Unleash Cordless Cleaning Power
The Zodiac FreeRider FR500 iQ is a high-performance robotic pool cleaner designed for in-ground pools up to 10 × 5 meters. Combining cordless convenience with powerful cleaning technology, it features the NEW Tap & Lift Function, App Control, and a long-lasting lithium-ion battery. The FR500 iQ makes pool maintenance effortless and lets you enjoy your pool with minimal effort.
With Cyclonic Suction Technology and active scrubbing brushes, the FR500 iQ delivers excellent cleaning results across floors, walls, and waterlines. The 3L filter canister with 100µ filtration efficiently captures all types of debris, and the transparent window allows for easy monitoring. When the cleaning cycle ends, the FR500 iQ stays at the waterline for simple retrieval, or you can activate the Tap & Lift function to assist with wall climbing.
Ideal for all pool surfaces, including concrete, fibreglass, vinyl, and tiles, the FR500 iQ combines high performance with easy usability for pool owners looking for a low-maintenance solution.
Why Choose the Zodiac FreeRider FR500 iQ?
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Reduce Pool Maintenance
Effortlessly cleans floors, walls, and waterlines, reducing pool upkeep and giving you more time to enjoy your pool.
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Clean, Healthy Pool Water
Powerful suction and scrubbing brushes remove dirt and debris, minimizing the need for chemical cleaners and ensuring healthier, clearer water for your family.
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Efficient Cleaning Performance
The 2-hour cleaning cycle covers your entire pool, improving water circulation and clarity while reducing strain on your filtration system.
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Reliability You Can Trust
With Zodiac’s industry-leading quality, the FR500 iQ ensures long-lasting performance. Backed by a 2-year warranty, it provides peace of mind with every clean.
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Perfect for Australian Pools
Engineered for Australian pool conditions, the FR500 iQ is durable and efficient, offering a robust solution for local pool owners.
Benefits:
High Performance Cordless Design
✔ No tangled cords
✔ Long-lasting lithium-ion battery (2-hour runtime)
✔ Fast charging in under 5 hours
✔ Battery charge indicator
The FR500 iQ offers cordless convenience, eliminating cord hassles. Its long-lasting battery ensures effortless cleaning, with the LED indicator helping you monitor the status. Quick charging in under 5 hours gets you back to cleaning faster.
Suction Efficiency
✔ Patented Cyclonic Suction Technology
✔ Active scrubbing brushes
✔ Efficient debris collection
Cyclonic Suction ensures constant power and efficient debris collection, while active scrubbing brushes lift dirt for thorough cleaning.
Fine Filtration
✔ 3L filter canister with 100µ filtration
✔ Transparent lid for easy debris inspection
The 100µ filter efficiently captures debris, and the transparent lid allows you to check levels easily, making maintenance a breeze.
App Control
✔ Monitor battery/charging status
✔ Receive cycle completion notifications
✔ Access product tutorials
App Control offers complete remote access, letting you track battery status, receive notifications, and access setup tutorials from your phone.
Versatile Pool Compatibility
✔ Suitable for concrete, fiberglass, pebblecrete, quartzon, vinyl, and tile surfaces
✔ Ideal for pools up to 10 x 5 metres
✔ Works with rectangular, oval, free-form, flat, and sloped pools
The FR500 iQ is designed to clean a variety of pool shapes and surfaces, making it the perfect choice for pools of almost any type and size.
Rear Control Screen
✔ Monitor battery status
✔ Simple cleaning mode operation
✔ Easy cycle initiation
The Rear Control Screen provides a straightforward interface to monitor battery levels and start cleaning with a single press. With intuitive operation, you can easily manage your cleaning cycle, ensuring smooth and efficient pool maintenance.
Tap & Lift Removal System
✔ Easy retrieval from waterline
✔ Tap the cleaner with your pool pole to prompt wall climb
After cleaning, the FR500 iQ stays at the waterline for easy removal. If you miss the 10-minute window, just tap it with your pool pole to activate the Tap & Lift function for effortless handling.
Outdoor Charger
✔ Compatible with indoor and outdoor charging
✔ Full charge in under 5 hours
✔ Energy-saving modes for extended battery life
The premium outdoor charger ensures a full charge in under 5 hours, providing a complete cycle runtime. Energy-saving modes enhance battery efficiency, supporting longer use and optimal performance. For the best results, charge in a shaded area below 35°C.
Family-Friendly Enjoyment
✔ More time for fun and family activities
✔ Keeps your pool clean with minimal effort
✔ Ideal for creating lasting memories with loved ones
With the FR500 iQ handling the pool cleaning, you’ll have more time to enjoy quality moments with family and friends, knowing your pool is always ready for fun and relaxation.
Key Features & Design Highlights:
- Powerful Suction & Climbing Efficiency
The FR500 iQ delivers powerful suction with its advanced Cyclonic Suction Technology and extra-large 23 cm suction inlet, ensuring efficient debris collection and preventing clogging. The Bypass System enhances wall climbing, ensuring smooth operation even when the filter is obstructed.
