The Hayward Navigator Pro suction-side automatic inground pool cleaner has a long history of cleaning residential inground pools. Even so, is it still worth the cost, or is it just an albatross hanging around your neck?
Introduction
The Hayward Navigator Pro is made for cleaning inground residential swimming pools up to 20 feet by 40 feet. It shares the same basic turbine suction design with the Pool Vac XL and Pool Vac Classic. These Hayward turbine pool cleaners use vacuum power from the pool pump and filter system. Therefore, the Navigator Pro only moves when the pool pump is running. It does not require a booster pump to work.
There are two basic models available:
- 925ADC is suitable for concrete pool surfaces.
- 925ADV is best for vinyl pool surfaces.
Both models have the same pool cleaner head, but the “feet” are made from different materials to accommodate the different pool surface materials.
Hayward Navigator Pro vs. Pool Vac XL
The only difference I could find was the shape of the pool cleaner head. The Pool Vac XL has a slightly larger head. The Navigator Pro, Pool Vac XL and Pool Vac Classic provides the same suction-side pool cleaning performance. For example, a single owner’s manual covers the installation, maintenance and troubleshooting for all three Hayward turbine pool cleaner models.
The Pool Vac Classic might be the oldest model of the three, so I would not buy it. There is only one model number available, which is made for cleaning concrete pools.
The Pool Vac XL might be slightly more expensive, but that does not necessarily make it better at cleaning swimming pools. Really, you can buy either one because there is almost no difference between them.
Installation
The Navigator Pro is not difficult to install. However, you should prepare the swimming before installing the automatic pool cleaner. It should be free from large debris and algae. The pool filter also needs cleaning and backwashing. Check the level and chemistry of the water in the pool. You are then ready to install the Navigator pool cleaner.
The Navigator Pro comes with nine connector hoses and one leader hose. This is enough hose for swimming pools up to 20 feet by 40 feet. You can purchase extra hose sections if your inground pool is larger than 40 feet.
The pool cleaner hose is connected to either the skimmer or a dedicated suction port. You can use a skimmer cone adapter (V093C) to insert it into the skimmer or install a Hayward Vac Lock for the dedicated suction line.
The next thing to do is to check the water flow with the flow gauge. The reading should be between the minimum and maximum markings. If the water flow at the skimmer is too strong, then you might have to insert a regulator valve (V094) into the cone adapter to decrease the flow. If the suction at the Hayward Vac Lock is too much, then you need to adjust the water flow with the pool filter system valve.
Follow the rest of the instructions in the manual to set up, submerge, observe and adjust the behavior of the pool cleaner.
Does the Navigator Pro climb pool walls?
This depends mostly on the angle where pool floor and wall meet. Fiberglass pools tend to have more curved angles, and the Navigator might clean the lower part of the wall. This does not hold true for inground vinyl-lined pools, and the cleaner will only clean the bottom. Therefore, the Navigator Pro does not climb vertical pool walls.
Which parts need maintenance?
You should regularly check the flaps, wings and shoes for excessive wear. These parts all have different types of wear indicators to give you a hint when they need replacement. You only require a screwdriver to replace these parts, which is quite easy.
There is also a small removable plate on the bottom of the pool cleaner which provides quick access to the turbine vacuum chamber. Loosen the screw, remove the plate, and remove any debris from the turbine chamber. Replace the plate and tighten the screw.
You should send the Navigator Pro to a dealer if the skirt or mid-section needs replacement.
What is included with the Navigator Pro?
Forty feet of hose, cone adapter, regulator valve and flow gauge are included with the pool cleaner head.
Hayward Navigator Pro: Verdict
These Hayward turbine pool cleaners have the advantage of quiet operation when compared to other suction pool cleaners such as the Kreepy Krauly or Baracuda G3. However, the Kreepy Krauly and G3 have only one moving part: the diaphragm, which makes the cleaner move but which also creates a “flapping” noise. The Navigator has more parts that need replacement due to its internal turbine, feet and wings. I would probably consider buying the Baracuda G3 or a newer suction pool cleaner such as the Hayward Aquanaut.
As noted, the Hayward Navigator Pro has feet and wings. In spite of this, most pool owners do not experience it as the metaphorical albatross. Nevertheless, a small percentage of owners regretted their purchase and thought it was more of a punishment than a pleasure (click here for pricing and reviews on Amazon).