Polaris Pool Cleaner Problems

Owning a pool is a dream, but keeping it clean can sometimes feel like a nightmare. Enter the automatic pool cleaner, a device designed to liberate you from endless scrubbing and vacuuming. Polaris, a leading brand in the pool cleaning world, promises just that – a sparkling clean pool with minimal effort. However, like any mechanical device operating in a harsh environment, Polaris cleaners can experience their fair share of problems. Understanding these common issues and how to troubleshoot them can save you time, money, and a whole lot of frustration.

So, what happens when your trusty Polaris cleaner starts acting up? Let's dive into the most common issues and how to get your pool cleaning routine back on track.

My Polaris Just Won't Move – What's Going On?

A stationary Polaris cleaner is a common and frustrating problem. Before you start tearing things apart, let’s look at some of the simplest explanations first.

Check the Water Flow: The vast majority of Polaris cleaners rely on water pressure to operate. Make sure your pump is running efficiently and that the water flow to the cleaner is adequate. A clogged filter, a partially closed valve, or even a low pump speed can all restrict water flow. Always check your filter first. A dirty filter is the most common culprit.
Hose Issues: A tangled, kinked, or collapsed hose can severely impede the cleaner's movement. Carefully inspect the entire length of the hose, untangling any knots and replacing any sections that appear damaged. Even a small kink can significantly reduce water flow. Consider using a hose swivel to prevent tangling.
Wheel Problems: If the wheels aren’t turning freely, the cleaner won’t move. Debris like leaves, twigs, or even small stones can become lodged in the wheels. Inspect each wheel individually and remove any obstructions. If the wheels still aren’t turning smoothly, the bearings might be worn or corroded and require replacement.
Drive Train Trouble: Inside the cleaner, there's a drive train that transmits power to the wheels. If this mechanism is broken or jammed, the cleaner won’t move. This is a more complex issue that might require professional repair. Listen for unusual noises coming from the cleaner – grinding or clicking sounds could indicate a drive train problem.

It's Moving, But Not Cleaning Effectively

Okay, so your Polaris is moving, but it's just pushing debris around or leaving large areas untouched. This is another common headache.

Insufficient Water Pressure (Again!): Even if the cleaner is moving, insufficient water pressure can prevent it from effectively picking up debris. Double-check your filter, pump, and valves.
Weak Suction: The Polaris relies on suction to pick up dirt and debris. A leak in the hose, a worn-out sweep hose scrubber, or a clogged intake can all reduce suction. Inspect the hose connections for any signs of leaks and replace the sweep hose scrubber if it's worn.
Sweep Hose Issues: The sweep hose is designed to dislodge debris from the pool walls and floor. If the sweep hose isn't sweeping properly, it could be due to low water pressure, a clogged nozzle, or a worn-out sweep hose tail. Ensure the sweep hose tail is properly attached and not damaged.
Bag Problems: The debris bag collects all the dirt and leaves the cleaner picks up. If the bag is full, torn, or not properly attached, the cleaner won't be able to clean effectively. Empty the bag regularly and inspect it for any tears or damage. Make sure the bag is securely fastened to the cleaner.
Programming Problems: Some Polaris models have programmable cleaning cycles. If the cleaner isn't covering the entire pool, it could be due to incorrect programming. Consult your owner's manual for instructions on how to program the cleaner properly.

My Polaris Keeps Getting Stuck

A pool cleaner that spends more time stuck than cleaning is incredibly frustrating. Here’s what might be happening.

Obstacles: The most obvious reason for a stuck cleaner is obstacles in the pool. Ladders, stairs, drains, and even toys can trap the cleaner. Try to remove as many obstacles as possible before running the cleaner. Consider using pool ladder guards to prevent the cleaner from getting stuck on the ladder.
Hose Entanglement: As mentioned earlier, a tangled hose can restrict the cleaner's movement and cause it to get stuck. Use a hose swivel to prevent tangling and regularly inspect the hose for kinks or knots.
Uneven Surfaces: If your pool has uneven surfaces or sharp transitions, the cleaner might struggle to navigate them. This is especially true for cleaners with smaller wheels.
Main Drain Interference: Polaris cleaners can sometimes get stuck on the main drain. Consider using a main drain cover that is designed to prevent cleaners from getting stuck.
Inadequate Hose Length: If the hose is too short, the cleaner won't be able to reach all areas of the pool and might get stuck in corners. Make sure the hose is long enough to reach the farthest point of the pool from the wall fitting.

