How to Lift a Robotic Pool Cleaner Safely
If you experience back pain and find it challenging to lift your robotic pool cleaner out of the water, you’re not alone. As someone who stands at 6’2″, I occasionally deal with lower back discomfort, especially when pulling the cleaner from the pool and having to hold it while the excess water drains. In this guide, I’ll share an effective method to lift a robotic pool cleaner with minimal strain on your back.
The Conventional Approach
Typically, when you stand at the edge of the pool, you may lean forward to keep the robotic cleaner above the water, allowing it to drain. However, if you fail to bend over adequately, the water can splash onto your feet, making it an uncomfortable experience. Some online advice suggests resting the front of the cleaner on the pool’s edge while it drains to alleviate some weight and reduce back strain. While this can be beneficial, I’m hesitant to place the weight on the front brushes, as this could potentially cause damage to them over time.
My Effective Technique
To minimize back strain while lifting your robotic pool cleaner, it’s essential to adopt a method that allows you to stand upright during the draining process. Here’s how to do it:
- Position yourself at the corner of the pool, with one foot on either side of the edge, about a foot away from the corner.
- Bend your knees while keeping your back straight, and grasp the handle of the pool cleaner firmly.
- Lift the cleaner out of the water while standing up straight, allowing it to drain effectively without putting undue pressure on your back.
This technique not only alleviates strain on your lower back but also ensures a more straightforward lifting process.
Demonstration Video
In the accompanying video, I demonstrate both the conventional and my preferred method for lifting the robotic pool cleaner from the pool. Additionally, while there are commercial robotic pool cleaner lifts and hoists available, their prices can be exorbitant, often ranging from $4,000 to $6,000, which seems excessive for most pool owners.
Four Steps to Safely Retrieve Your Robotic Pool Cleaner
Follow these four simple steps to efficiently and safely extract your robotic pool cleaner from the pool:
- Power Down: Start by pressing the Start/Stop button to halt the cleaning cycle. Ensure that the unit is disconnected from the power supply before attempting to remove it.
- Guide to the Corner: Gently pull on the cable to bring the robotic cleaner within reach. Avoid yanking the cable, as this could damage the connection.
- Lift and Let Drain: Use the handle to lift the cleaner vertically out of the water, allowing any excess water to drain completely before fully removing it from the pool.
- Avoid Cable Lifting: Never lift the cleaner using the cable, as it is not designed for that purpose and doing so may lead to damage.
If you’ve ever wondered whether it’s safe to leave your robotic pool cleaner in the pool to avoid lifting, I encourage you to read this post for further insights.