Dolphin Explorer e50 Review After 30 Days

Dolphin Explorer E50 Review After Trying It For 30 Days

Hey there, pool owners and cleaning enthusiasts! Grab your favorite poolside beverage because I've got quite the tale to tell about my month-long adventure with the Dolphin Explorer E50. Whether you're a seasoned pool pro or a newbie just dipping your toes into the world of pool maintenance, this Dolphin Explorer E50 review is going to give you the full scoop. So, let's dive in!

The Day My Pool Life Changed

Picture this: it's the middle of summer, the sun's blazing, and I'm standing by my in-ground pool, sweat dripping down my face, holding a manual pool cleaner like it's my sworn enemy. Sound familiar? Well, that was me about a month ago, before I decided to take the plunge (pun totally intended) and try out the Dolphin Explorer E50.

I'll be honest, I was skeptical at first. I mean, how many times have we all bought some fancy gadget that promised to make our lives easier, only to have it gather dust in the garage? But let me tell you, this little pool robot was about to prove me wrong in the best possible way.

When the Dolphin Explorer E50 arrived, I felt like a kid on Christmas morning. I tore open the box, and there it was – my new pool cleaning buddy. It looked sleek, kinda like a futuristic vacuum cleaner had a baby with a submarine. But would it live up to the hype? Only time would tell.

First Impressions: Love at First Clean?

Setting Up: Easier Than Assembling IKEA Furniture

You know how some gadgets come with instruction manuals thicker than a George R.R. Martin novel? Well, not the Dolphin Explorer E50. Setting this bad boy up was a breeze. I just plugged it in, plopped it in the pool, and hit the power button. Seriously, that was it. No complicated programming, no downloading apps – just plug and play.

But let me break it down for you, just in case you're as technologically challenged as my Uncle Bob (love you, Uncle B, but you still can't figure out how to unmute yourself on Zoom):

1. Unbox the E50 and check all the parts are there.
2. Unwind the cable (it's 60 feet long, by the way – more on that later).
3. Connect the cable to the power supply.
4. Plug the power supply into a GFCI outlet (safety first, folks!).
5. Drop the E50 into the pool.
6. Press the power button.

And voila! You're done. I swear, it took me longer to change into my swim trunks than it did to set up this pool cleaner.

The Maiden Voyage: Will It Sink or Swim?

I'll admit, I held my breath as I watched the E50 descend into my pool. Would it get stuck? Would it just float around aimlessly like a drunk duck? Nope! This little pool cleaner got right to work, scooting along the floor of my pool like it was on a mission.

And let me tell you, watching it work was oddly satisfying. It's like when you're watching those power-washing videos on social media – you just can't look away. I found myself cheering it on like it was my favorite sports team. "Go, little Dolphin, go!"

But here's where it gets interesting. You know how some pool robots just move in straight lines? Not our friend the E50. This little guy has some fancy algorithm that helps it clean in a more efficient pattern. It's like watching a tiny underwater Roomba, but way cooler.

The 30-Day Challenge

Week 1: The Honeymoon Phase

The first week was pretty amazing. I'd come home from work, and boom – crystal clear pool waiting for me. No more spending my evenings hunting down every last leaf and twig. Instead, I was actually using my pool. Novel concept, right?

But here's the thing – I kept waiting for the other shoe to drop. You know that feeling when something seems too good to be true? Yeah, that was me, eyeing my pool robot suspiciously every time it did a good job.

One thing that really stood out to me in that first week was how quiet the E50 is. I mean, my old pool pump sounds like a jet engine taking off, but this thing? It's like the ninja of pool cleaners. I could actually have a conversation poolside without shouting. What a concept!

Oh, and let's talk about that cable for a sec. Remember how I mentioned it was 60 feet long? Well, it's not just long – it's got this swivel action going on that prevents tangling. No more playing underwater Twister with cords. It's the little things, you know?

Week 2: The Reality Check

Alright, so week two is when I started to notice a few quirks. Don't get me wrong, the E50 was still doing a fantastic job cleaning, but I realized it had its... let's call them "personality traits."

For one, it seemed to have a love affair with one corner of my pool. I swear, if pool robots could have favorite spots, that corner would be it. I'd find myself gently nudging it away, whispering, "C'mon buddy, there's a whole pool to explore!"