Pulsing or Erratic Behavior

A Polaris cleaner that's pulsing, jerking, or moving erratically is a sign that something isn't quite right.

Air in the System: Air in the system can cause the cleaner to pulse or jerk. Check for leaks in the hose connections and ensure the pump is properly primed.
Clogged Filter (Yet Again!): A clogged filter can restrict water flow and cause the cleaner to behave erratically. Clean the filter regularly.
Internal Blockage: Debris can sometimes get lodged inside the cleaner, causing it to pulse or jerk. Disassemble the cleaner and inspect it for any blockages.
Worn Parts: Worn parts, such as belts or gears, can cause the cleaner to move erratically. Inspect the internal components of the cleaner and replace any worn parts.

My Polaris is Making Strange Noises

Unusual noises coming from your Polaris cleaner are a cause for concern.

Grinding or Clicking: Grinding or clicking noises often indicate a problem with the drive train. This could be due to worn gears, broken bearings, or debris lodged in the mechanism.
Whining: A whining noise could indicate a problem with the pump or motor. This might require professional repair.
Rattling: Rattling noises could be caused by loose parts or debris inside the cleaner. Disassemble the cleaner and inspect it for any loose parts or obstructions.

The Backup Valve is Malfunctioning

The backup valve is designed to periodically reverse the cleaner's direction, preventing it from getting stuck. If it's not working properly, the cleaner might get stuck more often.

Clogged Valve: The backup valve can become clogged with debris, preventing it from functioning properly. Disassemble the valve and clean it thoroughly.
Worn Valve Components: The internal components of the backup valve can wear out over time, causing it to malfunction. Replace the valve if necessary.
Incorrect Installation: Ensure the backup valve is installed correctly and in the correct orientation. Consult your owner's manual for instructions.

Preventing Problems in the First Place

The best way to deal with Polaris pool cleaner problems is to prevent them from happening in the first place. Here are some preventative measures you can take:

Regular Cleaning: Clean the cleaner regularly, including the filter bag, the sweep hose, and the wheels.
Hose Maintenance: Inspect the hose regularly for kinks, cracks, or leaks. Use a hose swivel to prevent tangling.
Water Chemistry: Maintain proper water chemistry to prevent corrosion and scaling, which can damage the cleaner.
Winterization: Properly winterize the cleaner before storing it for the winter. This includes draining all the water from the cleaner and storing it in a dry place.
Professional Servicing: Consider having your cleaner professionally serviced at least once a year.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Polaris not picking up leaves? Check the filter bag – it might be full. Also, ensure you have adequate water pressure and the sweep hose is functioning correctly.
How often should I clean my Polaris filter bag? You should clean the filter bag after each use or at least once a week, depending on the amount of debris in your pool.
Why is my Polaris hose tangled? Use a hose swivel to prevent tangling. Also, make sure the hose is properly stored when not in use.
How do I know if my Polaris needs a new backup valve? If your cleaner is frequently getting stuck and the backup valve isn't reversing the cleaner's direction, it might need to be replaced.
Can I use my Polaris cleaner in a saltwater pool? Yes, but you need to rinse the cleaner with fresh water after each use to prevent corrosion.

Conclusion

Dealing with Polaris pool cleaner problems can be frustrating, but with a little knowledge and troubleshooting, you can often resolve the issue yourself. Regularly inspecting and maintaining your cleaner is key to preventing problems and ensuring it continues to keep your pool sparkling clean. If you're unsure about any repair, always consult a pool professional.