A service experts guide to automatic pool cleaner maintenance

by jason_cramp | June 3, 2024 8:08 pm

By Guy Erlich[1]Today’s pool professionals have learned to integrate automatic pool cleaners into their service routines, while retailers often sell these maintenance accessories to their customers. Given the wide array of automatic pool cleaners available in the market, it is essential for industry professionals to be proficient in troubleshooting common issues and rectifying user errors. Automatic pool cleaners, similar to other robotic products, are susceptible to malfunctions caused by user error or defective components. This article offers several troubleshooting techniques for service and retail professionals to address when automatic pool cleaners are not functioning correctly.

What causes an automatic pool cleaner to flip or do wheelies?

One of the most common causes for automatic pool cleaners flipping over is an excessively high-water level. When the pool’s skimmer water level is too high, the water line approaches too close to the coping. Consequently, as the automatic cleaner attempts to ascend the pool wall, it collides with the coping and flips onto its back. This situation is harmful to the cleaner’s motor(s) as it becomes exposed above the water, rather than being submerged. Normally, the motor is cooled by the surrounding water; hence, if it is deprived of this cooling effect, the motor can quickly overheat and potentially fail. Further, the motor’s failure could occur within an hour if it remains out of water, and in extremely hot conditions (e.g. 32 C [90 F]), failure may happen in just a few minutes.

Another potential reason for automatic pool cleaners flipping or performing “wheelies” is a malfunction or breakdown of the internal pump motor. Such a failure can disrupt the cleaner’s stability, creating an imbalance that makes it more susceptible to flipping. When the motor does not operate correctly, the cleaner may lose its proper alignment, increasing the chances of it tipping over or lifting its front end as it tries to scale the pool walls. This situation can further damage the motor if it is exposed to air rather than being submerged. To prevent these problems, it is essential to maintain the pool’s water level and ensure the internal pump motor remains in good working condition.

Adding to the complexities of maintaining an automatic pool cleaner, a frequent issue encountered by homeowners using these systems for the first time is neglecting to expel all the air from the unit before operation. This oversight can lead to the cleaner flipping or performing wheelies, as well as hindering its proper function. When air remains within the unit, it may cause the cleaner to float, sometimes hovering about 25.4 mm (1 in.) off the pool floor. While it may appear to be moving and working, the cleaner fails to contact the floor to collect any debris. Therefore, it is important for service and retail professionals to advise their customers that removing all the air from the cleaner can take up to 30 minutes, ensuring the device operates effectively and safely.

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To achieve this, the pool cleaner should be submerged and shaken from side to side and up and down to observe the release of air bubbles. After the air has been expelled, it is crucial to closely monitor the automatic pool cleaner to confirm it effectively reaches and cleans the shallow end floor.

Additionally, it is worth noting that issues with the cleaner could also stem from a weak pump motor or one that operates too slowly. In such instances, replacing the motor might be the necessary course of action.

To assess the pump motor’s performance and determine if it is weak or operating too slowly, users should consult the manufacturer’s troubleshooting guidelines and specifications. These resources provide key indicators of normal operation and highlight potential warning signs of reduced efficiency. A multimeter may be required to measure electrical outputs and compare them against the manufacturer’s specifications. Observing variations in voltage or current readings can help identify electrical faults or motor deficiencies. Additionally, listen for unusual noises that could indicate wear or damage to internal components. By following these troubleshooting steps, users can better assess motor efficiency before considering a replacement, potentially saving both time and cost.

Here are some comparable, specific issues service and retail professionals frequently encounter with automatic pool cleaners:

Cleaner fails to rest flat on the pool floor

This issue often arises because the polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) brushes have not properly absorbed water, a common problem with a straightforward solution. Allowing the automatic cleaner to remain in the pool for at least 30 minutes, or until the brushes become soft, will resolve this. Soft brushes enable the unit to rest flat against the pool floor.

To maintain their condition and ensure optimal performance, it is essential to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for proper storage and maintenance. Brushes should be inspected periodically throughout the season for signs of wear and effectiveness, and pre-season checks should be done before using the cleaner to confirm they are still soft and capable of making good contact with the pool floor. Replacing them promptly if wear is evident can prevent performance issues and prolong the life of the cleaner.

Cleaner struggles to ascend walls

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The inability of a cleaner to climb walls can often be attributed to basic issues such as overly cold pool water. For optimal operation, the water temperature should be no less than 15.5 C (60 F).

Additionally, water infiltration into the cleaner’s handle can lead to a loss of suction as the brushes lift away from the wall, preventing the unit from climbing. To address this, users might adjust the handle’s angle to drain the water or, in more severe cases, consider replacing the handle.

