Introduction
Swimming pools are closed bodies of water that have to be maintained on a regular basis. At the very minimum, proper pool maintenance includes cleaning and adding chemicals as necessary. After all, you cannot let the bacteria and algae live in a swimming pool but regular proper shocking of your pool will assist with this. Trailblazing pool robots such as Beatbot’s latest models can quickly perform a thorough cleaning that leaves no spot untreated. If you add sufficient chlorine at the time of each month when shocking is done, there will be nothing for it to do more. This article will explore whether using a pool robot while shocking the in-ground pool is counterintuitive.
Understanding Pool Shocking
What is Pool Shocking?
That’s a good question. Pool shocking is the practice of adding a massive dose of chlorine (or other chemicals) to your pool in order to sanitize the water. This process neutralizes harmful algae, bacteria, and other build-up.
Why Shock the Pool
- Kills deadly bacteria and algae.
- Removes organic contaminants that cause cloudy water.
- Positive impact on pool hygiene and safety.
How Pool Robots Work
Overview of Pool Robots
Pool robots, such as Beatbot AquaSense Pro, are considered a high-tech system that can handle different areas of the pool (floor, walls,waterline and surface). These robots are driven by highly developed motors, smart navigation, and exquisite cleaning systems.
Types of Pool Robots
- Suction-Side Pool Cleaners
- Connects to the pool suction line or skimmer.
- Move around the pool while vacuuming debris using suction from the pool pump.
- Wander around aimlessly, driven by water flow and pressure.
- Inexpensive and easy to install.
- Can decrease the efficiency of a pool filtration system.
- Pressure-Side Pool Cleaners
- Connects to the pool’s pump system return jet.
- Move through the pump using water pressure and suck up debris into a central filter bag.
- Usually wheeled or tracked and have a separate booster pump for maneuverability.
- Good for large debris and do not strain the filtration system.
- Cost more and need a unique pressure line with a booster pump.
- Robotic Pool Cleaners
- Self-contained systems that are simply plugged into a regular electrical outlet.
- Have built-in motors and filters to propel themselves around the pool while keeping it clean.
- Featuring intelligent navigation systems ensuring full pool coverage including floors, walls, and waterline.
- A few models can be programmed to clean on a schedule, some controlled remotely via remote control or even with a smartphone app.
- Very efficient, scrubs well, and does not put extra strain on the pool’s existing pump and filter system.
- Higher initial cost compared to suction and pressure-side cleaners.
Working Mechanisms
Power and Control
- Battery: This energizes the electric motor to operate, exhausting suction and movement of debris.
- The robot’s Navigation System: It is responsible for properly navigating the path so that all parts of an area can be covered.
- Sensors: Sensors can detect obstacles as well as walls. They also help in automatically starting the motor every time a surface like a wall at the waterline is identified. The sensors then pass on this information to start their rollers or jets for cleaning again depending on which model we are talking about.
Movement
- Wheels or tracks enable the robot to navigate different bottom surfaces of pools.
- Jet Propulsion: Jets are incorporated in some models to aid in propulsion and debris gathering.
Filtration
- Internal Filters: Accumulate debris that can be discarded after washing.
- Brushes and Scrubbers: Agitate dirt off pool surfaces, improving water quality for better suction.
Debris Collection
- Vacuum: Sucks up debris, dirt, and leaves.
- Filter Bags/Baskets: Catch the debris and then release it for manual cleaning.
Pool Cleaning Robots are Better
- Convenient and time-saving: Automates cleaning with minimal manual labor.
- Effectiveness: Can remove debris, dirt, and kill algae.
- Better Quality Water: Regular cleaning maintains water chemistry.
- Promotes Long-Lasting Equipment: Reduces the load on your pool’s primary filtration system.
Chemical Reactions & Safety Concerns
Potential Interactions
The shocking process could create problems if done while a pool robot is running. If the robot is not sealed to prevent moisture from penetrating internal electronics or if its components are susceptible to high concentrations of chemicals, there may be damages.
