named third-party reviewers, owner reports and recall notices from regulators all feed one spec card. Every figure on the card carries a label: C for claimed by the maker, M for measured by a named third party, R for retailer-listed. We do not test units directly. Maker specsNamed reviewersOwner reportsRecall notices Spec card CMRC
Every figure on a spec card is labelled C (claimed by the maker), M (measured by a named third party) or R (retailer-listed).

What we don’t do

We do not test units directly. We don’t own the robots we write about. When a page gives a measured figure, it names the third party who measured it and the date. Maker claims are labeled as claims. The word “lab” in our name means data analysis.

Who writes

Pages are written by the RoboPool Clean Lab editorial team. We don’t publish personal names, photos or credentials.

Independence

  • Nobody pays us for placement or a higher ranking.
  • Brands can’t review or approve a page before it is published.
  • Commissions, if we ever earn them, never change our data or scores. Read how we make money.

Who it’s for

Pool owners in the United States first, with prices in US dollars and imperial units first (metric in brackets where useful). Australian owners are our second audience, and we add an Australia note only where it changes the buying decision.

Corrections and contact

If a number is wrong, tell us. Every change is logged on Corrections. To reach us, see Contact.

Operator: robopoolcleanlab.com.