Now, let's chat about the filter for a hot minute. The E50 comes with these fine filter cartridges that are supposed to catch everything from leaves to fine debris. And for the most part, they do a great job. But here's a pro tip: if you've got a lot of fine sand or silt in your pool, you might want to give the filter a quick rinse more often. I learned that the hard way when I noticed a slight dip in performance midweek. A quick rinse, and we were back in business!

One thing that really impressed me this week was the E50's ability to climb walls. I'll admit, I was skeptical at first. I mean, how's this little guy supposed to defy gravity? But lo and behold, up it went, scrubbing away at the tile line like a champ. It was like watching a little pool-cleaning Spider-Man.

Week 3: Getting into the Groove

By week three, we had our routine down pat. The E50 would do its thing, and I'd do mine. It was like having a really efficient, if somewhat predictable, pool-cleaning roommate.

One thing I really started to appreciate was its filtering capabilities. You know how sometimes you look at your pool and it seems clean, but then you dip your toe in and stir up a cloud of fine dirt? Yeah, not with the E50 on duty. This thing was catching stuff I couldn't even see.

And let's talk about energy efficiency for a sec. I was worried this little robot would send my electricity bill through the roof, but nope! It's actually pretty energy-efficient. So not only was I saving time, but I wasn't breaking the bank either. Score!

But here's where it gets really interesting. Remember that corner the E50 was so fond of? Well, I decided to do a little experiment. I sprinkled some dirt in various spots around the pool (don't judge me, it's all in the name of science!). And you know what? Our friend the E50 found every last bit. It might have its favorite spots, but it doesn't slack on the job.

Oh, and can we talk about the brushes for a moment? The E50 has these active brushes that spin at 1.5 times the speed of the robot itself. It's like having a tiny army of scrubbers working overtime. I swear, if you looked closely, you could probably see your reflection in the pool floor after this thing was done.

Week 4: The Final Countdown

As we rounded the corner into the last week of our 30-day trial, I found myself reflecting on life with my new pool buddy. Was it perfect? Nah. But was it a game-changer? Absolutely.

One thing that really hit me this week was how much more I was enjoying my pool. Instead of dreading the maintenance, I was actually looking forward to swimming. I even hosted an impromptu pool party (socially distanced, of course – we're still responsible adults here). And you know what? I didn't have to spend hours prepping the pool beforehand. The E50 had my back.

But it wasn't all sunshine and pool parties. I did have one minor hiccup this week. The E50 got a little too ambitious and tried to eat one of my kid's dive toys. It wasn't a big deal – I just had to fish it out of the filter. But it did make me realize that it's a good idea to do a quick scan for any large items before letting the E50 loose.

Features and Specs

Alright, let's get down to brass tacks. What exactly makes the Dolphin Explorer E50 tick? Here's the lowdown:

Cleaning Capabilities

• Clean intense scrubbing: Those active brushes I mentioned? They're no joke. They scrub away at dirt and algae like it's their job (which, I guess, it is).
• Powerful filtering capabilities: The fine filter cartridges can capture both large debris and tiny particles. It's like having a bouncer at a club, but for your pool – nothing gets past it.
• Floor, Wall, and Waterline Cleaning: This bad boy actually climbs walls and cleans the waterline! It's perfect for in-ground pools.

Technical Specs

• Weight: About 14 pounds. Light enough to handle easily, heavy enough to stay put underwater.
• Cable Length: 60 feet. Long enough for pools up to 50 feet, with that sweet anti-tangle swivel action.
• Cleaning Cycle: 1.5 or 2 hours. Just enough time to watch a movie while your pool gets spotless.
• Pool Size: Up to 50 feet. Perfect for most in-ground pools.

Smart Features

• Wi-Fi Connectivity: You can control this thing from your smartphone! How cool is that?
• Weekly Timer: You can set it to clean automatically daily, every other day, or every 3 days. It's like having a pool boy on a schedule, but without the awkward small talk.

Deep Dive: Breakdown of Key Features

Multi-Layer Filter Basket

The Dolphin Explorer E50 comes equipped with a multi-layer filter basket, which is a step up from its predecessor, the E30. This feature is designed to trap debris of various sizes, from large leaves to fine particles.

In my experience, this multi-layer system worked wonders. It managed to capture everything from the usual suspects like leaves and twigs to the finer particles that often escape other cleaners. However, I did notice that for really fine silt or sand, you might need to invest in ultra-fine filters for the best results.

One thing to note: while the multi-layer filter is great, it's not drastically different from the E30. So if you're upgrading from an E30 and hoping for a revolutionary change in filtration, you might be a tad disappointed. That said, it still does an excellent job and is a key feature of the E50.

