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Polaris pool cleaners come with just as many high-tech features and the same superb cleaning ability that Dolphin pool bots are known for.
The Polaris 9550 (by Zodiac Pool Systems) is arguably the best robotic pool cleaner in the Polaris lineup – in fact, it’s one of the best made, period.
With its extra-long 70-foot cable, this is also one of the few in-ground pool cleaners capable of cleaning a pool up to 60 feet in length.
This Polaris includes a smart mapping and navigation system, oscillating brushes to scrub away algae and grime, and a unique easy-lift system that makes it easy to lift the robot out of the pool.
Unlike most other pool cleaners, the Polaris 9550 also comes with remote control and a caddy.
Keep reading to digest my full review of the Polaris 9550.
To compare the 9550 vs. other leading in-ground robot pool cleaners, then check out my recently-updated robot pool cleaner reviews.
Cleaning Ability
When you are not directing the Polaris 9550 with the handy remote control on where to clean, it relies on its accelerometer-based ActivMotion Sensor technology to navigate around the pool.
The sensor detects the robot’s position and adjusts its cleaning path and performance accordingly. This optimizes the robot’s performance, reducing the amount of time it takes to clean the entire pool and saving energy.
Working hand in hand with the navigation system is the 4-Wheel drive technology. This is one area where I think the latest Dolphin robotic pool cleaners have an edge, because they use rubber tracks which have better traction than wheels.
But with 4-wheel drive, the Polaris 9550 almost matches the wall-climbing ability of Dolphin cleaners, which can easily climb walls up to the waterline and doesn’t get stuck on the drains.
As the Polaris 9550 moves around the floor and up the walls, oscillating brushes scrub stuck gunk and algae off the pool surface. The powerful Vortex Vacuum Technology then vacuums up all that debris into the large top-access filter cartridge.
The only complaint is that the cord tends to get twisted sometimes. It’s not on a swivel cable which, to be honest, is not something that should be missing in a $1,000 pool robot.
But you can easily solve the problem by letting out only enough cable length for the cleaner to adequately cover the pool. Also, make sure the cable has no kinks or coils.
Features we Like
1. ActivMotion Sensor Technology and 4-Wheel Drive
Dolphin pool cleaners have SmartNav, Polaris has ActivMotion. This is a smart navigation system that guides the robot around the pool using the most optimal path that saves time and energy.
Using an accelerometer, the Polaris 9550 can determine its position in the pool and choose the best path to follow. This ensures it doesn’t leave any spots uncleaned.
2. Vortex Vacuum Technology
The cleaner comes with an extra-powerful vacuuming system that allows it to pick up large debris without losing suction. It doesn’t leave any debris behind.
3. Remote Control and Caddy
Not many robotic pool cleaners work with remote control. And even for those that do, you often have to buy the remote control separately.
A pool robot remote control is surprisingly handy. Despite the smarts of today’s robotic pool cleaners, many still miss some spots every time they clean.
A remote allows you to direct the robot exactly where you want it to go.
That’s why the Polaris 9550 is one of our favorite pool cleaners. It comes with a remote control that allows you to precise control where the robot cleans.
It’s not the best remote control (many users say it’s a bit tedious to use), but a lot of owners agree that it’s far better than having no remote power at all.
The caddy comes in handy when you are transporting the robot to and from storage. It also serves as a base for the control unit during cleaning.
The remote control allows you to manually control the robot’s path by turning your hand sideways in different directions. As I mentioned it’s a bit tedious to use but it’s better than nothing.
4. Multiple Cleaning Modes
Using the control panel on the main control unit, you can activate one of several cleaning modes.
You can select between Intensive and High-Intensity cleaning levels.
Cleaning surfaces options include Bottom, Bottom, and Sides & Waterline Only. You can also select pool shape. Available options are Rectangular and Freeform.
Each mode has a different cycle time. You can also add to the cleaning time in increments of 30mins by pressing the + or – buttons on the control panel.
Selecting specific modes allows the Polaris 9550 to customize its cleaning pattern and optimize cleaning performance for the best results.
5. Easy-Lift System
This is perhaps one of the best features of the Polaris 9550. With other pool cleaners, you have to gently pull the cord when you want to lift it out. No need for that with this one.
You simply press the Lift System button on the control panel or remote control and the robot rises to the surface on its own. Then you can quickly pick it up using the handle.
6. 7-day Programmable Timer
You can set the robot to clean at a specific time on specific days of the week. A great feature if you have a busy schedule.
Pros
• Easy to use
• Excellent cleaning ability
• Remote control and caddy included
• Versatile cleaning modes
Cons
• Non-swivel cable gets tangled, sometimes
• Pricey.
Specifications
• Dry weight: 44 lbs
• Cycle time: depends on cleaning mode
• 70ft cable
• For in-ground pools of up to 60ft in length
• 2 year warranty
Conclusion
If you want high-quality, full-featured and proven in-ground pool robot that is trusted by thousands of pool owners, then the Polaris 9550 is tough to beat. The versatility, ease of use and 4-wheel-drive cleaning ability of this robot pool cleaner easily justifies its price, too.
