Have you noticed your pool vacuum not moving? This step-by-step guide will help you get your pool cleaner working properly again.
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Pool vacuums are a helpful asset to maintaining a clean pool. This piece of equipment cleans the walls and floors of your pool, making maintenance easier. But what happens when the pool vacuum stops working? If you find your pool vacuum stuck in place, the team at ePoolSupply is here to help. Below, we’ll take a look at why this happens, how to troubleshoot issues, and give you step-by-step solutions to restore its normal operation.
Common Reasons Your Pool Vacuum Isn’t Moving
There are several types of pool cleaners and each one faces its own issues. Let’s explore each type of pool cleaner and the common issues they experience.
Suction-Side Pool Cleaners
When suction-side pool cleaners stop working, it can usually be traced back to a clogged or disconnected hose. Other common issues known for causing a suction-side pool cleaner to stop moving include:
- A clogged skimmer or pump basket
- Air leaks in the suction line
- Blocked pool cleaner hose
- Dirty or clogged pool filter
Pressure-Side Pool Cleaners
Pressure-side pool cleaners are shaft, belt, or chain-driven. Issues related to this style of operation can most certainly be the root cause of the pool vacuum not moving. Even debris like rocks or sand can create complications and prevent the equipment from working.
Other common causes include:
- Insufficient water pressure from the return line
- Broken or worn-out booster pump
- Clogged filters inside the cleaner
- A damaged or tangled hose
- Issues with the power train
Robotic Pool Cleaners
Problems related to robotic pool cleaners are relatively easier to diagnose because they don’t rely on connections to the pool itself. Start by analyzing its power supply, this will give you a good idea of if it has to do with the cleaner or not.
Robotic pool cleaners can stop moving and cease to function due to:
- Power supply issues
- A tangled or damaged cable
- Dirty filter canister
- Software malfunctions
With any type of pool cleaner, learning how to vacuum your pool effectively and staying on top of routine maintenance is key.
Pool Cleaner Troubleshooting: Step-By-Step Guide
Now that we’ve covered the types of pool cleaners and what may cause them to stop moving, let’s look at what troubleshooting steps you can take to evaluate the problem and get your pool vacuum back up and running. Follow these steps to troubleshoot your pool cleaner issue:
- Check the Pool Pump and Filter: Make sure each is clean and functioning properly.
- Inspect Hoses and Connections: Inspect each hose and connection for clogs, cracks, or air leaks.
- Test the Water Pressure: If the water pressure isn’t where it should be, make adjustments to the valves.
- Examine the Cleaner’s Components: Inspect the cleaner’s wheels, brushes, and internal parts for signs of issues.
- Power and Cable Checks (for Robotic Pool Cleaners): Make sure the power supply is connected and the cables are not tangled or have signs of damage.
Following these troubleshooting steps should give you a good idea of what may be the cause of your pool cleaner not moving. Identifying the issue can help you determine what to do next if further action needs to be taken to repair your pool cleaner.
Fixing Your Pool Cleaner
After following the above steps, the best-case scenario would be a simple fix like a slight adjustment or securing a loose connection. This isn’t always the case. Depending on the severity of the problem, new parts or professional repair could be required. Here are some potential avenues you may need to take to get your pool cleaner functioning again.
Pool Cleaner Parts You May Need
Sometimes, repairing or replacing the pool cleaner’s parts is the only solution. Pool cleaners come with a host of components, the troubleshooting guide makes sure each base is covered. During the troubleshooting process, you may realize that these parts could require repair or replacement:
- Pool cleaner hoses
- Skimmer baskets
- Pressure valves
- Booster pump components
- Vacuum belts or brushes
- Electrical parts for robotic cleaners
When To See a Professional for Pool Vacuum Repair
Pool cleaners and pool equipment as a whole can seem complex and overwhelming. Not many pool owners can effectively fix problems with their pool cleaner or other equipment on their own. In instances like these, it’s a good idea to turn to someone who knows what to do.
Pool repair professionals come equipped with the expertise and experience to accurately diagnose the problem with your pool cleaner. After they’ve uncovered the problem, they’ll be able to let you know which steps need to be taken next. Choosing to take on repairs by yourself runs the risk of not finding the issue or making it worse.
Other instances where it’s best to see a professional for pool vacuum repair include:
- Persistent movement issues after troubleshooting
- Electrical malfunctions (especially for robotic pool cleaners)
- Booster pump repairs
- Warranty concerns for high-end models
Need assistance with pool parts or repair? Visit the ePoolSuppy store today, we’re happy to help repair your pool cleaner!
FAQ: Pool Vacuum Issues
Why is my pool vacuum moving but not picking up debris?
If you’ve noticed your pool vacuum is moving but it’s not picking up debris, it is most likely clogged. Start by clearing the clog in the suction throat of the cleaner. If this doesn’t do the trick, move to the debris bag or basket and empty it. For this issue for suction cleaners, the pool filter may need to be cleaned.
Why is my pool vacuum staying in one place?
A pool vacuum staying in one place can vary on the type of cleaner. Pressure pool cleaners can be confined in their movement due to booster pump issues or an issue related to their wheels. For suction-side pool cleaners, the cleaner hose could lack a secure connection or there could be air leaks in the hose. When it comes to robotic cleaners, it could be related to the power supply, faulty wiring, or motor.
Why is my pool cleaner getting stuck?
Pool cleaners can get stuck on obstructions in their path like the ladders and handrails of a pool. If you find this is an issue for your pool cleaner, consider adjustments to the hose length or placement of the control box if you have a robotic cleaner.
Why is my pool cleaner not climbing the walls?
Your pool cleaner may fail to climb the pools of your wall if:
- The cleaner is not meant to traverse walls
- The float/weight position needs to be changed to allow it to climb
- The flow regulator valve needs to be adjusted
- Parts like the tire or skirt may need to be repaired or replaced
- The length of the hose needs to be adjusted