Should the pool’s temperature meet the minimum requirement and the handle remains dry, yet climbing issues persist, a faulty pump motor or propeller could be at fault. Under these circumstances, early shutdown of the unit is common, signalling a need for pump motor replacement by service or retail professionals.

Certain types of automatic pool cleaners are more prone to climbing issues, particularly robotic cleaners that feature inferior scrubbers and brushes. These models may struggle to climb walls in colder water due to inadequate grip and less flexible materials. Preventative measures to enhance climbing ability include choosing models with high-quality, temperature-resistant brushes and maintaining them regularly to ensure consistent flexibility. Additionally, ensure the pool cleaner’s settings are properly configured to optimize its grip and climbing power. For robotic models, keeping the brushes clean and soft is crucial, while manual checks for debris buildup around the propellers can further ensure reliable operation.

Cleaner tumbles down from pool wall

If the cleaner begins its ascent up the pool wall but then falls backward, it is often due to water accumulation inside the cleaner’s handle. A cracked handle exacerbates this problem by allowing water to enter, thus interfering with the cleaner’s functionality.

To check for water inside the handle, remove the cleaner from the pool and set it on the deck. Gently sway the handle back and forth, listening for the sound of sloshing water, which indicates the presence of water inside.

Cleaner remains stationary or exhibits erratic movement

Initially, verify the power connection to ensure it is properly plugged into the electrical outlet. If the cleaner is moving erratically or in short, jerky motions, a worn-out drive belt may be the culprit, and replacing it can rectify the issue.

Another common cause is debris lodged in the drive pulleys. Inspecting and clearing out any obstructions is crucial before attempting to use the cleaner again. Should the pulley teeth be damaged or absent, a pulley replacement will be necessary. Additionally, inspect the brushes and drive tracks for signs of wear and tear, as these components may also need replacing due to regular usage.

Lastly, examine the bottom lid assembly to confirm it is correctly fastened. An unsecured lid can drag along the pool floor, leading to irregular cleaner movement. If necessary, flip the system over to secure the lid properly. In some cases, replacing worn-out lock tabs might be required to ensure the cleaner operates smoothly.

Maximizing the pool cleaner’s lifespan

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Motor overheating stands as a significant concern for pool owners, potentially shortening the life of their cleaners. Several factors contribute to this issue. For example, for pools with beach entries, it is advised to employ automatic cleaners that feature pump motors equipped with sensors capable of detecting zero-depth water levels. This technology prevents the cleaner from leaving the water, which is crucial because a cleaner that wanders out of the pool is at elevated risk of motor failure due to overheating. Without such preventative measures, an automatic cleaner may inadvertently exit the pool, leading to premature motor failure from excessive heat.

To extend the motor life and prevent overheating, particularly in pools with challenging designs such as beach entries, ensure that each cleaner is used within its specified minimum operational depth. Adhering to this depth is vital to prevent the cleaner from leaving the water and exposing the motor. Additionally, using high-quality robot batteries can help reduce the risk of overheating, both for the motor and the battery itself. Investing in well-made batteries and motors can protect the cleaner from early failure, providing more reliable performance even in challenging pool designs.

Certain models are equipped with “air sensors” that are prone to failure due to their susceptibility to moisture-induced corrosion or mechanical part blockages. A more reliable alternative involves opting for pool cleaners that have a drive motor designed to monitor the pump’s voltage draw. When this voltage decreases, the drive motor interprets this as the cleaner being out of water and automatically changes direction. This feature effectively prevents the cleaner from leaving the pool area, ensuring the motor remains submerged and significantly reducing the risk of overheating.

Using a pool cleaner equipped with a guidance system, which targets the areas of the pool that require the most cleaning, also minimizes wear and tear on the cleaner’s motor, gears, belts, and tracks. This efficiency arises because it can complete pool cleanings more quickly, thereby reducing unnecessary operation and prolonging the equipment’s lifespan.

Further, while most automatic cleaners require servicing after each season, those equipped with a guidance system typically need tune-ups only every two years. Regular tune-ups play a crucial role in extending the motor’s lifespan.

Eliminate redundant cleaning efforts

Automatic pool cleaners equipped with guidance features employ advanced mathematical algorithms to methodically clean every square inch of the pool. This approach avoids the extra time other robotic cleaners may require, which often rely on less efficient, random cleaning patterns.

Positioning the unit at the centre of the shallow end, against the back wall and facing the deep end, enables the automatic pool cleaner to calculate the pool’s dimensions from end to end and side to side. It then selects the most efficient cleaning pattern. Using a microprocessor, the cleaner assesses the pool’s layout as it moves, reaching all the way to the deep-end wall. Typically, these systems recalibrate and measure the pool each time it is placed into the water.

