Clean filters are the single biggest factor in how well your robot picks up debris. The routine is quick.
The After-Every-Cycle Rinse
As soon as the cycle ends, pull the filter cartridge or bag and rinse it with a garden hose. Spray from the inside out to push debris back the way it came rather than driving it deeper into the media. Knock out large debris first, then rinse until the water runs clear. Reseat the filter fully so no air gaps form.
Deep Cleaning Clogged Media
Fine cartridges and NanoFilters eventually hold oils and fine particles that a rinse will not budge. Every few weeks, soak them in a dedicated filter cleaner or a diluted vinegar solution, then rinse thoroughly. This restores the flow that keeps suction strong — a clogged filter is the top cause of a robot losing suction and missing debris.
When to Replace
Media that stays gray, stiff, or torn after cleaning should be replaced — it can no longer capture fine debris. Find compatible cartridges, bags, and NanoFilters on our parts page. If you are upgrading filters anyway, our guide to what filters to use in your pool robot explains which media suits your debris, and how often to clean pool robot filters covers the schedule.