Dolphin S100 Pool Cleaner Review - Worth It Or Not? [2024]

Dolphin S100 Pool Cleaner Review - Worth It Or Not?

The Maytronics Dolphin S100 is a mid-price robotic pool cleaner that is similar to machines by other brands. Although this model is cheaper than other Dolphin machines, you may be wondering, is the S100 actually worth the money?

In this Maytronics Dolphin S100 review, we weigh the pros and cons of this machine, compare it to similar cleaners, and answer frequently asked questions about this model of pool cleaner to help you decide if it makes the right choice for you and your pool.

Pros & Cons

Design

The Maytronics Dolphin S100 is a light-weight robotic pool cleaner for pools that are no more than 10 metres in length. With a 15m long cable, this machine operates from its own power source and does not have to be hooked up to your pool’s pump.

Running a 2 hour cleaning cycle, this machine comes equipped with two different grades of filter: one that works best for large debris and one to help with fine debris.

Many user reviews state that this machine’s filter basket is easy to remove, empty, and replace, especially when compared to other similar cleaners.

At 6.5 kilograms, this machine is among the lightest robotic pool cleaners. Almost all users should be able to lift this robotic cleaner in and out of the pool with ease. This machine is designed for in-ground pools specifically, and is compatible with almost all pool linings.

Cleaning Performance

The Maytronics Dolphin S100 cleans both small and large debris effectively. If you struggle with fine-dust problems in your pool, aftermarket filter additions can be purchased that have a finer micron rating.

According to Maytronics representatives, this robot is not designed to clean steps or other ledges in your pool. The operating manual for this model encourages users to manually sweep debris off of ledges into areas that the cleaner can navigate before starting the cleaning cycle.

This is an extra step and will disappoint users who are looking for a cleaner that can do everything at the push of a button.

Power Specifications

The Maytronics Dolphin S100 is on par with other energy efficient cleaners, but more energy-efficient models are available still.

This machine shuts itself off automatically after the 2 hour cleaning cycle, while the control panel may remain on for a few hours afterwards before falling into a power-saving sleep mode.

Build Quality & Warranty

Maytronics Dolphin S100 Problems

The biggest problem with the Maytronics Dolphin S100 is that the power cord is not equipped with a swivel feature.

Although not every review mentions this being an issue, there are significantly more reports of the cord getting tangled on the Dolphin S100 as opposed to the upgraded S200, which introduces a swivel feature where the power cord attaches to the machine.

According to Maytronics, their robotic pool cleaners are intended to last for approximately 500 hours of usage. Your mileage may vary, and can be affected by water chemistry and properly removing and storing the machine.

For a 2 hour cleaning cycle, this means that you will get approximately 250 cleaning cycles from your machine before you can expect it to need a service.

Maytronics Dolphin S100 Warranty

The warranty period for the Maytronics Dolphin S200 is two years. This is fairly standard among robotic pool cleaners, and includes a full warranty for the first 12 months, and a limited warranty that covers the entire two year period.

Certain vital components of the machine are not covered under the limited warranty, such as the motor unit, so it is advisable to take care of your equipment as outlined in the manual.

Most customers who have dealt with Maytronics customer service and repair centres say that their teams have been extremely helpful, professional, and understanding.

Compared to their competitors, Maytronics receive many more positive reviews regarding the quality of their customer service.

Dolphin S100 Price

The Maytronics Dolphin S100 has a mid-range price tag of around $1,450. This is comparable to robotic pool cleaners of similar size and functionality produced by other brands.

Maytronics Dolphin S100 - FAQ

Does The Dolphin S100 Climb Walls?

Yes, the Maytronics Dolphin S100 has powerful suction which allows it to climb walls and scrub the waterline of the pool.

Why Is The S100 Cheaper Than Other Dolphin Cleaners?

The Maytronics Dolphin S100 is a slightly older model. Although this model has not been discontinued, many consumers choose the newer model, the Dolphin S200, for the slight improvements that have been made in the design.

Because a newer model is available, the Dolphin S100 is available at a cheaper price than other Dolphin cleaners.

Are Maytronics And Dolphin The Same?

Maytronics is the name of the company which manufactures all Dolphin brand robotic pool cleaners. Maytronics may also manufacture other brands of robotic pool cleaner aside from Dolphin brand, although this is their primary product line.

Final Thoughts - Maytronics Dolphin S100 Review

The Maytronics Dolphin S100 is a decent machine for the money. Despite small issues with the cord tangling or the tracks falling off of the wheels occasionally, this cleaner will provide an effective clean for the price.

If you are concerned about these smaller issues with build quality, we recommend that you check out the Dolphin S200, which has been improved on some of these features.

However, we find that the Dolphin S100 makes a good choice for those not wanting to shell out the extra few hundred dollars for the upgraded model.

Price Comparison - Dolphin S100

Let's compare the top suppliers out there in Australia for the Dolphin S100.