Zodiac Pool Systems’ MX8 ELITE pool cleaner is the first to use scrubbing brushes that come into direct contact with the pool surface. This cyclonic scrubbing action powers away algae and fine, stuck-on debris that other cleaners often leave behind. “Most mechanized cleaners do not make active contact with the floor,” says Skye Svenningsen, product manager at Zodiac. “We found a way to incorporate cyclonic brushes that physically spin and bring debris into the inlet of the cleaner.”
Svenningsen says consumers originated the idea. “Users and pool professionals have been really receptive to the new technology,” she says.
The MX8 ELITE is powered by two turbines that drive propeller blades that vacuum the debris off the floor and pool walls. The brushes are installed over the blades and spin along with them.
“Those turbines create a down force that helps it stick to the wall up to the tile line where you often get that scum line,” Svenningsen says.
Where other cleaners have wheels, the MX8 ELITE’s tank tracks help grip the surface. “This cleaner acts as aggressively as it looks,” Svenningsen says. “Those tank tracks help it go over inclines and drains. It’s been tested in all types of in-ground pools from vinyl to Pebble Tec. And, the 17-inch cleaning path gives the most comprehensive coverage for your pool.”
The Max-Drive navigation allows the cleaner to make some pretty nifty moves. “The programming allows it to turn 360 degrees and turn both left and right,” Svenningsen says. “It gets out of those tight corners and challenging areas.”
An adjustable inlet, easily accessed through a door on top of the unit, allows the user to set the size of the opening for larger or smaller debris. “It’s possible to pick up larger debris in your pool and then put the attachment back inside when you have standard debris,” Svenningsen says.
Each MX8 ELITE comes with a Flow-Keeper valve, “that allows the option of connecting it through a dedicated suction line or installing it through the skimmer,” Svenningsen says. Included with the purchase of an MX8 ELITE is a twist lock hose that reaches up to 39 feet. A leaf catcher can be added as an accessory. Zodiac even has a retrofit conversion kit for existing MX8 users. “That includes two turbines and four brushes so you can easily upgrade an MX8,” Svenningsen adds.
Zodiac experts are available to answer questions and respond to comments, whether it’s by phone, through a dealer or the company’s online presence. “Being user driven and consumer focused is one of our values,” Svenningsen says. “It’s important for all of us at Zodiac to be in conversation with customers and pool professionals.”
Zodiac is pleased with the feedback they’ve received about the MX8 ELITE. “It’s this new feature that people are excited about, the cyclonic scrubbing, that’s resonating with our retailers, pool professionals and our end users,” Svenningsen says. “We’re very proud of the design of this cleaner. It helps us stand apart. We’re looking forward to a really exciting season.”
