Can I leave my pool cleaner in the water all day?

Many owners ask themselves this question after purchasing their pool robot: can it be left in the pool all day, or even permanently? On paper, these devices are designed to work in water, but that doesn't mean they should stay there 24 hours a day. The answer may vary depending on the model, its embedded technology and usage. Whether it is a wired electric robot, a wireless model such as the Beatbot AquaSense Ultra, or an autonomous robot from brands such as Aiper, Dolphin (Maytronics), Zodiac or Hayward, it is essential to know the best practices to preserve your device. 

Robots are designed to be water resistant, but not indefinitely

Pool robots are designed to operate underwater. Their components are generally waterproof and protected against splashes and submersion, especially for battery-powered robots. Top-of-the-range models such as the Beatbot AquaSense Pro or the Dolphin Liberty even have high protection standards (IPX8) guaranteeing operation in full immersion. However, this does not mean they should be left in the water permanently. Continuous exposure to moisture, chlorine, salt (for saltwater pools) and UV rays can, over time, damage seals, the casing or even internal electronic components. Some manufacturers specify that the robot should be removed after the cleaning cycle to ensure longevity and preserve the warranty.

The risks of prolonged immersion

Leaving your pool robot in the water all day—or for several days—can have several disadvantages:
  • Premature wear of seals due to continuous exposure to chemicals.
  • Slow internal corrosion if seals begin to weaken, especially in saltwater pools.
  • Limescale or algae deposits on wheels, brushes, or other submerged parts.
  • Reduced performance if filters remain wet and clogged for too long.
Furthermore, some wireless models, such as those from Aiper, may not have a secure standby mode and could reactivate unnecessarily or completely discharge if left in the water. Advanced models like the AquaSense Ultra include an automatic docking mode that prompts you to remove the robot at the end of its cycle.

What the manufacturers say

Most brands recommend removing the robot after each cycle. Dolphin, Zodiac, Hayward and Beatbot advise that if the appliance is not in use, it should be rinsed with clean water, its filters emptied, and then stored in the shade to prevent mould, algae or unpleasant odours in internal compartments.

Only the iSkim Ultra, designed for continuous surface cleaning and powered by solar energy, is intended to float 24/7 without risk. In short, let your robot do its job—but not longer than necessary.
Published on 31/03/2025
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