Cleaners : Suction
Air enters into the pool when the cleaner is attached and running and stops after the cleaner is removed.
- There is either a suction leak that occurs when the cleaner is attached or the pump is cavitating because of inadequate water supply on the suction side of the pump. Refer to the pump section for cavitation solutions
Flappers/wings have fallen off.
- There is excess wear on the bottom of the cleaner, and the “wing hooks” may have broken off the pods.
- The “shoes” are worn, and the vacuum in the cleaner hose is probably too high. Use the “vacuum gauge adaptor” or “flow gauge” supplied with the cleaner to measure the vacuum in the cleaner hose. You should have 1" vacuum per section of hose. If you happen to have the new “flow gauge” adjust the flow so the reading is at least ½ way between maximum and minimum.
Cleaner keeps falling on its side.
- Check to make ensure that the hose connected to the head is the leader hose (the section of hose with the grey cuff). A connector hose attached at this point can cause this situation.
- Check to make sure the leader hose is in good condition. Hold the leader hose by one end. It should fall straight down. If not, replace the hose. Always store the hose in a straight position when removed from the pool.
Should I use a “Vac lock” for the wall?
- Hayward automatic cleaners require that all dedicated suction wall ports have a “Vac Lock”.
My skimmer does not skim the surface when the cleaner is connected.
- You may want to consider using a “Skim Vac Plate” (W490R or W491R), which allows you to direct some suction for surface skimming. Skimmer hook-ups normally restrict skimming action.
My Hayward cleaner doesn’t spend as much time on the wall as my last cleaner.
- The cleaner spends 20% if its time on the wall and 80% of its time on the floor where most of the dirt resides.