- Enhanced Mobility & Traction
With Dual Traction Motors, the FR500 iQ moves effortlessly across all pool surfaces, while the Tank Trax system ensures reliable performance on various pool terrains by maintaining constant contact with the surface.
- Active Scrubbing Brushes
The active scrubbing brushes agitate and lift stubborn dirt and debris from both the floor and walls, ensuring a deep, thorough clean every cycle.
- Advanced Wall Detection
The Advanced Wall Detection system ensures the cleaner moves efficiently to climb walls and clean the waterline with precision, optimizing energy usage.
Detection
The cleaner uses accelerometer and traction current data to detect when it encounters a vertical surface.
Orientation
Once a wall is detected, the cleaner adjusts its position perpendicular to the wall using independent traction motors.
Collection
The cleaner begins a slow, timed ascent to the water's surface for thorough cleaning, ensuring optimal results.
Ready for More
After reaching the waterline and completing its timed clean, the cleaner descends and continues the cycle.
- HMI Control Interface
Easily monitor the cleaner’s performance, battery levels, cleaning mode, and cycle status with the Human-Machine Interface (HMI), offering a user-friendly control experience.
- Cleaning Cycles
The FR500 iQ runs a 2-hour cleaning cycle that efficiently covers floors, walls, and waterlines, making the most of every minute.
- Perimeter Cleaning Technology
At the end of the cleaning cycle, the FR500 iQ performs a perimeter clean to ensure thorough cleaning of areas where debris tends to accumulate.
Rectangular Pools
Performs 6 cleaning paths before transitioning to perimeter cleaning, taking about 5 minutes.
Freeform Pools
Adapts to the pool’s shape and logically covers the perimeter, ensuring thorough cleaning.
- Transparent Window with Filter LED
The transparent window allows easy monitoring of the 3L filter canister’s debris levels, while the Filter LED provides a clear visual cue when it’s time to empty the canister.
- Filtration System
The 100µ filtration system efficiently captures fine dust and large debris, reducing the need for chemical cleaners and ensuring a healthier pool environment.
- Easy Removal from Water
The Tap & Lift Removal System ensures easy retrieval from the water after the cleaning cycle. If missed, simply tap the cleaner with your pool pole to activate the Tap & Lift function.
- Fast Charging & Long-Lasting Battery
The lithium-ion battery offers up to 2 hours of runtime and can be recharged in under 5 hours, providing reliable performance with every session.
- iAqualink Connectivity
Control the FR500 iQ remotely with iAqualink. Monitor battery status, receive notifications, and manage cleaning cycles directly from your smartphone.
- Climate Care Certified
The FR500 iQ is Climate Care Certified by SPASA Australia, meeting high environmental sustainability standards with low energy consumption and efficient performance.
Technical Specifications:
Zodiac FreeRider robotic pool cleaners are designed for efficient, hassle-free cleaning across various pool types and sizes. Below is a comparison of the key features and specifications for the FR200, FR500 iQ, and FR800 iQ models to help you choose the right cleaner for your pool.
| |
FR200 |
FR500 iQ |
FR800 iQ |
| Types of Inground Pools |
| Surfaces |
Concrete, Pebblecrete, Quartzon, Fibreglass, Vinyl and Tiles |
| Shapes |
Rectangular, Oval, Free Shape, Flat, Gentle Slope, Composite Slope, Diamond Shape |
| Pool Size |
Up to 8 x 4m |
Up to 10 x 5m |
| Performance |
| Cleaning Areas |
Floor & Walls |
Floor, Walls & Waterline |
| Cleaning Modes |
1 - Floor/Walls |
1 - Floor/Walls/Waterline
(Smart Cycle & Waterline via iAquaLink) |
1 - Floor Only
2 - Floor/Walls/Waterline
(Smart Cycle & Waterline via iAquaLink) |
| Cycle Length |
120 min |
120 min - Floor/Walls/Waterline
90 min - Floor Only |
| Number of Cycles |
1 |
1 onboard + 2 app-exclusive |
2 onboard + 2 app-exclusive |
| Filtration Level |
150μ Filter Canister |
100μ Filter Canister |
150μ / 60μ Dual Filter Canister |
| Filter Capacity |
2L |
3L |
| Active Brushing |
✓ |
| Brush Position |
Front |
| Connectivity Controls |
| App Control |
✕ |
✓ |
| Hand-Held Remote |
✕ |
| Ease of Use |
| Caddy |
✕ |
| Retrieval Modes |
Manual Hook
(Pole not included) |
Tap & Lift, Waterline Pick Up App Notification or Manual Hook
(Pole not included) |
| Transparent Window |
✓ |
| Filter LED |
✓ |
| Technical Specifications |
| Number of Motors |
2 |
| Power |
Charger Supply Voltage - 110-240 VAC; 50/60 Hz Class II*
Supply Voltage - 21.6 V DC
Battery Type - Lithium-Ion 5.1Ah
Operating Power - 25 W |
Charger Supply Voltage - 110-240 VAC; 50/60 Hz Class II*
Supply Voltage - 29.4 V DC
Battery Type - Lithium-Ion 6.4Ah
Operating Power - 29.4 W |
| Charging Time |
< 4 hours |
< 5 hours |
| Charging Type |
CC/CV Smart Charger |
Battery Management System (BMS) |
| Suction Inlet Width |
17cm |
23cm |
| Operating Depth |
40cm – 4m |
| Water Temp Range |
13°C – 35°C |
| Weight |
5.8kg |
8.9kg |
| Warranty |
2 Years
1 Year on wearable parts (filter, tracks, brush, tyres) |
2 Years
(2 years or 800 running hours on motor block, whichever comes first)
1 Year on wearable parts (filter, tracks, brush, tyres) |
*Class II: An appliance with double insulation or reinforced insulation that does not require grounding.
