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Why Is My Pool Cleaner Stuck or Not Moving?

A pool cleaner that stops moving usually has a full bag or basket, a clogged hose or throat, low water flow, or worn parts such as wheels, belts, tracks, or a diaphragm. Start by emptying the cleaner and cleaning the pool filter and baskets, because most cleaners depend on good flow. If it still will not move, bring it to Top Dog Pool Supply. We repair pool cleaners in the store and carry replacements from Pentair, Hayward, Zodiac, and Polaris.
Pentair variable-speed pool pump sold and installed by Top Dog Pool Supply in Bakersfield

What should I check on a suction-side cleaner?

  • Clean the skimmer basket, pump basket, and filter. Low suction is the most common cause.
  • Check the hose for leaks, cracks, and loose connections. Air in the hose kills suction.
  • Look in the throat of the cleaner for a rock, twig, or toy.
  • Check the diaphragm or flapper inside for tears.
  • Check the foot pad, wings, and wheels for wear.

What should I check on a pressure-side cleaner?

  • Empty the bag.
  • Make sure the booster pump is running, if your cleaner has one.
  • Clean the small screen where the hose connects to the wall.
  • Check the wheels, belts, and tires for wear. A wheel that does not turn points to a worn belt or bearing.
  • Check the hose and swivels for leaks, and make sure the sweep tail is spraying.

What should I check on a robotic cleaner?

  • Empty and rinse the filter basket or bag.
  • Check that the power supply is on and the cable is fully plugged in.
  • Untangle the cable. A twisted cable keeps the cleaner from turning.
  • Check the tracks, brushes, and wheels for wear, and for hair or string wrapped around them.
  • With the power unplugged, look in the impeller opening on top for debris.

Why does my cleaner get stuck in one spot?

Cleaners hang up on main drains, steps, ladders, and tight corners. The usual causes are a hose that is too long, too short, or coiled from storage, a return jet pushing the hose around, or worn parts that have lost their grip. Lay a coiled hose out straight in the sun to relax it, aim the return jets downward, and check that the hose length matches your pool.

When should I bring it in?

Bring the cleaner in if it still will not move after these checks, if parts are visibly worn or broken, or if it runs but leaves the pool dirty. Our technicians find the problem and fix it in the store. If it is time for a new one, we will help you pick the right cleaner for your pool.

Why is my pool cleaner moving slowly?

Usually low flow. Clean the filter and baskets and check the hose for leaks. Worn wheels, tracks, or a tired diaphragm also slow a cleaner down.

Do I still need to brush if I have a pool cleaner?

Yes. Cleaners miss steps, corners, and walls.

Can you repair my pool cleaner?

Yes. We repair pool cleaners in the store. Bring the cleaner in and we will take a look.

Don't cry, we can help

Bring the part, a photo, or the model number to Top Dog Pool Supply, and we'll help you figure out what it needs. We repair and install pool equipment and are an authorized service center for most major brands. Visit us at 7440 District Blvd Suite B, Bakersfield, CA 93313, or call (661) 664-9000. We're open Monday to Friday 9 to 5, Saturday 9 to 4, and Sundays 10 to 4 from April through September. Financing is available through GreenSky: 12 monthly payments on pool equipment, interest-free when paid in full within 12 months, subject to credit approval. Call (661) 664-9000 for details.

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ADDRESS
7440 District Blvd Suite B Bakersfield, CA 93313
Phone: (661) 664-9000
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Service Area
Bakersfield, CA, with Zip Codes 93301, 93304, 93305, 93306, 93309, 93311, 93312, 93313, and 93314 HOURS Mon–Fri: 9am–5pm Sat: 9am–4pm Sun: 10am–4pm (April–September)
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