The Ultimate Guide to the Dolphin Premier Robotic Pool Cleaner: Pros, Cons, and Why There's Better Options
The Dolphin Premier pool robot is a premium robotic pool cleaner made by Maytronics, a leading brand in the pool-cleaning industry. The Premier Dolphin pool robot is designed to provide pool owners with a hands-off cleaning experience, ensuring that the pool is spotless without requiring manual labor. Unlike ordinary pool cleaners, the Dolphin Premier operates autonomously, meaning it doesn’t rely on your pool’s filtration system. Instead, the pool cleaner uses a powerful internal motor, navigation technology, and multiple filter options to deliver efficient cleaning on the pool floor, walls, and waterline. This in-depth guide will cover everything you need to know about the Dolphin Premier pool cleaner, from its standout features to its pros and cons, so you can choose the best robotic pool cleaner that meets your needs and budget.
Pros of the Dolphin Premier Robotic Pool Cleaner
The Dolphin Premier stands out for its range of high-tech features, which contribute to its efficiency and ease of use. For over 40 years, Dolphin engineers developed robots for use in swimming pools. Each Dolphin robotic pool cleaner has some features that separates it from other Dolphin robots. Here’s a closer look at what makes the Dolphin Premier operate.
1. Scanning and Navigation
The Dolphin Premier is equipped with navigation technology, which scans the pool to determine the most efficient cleaning route. This intelligent system ensures the pool robot covers every inch of the pool without retracing its steps or missing areas. The system also prevents the Premier from getting stuck on obstacles, making it highly reliable.
This technology is especially beneficial for large pools, as it minimizes cleaning time and energy usage. By optimizing the cleaning path, the Premier pool robot can complete a thorough clean in less time, which also helps conserve energy and reduce wear on the machine. Every Dolphin robotic pool cleaner on the market today uses some type of navigation technology.
2. Multi-Media Filtration System
One of the Dolphin Premier’s pool robot most distinctive features is its multi-media filtration system. Most robotic pool cleaners typically use only one type of filter media, which can be limiting when it comes to effectively cleaning different types of debris. This system allows users to switch between four different filtration options depending on their pool’s cleaning needs. Here’s a breakdown of the filtration options available for this pool cleaner:
Micro-filter cartridges: Ideal for capturing fine debris such as sand and dirt.
Standard filter cartridges: Useful for general cleaning, catching larger particles.
Oversized leaf bag: Designed for pools that frequently collect large debris like leaves, twigs, and insects.
Ultra-fine cartridge: For capturing extremely small particles, perfect for those who want ultra-clear water.
While most robotic pool cleaners settle for just one type of filter media, the Dolphin Premier offers customizable options to tackle various cleaning needs. This versatility ensures that the Dolphin Premier can handle any cleaning task, regardless of the type of debris in your pool. The multi-media filtration system is a nice feature because it enables the cleaner to adapt to changing pool conditions, making it suitable for year-round use.
3. Dual Scrubbing Brushes
One of the most important aspects of any pool robot is its ability to remove stubborn dirt, algae, and bacteria from pool surfaces. These powerful brushes can even maintain position on the upper pool wall, ensuring that areas with high concentrations of bacteria and algae are thoroughly cleaned. The Dolphin Premier tackles this with dual scrubbing brushes. These powerful brushes agitate the pool surfaces, loosening debris that would be difficult to remove otherwise. The Premier’s dual scrubbing action enables it to reach the pool floor, walls, and waterline, ensuring a comprehensive clean that leaves the pool looking pristine.
4. 360-Degree Swivel Cable
A common issue with a robotic pool cleaner is the cable tangling, which can restrict the cleaner’s movement and disrupt its cleaning pattern. The Dolphin Premier addresses this with a 360-degree swivel cable, which allows the cleaner to rotate freely without tangling the power cable. This feature is especially useful for larger pools, where a tangled cable could prevent the cleaner from reaching certain areas.
5. Weekly Timer and Energy Efficiency
The Dolphin Premier comes with a weekly timer, allowing users to set the cleaner to operate on a schedule. With options for daily, every other day, or every third day cleanings, you can customize the schedule to fit your pool’s maintenance needs. This automatic scheduling feature saves you the hassle of manually starting the cleaner and ensures that your pool stays clean, even if you forget to activate it.
In addition to its scheduling capabilities, like all Dolphin robotic pool cleaners from Maytronics, the Dolphin Premier is energy efficient. Robotic pool cleaners are generally more efficient than suction- or pressure-side cleaners, and the Premier is no exception. It uses only a small amount of power, which can help reduce energy costs over time, making it an eco-friendly and cost-effective choice.
Cons of the Dolphin Premier Robotic Pool Cleaner
While the Dolphin Premier is a high-performance pool cleaner, unfortunately there are numerous drawbacks that potential buyers should be aware of when looking for a high-end Dolphin robotic pool cleaner to determine the best robotic pool cleaner for you.
1. Heavier Weight and Bulky Design
Many users find the Dolphin Premier heavier and bulkier than they anticipated, making it difficult to handle, especially when removing it from the pool after cleaning cycles. The added weight is partly due to the Premier’s multiple cleaning modes and advanced filtration, but this bulkiness can be challenging for users who need to lift it regularly. While the design aims for maximum coverage and power, it doesn’t accommodate easy handling, which can deter pool owners from using it as often as they might like.
Solution for Users: Some users mitigate this by using a caddy or cart to transport the Premier. If weight is a primary concern, lighter models with similar functionality may be worth considering, especially for smaller or mid-sized pools.
