Choosing the right robotic pool cleaner can make all the difference when it comes to enjoying a crystal-clear pool with minimal effort. In this comparison, we’re putting the Dolphin Nautilus CC and the Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus head-to-head, examining their features, cleaning capabilities, and value for money. While they both belong to the popular Nautilus line, there are significant differences that make each model better suited for particular needs. Let’s break down each aspect of these two cleaners so you can decide which one is best for your pool.
Overview of Robotic Pool Cleaners
Robotic pool cleaners are a type of automated pool cleaning system that uses advanced technology to clean swimming pools efficiently and effectively. These cleaners are designed to navigate the pool floor, walls, and waterline, removing dirt, debris, and contaminants that can cloud the water and make it uninviting. Robotic pool cleaners like the Dolphin Nautilus CC and Nautilus CC Plus are popular choices among pool owners due to their ease of use, energy efficiency, and ability to provide a thorough cleaning.
Dolphin Nautilus CC vs. Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus: Feature Comparisons
1. Cleaning Coverage
Dolphin Nautilus CC: The Dolphin Nautilus CC is ideal for pools up to 33 feet in length. It effectively cleans the pool floor and walls, delivering a thorough clean that removes dirt, debris, and leaves.
Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus: The Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus offers cleaning capabilities for pools up to 50 feet in length, making it a better option for larger pools. This model is specifically designed for cleaning both the pool floor and walls, with increased efficiency in reaching more challenging spots.
Verdict: The Dolphin Nautilus CC is best suited for small to medium pools, while the Nautilus CC Plus is more capable of handling larger pools, thanks to its greater coverage range.
2. Brush System
Dolphin Nautilus CC: The Dolphin Nautilus CC is equipped with a single active scrubbing brush. This brush spins twice as fast as the cleaner moves, which allows it to effectively loosen dirt and algae from the pool surfaces, especially from the floor and lower walls.
Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus: The Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus features dual scrubbing brushes, offering enhanced cleaning power. These two brushes work together to remove even the most stubborn dirt, algae, and other contaminants from both the floor and the walls.
Verdict: If your pool tends to accumulate stubborn dirt or algae, the Nautilus CC Plus with its dual scrubbing brushes provides a more powerful cleaning experience.
3. Filtration System
Dolphin Nautilus CC: The Nautilus CC uses a top-load standard filter basket that efficiently captures common pool debris, such as leaves and dirt. This filter is sufficient for general pool cleaning needs, especially if your pool is not prone to fine particles.
Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus: The Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus has a larger, dual-level filtration system that includes a fine and an optional ultra-fine filter. This system ensures that even the smallest particles, like sand, are captured, making your pool not only visibly clean but also free of finer debris that can cloud the water.
Verdict: Both the Dolphin Nautilus CC and Nautilus CC Plus have equal advantage when it comes to filtration. If you’re looking for a spotless pool with the ability to capture ultra-fine particles, both models have an ultra-fine filter that can be purchased separately since for most customers the fine filter that comes as standard equipment is sufficient.
4. Navigation Technology
Dolphin Nautilus CC: The Dolphin Nautilus CC uses CleverClean technology, which allows it to scan and map the pool’s surface, following a pre-planned cleaning path. This technology ensures complete coverage of the pool floor and walls while avoiding obstacles.
Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus: The Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus also features CleverClean navigation but benefits from a slightly more sophisticated scanning process. This means that the CC Plus tends to be more efficient in covering the entire pool quickly and effectively, minimizing overlaps and missed areas.
Verdict: Both models have CleverClean technology, but the Nautilus CC Plus has an edge in terms of efficiency and thoroughness, making it ideal for larger and more complex pool shapes.
5. Cycle Time
Dolphin Nautilus CC: The Nautilus CC has a standard cleaning cycle time of approximately 2 hours. This cycle length is sufficient for thoroughly cleaning smaller pools and delivering consistent results.
Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus: The Nautilus CC Plus has a 2-hour cleaning cycle as well, but it can cover a larger area within that time due to its dual brush system and more advanced navigation.
Verdict: While both models feature a 2-hour cycle, the Nautilus CC Plus is capable of covering more surface area more effectively within that time frame, making it a better choice for larger pools.
6. Ease of Use
Dolphin Nautilus CC: The Dolphin Nautilus CC is designed with ease of use in mind. It’s lightweight and easy to handle, which makes removing it from the pool for filter cleaning a straightforward task. The top-load filter makes it simple to empty and rinse, requiring minimal effort. The Dolphin Nautilus CC also comes with a power supply that ensures easy setup and energy efficiency.
Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus: The Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus is similarly user-friendly, featuring a slightly larger filter basket, which means it needs less frequent emptying. This can be a major plus if your pool sees heavy use or has a lot of leaves and debris. The Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus also includes a power supply for straightforward setup.
