I recently came across a string of web articles on numerous thefts of robotic cleaners from backyards. I could pull the cleaner out of the pool after every use, but that would defeat the primary convenience of running it on auto-schedule. Has anyone come up with a deterrent to this potential problem? Trackers would be viable if they were waterproof; but they're not. A dog would do the job, but that seems a bit much. Any suggestions appreciated.
Robot Theft Prevention?
- Thread starter ubiq
- Start date
I have a similar concern about portable solar panels I use while camping. I have not yet got around to building anything but I have been considering using door alarms similar to what you are required to have on doors leading to the pool when you get a new pool installed. My plan is to take one of those apart and secure the siren body to my RV. I would get into the alarm body and desolderer what I assume is a reed switch inside the alarm and attach it to a lead that could be run out to where I place the panel. The switch would get staked to the ground. The panel would have the magnet on the frame positioned over the switch so that it would close the reed switch just like when you close a door or window. If someone moves or takes off with the panel the alarm would sound.
For the robot you could do the same just put the magnet on the power cord near where it plugs into the electrical outlet. you would of course have to come up with some sort of holder or housing for the cord magnet and alarm lead so it does not move accidentally. This idea could easily be integrated into an actual home alarm system if you have one either wireless or hardwired.
Such an idea could be fairly easily defeated but most crooks are not all that bright and depending on how you obscure the alarm connections you can keep it from being obvious there is an alarm.
For the robot you could do the same just put the magnet on the power cord near where it plugs into the electrical outlet. you would of course have to come up with some sort of holder or housing for the cord magnet and alarm lead so it does not move accidentally. This idea could easily be integrated into an actual home alarm system if you have one either wireless or hardwired.
Such an idea could be fairly easily defeated but most crooks are not all that bright and depending on how you obscure the alarm connections you can keep it from being obvious there is an alarm.
A really comprehensive home insurance policy is my suggestion. Customer of mine had a robot stolen 3 months away from the warranty being up. Insurance covered it and he gets a brand new robot with a 2 year warranty.
Or why not put a tracker on the power supply? Power supply shouldn't be getting wet anyway, and the robot is worthless without it.
Or why not put a tracker on the power supply? Power supply shouldn't be getting wet anyway, and the robot is worthless without it.
Katodude
Silver Supporter
- Aug 22, 2017
- 3,004
- Pool Size
- 15000
- Surface
- Plaster
- Chlorine
- Salt Water Generator
- SWG Type
- Hayward Aqua Rite (T-15)
Wow, I thought I was the only one that this happened to. I had my M5 stolen from my backyard almost a year ago. It really freaked out my wife that someone was in the backyard. I thought about chaining it to the house. In the end I just installed a motion detector right above where I store it that turns on all the lights in the backyard. That coupled with a hyperactive dog that will scare the bejesus out of anyone that dares come there anymore.
It was not worth claiming on insurance, just ended up with a new M500 that seems to work much better than my M5 ever did.
It was not worth claiming on insurance, just ended up with a new M500 that seems to work much better than my M5 ever did.
blakeusa
In The Industry
Loop the cable through a padlock and chain it. It would mean the cable would have to be cut to take it. The same could be done for the power supply.
I don't want to link to the photo on the chevy volt forum so I'll just link to the post.
What's the best way to secure 120V EVSE in Volt when charging in public against theft
I don't want to link to the photo on the chevy volt forum so I'll just link to the post.
What's the best way to secure 120V EVSE in Volt when charging in public against theft