Floor, Wall, and Waterline Cleaning

This is where the E50 really shines. Unlike some robotic cleaners that stick to the pool floor, the E50 is a true all-rounder. It cleans the floor, climbs the walls, and even scrubs the waterline.

I was particularly impressed with its wall-climbing ability. It doesn't just make a half-hearted attempt at the walls - it climbs all the way up to the waterline and gives it a good scrub. This is crucial because, as any pool owner knows, the waterline is where a lot of gunk tends to accumulate.

The E50's ability to clean the entire pool surface meant that I didn't have to do any manual scrubbing. No more awkwardly reaching over the edge with a brush or climbing into the pool to scrub those hard-to-reach spots. The E50 took care of it all.

Wi-Fi Connectivity and App Control

Welcome to the future of pool cleaning! The E50 comes with Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing you to control it via a smartphone app. Setting up the Wi-Fi was surprisingly easy - it took me about 2 minutes to get it connected to my home network.

The app itself is pretty intuitive. You can start and stop cleaning cycles, set schedules, and even control the robot manually if you want to target specific areas. I found myself using the app more than I expected, especially the scheduling feature. Being able to set cleaning cycles for when I'm at work or asleep was a game-changer.

One minor gripe: the app sometimes had connectivity issues, especially if I was far from the pool. But overall, the convenience of being able to control the cleaner from anywhere (even when I'm not home) far outweighed this small inconvenience.

Motor Power

Now, I'm no engineer, but I did notice that the E50's motors seemed a bit less powerful compared to some of the higher-end Dolphin models like the Premier or Sigma. This isn't necessarily a bad thing - the E50 still cleaned my pool effectively, and the less powerful motors likely contribute to its energy efficiency.

However, if you have a pool that tends to collect a lot of heavy debris, or if you're looking for the absolute fastest clean possible, you might want to consider one of the models with more powerful motors.

For my average-sized pool with typical debris, the E50's motor power was more than adequate. It managed to pick up everything from leaves to small pebbles without breaking a sweat.

Top-Load Basket

The E50 features a top-load filter basket, which I found to be a real convenience. Accessing the basket from the top means you don't have to flip the cleaner over to empty it - a simple but much-appreciated design choice.

I also noticed that the basket seemed larger than some other models I've seen. This meant I could run multiple cleaning cycles before needing to empty it, which was great for those busy weeks when I didn't have time to check on it every day.

Cleaning the basket was straightforward too. A quick rinse with the garden hose was usually all it took to get it clean and ready for the next cycle.

Warranty

The E50 comes with a 2-year warranty, which is decent but not exceptional. Some of Dolphin's higher-end models offer a 3-year warranty, so this is one area where the E50 falls a bit short.

That said, in my month of using it, I didn't encounter any issues that made me worry about longevity. The build quality seems solid, and Maytronics (the company behind Dolphin) has a good reputation for customer service.

Just remember to register your product after purchase to ensure your warranty is active. It's a simple step that could save you a headache down the line.

The Good, The Bad, and The Chlorine-y

No review would be complete without a good old-fashioned pros and cons list. So here's my take after 30 days with the Dolphin Explorer E50:

Pros

1. Easy to use: Seriously, if you can operate a light switch, you can use this thing.
2. Effective cleaning: It gets the job done, plain and simple.
3. Energy efficient: Your wallet will thank you.
4. Quiet operation: You can actually enjoy your backyard while it's working.
5. Low maintenance: A quick rinse of the filter, and you're good to go.
6. Time-saving: More swimming, less cleaning. Need I say more?
7. Wall climbing and waterline cleaning: It doesn't just stick to the floor!
8. Wi-Fi connectivity: Control your cleaner from anywhere.
9. Large, easy-to-clean filter basket: Less frequent emptying and easy maintenance.
10. Anti-tangle swivel cord: No more untangling cords every time you use it.

Cons

1. Price: While not the most expensive out there, it's still an investment.
2. Occasional stuck spots: Sometimes it needs a little nudge to get out of a corner.
3. Shorter warranty: It comes with a 2-year warranty, which is decent but not as long as some competitors.
4. Less powerful motors: Compared to some higher-end models, the motors are a bit weaker.
5. App connectivity issues: Occasional hiccups when trying to control it from far away.

