If you have an automatic pool cleaner, you know how handy it can be. These devices help to clean the entire surface of your pool, removing floating particles and debris. They work by traveling along the floor and walls of your pool, and also directing any contaminant particles into an internal filter bag. Often, these cleaners can encounter issues that affect their ability to work properly. Fixing these issues can help your automatic pool cleaner perform like it should.

If your pool cleaner is constantly flipping over, it may be due to a problem with the suction flow or cleaning pattern. You can easily correct these issues by adjusting the cleaner speed and direction.

Alternatively, your pool cleaner could be struggling because it doesn’t have enough suction power to climb the wall. If this is the case, you can adjust the suction flow by relocating the float on your cleaner or by adding additional hose sections.

Another common reason your cleaner might not be able to reach all areas of the pool is because of an inadequate length of hose. To solve this issue, you can measure the distance from the quick disconnect on the wall to the farthest point of your pool and cut the lead hose section (the first part of the hose that is connected directly to the cleaner) to match that measurement.

This is a very easy fix, and can be done by simply following the directions in your owner’s manual. You should also check that the booster pump is on and that there is at least 30 psi of pressure in the hose. Lastly, a dirty filter and skimmer basket can also prevent your cleaner from working correctly.

If your cleaner gets stuck on a ladder or handrail, you can install a ladder guard kit to block the path of the cleaner or shorten the hose slightly for entry step handrails. You can also adjust the thrust jets, hose floats or hose weights to change the cleaner direction and speed.

A pool cleaner with worn tires will not be able to travel as quickly as it should, and this can cause issues when trying to vacuum or scrub the bottom of your pool. To test if your tire’s are worn down, mark the center of one and submerge it underwater. Then, set a timer for a minute and count the number of times the wheel rotates. You can then compare your result to the manual’s recommended RPM setting and adjust accordingly. This will restore the proper balance to your cleaner wheels and reduce friction that causes tangles. You can also purchase replacements for your pool cleaner tires if necessary. You can find these at your local pool store.