Chemical Exposure
- Pool Shock: When your pool is shocked, large amounts of chlorine (or other chemicals) are dumped into the water to kill off bacteria, algae, and any other contaminants. This can be highly corrosive to microorganisms and equipment internals.
- Threat Component Damage: The plastic, rubber, and metal parts that make up your pool robot are not made to withstand the harsh chemical environment created while shocking. This can cause the robot to wear out and degrade, leading to failure and reducing its service time.
Safety Concerns
- Electrical Hazards: If the seals are compromised due to chemical corrosion, water infiltration into electrical components can cause shorts or malfunctions. This can fry the robot and create an electrical hazard.
- Health Hazards: Exposure to high amounts of chlorine or other chemicals while operating or working with your robotic pool cleaner can cause skin irritation and respiratory problems.
Manufacturer Recommendations
- Warranty Claims: Several pool robot manufacturers state in their user manuals that the use of a robotic cleaner should be avoided during shocking. Using the robot in these conditions may void the warranty.
- Follow the Manufacturer’s Guidelines: Make sure that you are always following exactly what they say to use your pool robot correctly and safely.
Best Practices
- Always take the robot out of water before shocking: Never add shock chemicals when there is a pool vacuum in the water.
- Only after the pool has returned to normal, safe chemical levels should you return your robot to do any cleaning. Use pool test strips or a testing kit to confirm that it is safe for everyone.
- Inspection: After the pool has been shocked, inspect the robot for any signs of wear or damage.
Other Options and Further Advice
1. Manual Cleaning
- Cleaning Before Shocking: Manually brush and net the pool clean before shocking. This reduces the organic load and improves the effectiveness of the shock treatment.
- After Shock Cleaning: After chemical levels return to normal, clean the pool by hand again to remove any dead algae and debris.
2. Chemical-Free Maintenance
- Regular Chlorine Maintenance: Keep your water chemistry balanced to prevent frequent shocking. Regularly check and adjust pH levels and chlorination.
- Algaecides and Clarifiers: Use algaecides and water clarifiers in proper quantities regularly to prevent algae growth and keep the pool water clear.
3. Proper Pool Circulation
- Pump and Filter Function: Ensure your pool pump and filter are functioning well. Good circulation ensures even chemical distribution and eliminates dead spots where algae can develop.
- Hours of Operation: Run your pump with filter for 8 hours a day (12-18 during heavy use) to ensure optimal circulation and water quality.
4. Regular Testing and Balancing
- Weekly Testing: Use Test strips or a reliable test kit to check your pool water 2-3 times every week. Check chlorine, ph levels, alkalinity and calcium hardness.
- Chemical Changes: Keep the water in balance by adjusting chemical levels. A more stable pool requires fewer shock treatments.
5. Preventive Measures
- Always cover your pool when it is not in use to stop debris from building up and protect that precious chlorine from breaking down due to UV rays.
- Swimmer hygiene: Request swimmers to clean up before they get in the pool, which will decrease water quality troubles by removing contaminants like sweat, oils or cosmetics.
6. Maintenance of Robotic Pool Cleaner
- Inspection: Examine the entire pool robot for wear and tear. Ensure the seals, brushes, and filters are in good condition.
- Storage: Protect the robot from direct sunlight and bad weather when not in use to prolong its lifespan.
- Regular Cleaning: Regularly clean the filter and brushes of your robot to maintain its efficiency.
High-Quality Robots
Invest in fine pool robots from companies like Beatbot with their AquaSense Pro that can navigate various types of pools and have higher resistance to chemical substances.
Conclusion
Having a pool robot such as the AquaSense Pro by Beatbot makes cleaning your swimming pool much simpler. However, always take care not to run the robot while shocking the pool, as this could cause damage and create safety concerns. For best results, follow the guidelines established by manufacturers and always keep your chemical levels balanced.