A Robot Can’t Replace a Human Giving a F*ck

In the pool industry, there's an ongoing debate about automation versus human expertise. While technology has revolutionized pool cleaning with sophisticated robots and automated systems, there's still no substitute for the trained eye and caring touch of a professional pool technician. Sarah from the Talking Pools Podcast puts it perfectly in her latest episode title: "A Robot Can't Replace a Human Giving a F*ck." But that doesn't mean we can't leverage the best cleaning technology available to make our jobs easier and more effective.

The Workhorse: Suction Cleaners That Never Quit

Suction cleaners are the reliable workhorses of the pool cleaning world. Unlike other systems, they don't require booster pumps, making them both cost-effective and energy-efficient. To identify if your pool is equipped for a suction cleaner, look for a spring-closed door or flap in the pool wall - not the typical return jet you're used to seeing.

They're really kind of difficult to open, I usually have to use a screwdriver for it. I've watched a few homeowners actually... they'll bend over into the pool and like show me that they're like struggling to get this little flap open... And it's so funny to me every time because I'm like, no, literally you like need a screwdriver to get this open.

— Sarah, Talking Pools Podcast

Sarah swears by suction cleaners for large pools, especially those facing significant debris challenges. She manages a 40,000-gallon pool on a golf course that's constantly bombarded with pine needles from trees the golf course won't remove. The suction cleaner handles this massive debris load consistently, keeping the pool manageable for weekly service.

For optimal performance, you'll need to adjust suction accordingly using the valve on your pump's suction side. Sarah recommends shutting off the main drain slightly rather than the skimmers, as skimmers play a crucial role in catching surface debris before it sinks. This is especially important in states like Florida, where laws actually prevent completely shutting off skimmers for safety reasons.

Power Players: Pressure Cleaners and the Polaris Advantage

Pressure cleaners, particularly the popular Polaris 280, bring serious cleaning power to your pool. These systems require a booster pump and are easily identified by threaded connections in the pool wall rather than the spring-loaded flaps of suction systems.

The key to pressure cleaner success lies in proper setup and maintenance. The hose length should reach the furthest part of your pool, give or take one foot. Too long, and you'll have tangling issues that leave your cleaner stuck doing useless donuts in one corner.

You'd rather have like one debris pile in your corner than have it in most of the pool because all it's stuck doing donuts because your cord is tangled.

— Sarah, Talking Pools Podcast

Pressure cleaners come with collection bags, and Sarah has strong opinions about which type to choose. Skip the Velcro bags - they're notorious for releasing debris back into the pool when hair and other materials compromise the seal. Zipper bags provide a much more reliable containment system.

These systems typically run 2-3 hours daily and can pick up surprisingly fine debris. The two internal jets that shoot debris up the vacuum tube into the bag can occasionally clog, but they're easy to clean and maintain. Sarah also notes an important safety consideration: never run the booster pump without the main pump running, as this can damage the system.

The High-Tech Solution: Robotic Cleaners

Robotic cleaners represent the cutting edge of pool cleaning technology, available in both corded and battery-powered versions. Sarah strongly prefers corded models for their convenience and reliability.

As a tech I can't summon it so I have to get the hook and fish it out and everything. And like with my corded ones I just go and push lift and it climbs the wall and I pick it up.

— Sarah, Talking Pools Podcast

Modern robotic cleaners are incredibly sophisticated. Some models can pick up debris as fine as three microns, and newer versions can even clean the pool surface. Phone-controlled models are entering the market, though Sarah points out the obvious limitation: "I can't use a phone to pull the robot out of the pool though."

Among brands, Sarah has consistently good experiences with Dolphin cleaners. However, she's encountered issues with some battery-operated models that spit debris out the back when lifted from the pool - a problem she hasn't experienced with corded versions.

Built-In Systems: In-Floor Cleaning Hit or Miss

In-floor cleaning systems, including ANA and Paramount systems, are built into the pool during construction. These systems feature rectangular main drains and visible holes throughout the pool floor, with canisters both beside the pool and on the equipment pad.

Sarah's experience with these systems is mixed, estimating that about 30% don't work effectively. However, when properly designed and maintained, they're incredibly valuable.

I'm not gonna lie, they're like hit or miss. I have some that don't work for shit and then I have a lot that my pools I'm very thankful that they have them built in.

— Sarah, Talking Pools Podcast

These systems are limited by flow rate - dirty filters significantly impact their performance since the heads can't pop up and function properly. They require high flow rates and need to be programmed to run at the pump's highest RPMs during cleaning cycles. Maintenance involves special tools to remove heads and flush individual lines, making them more complex than other cleaning systems.

The Human Element: Why Professional Expertise Matters

While technology continues advancing, Sarah emphasizes the irreplaceable value of professional pool service, especially in challenging climates. In states like Texas, California, and Florida with year-round swimming seasons and extreme temperatures, having reliable cleaning systems isn't just about convenience - it's about technician health and safety.

Of course a pool needs to be visited every week. The less time you have to spend actually putting physical labor into that pool, the better your health is. Basically, you know, don't kill yourself. This industry is very taxing on our bodies.

— Sarah, Talking Pools Podcast

The physical demands of pool service work make efficient cleaning systems essential. Large pools in particular benefit significantly from automated cleaning, reducing the manual labor required while ensuring consistent results.

Making the Right Choice for Your Pool

Choosing the right cleaning system depends on multiple factors: pool size, debris load, budget, and existing infrastructure. Suction cleaners offer reliability and affordability for consistent debris removal. Pressure cleaners provide powerful cleaning action with excellent fine debris collection. Robotic cleaners deliver high-tech convenience and superior filtration capabilities. In-floor systems, when properly designed, offer seamless integration and hands-off operation.

The key is understanding that no cleaning system - no matter how advanced - can replace the trained eye of a professional who cares about your pool's health. Technology should enhance, not replace, professional expertise. As Sarah's episode title suggests, robots can clean your pool, but they can't provide the attention, problem-solving, and genuine care that comes from a human professional who takes pride in their work.

Whether you're a pool owner trying to choose the best cleaning system or a service professional looking to optimize your routes, remember that the best cleaning solution combines the right technology with knowledgeable, caring maintenance. After all, you can't tell if the chemistry is good just by looking at it, and sometimes the most important thing a pool cleaner can provide isn't suction power or robotic precision - it's someone who genuinely gives a damn about keeping your pool perfect.

Episode Chapters

• 00:00 Introduction to Pool Cleaners
• 02:30 Suction Cleaners: The Workhorses
• 08:45 Pressure Cleaners and Polaris Systems
• 15:20 Robotic Cleaners: High-Tech Solutions
• 22:10 In-Floor Cleaning Systems
• 28:30 The Importance of Professional Service