Maytronics Dolphin robotic pool cleaners have a strong reputation for reliability. They’re designed to make pool care almost effortless—drop them in the water, press a button, and they take care of the scrubbing, vacuuming, and filtering. But like any piece of equipment, they can develop issues over time. Knowing the most common problems, their causes, and how to fix them can save you time, money, and frustration.
This guide covers the most frequent Dolphin problems reported by pool owners, explains why they happen, and offers step-by-step solutions you can try at home before calling for service.
How Dolphin Cleaners Work
Dolphin robotic cleaners are self-contained units that use low-voltage electricity from an external power supply. Inside the cleaner, motors drive the tracks or wheels and power a suction system that pulls water and debris into a filter basket or bag. They navigate the pool floor and walls using programmed cleaning patterns or smart scanning technology.
Because they’re independent of your pool’s filtration system, most problems come from mechanical wear, electrical faults, or blockages inside the cleaner itself.
Common Maytronics Dolphin Pool Cleaner Problems
1. Cleaner Won’t Turn On
Symptoms: Pressing the power button produces no response—no lights, no movement.
Possible causes:
- Power supply not plugged in or faulty outlet
- Damaged power cord
- Blown internal fuse in the power supply
What to do:
- Check that the power supply is plugged into a grounded outlet and switched on.
- Test the outlet with another appliance.
- Inspect the power cord for visible damage—cuts, frays, or kinks.
- Consult your manual to check and replace the fuse if needed.
2. Cleaner Turns On But Doesn’t Move
Symptoms: The unit powers up but the tracks or wheels don’t turn.
Possible causes:
- Debris jammed in tracks or drive system
- Broken drive belt
- Motor malfunction
What to do: Turn off the cleaner, remove it from the pool, and check for leaves, sticks, or stones stuck in the tracks. If the tracks are clear but the unit still won’t move, the drive belt may need replacement. Motor issues typically require professional service.
3. Poor Climbing Ability
Symptoms: The cleaner stays on the pool floor and doesn’t climb walls as before.
Possible causes:
- Dirty or clogged filter basket/bag
- Worn tracks or brushes
- Slippery pool surfaces due to algae or imbalanced water chemistry
What to do: Clean the filter thoroughly after every cycle. Replace worn tracks or brushes for better grip. Keep pool walls brushed and maintain balanced water chemistry to prevent slippery biofilm.
4. Cable Tangling or Twisting
Symptoms: The cleaner’s cable becomes twisted during operation, limiting movement.
Possible causes:
- Consistent cleaning pattern in the same direction
- Cable memory from storage
What to do: After each use, lay the cable out straight on the deck to release twists. Store the cable loosely coiled in large loops. Occasionally reverse the cleaner’s starting position in the pool to vary its route.
5. Cleaner Misses Areas of the Pool
Symptoms: Certain spots remain dirty even after a full cleaning cycle.
Possible causes:
- Obstacles blocking cleaner’s path
- Incorrect pool size or shape setting (on programmable models)
- Dirty filters slowing water flow
What to do: Remove pool toys and obstacles before starting. Check and adjust settings if your model has programmable cleaning modes. Clean the filters for optimal suction.
6. Unit Stops Mid-Cycle
Symptoms: The cleaner shuts off before the cleaning cycle is complete.
Possible causes:
- Overheating motor
- Clogged filter basket/bag
- Faulty power supply
What to do: Always keep the cleaner submerged during operation. Empty the filter regularly, especially during heavy debris periods. If the power supply overheats or shuts down, test in a shaded location or consult service.
7. Weak Suction or Poor Debris Pickup
Symptoms: The cleaner leaves visible debris behind.
Possible causes:
- Blocked intake ports
- Clogged or damaged filter media
- Impeller obstruction
What to do: Check the intake for obstructions. Clean or replace the filters. Inspect the impeller under the top cover and remove any debris carefully.
8. Water Not Circulating Through Cleaner
Symptoms: No visible water movement through the unit.
Possible causes: Clogged impeller or severe internal blockage.
What to do: Shut off and unplug the cleaner. Remove the top cover and inspect the impeller chamber. Clear any debris by hand—never use sharp tools near the blades.
Preventing Dolphin Cleaner Problems
Routine maintenance is the best defense against common issues. Here are some simple practices:
- Rinse after every use: Salt, chlorine, and fine debris can wear down components faster.
- Store in the shade: Direct sunlight can degrade plastic parts.
- Check moving parts: Inspect tracks, brushes, and wheels for wear and replace as needed.
- Maintain balanced water chemistry: This keeps surfaces clean and helps the cleaner maintain traction.
- Untangle cable regularly: Lay it straight on the deck after each cycle.
Seasonal Care
When closing your pool, remove the cleaner from the water, drain it completely, and store it indoors. This protects seals, electronics, and plastic housings from freeze damage. Before reopening the pool in spring, inspect the unit for wear, clean the filters, and run a short test cycle to confirm it’s ready for the season.
When to Call a Professional
Some issues are best handled by an authorized Maytronics service center, especially if your cleaner is still under warranty:
- Motor unit replacement
- Major water intrusion into the cleaner body
- Control board or electrical system repairs
Attempting complex repairs yourself can void warranty coverage, so always check your manual and warranty terms before opening the unit.
Quick Recap
- No power: Check outlet, cord, and fuse.
- Not moving: Clear debris from tracks, check drive belt, inspect motor.
- Poor climbing: Clean filters, replace worn tracks/brushes, adjust water chemistry.
- Cable tangles: Lay cable out straight, reverse starting position.
- Stops early: Prevent overheating, empty filters, check power supply.
- Weak suction: Clear intake ports, clean filters, check impeller.
With proper care and quick action when problems arise, your Maytronics Dolphin cleaner can deliver years of reliable service. Most issues can be solved with basic troubleshooting, and understanding the early warning signs can prevent bigger, costlier repairs down the line.