Dolphin robotic pool cleaners are known for reliability, but even the best models—like the Nautilus CC Plus, Premier, and Sigma—can stop moving from time to time. If your Dolphin turns on but sits still, or if it won’t respond at all, the issue could be as simple as a clogged filter or as serious as a motor failure.
This guide explains the most common reasons a Dolphin pool cleaner won’t move, along with clear, step-by-step fixes you can try before calling for service.
Step 1 – Check for Power Issues
If your Dolphin won’t move, start by confirming it’s actually receiving power.
- Make sure the power supply is plugged into a working outlet.
- Test the outlet with another device (lamp, fan, etc.).
- Check and reset the GFCI outlet or breaker.
- Ensure the power supply’s power button is turned on.
If there are no lights on the power supply: Try a different outlet on a separate circuit. If it’s still dead, the power supply may be faulty.
Step 2 – Inspect the Floating Cable
A damaged or loosely connected cable can stop the cleaner from getting the power it needs.
- Check both ends of the cable for secure connections.
- Look for cuts, frays, or kinks along the entire length.
- If the cable is damaged, replace it before using the cleaner again.
Step 3 – Check for Physical Obstructions
Even a small twig can jam your Dolphin’s drive system.
- Turn off and unplug the power supply.
- Remove the cleaner from the pool.
- Inspect the tracks, brushes, and underside for debris.
- Spin the brushes by hand—they should move freely.
- Open the top and remove filter baskets to check for blockages.
- Inspect the impeller (under the top cover) for hair, leaves, or string.
Step 4 – Check the Drive System
If your cleaner turns on but doesn’t move, the belts, tracks, or gears may be worn or broken.
- Inspect rubber tracks for cracks, missing teeth, or stretching.
- Check drive belts on either side—replace if loose or broken.
- Look for sand or grit inside the drive wheels that could cause binding.
Step 5 – Clean or Replace Filters
Clogged filters can drastically reduce water flow, making the cleaner stop.
- Remove the filters and rinse thoroughly with a hose, spraying from the inside out.
- If they’re worn, switch to new filters or the correct filter type for your debris.
Step 6 – Reset the Power Supply
Sometimes, the fix is as simple as a reset.
- Turn off and unplug the power supply.
- Wait 5–10 minutes.
- Plug it back in and restart the cleaner.
Step 7 – Test Without Load
This quick test can help determine if the motor is running:
- Place the cleaner in shallow water with the power on.
- If brushes spin and water jets from the outlet, the motor is working.
- If nothing happens, the motor assembly may need service or replacement.
When to Call a Professional
- No power despite working outlet and cable
- Motor completely unresponsive after reset
- Water inside the motor compartment
- Burning smell from power supply or cleaner
Quick Recap
- No Power: Check outlet, GFCI, cable, and power supply.
- Jammed: Remove debris from tracks, brushes, impeller.
- Worn Parts: Replace belts, tracks, or gears.
- Clogged Filters: Clean or replace for full water flow.
- Motor Dead: Likely needs professional repair.
Most of the time, a Dolphin that won’t move just needs a thorough cleaning, new belts, or a filter rinse. But if power and mechanical systems check out and it’s still unresponsive, it’s best to have it inspected by an authorized Maytronics service center.