Keeping your pool sparkling clean can be a handful, with nearly half of pool owners facing hurdles in this department. Automatic pool cleaners are supposed to take care of the dirty work for you. But, just like any other gadget, they can throw a wrench in the works now and then. The key to enjoying their benefits is knowing what could go wrong and how to set it right. So, let’s dive into some typical pool cleaner issues and their DIY solutions.
Filter Clogging
When your pool cleaner’s filter gets funked up with fine debris, leaves, or just plain dirt, it won’t clean as well. It’s a good idea to give your filter a thorough inspection and cleaning regularly. A quick tip is to give it a good rinse after every cleaning session, especially during the times you use the pool a lot. If you’re looking at the filter bag or basket, and thinking it’s seen better days, it might be time to swap it out with a new one, depending on how often you use your pool.
Suction Struggles
Weak suction can mean your automatic pool cleaner isn’t living up to its promise. It’s usually because the pump pressure is lower than it should be or there’s a leak in the works. Check the pump pressure, and make sure it’s what the manufacturer recommends. If you find any tears or leaks in the hose, it’s time for a new one.
Programming Puzzles
Your robotic pool cleaner might not be doing its job right if it’s not programmed for your pool’s size and shape. This can lead to some spots getting ignored. Take a peek at the manual to see if you’ve set it up correctly. Play around with different cycles to find the sweet spot that covers your pool like a pro.
The Stuck-on-the-Steps Situation
Like it or not, automatic pool cleaners sometimes get stuck. It’s pretty common, about one in five users deal with this. The usual suspects are corners, ladders or steps. Make sure you’ve cleared the pool of any obstacles, and tweak the cleaning patterns if you need to.
Lopsided Cleaning Coverage
If your automatic pool cleaner isn’t covering the whole pool evenly, it might be due to how you’ve installed it or the pool’s design. Try moving it around a bit or tweak the cleaning time. Also, check for anything that could be blocking its path.
Wheel Worries
Wheels and tracks on your automatic pool cleaner can wear out, just like the tires on your car. This can make it clean less effectively. If they’re looking worse for wear, you might need to replace them after a season or two.
Pump Problems
The pool pump (or booster pump) is like the heart of your automatic pool cleaner. If it’s not working right, the whole system can take a hit. Look out for strange sounds or if the water isn’t moving like it should. If it’s clogged, unblock it. If it’s more serious, you might need a pool professional to take a look at it.
Diaphragm and Valve Dramas
These parts are like the muscles and joints of the cleaner. If something’s off, you might hear funny noises. If you suspect damage, swap them out for new ones.
Power Cord Predicaments
Damaged power cords are a big no-no. They can cause a robotic pool cleaner to stop working or even pose a safety risk. Keep an eye out for frays and replace the cord if it looks like it’s seen better days.
Wiring Woes
Loose or damaged wiring can cause all sorts of trouble. If you’re noticing performance issues, it could be water damage or corrosion. Tighten things up and get a professional to look at it if it’s more than you can handle.
Control Box Chaos
The control box is like the robotic pool cleaner’s brain. If it’s acting up, your pool robot might be too. Hit the reset button when things go haywire. If that doesn’t work, you might need a repair or a new control box after you talk to a professional.
Chemical Conundrum
Improperly balanced pool water and harsh chemicals can damage your pool cleaner’s parts, which can mess up its performance. Keep an eye on your water chemistry to keep things running smoothly.
The Algae Takeover
Algae is a sneaky culprit that can clog filters and make your automatic pool cleaner’s job harder. Keep your chlorine levels in check and give the pool a good shock after heavy rain to keep it at bay. However, let the shock treatment do its thing for a day or two before you put the automatic pool cleaner into the pool, to prevent any chemical damage to the pool cleaner’s plastic parts.
Debris Domination
Even with an automatic pool cleaner, some leaves and twigs can sneak in and cause problems. Skim the pool once a week to keep things tidy, and think about using either a solar-powered robotic pool skimmer or an automatic pool cover in peak seasons to keep the extra mess out.
The Bottom Line
Taking care of your automatic pool cleaner might seem like a chore, but it’s doable. Just keep an eye on the manual for tips tailored to your model and stay on top of regular maintenance. By doing these simple checks, you can keep your pool cleaner in tip-top shape and enjoy a clean pool all season long.
Photo by Dave Clubb on Unsplash.