In The Box:
- Zodiac FreeRider FR500 Robotic Pool Cleaner
- 100µ Filter Canister (pre-installed)
- Charger
- Manual Retrieval Hook (pole not included)
- User Manual
- Warranty Card
The FR800 iQ offers advanced features like dual filter canisters and a 'Floor Only' cleaning cycle, while the FR500 iQ provides balanced performance with strong suction and smart connectivity. The FR200 is ideal for smaller pools, offering essential features. Whether you choose the simplicity of the FR200, the efficiency of the FR500 iQ, or the versatility of the FR800 iQ, all models deliver reliable, effective cleaning to keep your pool sparkling clean.
Your sparkling-clean pool is just one cycle away!
Frequently Asked Questions:
Do I need to clean the FR500 iQ after each use?
Yes! Rinsing the filter canister after every cycle helps maintain strong suction and prevents debris from hardening and clogging the system. This simple step keeps your cleaner performing at its best and extends its lifespan.
Pro Tip: Rinse the canister with fresh water after each use. For a deeper clean, use mild soap and a soft brush — or better yet, use the Robotic Filter Cleaner Spray to break down oils and fine debris.
How should I charge the FR500 iQ?
The FR500 iQ should be charged using the supplied charger. Plug the charger into an RCBO-protected outlet and ensure the cleaner is placed in a shaded area away from direct sunlight. The charging time is less than 5 hours, and the cleaner should always be fully charged before use. The charging indicator will blink orange when charging and show a solid green when fully charged.
What is the "Deep Sleep" mode?
To conserve battery life, the FR500 iQ enters "Deep Sleep" mode after 8 days of inactivity. When in Deep Sleep, the cleaner’s battery is disconnected electronically. To wake the unit, simply plug it in. This feature helps prolong the battery’s lifespan.
Where should I store the FR500 iQ?
Store the FR500 iQ in a dry, shaded location with temperatures between 10°C and 21°C. Avoid placing it in direct sunlight or in humid areas to protect the internal components and extend its battery life.
Can I leave the FR500 iQ in the pool between cleaning cycles?
No, the FR500 iQ should be removed from the pool after each cleaning cycle. Leaving it submerged can cause damage to the battery, seals, and other components due to continuous exposure to water and chemicals.
How do I clean or replace the scrubbing brush?
The FR500 iQ features a scrubbing brush with a wear indicator. Replace it when the rubber wears down to the indicator or after two years of use to maintain effective cleaning performance.
What should I do if the FR500 iQ isn't charging or working properly?
- No lights or movement: Hold the power button for 20 seconds, then reconnect the charger.
- Dirty charging contacts: Wipe the contacts with a cloth and fresh water, then dry before charging again.
- Still not working? Contact us for troubleshooting assistance or warranty support.
Why is the FR500 iQ floating or missing debris?
- Air trapped inside: Remove the cleaner and re-submerge it to let the air escape.
- Filter is full or dirty: Empty and rinse the filter canister to restore suction.
- Blocked parts: Check the scrub brush, tracks, and suction inlet for debris.
How does water balance affect performance?
Unbalanced pool water can affect your FR500 iQ's cleaning performance. Ensure that the pH, chlorine, and other chemical levels are properly balanced to help your cleaner operate efficiently and maintain peak performance.
Is the FR500 iQ compatible with my pool?
The FR500 iQ is suitable for in-ground pools up to 10 × 5 meters, handling all pool shapes and surfaces, including concrete, vinyl, fibreglass, quartzon, pebblecrete, and tiles. Whether your pool is rectangular, oval, freeform, or with a gentle slope, the FR500 iQ is a great fit for all pool types.
Choose the right cleaner to enjoy a sparkling-clean pool with minimal effort. Click here for help selecting the best pool cleaner for your needs.
