A robotic pool cleaner is a great way to keep your pool sparkling with minimal effort. It saves you hours of scrubbing and vacuuming by doing the hard work for you. But when your robot suddenly stops, gets stuck, or starts moving in circles, it can be very frustrating. The good news is that many of these issues are simple to fix yourself. In this robotic pool cleaner troubleshooting guide, we’ll walk you through the most common problems and how to solve them, so you can get your cleaner back in action and enjoy a clean, inviting pool again.
Start with the Basics: Check the Power Supply
Before assuming there’s a serious problem, always start with the simplest check: the power supply. This quick step fixes more issues than you might expect.
Is It Plugged In Correctly?
For corded robotic pool cleaners, make sure the power unit is firmly plugged into a working GFCI outlet. Press the “Test” and then “Reset” buttons on the outlet to confirm that it’s functioning properly. For cordless cleaners, check that the battery is fully charged. A low or drained battery is one of the most common reasons a cordless cleaner won’t start.
Check the Cable for Damage
If your cleaner is plugged in but still won’t turn on, carefully inspect the entire power cable for cuts, cracks, or other visible damage. A damaged cable can interrupt the power supply and create a safety hazard. If you find any damage, stop using the cleaner immediately and contact the manufacturer or an authorized service center for a replacement.
The Most Common Culprit: A Clogged Filter
If your cleaner turns on but doesn’t move properly or pick up debris, the problem is usually a full or dirty filter. When the filter is clogged, water can’t flow through the unit. Without proper water flow, the robot can’t generate the suction and movement it needs. Keeping the filter clean is one of the simplest and most important maintenance steps.
Knowing how to clean a robotic pool cleaner filter is an essential skill. First, remove the cleaner from the pool and open the unit to access the filter. Empty out larger debris like leaves and twigs. Then use a garden hose to rinse the filter thoroughly until all the dirt is gone. Do not use a pressure washer, as the strong spray can damage the filter material. Once the filter is clean and reinstalled, your cleaner will typically perform much better, often like new.
Problem: "My Robotic Pool Cleaner is Not Moving"
When your pool cleaner has power but isn't moving, it usually means something is stuck. In many cases, something is blocking one of the moving parts so they can’t turn properly.
Check the Impeller for Blockages
The impeller is a small fan-like part that pulls water through the cleaner to create suction. A tiny twig, leaf stem, or small stone can get lodged in the impeller and stop it from spinning. With the cleaner unplugged, turn the unit over and locate the impeller. Gently try to spin it by hand. If it doesn’t move freely, carefully remove any debris that may be blocking it.
Inspect the Wheels or Tracks
Hair, string, and other debris can wrap around the wheels or tracks and keep them from turning, which stops the robot from moving. Carefully inspect the wheels, tracks, and brushes. Cut away anything that’s tangled around them, and make sure all wheels and tracks can spin or roll freely.
When to Seek Professional Help (And Why a Good Warranty Matters)
If you’ve already cleaned the filter, checked the impeller, and inspected the wheels or tracks, but the robot still isn’t working, the issue may be more serious. It could be a problem with the internal motor or another electronic component. At this stage, attempting to repair it yourself may cause further damage and could also void your warranty.
This is where a good warranty really matters. If you don't want to worry about unexpected problems, a cleaner like the iGarden Pool Cleaner K Pro 150 is a smart choice. It comes with a special 3-year warranty: if any core electrical component fails, the entire unit (motor, battery, MCU) will be replaced. For all other parts, it includes a 3-year repair service, so you can relax knowing you’re covered.
Proactive Maintenance: How to Prevent Future Problems
The best way to fix problems with your pool cleaner is to stop them before they happen. Spending just a few minutes on basic care after each use will help keep your robot running smoothly for years.
Here are a few important tips:
Clean the filter every time: Empty and rinse the filter basket after every cleaning cycle.
Rinse the unit: Use a garden hose to rinse the entire cleaner with fresh water to remove pool chemicals and fine debris.
Store it properly: Keep your robot out of direct sunlight and harsh weather. A cool, shaded area is best.
Check the brushes for wear: Inspect the scrubbing brushes from time to time. If they become worn down or too smooth, the cleaner may struggle to climb the pool walls and scrub effectively.
Conclusion
Most problems with a robotic pool cleaner come down to three simple checks: the power supply, the filter, and any blockages. By following this guide, you can diagnose and fix the most common issues yourself.
Regular maintenance is the best way to prevent future problems. Take care of your cleaner after each use, and you’ll spend less time troubleshooting and more time enjoying a clean, sparkling pool.
FAQs
Why isn't my cleaner climbing the walls?
This is a very common issue and usually comes down to three main causes. First, check the filter. The cleaner relies on strong suction to stay on the walls, and a full or dirty filter will block the water flow and reduce that suction. Second, inspect the brushes. If they are old or worn down, they can’t grip the smooth wall surface properly. Finally, if your pool has an algae problem, the walls may be too slimy for the cleaner to get a good grip, so you’ll need to brush and treat the walls before running the cleaner again.
Why is my pool cleaner moving in circles?
For a corded cleaner, the most common reason is a tangled cable that pulls it to one side. Take the cleaner out of the pool and straighten the entire floating cable before starting a new cycle. For any type of cleaner, another likely cause is a blocked wheel or track. A small rock, twig, or leaf can get stuck on one side, forcing the robot to pivot around it. Check both sides carefully to make sure nothing is lodged in the wheels or tracks and that they move freely.
How do I reset my robotic pool cleaner?
Most robotic pool cleaners don’t have a dedicated “reset” button. The simplest way to reset it is to unplug the power supply from the wall and wait about 30 seconds. This brief power cycle usually restarts the internal computer and clears minor errors. When you plug it back in, start a new cleaning cycle and see if the issue is resolved. Always check your owner’s manual for any model-specific reset steps or safety instructions.
Can I leave my robot in the pool all the time?
No, you should never store your robot in the pool. Leaving it in the water exposes it to pool chemicals 24/7, which will gradually damage the plastic, rubber seals, and other parts. Always take the cleaner out of the water after it finishes a cycle, rinse it with fresh water, let it drain, and store it in a cool, shady spot.
