Owning a pool brings relaxation and fun, but keeping it clean requires consistent effort. Automatic pool cleaners, including robotic models like Dolphin, have made pool maintenance easier than ever. These devices efficiently scrub, vacuum, and filter debris, saving you time and energy. However, just like any piece of equipment, pool cleaners require regular upkeep to function optimally. Neglecting maintenance can lead to reduced performance or even costly repairs down the line.
Maintaining pool equipment is crucial to avoid costly repairs and ensure efficient operation. Regular inspections and addressing any signs of damage can help manage malfunctioning equipment and improve overall pool maintenance.
In this article, we’ll explore five common signs that your pool cleaner, whether it’s a Dolphin or another brand, might need maintenance. By recognizing these issues early, you can prolong your cleaner’s lifespan and ensure your pool stays sparkling clean.
1. Reduced Cleaning Performance Due to Algae Growth
If your pool cleaner isn’t doing as thorough a job as it once did, it’s a clear sign that something may be wrong. Whether it’s a robotic cleaner like Dolphin, a suction cleaner, or a pressure cleaner, reduced cleaning efficiency can be caused by several factors, including algae growth:
Clogged filters or bags: Over time, debris such as leaves, dirt, and algae accumulate in the filter or debris bag, reducing the cleaner’s suction power. Cleaning or replacing these regularly is essential to maintaining performance. Improper chemical balance can also lead to reduced cleaning efficiency by contributing to cloudy water and algae growth.
Worn brushes or parts: If the cleaner isn’t scrubbing the walls or floor as effectively, check the brushes for signs of wear. Worn-out brushes or rollers won’t provide the friction needed to remove dirt, and this is particularly true for Dolphin’s specialized brushes.
Debris lodged in moving parts: Dirt and small objects can get stuck in the wheels or tracks of a robotic cleaner or obstruct the hose of a suction cleaner, leading to poor mobility and cleaning efficiency.
2. Frequent Stoppages or Malfunctions in Pool Maintenance
Has your pool cleaner been stopping unexpectedly or not finishing its cleaning cycle? This could indicate an internal problem. Several potential causes include:
Power or connection issues: For robotic models like Dolphin, check the power supply, cable connections, and ensure the device is receiving sufficient power. If it’s a suction cleaner, verify that the pool pump is functioning properly.
Obstructions in the cleaner’s path: Twigs, stones, or other debris can obstruct the cleaner’s movement, particularly in robotic models. These can cause the cleaner to shut down mid-cycle. Poor water circulation can also cause the cleaner to stop unexpectedly due to inadequate water flow.
Motor problems: Robotic pool cleaners rely on motors to move and clean, and if there’s an issue with the motor, the device may stop running altogether. If your Dolphin cleaner is frequently malfunctioning, it might require a motor check or replacement.
3. Unusual Noises
While pool cleaners aren’t completely silent, any new or unusual noises should be investigated. This applies to all types of cleaners:
Grinding or rattling: If you hear grinding, it could indicate debris is caught in the moving parts, such as the impeller or wheels. In Dolphin cleaners, it’s crucial to inspect the motor or brush components for blockages.
Squealing or whining: This sound might indicate that the bearings in the motor or wheels are worn out and need lubrication or replacement. Unusual noises can also indicate issues with pool equipment, such as worn-out bearings or motor problems.
Excessive noise from the pump: For suction or pressure cleaners, excessive noise could point to a problem with the pool’s pump or filtration system, such as air leaks or clogs.
4. Limited Mobility of Pool Equipment
If your pool cleaner is struggling to move around the pool or keeps getting stuck in one area, it’s time to troubleshoot. Pool cleaners, especially robotic models like Dolphin, rely on smooth navigation to cover the entire pool effectively. Mobility issues can arise from:
Damaged tracks or wheels: Robotic cleaners like Dolphin use tracks or wheels to move along the pool floor and walls. If these are worn out or broken, the cleaner won’t move smoothly. Algae growth on pool walls can also hinder the cleaner’s mobility.
Tangling cables or hoses: Robotic pool cleaners come with long cables that can sometimes become tangled during operation. Ensure the cable is free of twists before starting the cleaning cycle. For suction cleaners, tangled or kinked hoses can restrict movement, limiting the cleaner’s reach.
Blocked intakes or suction ports: Obstructions in the intake or suction ports can reduce mobility and cleaning efficiency. Check the intakes for debris regularly. Proper water circulation is crucial for ensuring the cleaner can move freely and cover the entire pool.
5. Visible Wear and Tear from Improper Chemical Balance
Finally, if your pool cleaner is showing obvious signs of wear, it’s likely time for maintenance or replacement of parts. This is particularly relevant for older models or heavily-used cleaners. Look out for:
Cracked or broken parts: Over time, parts like casings, wheels, and hoses can develop cracks or breaks. These can compromise the cleaner’s functionality, and in some cases, they’ll need to be replaced. Regular pool cleaning can help identify and address signs of wear and tear early.
Worn belts or brushes: Dolphin cleaners and other robotic models use belts and brushes to navigate and clean the pool surfaces. Worn belts can slip, reducing mobility, and worn brushes won’t scrub effectively. Inspect these components regularly and replace them as needed. Regularly inspecting pool equipment is crucial to prevent damage and ensure efficient operation.
Conclusion
A well-maintained pool cleaner is essential for keeping your pool clean and inviting. Regular swimming pool maintenance is crucial for ensuring a clean and safe swimming environment. By staying alert to the signs of wear and tear, reduced performance, or malfunctions, you can ensure that your cleaner, whether a Dolphin or another brand, continues to operate efficiently. Regular maintenance not only extends the life of your pool cleaner but also helps you avoid costly repairs or replacements. Hiring a professional pool cleaner can help address specific issues and ensure thorough maintenance.
FAQs
How often should I clean the filters on my pool cleaner?
It depends on how frequently you use your pool cleaner and how much debris your pool collects. In general, it’s a good idea to clean the filters after every use, especially if you have a robotic cleaner like a Dolphin.
What maintenance is required for a Dolphin pool cleaner?
Dolphin pool cleaners require regular cleaning of the filter basket, checking for any blockages or debris in the brushes, and inspecting the power cable for tangles. Brushes and belts should be replaced periodically depending on wear.
How long should a pool cleaner last?
With proper care and maintenance, a pool cleaner can last anywhere from 5 to 7 years, though high-quality brands like Dolphin may last longer with regular upkeep.
What’s the best way to store my pool cleaner when not in use?
It’s important to remove your pool cleaner from the water after each cleaning session. Store it in a cool, dry place, and avoid leaving it in direct sunlight for extended periods, as UV rays can damage plastic parts.
Why is my pool cleaner moving slowly?
If your pool cleaner is moving slowly, it could be due to blocked filters, worn brushes, or obstructions in the moving parts. Make sure to clean the filters, check the brushes, and inspect the wheels or tracks for debris.