These are placed into the pool when cleaning is necessary. Some of the most
common names are Aquabot, Dolphin and Aquavac. Simply plug a transformer into
a wall outlet using a 50-foot cord to plug into the transformer. The power
actually is supplied to two motors, one motor to draw debris into the filter
and a drive motor which moves the unit around the pool, hence, the name,
robot. The pros of using such a unit are its self-contained filter, which can
be cleaned very easily. Some units are controlled with computer chips, and you
can navigate the unit around the pool from a distance. Since they are not part
of the pool's actual circulation system, there is no back pressure. But their
cost can be more than pressure side or suction cleaners.
Here are some helpful tips from the maker of Aquabot: Never pull the unit out
of the pool using the power cord. Always lift the unit out of the pool using
the handle.
Unit does not move: Check to see if the indicator light is glowing on the
transformer. If not, check your connection and check the 3-volt fuse to see if
it's not blown. Check the connection by plugging into another electrical
outlet. If the fuse is good, and the connection is good, try wiggling the
power cord from the unit to the transformer.
Older units can sometimes short at the plug. A replacement female plug is
available from your supplier.
Inspect the unit while it is partially under water. Is water gushing out of
the top? Then power is reaching the unit.
Is the pulley on the drive belt side turning? If not, you could have a shorted
motor, or a corroded T, which means a motor replacement.
How about the drive belts? If they are "skipping" or "hopping", might be a
good idea to tighten them. If they are cracked or appear worn, replacement is
a good idea. Belts stretch and weaken over time. Check the wheel tubes to make
sure they are in proper position with bushings on either side. If the tubes
are not straight, the drive belts will not be tight.
Unit does not pump? If unit moves, but doesn't pick up anything, bring the
unit near the top of the water. Water gush out the top? If not, the pump motor
may be shorted. Unplug the unit and take it out of the water. Remove the vent
cap on top and check to see if the impeller has a string wound around the
base. Turn the impeller with your hand to check the spin. Plug in unit and
check spin again. If there is no spin, the pump is probably shorted out.
If the pump will not climb the walls before falling off, suction from the
pump motor gives the unit the ability to climb.
Unit does not pump? If the unit moves, but does not pick up any debris, lift
the unit up near the surface of the water. Does water gush out of the top? If
not, the pump motor may be shorted. Unplug the unit and pull it out of the
water. Remove the vent cap on top of the unit and check that the impeller does
not have string wound around the base. Turn the impeller by hand to check
spin. Plug in unit and check spin. If there is no spin, the pump is probably
shorted.
Another indication that the pump motor is not working properly is if the unit
won't climb the walls very far before falling off. The pump motor provides the
suction it needs for climbing.
Cleaner moving slowly? Look in the pump basket for debris and make sure the
filter is clean and water is flowing properly. Then check the throat of the
cleaner for obstructions. They usually can be found where the hose attaches to
the suction line. Check the hose for splits, obstructions or holes. If your
pool collects a lot of leaves, then you might want to consider an in-line leaf
trap.
