My robot is not cleaning the pool properly.
If the robot is not cleaning the pool as effectively as it used to or is missing areas in the pool, we recommend checking the following parameters.
Ensure that the chemical levels meet the following parameters:
- Alkalinity: 80-120 ppm
- pH: 7.2-7.6
- Calcium Hardness: 150-250 ppm
- Chlorine: 1.0-3.0 ppm
- Cyanuric Acid: 30-50 ppm
- Algaecide: 30-50 ppm
It is essential to maintain these levels for optimal cleaning results and to ensure the longevity of the robot.
Weather conditions, our body chemistry, and other factors can affect the chemical levels in the pool, so we recommend checking the chemical levels regularly.
Check that the water temperature is between 6° - 35° Fahrenheit.
If your robot struggles to climb, ensure the pool temperature is above 15°F, as low temperatures can hinder the robot's ability to climb.
If there is a specific area in your pool that the robot is missing, we suggest placing the robot in that area at the start of the cycle.
If the robot gets stuck in the pool's deep end, it may be possible to upgrade the back brush to a combined brush or wonder brush. Please contact us here to confirm if this solution is suitable for your robot model.
The type of debris present in the pool will help determine which filter type is most suitable for use.
If the debris is fine, such as sand and dirt, we recommend using ultra-fine filters. If your robot model did not come with ultra-fine filters, they can be purchased separately. Click here to visit our Replacement Spare Parts page for more information.
If the debris is larger, such as leaves, we recommend using our fine (net) filters.
If the debris is sticky, algae-like, we recommend consulting your pool technician for further analysis and action.
If you perform a chemical shock, wait at least 24 hours after the treatment before placing the robot back in the pool and ensure that the chemical levels have returned to normal.
If there is a large amount of debris in the pool, we recommend running multiple cycles consecutively and cleaning the filter after each cycle.
It is important to clean the filter after each cleaning cycle to prevent the filters from becoming clogged. Click here to see how to clean the filters.
We recommend using fine filter panels for larger debris such as leaves and insects, and ultra-fine filter panels for smaller debris such as dust, dirt, and sand.
Ensure that the filters are not clogged and that the robot is free from debris, as clogged filters can interfere with the suction process and prevent the robot from effectively picking up debris.
If the filters no longer wash white or the debris is stuck on the filter, we recommend replacing the filter panels. If you wish to purchase replacement filters, click here to visit our Spare Parts page or contact your local Dolphin dealer.
Impeller
Click here to see how to clean the impeller.
- First, unplug the power supply from the outlet. Use a Phillips screwdriver, not a power drill.
- If you notice debris trapped in the impeller, open it, remove the debris, and reassemble the impeller.
Check your filter's non-return valve–the opening at the bottom of the filter–or the small black pouch attached to it and ensure it is free of debris.
Rapid drain flap
If applicable to your robot, ensure that the rubber rapid drain flap on the back of the robot is securely installed.
Brushes
Please ensure that the PVC brushes are fully intact, with no tears or external damage. If they show signs of wear and tear, we recommend replacing the PVC brushes. Click here to visit our Replacement Spare Parts page for more information.
If the brush has white climbing rings, they should be white in colour, and not flattened or damaged. If they show signs of wear and tear, we recommend replacing the climbing rings. Click here to visit our Replacement Spare Parts page for more information.
Tracks
Please ensure that the tracks are tightly fitted on the robot, without damage or discolouration.
If the tracks are discoloured or loose, we recommend replacing the tracks and verifying that the pool chemical levels are within our recommended usage range. Click here to visit our Replacement Spare Parts page for more information.
It is important to note that our robots are not designed to clean steps, stairs, or ledges. We recommend brushing the debris from the steps onto the floor of the pool so that the robot can clean the debris.
Our robots require submersion in at least 88 cm of water to function properly.
If there is debris in the seam of a steep slope, we recommend brushing the debris from the seam onto a flat surface so that the robot will be able to reach the debris.
Make sure to put enough blue cable in the water to allow the cleaner to reach all areas in the pool.
It is important to ensure that the robot has a cable long enough to allow full coverage of your pool. You can measure the distance between the two farthest corners of the pool to understand the amount of blue cable needed. If your pool's length is over 9 meters, ensure to use a robot with a cable length of 18 meters.
It is important to ensure that your robot's brush type is compatible with your pool coating.
If your pool has a PVC, concrete tile, concrete, or gunite coating, it is most compatible with a robot that comes with a PVC brush.
If your pool has a PVC, rough ceramics, fiberglass, or mosaic coating, it is most compatible with a robot that comes with a Combined brush (nylon should be removed before use).
If your pool has a smooth ceramic, stainless steel, or glass coating, it is most compatible with a robot that comes with a Wonder brush.
If you are experiencing a different issue, click here to visit the rest of our Troubleshooting FAQ.
If the robot still isn’t cleaning the pool properly, please contact us here and our team will be happy to assist you.