Verdict: Both models are very easy to use, but the Nautilus CC Plus edges out slightly with its larger filter basket, making it ideal for users who prefer fewer maintenance intervals.
7. Maintenance and Warranty
Regular maintenance is essential to ensure the optimal performance and longevity of your robotic pool cleaner. Here are some tips to keep your Dolphin Nautilus CC or Nautilus CC Plus in top condition:
Regularly clean the filter basket and debris container to prevent clogging and ensure proper water flow.
Check and replace the brushes and other wear-and-tear parts as needed.
Store the pool cleaner in a dry, protected area during the off-season to prevent damage from the elements.
Refer to the user manual for specific maintenance instructions and troubleshooting tips.
Both the Dolphin Nautilus CC and Nautilus CC Plus come with a comprehensive warranty that covers parts and labor for a certain period. The warranty provides peace of mind and protects your investment in case of any defects or malfunctions. Be sure to register your product and follow the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure warranty coverage.
8. Price and Value
Dolphin Nautilus CC: The Dolphin Nautilus CC is an affordable, high-quality pool robot that offers great value for its price. It delivers effective pool cleaning without some of the advanced features found in the CC Plus, making it a cost-effective option for those with smaller pools.
Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus: The Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus is more expensive than the Nautilus CC, but it offers additional features such as dual brushes, a more advanced filtration system, and extended coverage for larger pools. For those willing to invest a bit more, the added features provide greater cleaning power and efficiency.
Verdict: If budget is a major factor, the Nautilus CC is a fantastic option that provides good value. However, for those willing to spend a bit more, the Nautilus CC Plus delivers additional features that justify the higher price tag.
Benefits of Buying a Refurbished Dolphin Cleaner
For those interested in purchasing a Dolphin Nautilus CC or CC Plus but looking to save on costs, opting for a refurbished unit can be a great decision. Here’s why:
Cost Savings: Refurbished units are typically offered at a significant discount compared to new models, making them an attractive choice for budget-conscious buyers who still want the features of a high-quality robotic pool cleaner.
Certified Quality: Refurbished Dolphin units are tested and certified to meet the original standards of quality and performance. This means you can be confident in the reliability of the product without paying the full retail price.
Warranty Protection: Many refurbished units also come with a warranty, ensuring you’re covered in case of any issues, just like with a new product.
FAQs: Dolphin Nautilus CC vs. Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus
What is the difference between Dolphin Nautilus CC and CC Plus?
The main differences between the Dolphin Nautilus CC and the Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus are in their coverage area, cleaning power, and filtration system. The Nautilus CC is suitable for pools up to 33 feet, while the Nautilus CC Plus can handle larger pools up to 50 feet. The CC Plus also features dual scrubbing brushes for more efficient cleaning, compared to the single brush of the Nautilus CC. Additionally, the Nautilus CC Plus has a more advanced dual-level filtration system that can capture finer particles, providing a deeper clean.
Does the Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus clean stairs?
The Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus is designed to clean the pool floor and walls effectively, but its ability to clean stairs can vary. The cleaner may partially climb onto the stairs, but it isn’t specifically optimized for stair cleaning. For thorough cleaning of stairs, manual brushing is often recommended to complement the robotic cleaner’s work.
Can the Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus be used in an above ground pool?
The Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus is generally designed for in-ground pools, but it can also be used in larger above-ground pools with appropriate dimensions. Since the CC Plus can handle pools up to 50 feet, it’s important to ensure that the pool is compatible in terms of size and structure. For smaller above-ground pools, a model specifically made for above-ground pools might be a better fit.
Conclusion: Which Model Is Right for You?
Ultimately, choosing between the Dolphin Nautilus CC and the Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus comes down to your pool’s specific needs and your budget:
Dolphin Nautilus CC: Ideal for pool owners with smaller to medium-sized pools. It offers excellent cleaning coverage for the pool floor and walls and comes at an affordable price point. If you’re looking for a reliable and efficient cleaner without the need for advanced features, the Nautilus CC is a fantastic choice.
Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus: Designed for larger pools or pool owners looking for more advanced cleaning features. With dual scrubbing brushes, enhanced filtration, and extended coverage, the CC Plus is perfect for those who want the best cleaning performance available. If you have a larger pool or want to ensure thorough cleaning that includes even the smallest particles, the Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus is well worth the investment.
Whether you choose the Dolphin Nautilus CC or the CC Plus, both are excellent robotic cleaners that provide consistent, powerful cleaning, making pool maintenance easier and giving you more time to enjoy your pool. And if budget is a consideration, exploring refurbished models can provide significant savings while still delivering the cleaning power you need.