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Pool Robot Troubleshooting

Answers to the most common robotic pool cleaner problems and questions — from tangled cords and lost suction to what your robot can actually clean.

Robert Knight - Pool Robot Expert
Curated by Robert Knight

Pick a question below to jump straight to a clear, expert answer. Every guide is written from years of hands-on testing so you can get your robotic pool cleaner back to work fast.

Most Common Pool Robot Problems

Pool Robot Stuck on the Drain

Pool Robot Stuck on the Drain

The two proven fixes for a robot that parks on the main drain.

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Losing Suction

Losing Suction

Restore full suction power with three quick checks.

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Tangled Cord

Tangled Cord

Why the cord keeps knotting up and how to stop it for good.

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Do I Need NanoFilters?

Do I Need NanoFilters?

When the NanoFilter upgrade is worth it for your pool.

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Robot Won't Turn On

Robot Won't Turn On

Power, GFCI, and reset checks to revive a dead robot.

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Are Pool Robots Worth It?

Are Pool Robots Worth It?

The honest case on time, cost, and cleaning power.

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Performance & Cleaning Problems

How Do I Reset My Pool Robot? Why Is My Pool Robot Not Climbing Walls? Pool Robot Stuck on the Main Drain? Here's How to Fix It Why Won't My Pool Robot Turn On? Why Is My Dolphin Light On (or Blinking)? Why Is My Pool Robot Flipping Over? Why Is My Pool Robot Floating? Why Is My Pool Robot Leaving Marks or Lines? Why Is My Pool Robot Losing Suction? Why Is My Pool Robot Missing Spots? Why Is My Pool Robot Moving in Circles? Why Is My Pool Robot Not Picking Up Debris? Why Is My Pool Robot So Slow? Why Is My Pool Robot Stopping After a Few Minutes?

Cords & Tangling

Can You Use an Extension Cord With a Pool Robot? How to Stop Your Pool Robot Cord From Tangling How Do I Untangle a Pool Robot Cord? Why Is My Pool Robot Tangled?

Filters & Maintenance

Do I Need NanoFilters for My Pool Robot? How Often Should I Clean Pool Robot Filters? How Do I Clean Pool Robot Filters? What Filters Should I Use in My Pool Robot?

Using Your Pool Robot Safely

Are Pool Robots Safe for Vinyl Pools? Can a Pool Robot Damage a Pool Liner? Can a Pool Robot Stay in Saltwater Pools? Can I Swim While the Pool Robot Is Running? Can I Use My Pool Robot During Pool Season Opening? Can You Leave Your Pool Robot in the Pool? Do Pool Robots Need the Pump Running? How Long Does a Pool Robot Take to Clean? How Often Should I Run My Pool Robot? How Do I Store My Pool Robot for Winter? Should I Remove My Pool Robot After Each Cleaning Cycle?

What a Pool Robot Can Clean

Can a Pool Robot Clean a Beach Entry Pool? Can a Pool Robot Clean a Tanning Ledge? Can a Pool Robot Clean an Infinity Pool? Can a Pool Robot Clean Steps? Do Pool Robots Work in Above Ground Pools?

What a Pool Robot Picks Up

Can a Pool Robot Clean a Green Pool? Do Pool Robots Pick Up Algae? Do Pool Robots Pick Up Leaves? Do Pool Robots Pick Up Sand?

Buying, Value & How They Work

Are Cordless Pool Robots Worth It? Are Expensive Pool Robots Worth It? Are Pool Robots Worth It? Can a Pool Robot Lower Pool Chemical Use? Can a Pool Robot Replace Pool Service? Can a Pool Robot Vacuum to Waste? How Do Pool Robots Work? How Long Does a Pool Robot Last? How Much Electricity Does a Pool Robot Use?

Ready to Upgrade Your Pool Robot?

Many of these problems disappear with the right machine. Browse our expert reviews to find a reliable, high-performance robotic pool cleaner.

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