2. Bottom loaded filters
Because the filters are on the bottom of the unit, it requires you to turn over the robot to gain access to them. Because the unit is extremely heavy, it is not an easy task. Mostly ever other Dolphin provides access from the top of the unit which provides easy and comfortable access to retrieve the filters from the robot. The Premier pool cleaner was never redesigned for top loaded filter access which would overcome the need for an oversized leaf bag.
Solution for Users: We recommend that you choose a Dolphin pool cleaner that comes with a top-loaded filter or basket. Your back will definitely thank you!
3. Bulky filter bag
While the Premier comes with a bag that is advertised to collect more leaves, this is overcome by the new designs of the Dolphins which have top loaded larger filter baskets. Besides having to store the filter bag when not in use, you have to flip the heavy upside down to change the filter cartridges and replace them with the bag. Unfortunately, the feature on this pool cleaner is used by very few customers but the cost of it is passed onto the consumer.
4. No quick clean mode
The standard features of the Dolphin Premier does not allow you run the unit and only clean the floor. This is useful when you are having a swimming pool party in an hour and you want to do a quick cleaning of the pool and not have it clean the walls or waterline.
Solution for Users – while a physical remote is available at an additional cost to the consumer, the Dolphin Premier is not capable of using a smartphone to set cleaning schedules and do spot cleaning while the newer higher end models include this capability. Unfortunately, the Premier is showing its age by not having this feature which has been available for several years now in the other models.
5. No Smartphone or Wi-Fi Connectivity
In an era where smart home integration and wireless control are becoming the norm, the Dolphin Premier lacks Wi-Fi or app connectivity, which many users miss. Competitors offer a smarter pool cleaning experience with advanced technologies like smart navigation and microprocessor control, which the Dolphin Premier lacks. While it has a weekly timer, users can’t schedule or start cleanings remotely, limiting convenience, especially if they’re away from home or prefer to monitor their pool cleaner’s progress. For a high-end product, this lack of smart features feels like an oversight, especially since many competing models in a similar price range offer app connectivity and other smart features – the Premier Dolphin pool cleaners only have an optional wireless remote control which is Bluetooth.
Solution for Users: If smart control is essential, users might consider other models in the Dolphin line, such as the Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus Wi-Fi, which includes both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi functionality. This can allow for more convenient pool management and make cleaning more efficient.
6. High Price Point and Ongoing Maintenance Costs
The Dolphin Premier pool vacuum is among the more expensive robotic pool cleaners on the market. Unlike ordinary pool cleaners that aimlessly wander the pool, the Dolphin Premier pool vacuum utilizes advanced technology for efficient and logical cleaning paths. Many pool owners find the price tag difficult to justify, especially given that additional maintenance costs arise over time. The high price of this pool robot might be acceptable if it offered unmatched longevity and reliability, but users report that they often need to replace or repair parts, especially the filter cartridges and power supply unit, which can be costly. The cost of replacement filters and other parts adds up over time, leading to some owners feeling like they’re making an ongoing investment beyond the initial purchase.
Additionally, because the Premier robotic pool cleaner is designed with two heavy duty motors, it requires more parts to operate. If one of the motors fails, the pool cleaner becomes inoperable and expensive to repair. While the Dolphin Premier is promoted with this feature, we feel this design was over-engineered since all Dolphin robots make multiple passes over the cleaning surfaces while performing a cleaning cycle
Solution for Users: Before investing, it’s wise to consider the long-term costs of maintenance of your pool cleaner. Some users have found that regular, gentle maintenance of the device, like rinsing out filters and protecting the power supply from the elements, can extend its lifespan and reduce maintenance costs.
Dolphin Premier vs. Other Dolphin pool robots
When comparing the Dolphin Premier pool cleaner to other Dolphin robotic pool cleaners, it’s helpful to consider how it stacks up against similar models. While Dolphin engineers designed the Dolphin Premier and was considered a good choice for a Dolphin robot years ago, there are other less costly options for the best pool robot that meets your needs. Here are a few pool cleaner alternatives that potential buyers may want to explore:
Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus Wi-Fi: A more affordable pool robot with similar cleaning capabilities but lacks the multi-media filtration system and includes Wi-Fi capabilities. This Dolphin robot is considered the best pool robot on the market today due to its low price and great performance.
Dolphin Nautilus CC Pro: Offers strong wall-cleaning capabilities and remote control through a smartphone app.
Dolphin Nautilus CC Supreme: the premium high-end Dolphin pool robot that includes a third scrubbing brush for maximum cleaning power.
While there are many pool robot brands on the market, the good news is that Dolphin pool cleaners continue to lead the industry and the best pool robot for your swimming pool is from Maytronics.
Final Verdict: Is the Dolphin Premier Worth It?
For pool owners who want a high-performance robotic pool cleaner that requires minimal manual effort, the Dolphin Premier is showing its age for the high price point and there are other less costly Dolphin pool robots. The Dolphin Premier may not be the right choice for everyone, particularly those looking for smart connectivity or a lighter, more portable cleaner. Unfortunately, pool robots advertised on the web is flooded with affiliate advertising which makes it harder to decide while Dolphin robot is best. The best pool robot for you is the one that Dolphin robot that meets your needs and budget.
Final Thoughts
The Dolphin Premier robotic pool cleaner is a top-tier robotic pool cleaner that offers robust cleaning power and convenience for those looking to automate their pool maintenance. While a few years ago it had unique features, the current line of Dolphin pool cleaners provide better price points that include tile and waterline performance. You might want to consider a certified refurbished Dolphin robot that comes directly from the manufacturer. Before purchasing any Dolphin robot, weigh its features, pros, and cons carefully to ensure it aligns with your specific pool maintenance needs. The best robotic pool cleaner and most efficient robotic cleaner is the robot that meets your needs.