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How to Buy a Robotic Pool Cleaner

How to · Tech

How to Buy a Robotic Pool Cleaner

Skip the manual scrubbing and grab last year's pool robot during late August clearance with a smart payment strategy.

VoAtlas editorial Updated · 3 min read
Typical cost $1,100 before anything else
Across the 0% window $61.11/mo 18 months, no interest

How we got that: $1,100 spread evenly across the 18-month introductory window on the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card. Checked · at the bank Carry a balance past the window and the standard APR applies to what is left.

A good robotic pool cleaner keeps your water clear without you lifting a finger, and a solid one should easily last you four to five years. Don't fall for the hype of the newest spring releases. The technology doesn't change that much year-over-year, meaning last year's model does the exact same job for a lot less cash.

If you wait until late August when pool stores are desperate to clear out summer stock, you can find these machines marked down to around $1100. We can stretch that cost over a year and a half without paying a penny extra in interest.

Keep in mind that this promotional rate is not a permanent discount. If you still have a balance left on your card when the 18 months are up, the standard interest rate kicks in on whatever you still owe, which will quickly wipe out any clearance savings you got.

The steps

  1. 01

    Time the market

    Wait until late August to buy. This is when pool supply shops pack up their summer gear to make room for winter inventory. They want these heavy boxes off their shelves, and that is when you get the best discounts.

  2. 02

    Skip the shiny upgrades

    Look for the previous year's model. The newest robots might have slightly flashier apps, but the scrubbing brushes and motors are usually identical. You want clean water, not a fancy Bluetooth connection you will never use.

  3. 03

    Spread the cost

    Instead of dropping $1100 all at once, you can use the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card. It offers 0% for 18 months on purchases and balance transfers from date of account opening. This lets you divide the big ticket price into smaller, manageable chunks.

  4. 04

    Do the math

    Divide the $1100 price tag by your 18-month window. That comes out to exactly $61.11 per month. Set up autopay for this amount immediately so you do not have to think about it again.

  5. 05

    Maintain the machine

    Protect your investment so it actually lasts those five years. Empty the filter basket after every cycle and store the robot out of the hot sun when it is not in the water. Sun damage ruins plastic and seals faster than anything else.

  6. 06

    Check the card terms before you commit

    Every figure we publish for the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card carries the date a person verified it against Citi and a link to where they checked. Intro windows and APRs change without notice, so confirm the current terms before applying.

    See Citi Simplicity® Credit Card terms →

Common questions

Do robotic pool cleaners really last?

Yes, if you take care of them. A high-quality model should last four to five years. Just keep it out of the direct sun when it is not cleaning.

Is last year's model actually worth buying?

Absolutely. Pool robot technology moves slowly. Last year's model has the same suction power and wall-climbing ability as the new one, but at a clearance price.

Can I leave the robot in the pool all the time?

It is best not to. Chemicals in the water can slowly degrade the rubber seals and plastic over time. Pull it out when the cleaning cycle is done.

What happens if I miss a monthly payment?

If you miss payments, you might lose your promotional rate or face late fees. Set up autopay for $61.11 to keep your plan on track.