Dolphin S100 Review: A Reasonably Priced Robotic Pool Cleaner with Great Features
Picture this, it's summer and the temperature is steadily rising to extreme levels. So you decide to take a dip in your swimming pool, but then you notice the
ⓘ We are reader-supported and may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you if a purchase is made through one of our links.
Picture this, it’s summer and the temperature is steadily rising to extreme levels. So you decide to take a dip in your swimming pool, but then you notice the floor and walls are slimy and the water isn’t that clean due to the gradual accumulation of debris and other particles.
The only solution is to clean the pool, and we all know going about it the manual way is both time-consuming and energy-taxing. To make your work easier, you should consider using a robotic pool cleaner like the Dolphin S100.
Overview
Pool cleaning is no easy feat. It requires skill and a great deal of effort. The task can be more challenging if you have a large pool. With the Dolphin S100, you can give your pool a thorough scrub without straining yourself. It is ideal for cleaning small pools that are no larger than 10 metres in length. Unlike the Aiper Seagull 3000 and other battery-powered models that have limited runtime, the Dolphin S100 has a long cleaning cycle that allows it to run for up to 2 hours nonstop.
One of the reasons why we like the S100 is because it is versatile and can be used for cleaning both in-ground and above-ground swimming pools. However, we recommend that you only use it in in-ground pools to avoid complications that may come about due to variations in pool design. This pool cleaner is energy efficient, so it won’t increase your utility bill.
On average, you will only spend 5¢/kWH, which is great since you’ll be able to operate the unit multiple times while paying less. Also, it has a plug-and-play design, meaning no additional equipment is needed. Simply plug in the robot and let it do its thing. Super convenient! The Dolphin S100 not only offers good floor coverage but can also climb walls, giving your pool a complete scrub.
It is effective against small and large debris and will leave your swimming pool cleaner than before. At the time of writing this Dolphin S100 review, the manufacturer suggested retail price (MSRP) for this robotic pool cleaner was $1,636.60AUD on the Maytronics website. Very expensive right? But you’ll be surprised to know that this is one of the cheapest offerings in Dolphin’s S line.
Moreover, robotic pool cleaners are known for their steep price tags, so we can’t really classify the S100’s cost of purchase as a drawback. Besides, some models cost thrice the amount. If you are in search of a mid-range robotic pool cleaner, the Dolphin S100 is one of the reliable options that you can add to your list of considerations.
Features
Active Brushing
Attached to the front side of the Dolphin S100 is a high-performance PVC brush that will help you remove stubborn dirt from the walls and floor of your pool. The scrubber rotates as the robot is moving, allowing for the effective removal of algae and debris that may be stuck on the surfaces of the pool.
Timer
To make it even more convenient, this robotic pool cleaner features a timer function that will enable you to create a weekly schedule for cleaning your swimming pool. With the help of the timer, you can customise the cleaning schedule based on the condition that the pool is in.
Advanced Scanning
The Dolphin S100 utilises CleverClean Technology, which allows for full coverage of all pool surfaces. It will intelligently scan the floor and walls for debris and dirt, ensuring that nothing is left behind. The just-mentioned technology also allows the S100 to navigate pools with precision.
Dual Filtration
Dolphin has equipped the S100 with a two-layer filter system for effective debris removal. The innermost layer collects large debris, while the outer filter captures fine particles. That way, that robot will be able to do away with all the dirt with minimal passes.
Large Filter Basket
The filter basket on the Dolphin S100 can hold a large amount of debris, so you can operate the robot extensively without having to empty the basket. More on the basket, it’s very easy to clean since the bottom part opens up, allowing for easy removal of dirt. Just hose down the basket, and it will be ready for the next cleaning session.
Quick Water Release
Dolphin’s S100 is designed in such a way that water cannot collect on the casing or other parts. Once you pull the robot out of the pool, all the water will quickly drain out, leaving it almost dry. As such, you can store the S100 without worries.
Specs
- Cleaning Coverage: Walls and floor
- Pool Classification: In-ground
- Suction Rate: 4000 gph
- Weight: 6.5 kg
- Brush Type: All-terrain
- Remote Control: No
- Filter Access: Top side
- Cable Length: 15m
Design
The Dolphin S100 is both compact and lightweight, thus making it very easy to handle. Furthermore, it is lighter compared to the Dolphin S200 and other models in the S series. Upon purchase, you will get a long power cable that measures approximately 15.24 metres. This is more than enough for most residential pools, so the robot won’t be restricted in any way during the cleaning process.
It will reach all the spots that need cleaning, saving you the hassle of scrubbing the pool by hand. The wheels on this robotic cleaner resemble the chain tracks found in military tanks. This increases traction, allowing the machine to climb slippery walls and move on pool floors without slipping.
The filter basket is conveniently placed on the topside to give you quick access when cleaning the unit. Not to forget that the Dolphin S100 has a built-in handle that will allow you to pull it out of the water with ease once you are done cleaning your pool. The scrubber is strategically positioned at the front to ensure the machine clears all the dirt in its path.
After the scrubber has loosened the dirt, the S100 will collect all the debris, so the water inside the pool will remain clean. When it comes to durability, the materials used in making this robotic pool cleaner are not only of high quality, but also corrosion-resistant.
Dolphin S100 Review Round-up
To sum it up, the Dolphin S100 is a well-built robotic pool cleaner that offers value for money. Although it lacks some of the advanced features found in high-end models, it performs well and can blow most robotic pool cleaners in its class out of the water.
As discussed, it is energy-saving, lightweight, and efficient, making it a great pick for anyone who is looking for an automatic pool cleaner.