Yet, a common oversight is placing the pool cleaner in any random location within the shallow end, as might be suggested in the installation or start-up instructions. Without beginning from the correct position, the cleaner cannot accurately determine the pool’s dimensions or identify the most effective cleaning pattern. This can lead to extended cleaning durations and the risk of overlooking certain pool areas.

Further, a significant misunderstanding among pool owners involves the timing of cleaning after chemical treatment. Many users immediately deploy their pool cleaners after treating or shocking their pools following heavy use, which leads to severe degradation of parts and corrosion. Consumer education could greatly benefit from highlighting the importance of waiting a minimum of 24 hours after chemical treatment before placing the cleaner in the pool.

What about spot cleaning?

Certain robotic pool cleaners are equipped with an infrared obstacle detection system and come with a remote control, making them perfect for targeted spot cleaning tasks. These cleaners typically function independently from the pool’s filtration system and include sensors designed for pools with beach entries and ramps.

Certain robotic pool cleaners are equipped with an infrared obstacle detection system and come with a remote control, making them perfect for targeted spot cleaning tasks. These cleaners typically function independently from the pool’s filtration system and include sensors designed for pools with beach entries and ramps.

However, while these features can be helpful, they still lack the accuracy and efficiency of handheld cleaners for spot cleaning. Robotic and automatic pool cleaners often struggle with fine debris such as sand, which remains a common complaint among users. For the best results, manually operated handheld cleaners continue to be the most effective option.

Tips for commercial automatic pool cleaners

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For commercial pools, wall cleaning is often performed manually, with the automatic cleaner being used primarily for floor maintenance. Consequently, service professionals are advised to select an automatic cleaner that offers the flexibility to switch between “floor/wall” and “floor only” modes at the touch of a button.

On occasions, commercial pools may accumulate such a level of dirt that a single cleaning session is not sufficient. An advantageous feature to consider in this scenario is the “time delay” function, enabling the cleaner to be programmed to restart three to five hours after concluding its initial cycle. This interval allows unsettled dirt to descend back to the pool floor, ensuring it is addressed during the subsequent cleaning round.

While advanced features can certainly help with the rigorous demands of commercial pool cleaning, daily, weekly, and monthly care and maintenance remain the most effective strategies for keeping automatic cleaners in top condition. Regularly cleaning filters, brushes, and other critical components will improve efficiency and reduce long-term maintenance costs.

Lastly, the inclusion of a service light on automatic commercial pool cleaners is a critical feature. It signals to the operator when maintenance is required, thereby ensuring the cleaner functions efficiently and reaches its maximum lifespan.

Remember to consult the manufacturer:

Should any of the issues qualify for warranty coverage or necessitate repairs, it is important to contact the product’s manufacturer. They usually provide access to a certified service centre for the repair of the cleaner.

Automatic robotic pool cleaners significantly benefit the aquatic service industry. By incorporating these devices into their maintenance routines, service professionals can allocate less time to manual cleaning and more time to profitable servicing tasks or to increasing the number of pools they can service within an hour. Additionally, offering automatic pool cleaners to clients ensures they can enjoy their pools with minimal maintenance effort.

Pool Cleaning Tech

Pros and Cons of Different Automatic Cleaners

When it comes to keeping pools pristine, which automatic pool cleaner should one choose? Each type comes with unique challenges and advantages. Here is a quick breakdown:

Type	Pros	Cons
Pressure-side cleaners	Does not use the skimmer or filter	Higher electricity usage
	Self-contained debris collection	Can be a costly investment
	Some models offer multi-bag systems for fine debris	Requires regular “tune-ups” due to numerous parts that can break and need replacement
Suction-side cleaners	Highly affordable compared to other types	Debris passes through the skimmer and filter, requiring additional work like backwashing
		Difficult to prime the hose to generate suction
		Higher electricity usage
Robotic cleaners	Self-contained debris collection	High upfront cost for quality models
	User-friendly operation	Cords may tangle
	Capable of scrubbing walls and floors	Requires increased maintenance to avoid part failures and replacement
		Higher electricity usage
		Transformer and cord are susceptible to damage from weather and regular use
		To assess the pump motor’s performance and determine if it is weak or operating too slowly.

[6]Guy Erlich is the founder and president of Water Tech Corp., a manufacturer of pool and hot tub cleaners in East Brunswick, New Jersey. He can be reached at guy@watertechcorp.com[7].

Source URL: https://www.poolspamarketing.com/trade/features/a-service-experts-guide-to-automatic-pool-cleaner-maintenance/

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