Hayward Blue Essence Troubleshooting: Complete Pool Owner’s Guide

by

The Hayward Blue Essence is an affordable, efficient suction-side pool cleaner designed to keep in-ground pools free of dirt, leaves, and other debris. It works by connecting directly to your skimmer or a dedicated suction port, using your pool pump’s suction to move around the pool and vacuum the floor and walls. When it’s working well, you can simply set it, let it run, and enjoy a clean pool. But like any cleaner, it can run into problems—stopping, moving slowly, or missing areas.

This guide walks you through the most common Blue Essence issues, their causes, and easy step-by-step fixes. We’ll also cover preventive care so your cleaner stays in top shape season after season.

How the Hayward Blue Essence Works

The Blue Essence uses a diaphragm-style suction mechanism. Water flow from your pool pump pulls debris into the cleaner’s mouth, through its internal pathway, and on to your pool’s filtration system. Its random movement pattern and bumper design allow it to navigate around most obstacles without getting stuck. Since it depends on the pump for power, anything that reduces suction can affect performance.

Common Problems and How to Fix Them

1. Cleaner Won’t Move

Possible causes:

  • Pool pump not running or running at too low of a speed
  • Clogged skimmer basket, pump basket, or filter
  • Obstruction inside cleaner’s intake or hose
  • Damaged diaphragm

Fix:

  1. Ensure pump is on and running at full speed for cleaning cycles.
  2. Empty skimmer and pump baskets.
  3. Backwash or clean filter to restore suction.
  4. Inspect cleaner’s intake and hoses for debris—remove any obstructions.
  5. Check diaphragm for tears or wear; replace if needed.

2. Cleaner Moves Slowly

Possible causes:

  • Low pump flow due to dirty filter or clogged baskets
  • Air leaks in hose connections
  • Worn diaphragm reducing suction efficiency

Fix:

  1. Clean baskets and filter.
  2. Check hose sections for cracks or pinholes—replace damaged pieces.
  3. Ensure hose connections are tight and fully seated.
  4. Replace worn diaphragm.

3. Cleaner Gets Stuck in One Spot

Possible causes:

  • Hose length too short or too long
  • Debris or obstruction in pool corners
  • Pool fittings or main drain cover trapping cleaner

Fix:

  1. Adjust hose length so it reaches the farthest point of the pool plus about 2 feet.
  2. Remove obstacles and brush debris away from tight corners.
  3. Use a main drain cover designed for pool cleaners to prevent hang-ups.

4. Cleaner Flips Over

Possible causes:

  • Hose buoyancy issues
  • Poor water flow balance
  • Incorrect hose weight placement

Fix:

  1. Check hose weights—make sure they’re positioned according to the manual.
  2. Test suction level; too high can cause instability.
  3. Replace waterlogged hose floats if present.

5. Cleaner Not Climbing Walls

Possible causes:

  • Insufficient suction
  • Worn footpad or parts that grip walls
  • Improper hose weight placement

Fix:

  1. Increase suction by cleaning filter and baskets.
  2. Inspect and replace worn footpad or skirts.
  3. Adjust hose weight position to improve balance.

6. Loud or Unusual Noise

Possible causes:

  • Debris stuck inside diaphragm or drive tube
  • Air in the system causing cavitation

Fix:

  1. Turn off pump and remove cleaner.
  2. Check diaphragm and drive tube for debris—clean thoroughly.
  3. Check hose and connections for air leaks.

Basic Maintenance Tips

  • Rinse cleaner with fresh water after use to remove chemicals.
  • Store hose sections flat and out of direct sunlight to prevent warping.
  • Inspect diaphragm and footpad monthly during peak season.
  • Backwash or clean filter regularly to maintain strong suction.

When to Call a Professional

  • Persistent poor movement despite good suction
  • Multiple hose sections leaking air
  • Cracks in cleaner body or severe part wear
  • Internal damage that requires full disassembly

Quick Recap

  • Not Moving: Check pump, suction, baskets, diaphragm.
  • Moves Slowly: Clean filter, check hoses, replace worn parts.
  • Gets Stuck: Adjust hose length, clear pool obstacles.
  • Flips Over: Adjust hose weights, check suction level.
  • No Wall Climb: Increase suction, replace grip parts.
  • Noisy: Clear debris, check for air leaks.

The Hayward Blue Essence is a durable, dependable cleaner when suction is strong and parts are in good shape. By tackling small problems quickly and keeping up with simple maintenance, you can count on it to keep your pool sparkling all season long.

Leave a Comment