Robotic pool cleaners are full of technology that make our lives easier, leaving us more time to enjoy the comfort of home. Since they are relatively new to the market, it can be hard to distinguish what sets one apart from the other.
Hayward is a trusted brand in this arena with a wide-range of pool cleaning products. Still, most people have trouble narrowing down their options and deciding what features are the best fit for their lifestyle. Three specific series – the AquaVac, the SharkVac, and the TigerShark – are worth familiarizing yourself with as a pool owner.
For our Hayward Robotic Pool Cleaner Reviews we've picked out some noteworthy in-ground models. Read on to see which one would suit you and your pool the best.
Hayward AquaVac 500 RC3431CU
The AquaVac 500 runs on four wheels and includes two scrubbing brushes for double penetration. Its design allows the robot to navigate around a pool easily, making sure it does not neglect any dirty spaces.
It is equipped with dual-technology that allows you to choose how you would like the robotic pool cleaner to operate.
The first option is Fast Mode, which lasts for 90 minutes and only focuses on the floor of your pool. If you want to do a deep clean of your pool, there is also a three hour option that covers the floor, walls, and waterline.
You can set up a cleaning in advance with the Integrated Recurring Timer. This instructs your robot to deep-clean the pool every 24, 48, or 72 hours.
Thanks to swivel reinforcement, the 60-foot cord attached to the AquaVac 500 will remain tangle-free.
This model features two types of sensors: out-of-water and beach-entry. All the inner parts of the cleaner will remain protected during cleaning and when the robot exits the pool.
Additionally, the sensors prevent the robot from running out of water, which is required for it to operate.
When it’s time to empty the debris inside the robotic pool cleaner, top-access makes the containers easy to find and remove. Similar robotic pool cleaners need to be turned over and opened.
Cleanup is never a hassle and no additional parts are required, which means you don’t have to detach extra pieces when it’s ready to be stored.
The AquaVac RC3431CU comes without a storage caddy, but there is a similar version of this product that includes one. They feature the same technology and both carry a 3-year warranty.
For an up-close look at the features we've covered in the review of this Hayward Robotic Pool Cleaner check out the short 4 minute video review below courtesy of the Swimming Pool Learning, one of our recommended Top Websites for Pool Owners.
Hayward SharkVac RC9740CUB
The SharkVac Series has a wider range of pool coverage and comes in two sizes (standard and XL). The standard model will clean the pool floor and coves, while the XL cleans the pool floor, coves, walls, and waterline.
There is a considerable cost difference between these two models – the standard costs roughly 50 percent less than the XL.
The SharkVac RC9740CUB comes with the same top-access as the AquaVac, eliminating the time and effort that is put into the cleanup process. Filters can be easily removed and rinsed off with a hose. The cartridges filter out dirt to 5 microns.
Its distinguishing feature is the impressive suction power. It has an onboard pump that will suck up contaminants just like a high-performing vacuum cleaner.
The sensor system in the SharkVac (out-of-water and beach-entry) are only included in the XL version of this model. Both SharkVac models are equipped with smart steering technology to help your robot stay on course.
In the below video you will see all of the features we've outlined above of the Hayward SharkVac models.
TigerShark Series
TigerShark comes with nearly all the technology and functionality of the AquaVac and SharkVac. It offers the same coverage of the pool floor, walls, and waterline.
Just like the SharkVac, it has powerful suction capability that makes removing unwanted particles from the pool hassle-free.
Pooltronixs has previously reviewed the TigerShark series of robot vacuums and we've also published a comparison of the TigerShark RC9950GR to the Dolphin Neptune Plus. However we will provide a short summary here to complete these Hayward Robotic Pool Cleaner Reviews.
There are three main options you can choose from in the Hayward TigerShark series:
RC9950CUB: Although this is the most basic version of the TigerShark, it still does a very thorough job cleaning your pool. It is versatile in that is can clean a range of surfaces, from fiberglass to concrete. This model does not come with a remote control or the ability to clean in different modes. It also has a tendency to get stuck when it’s cleaning on the stairs or over a drain.
RC9955CUB: Includes everything in the previous version, in addition to a remote control. The remote control will take some getting used to, especially if this is your first robotic pool cleaner. Another bonus with this model is its ability to converse energy – it doesn’t have to work as hard to provide the same results.
RC9990CUB: This is the only version with a 90-minute Quick Clean Function. The other two models operate on a 3-hour cleaning cycle. Where it makes up in time it does not lose in performance – this robot still does a great job when it’s on a tight schedule. The downside of its quick speed is that it may get off course, requiring a bit more supervision than the other two. Unfortunately, it does not come with a remote control.
All three versions have the same weight, cord length, and a 3-year warranty. Their filtration systems are durable, but if you find yourself needing a new filter, you can change it out in no time at all.
The benefits of a robotic pool cleaner
Robotic pool cleaners can sound intimidating to someone who is unfamiliar with this technology. In reality, they are very easy to operate: press a button, clean, and repeat.
They cover and impressive amount of space and have innovating climbing capabilities. Hayward specifically designed each series to clean a pool up to 20’ x 40’.
In addition, they are cleaner than most pool filtration systems and do not use the same amount of energy as pressure pool cleaners. Since these cleaners run separately from your pool filtration system, they use less water and prevent the potential for backwash. If you're interested in learning more check out our article on the Basics of a Robotic Pool Cleaner.
Prices vary based on the exact version of the robotic pool cleaner you purchase, not just the series. The difference in cost is ultimately a reflection of what security measures are in place.
Making a bigger investment now will increase the lifespan of your robotic pool cleaner by giving it more internal and external protection. You’ll be astonished when you see how much was really living in your pool.