Automatic Cleaner Problems
Fix robotic, suction, and pressure pool cleaners
Common Cleaner Issues
🔧 Movement Problems
- • Cleaner not moving
- • Stuck in one spot
- • Moving too slowly
- • Missing pool areas
🧹 Cleaning Issues
- • Not picking up debris
- • Climbing walls poorly
- • Tangled hoses
- • Pattern problems
Quick Answer
Automatic pool cleaner problems vary by type. For robotic cleaners: check power cord, clean filters, and inspect tracks/brushes. For suction cleaners: verify pump operation, check for air leaks, clean pump basket. For pressure cleaners: check booster pump, clean debris bag, inspect jets. Most problems involve clogged filters, worn parts, or inadequate water flow. Regular maintenance prevents most cleaner issues.
Types of Automatic Pool Cleaners
Robotic Cleaners
Power: Self-contained electric motor
Pros: Energy efficient, programmable, filters debris
Cons: Higher cost, electrical components
Common Issues: Power cord tangles, motor failures
Brands: Dolphin, Polaris, Aquabot
Suction Cleaners
Power: Pool pump suction
Pros: Simple design, affordable, few parts
Cons: Requires pump running, can clog
Common Issues: Loss of suction, stuck on drains
Brands: Hayward Navigator, Pentair Kreepy Krauly
Pressure Cleaners
Power: Return water pressure or booster pump
Pros: Powerful cleaning, collects debris
Cons: Complex, may need booster pump
Common Issues: Booster pump problems, bag tears
Brands: Polaris 280/380, Pentair Racer
Pool Cleaner Troubleshooting
Step-by-Step Diagnosis
Identify Cleaner Type
Determine if you have robotic (electric), suction, or pressure-side cleaner.
Check Power/Water Flow
Robotic: verify power. Suction/Pressure: check pump operation and flow.
⚠️ Warning: Turn off power before inspecting robotic cleaners
Inspect for Debris Blockages
Check intake, filters, bags, and moving parts for clogs or tangled debris.
Test Movement Patterns
Watch cleaner operation. Note if stuck, moving slowly, or missing areas.
Check Hoses and Connections
Look for air leaks, kinks, or disconnected hose sections.
Examine Wear Parts
Check wheels, tracks, brushes, and diaphragms for wear or damage.
Problems by Cleaner Type
Robotic Cleaner Issues
Won't Turn On
Check power supply, outlet GFCI, and cord connections
Not Climbing Walls
Clean filters, check brushes for wear, verify water level
Moving Erratically
Software issues, dirty sensors, or drive motor problems
Cable Tangling
Use swivel, straighten cable regularly, check for damage
Suction Cleaner Issues
Not Moving
Check pump operation, clear clogs, verify suction level
Stuck on Main Drain
Adjust suction, use flow regulator, check hose length
Hose Tangles
Check hose length (reach farthest point + 3 ft), use swivels
Poor Suction
Clean pump basket, check for air leaks, inspect diaphragm
Pressure Cleaner Issues
Won't Move
Check booster pump, inspect jets, clear debris from wheels
Floating or Wheelies
Adjust thrust jet, check water pressure, inspect floats
Not Picking Up Debris
Check bag for holes, verify venturi operation, clean jets
Pattern Issues
Adjust backup valve timer, check hose connections
Cleaner Maintenance Schedule
| Task | Robotic | Suction | Pressure |
|---|---|---|---|
| Clean filters/bags | After each use | Weekly | After each use |
| Inspect moving parts | Monthly | Monthly | Monthly |
| Replace wear parts | Annually | 6-12 months | 6-12 months |
| Professional service | Annually | As needed | Annually |
Pro Tip:
Keep spare wear parts on hand (wheels, brushes, diaphragms) to avoid downtime when parts wear out. Order parts before swimming season starts.
Common Wear Parts by Cleaner
Robotic Parts
- • Drive tracks/belts
- • Brushes (combo/PVC)
- • Filter cartridges
- • Drive motors
- • Power supply
- • Impeller/pump motor
Suction Parts
- • Diaphragm
- • Shoes/wings
- • Hoses sections
- • Swivels
- • Flow regulator
- • Skirts/seals
Pressure Parts
- • Tires
- • Wheel bearings
- • Debris bags
- • Sweep hose
- • Backup valve
- • Drive belts
Pool Cleaner Repair Costs
Automatic Cleaner Service Costs
🔧 DIY Attempt
⚠️ Risks:
- • Incorrect part installation
- • Missing underlying pump/flow issues
- • Voiding warranty with improper repairs
- • Ordering wrong replacement parts
👷 Professional Service
✅ Includes:
- • Complete cleaner inspection
- • Wear part replacement
- • Pattern adjustment
- • Flow/pressure testing
- • Cleaning system optimization
- • Warranty on repairs
💰 Value Tip: CoOpPools offers transparent pricing with no hidden fees. Our worker-owned model means fair prices and invested service.
Keep Your Cleaner Running
Prevention Tips
Regular Filter Cleaning
Clean cleaner filters/bags after each use for optimal performance
Proper Storage
Store cleaner out of sun when not in use to prevent UV damage
Replace Wear Parts Annually
Change brushes, wheels, and diaphragms before they fail completely
Maintain Proper Water Chemistry
Balanced water prevents premature wear of cleaner components
Professional Annual Service
Have cleaner inspected and serviced for optimal performance
🏊 Pro Tip: Regular professional maintenance prevents 90% of pool problems.Get your maintenance quote today
Need Professional Help?
Pool cleaner not working properly? Our technicians service all types of automatic cleaners - robotic, suction, and pressure models. We provide expert diagnostics, wear part replacement, and performance optimization to keep your pool spotless. From simple repairs to complete rebuilds, we'll get your cleaner running like new.
Mention "automatic pool cleaner issues" when calling for faster service
Related Pool Problems
Related Pool Problems
Low Water Flow
Often RelatedAffects suction and pressure cleaners
Pump Not Priming
Sometimes RelatedSuction cleaners need proper pump operation
Debris in Pool
Sometimes RelatedResult of cleaner not working properly
💡 Did You Know? Pool problems often occur together.Automatic Cleaner Problems can lead to or be caused by these related issues. Understanding the connections helps prevent future problems.