Why Your Robotic Cleaner Won’t Climb Walls
If your robotic pool cleaner isn’t climbing walls as expected, several factors could be causing the issue. This guide will help you troubleshoot and resolve the problem step by step.
1. Water Temperature Too Low
Issue: If the pool water is too cold, the cleaner may struggle to climb.
Solution:
Ensure the water temperature is above 35°C for optimal performance.
If the water is too cold, wait for it to warm up before using the robot.
2. Unbalanced Pool Chemistry or Slippery Walls
Issue: If the pool's pH levels are too high or too low, or if algae or biofilm is present, the robot may slip instead of climbing.
Solution:
- Check and balance the pool chemistry—keep pH, chlorine, and alkalinity within the recommended range.
- Brush the pool walls manually to remove algae, biofilm, or other slippery residues.
- Shock the pool if algae buildup is severe, then allow the chemicals to stabilize before running the cleaner again.
3. Features and Settings
Issue: The specific model may not be designed to do walls, check product listing and manuals.
Issue: If the robot is set to a ‘Floor Only’ or ‘Fast Mode’ cleaning cycle, it may not attempt to climb.
Solution:
Ensure the cleaning cycle is set to normal (long) mode instead of a quick or floor-only cycle.
Consult your user manual for mode adjustments.
4. Clogged or Dirty Filters
Issue: A clogged filter can restrict water flow, preventing the robot from generating enough suction to climb.
Solution:
Clean the filters after each use, even if they look clean. Small particles can dry and clog the material.
Test the robotic cleaner without a filter basket, if cleaner climbs walls without filter basket, filter needs to be cleaned or replaced.
5. Debris in the Impeller
Issue: If the impeller (which helps with suction and movement) is blocked, the robot may not generate enough force to climb.
Solution:
- Unplug the power supply before checking.
- Use a Phillips-head screwdriver (do not use a power drill) to open the impeller cover.
- Remove any debris and reassemble the cover.
- If your robot has side grilles, check them for obstructions as well.
6. Not Enough Cable Slack
Issue: If the cable is too short or tangled, it may prevent the robot from reaching the walls.
Solution:
- Ensure the cable is long enough to match the longest dimension of your pool.
- Avoid excess cable in the pool to prevent tangling.
By addressing these potential issues, your robotic cleaner should regain its ability to climb walls and keep your pool spotless. If problems persist, consult your user manual or contact customer service for further assistance.