Comparing the E50 to Other Dolphin Models

To give you a better idea of where the E50 stands in the Dolphin lineup, let's compare it to a couple of other popular models:

E50 vs. Dolphin Premier

The Dolphin Premier is one of Dolphin's high-end models, and it shows. Here's how they stack up:

• Cleaning Capability: While both clean floors, walls, and waterline, the Premier has a slight edge with its more powerful motors.
• Filtration: The Premier boasts multiple filter options, including ultra-fine cartridges and a leaf bag. The E50's multi-layer filter is good, but not quite as versatile.
• Smart Features: The E50 wins here with its Wi-Fi connectivity. The Premier lacks this feature.
• Warranty: The Premier comes with a 3-year warranty compared to the E50's 2-year warranty.
• Price: The E50 is generally more budget-friendly than the Premier.

In essence, the Premier offers more bells and whistles, but the E50 provides excellent value for its price point.

E50 vs. Dolphin Sigma

The Dolphin Sigma is another high-end model from Dolphin. Let's see how it compares to the E50:

• Cleaning Power: The Sigma has three motors compared to the E50's two, potentially offering more thorough cleaning.
• Smart Features: Both have Wi-Fi connectivity, but the Sigma's app offers more detailed control options.
• Filtration: The Sigma features a dual-layer filter with oversized cartridges, which might require less frequent cleaning than the E50's filter.
• Programming: The Sigma offers more programmable cleaning cycles.
• Price: The Sigma is significantly more expensive than the E50.

While the Sigma is undoubtedly a more advanced model, the E50 holds its own, especially considering the price difference.

Related: Dolphin Sigma Vs. Premier: Pros & Cons of Each

Real-World Performance: My Experience Over 30 Days

Cleaning Efficiency

Over the course of my 30-day trial, I put the E50 through its paces in various conditions. Here's a breakdown of how it performed:

• Leaves and Twigs: The E50 had no trouble with these common pool invaders. Its large basket meant it could collect a significant amount before needing to be emptied.
• Fine Dirt and Sand: While it did a good job overall, I found that for really fine particles, I needed to use the ultra-fine filter option (sold separately) for best results.
• Algae: The active brushes did a great job scrubbing away light algae growth. For tougher algae, I still needed to shock the pool, but the E50 definitely reduced the frequency of these treatments.
• Large Debris: It handled most large debris well, though occasionally it would push larger items around rather than picking them up.

Energy Consumption

I was pleasantly surprised by how little impact the E50 had on my electricity bill. According to my calculations, it uses about 5 cents worth of electricity per hour of operation. Compare that to the energy costs of running a pool pump for hours on end, and you're looking at significant savings.

Time Savings

Before the E50, I spent about 5-6 hours a week on pool maintenance. With the E50, that dropped to about 1-2 hours, mostly just checking chemical levels and doing occasional spot cleaning. That's a time saving of 60-80%!

Maintenance and Longevity

Daily Maintenance

The E50 doesn't require much daily attention. Here's what I typically did:

1. Remove it from the pool after each cleaning cycle.
2. Rinse off the filter basket with a hose.
3. Check for any tangled debris in the brushes.

This usually took no more than 5 minutes.

Weekly Maintenance

Once a week, I'd do a more thorough check:

1. Clean the filter more thoroughly, using a mild detergent if necessary.
2. Inspect the brushes for wear and tear.
3. Check the power cord for any damage.

This weekly routine typically took about 15-20 minutes.

Long-Term Care

While my 30-day trial period didn't allow me to assess long-term durability, I did some research on what to expect:

• The brushes typically need replacement every 1-2 years, depending on use.
• The filters can last several years with proper care.
• The motor and other internal components are designed to last many years, often outlasting the warranty period.

Cost Analysis: Is it Worth the Investment?

Let's break down the costs associated with the E50:

1. Initial Purchase: The E50 is a significant upfront investment, typically ranging from $1000 to $1500 depending on where you buy it.
2. Operating Costs: As mentioned earlier, the energy costs are minimal, about 5 cents per hour of operation.
3. Maintenance Costs: You'll need to factor in replacement brushes (about $50 per set) and filters (about $100 for a set) every year or two.
4. Chemical Savings: I found I used fewer pool chemicals with the E50, as it kept the pool cleaner overall. This saved me about $10-15 per month.
5. Professional Cleaning Savings: If you were previously hiring a pool service, the savings here could be substantial - easily $100 or more per month.

When you factor in the time savings and the potential reduction in other pool maintenance costs, the E50 can potentially pay for itself within 2-3 years for most pool owners.

