If you just got your brand-new Dolphin pool cleaner, but it is not working correctly, do not worry. There are some common fixes you can try to troubleshoot Dolphin pool cleaner.
If you have power issues, check if you plugged it into a working outlet. You can also remove the blue cable and check whether the PSU light turns on. Any obstructions or over-filled filter bags will cause problems as well.
You can fix the most common issues with your pool cleaner pretty quickly. If nothing works, you should take it to a dealer for replacement parts or call customer support.
How to Troubleshoot Dolphin Pool Cleaner: Common Issues Solved
Dolphin pool cleaners are robust. However, we have heard some common complaints and some repeating issues. These issues are insignificant and can be solved immediately. So, let’s check out the troubleshooting tips.
1. Dolphin Pool Cleaner PSU Not Working
The power supply unit not turning on can be a cause for concern. But do not worry. You could be just plugging it into a dud outlet. Or the PSU unit or cable is damaged. Here are some things you can try:
- Ensure the power outlet is working. Plug a different appliance into the outlet to check if it works
- Unplug the blue cable from your Dolphin cleaner’s PSU and turn it on. If the PSU turns on, the problem is not the PSU
- If the PSU light does not turn on, the PSU might be faulty
- Check for visible damage. Look at the cable for any frays or the PSU unit itself
2. Dolphin Pool Cleaner PSU Turns on, But the Cleaner Does Not Move
Your Dolphin cleaner might not move after turning it on. A common reason for this could be an obstruction or mechanical issues. Here’s what you can do:
- Unplug it and check for anything around the impeller that might be blocking it
- Broken impeller blades will also cause your cleaner to stop on its track. Check to see whether the edges are okay
- Regarding tracks, obstructions around the track brushes will also stop it from working properly
- Try rotating the brush manually with your hands. You should feel slight resistance, but they should rotate freely. If not, then something might be blocking it. You can use a water jet to spray and unclog the obstruction
3. Dolphin Cleaner Getting Stuck in the Deep End
If your cleaner gets stuck cleaning the pool’s deep end, the settings probably need to be corrected. In addition, high pool pH levels or water temperature could also cause this issue. Here is what you can do:
- Turn the cleaning mode to Enhanced or Standard
- Ensure your pool’s water temperature is between 43° – 93°F
- Clean your Dolphin’s filters – we recommend cleaning them out after each use for optimal performance
- Check whether the rapid drain flap is missing
- Clean tough buildup on pool walls manually. Body oils, for example, can stop the cleaner from climbing and getting stuck
- Check pool pH levels since it can cause algae growth and make your pool walls slippery
4. Dolphin Cleaner Does Not Run a Full Cycle
If your cleaner repeatedly fails to run a complete cycle, there might be clogs or other debris. Here are some simple troubleshooting tips:
- Check the cycle settings – it might be set to a different cycle setting. Check whether it is on the quick clean setting
- Clean any debris or leaves from the filters. Clogged filters will stop your dolphin cleaner from running a complete cycle
5. Dolphin Cleaner Does Not Collect Dirt and Debris Properly
What is the point if your cleaner is not picking up debris or dirt effectively, right? Here are a few things you can do to fix it:
- Inspect the intake for any obstructions
- Clean the impellers and filters
- Ensure the rapid drain flap, a black rubber part on the back, is in place
- Do an out-of-water self-test to see if the impellers are working correctly or not
6. Dolphin Cleaner Getting Stuck on VGB Drain Cover
Keeping the pool pump on while your Dolphin pool cleaner is cleaning might cause it to get stuck on the VGB main drain cover. In that case:
- Turn the pool pump off, and then let your cleaner clean
- Switch to manual drive if your model has the option
- Use aftermarket devices for drain assist
- Use VGB replacement impellers if you have a model that supports it for extra traction
7. Dirt and Debris Escaping When Lifting Dolphin Cleaner
A common issue with Dolphin pool cleaners that some people have noted is that all the debris falls out when they lift it from the pool. There are some easy ways to fix this:
- Ensure the filter is not overfilling; empty it out
- Remove any dirt or debris on the non-return flap. Obstructions will not allow the flap to close properly, and debris will escape
- Check whether the spring of the non-return flap is broken. If you find any visible damage, you need to take it to a dealer or call customer service
8. Dolphin Cleaner Floats on the Pool and Does Not Sink
Your pool needs to have the correct chemical balance for your Dolphin pool cleaner to work properly. Here are some things you can do if your Dolphin cleaner is floating:
- Check your Dolphin cleaner’s manual to know what pH levels are ideal for your pool
- Another thing you can try is to put your cleaner on its back. Then open the flaps at the bottom. You will see two slots; open those to let out any air trapped inside. Wash the bag from time to time and then air dry
Dolphin Maintenance Tips
Robotic pool cleaners like Dolphin cleaners are low maintenance. However, doing periodic maintenance will keep your cleaner at optimal performance.
Here are simple things you can do to ensure your Dolphin pool cleaner is working properly at all times:
- Regularly empty out the filter and clean it
- Clean the filter after every use
- Store the cleaner in a safe place
- Check the impellers for any obstructions
- Do not wrap the cable tightly. This will cause kinks
- If you do find kinks, stretch the cable out and leave it under the sun for a while
Wrapping Up
The above tips will help you troubleshoot dolphin pool cleaners easily. If nothing works, you must call customer service or take it to a dealer for major issues.
