An automatic pool cleaner, comprising a pump unit, a control unit and a sensor, the sensor configured to detect foreign objects in the pool. The control unit configured to activate the pump unit at a first power level which is less then full power when a foreign object is not detected by the sensor, and further configured to activate the pump unit at a second power level, which is greater than the first power level, in response to a signal from the sensor unit indicating the detection of a foreign object.