My Review & Final Verdict

After 30 days of living with the Dolphin Explorer E50, would I recommend it? In a word: YES.

Here's the deal: If you've got an in-ground pool up to 50 feet and you're tired of playing pool boy (or girl) every evening, the E50 could be your new best friend. It's easy to use, does a great job cleaning, and won't make you take out a second mortgage to afford it.

Is it perfect? No. The app can be a bit finicky at times, and it occasionally needs a nudge to get out of a tight spot. But these minor quirks are far outweighed by the benefits.

The E50 hits a sweet spot in terms of features and price. It offers many of the advanced features of higher-end models (like Wi-Fi connectivity and wall-climbing ability) at a more accessible price point. For most pool owners, it provides more than enough cleaning power and smart features to keep your pool sparkling clean with minimal effort on your part.

Who Should Buy the Dolphin Explorer E50?

The E50 is ideal for:

1. In-ground pool owners with pools up to 50 feet in length.
2. Those looking for a balance between advanced features and affordability.
3. Pool owners who want to reduce their maintenance time significantly.
4. Tech-savvy users who appreciate the convenience of Wi-Fi control.
5. Those upgrading from a manual or suction-side cleaner.

However, it might not be the best fit if:

1. You have a very large pool (over 50 feet).
2. Your pool frequently accumulates heavy debris that might require more powerful suction.
3. You're on a very tight budget (there are cheaper options available, though they typically offer fewer features).

Final Thoughts

Living with the Dolphin Explorer E50 for a month has genuinely changed my relationship with my pool. Instead of seeing it as a chore, I'm back to enjoying it as the backyard oasis it was meant to be.

Is it an investment? Absolutely. But if you factor in the time you'll save, the reduction in chemical and energy use, and the sheer convenience of having a clean pool whenever you want it, it's an investment that quickly pays dividends in quality of life.

So, if you're on the fence about getting a robotic pool cleaner, or specifically considering the E50, I'd say take the plunge. Your future self, lounging by a crystal-clear pool with a cold drink in hand, will thank you.

Remember, a pool should be a source of relaxation, not a source of stress. With the Dolphin Explorer E50, you're well on your way to making that a reality. Happy swimming!

FAQ: Your Burning Questions Answered

Q: How long does the Dolphin Explorer E50 take to clean a pool?

A: It has two cleaning cycles: 1.5 hours or 2 hours. You can choose based on how dirty your pool is or how thorough a clean you want.

Q: Can the Dolphin Explorer E50 climb walls?

A: Yes, it can! The E50 is designed to clean the floor, walls, and even the waterline of in-ground pools.

Q: How often should I run it?

A: With its weekly timer feature, you can set it to run as often as you like. I found running it every other day kept my pool in tip-top shape, but you might need to adjust based on how quickly your pool gets dirty.

Q: Is iteasy to clean and maintain?

A: Absolutely! Cleaning the filter is a breeze – just pop it out, rinse it off, and you're good to go. It's way easier than dealing with traditional pool cleaning equipment.

Q: Can I control it with my smartphone?

A: Yes, you can! It has Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing you to control it via a smartphone app. You can start/stop cleaning cycles, set schedules, and more, all from your phone.

Q: How does it compare to other models?

A: The E50 is a great mid-range option. It might not have all the features of the top-tier models like the Dolphin Premier or Sigma, but it offers excellent value for its price point, especially for in-ground pool owners.

Q: What kind of warranty does it come with?

A: The E50 comes with a 2-year warranty. While this is good, it's worth noting that some higher-end Dolphin models offer a 3-year warranty.

Q: Can it handle my oddly shaped pool?

A: In my experience, the E50 does a great job with various pool shapes. Its intelligent navigation system allows it to adapt to different pool layouts, including odd shapes and obstacles.

Q: How often do I need to replace the filters and brushes?

A: This can vary depending on usage, but generally, you should expect to replace the brushes every 1-2 years and the filters every 2-3 years. Regular cleaning and maintenance can help extend their life.

Q: Is it safe for all pool surfaces?

A: Yes, the E50 is designed to be safe for all common pool surfaces, including vinyl, fiberglass, concrete, and tile. Its brushes are effective yet gentle enough not to damage your pool's surface.

Remember, while these answers reflect my experience and research, your mileage may vary. Always refer to the user manual for specific instructions and reach out to Dolphin's customer service for any concerns not addressed here. Happy pool cleaning!