Polaris 280 Troubleshooting

User Reported Polaris 280 Problems

➤ I have problems with my Polaris 280

Most Common Polaris 280 Reported Problems

Technical Malfunctions
1 issues

Technical Malfunction Issues

Power and Charging Issues

Performance Issues

Setup and Usage Issues

Customer Support Issues

Other Issues

Troubleshooting Your Polaris 280: Manufacturer's Recommendations

Cleaning Issues

Polaris 280 – Not Cleaning Entire Pool

Possible Causes Solutions
  • Hose length is too short
  • Thrust jet is misaligned
  • Water jets are obstructed
  • Ensure hose reaches within 6 inches of the farthest point
  • Adjust the thrust jet position for optimal turning
  • Clean the water jets if obstructed

Polaris 280 – Running in Circles or on Its Side

Possible Causes Solutions
  • Full filter bag
  • Waterlogged head float
  • Improper hose float positioning
  • Empty the filter bag
  • Replace or dry the head float
  • Ensure hose floats are evenly spaced

Polaris 280 – Stuck on Steps or Obstacles

Possible Causes Solutions
  • Incorrect wheel RPM
  • Back-up valve malfunction
  • Poor thrust jet adjustment
  • Check wheel RPM (should be 28-32 RPM)
  • Ensure back-up valve is cycling properly
  • Adjust the thrust jet position

Performance Issues

Polaris 280 – Sluggish or Lacking Power

Possible Causes Solutions
  • Clogged filter screen
  • Debris in skimmer or pump baskets
  • Leaking hoses or connections
  • Clean the filter screen in the in-line filter
  • Clear debris from skimmer and pump baskets
  • Inspect hoses and connections for leaks

Polaris 280 – Not Backing Up

Possible Causes Solutions
  • Back-up valve is stuck
  • Improper wheel RPM
  • Full filter bag
  • Waterlogged head float
  • Clean or replace the back-up valve
  • Check wheel RPM for proper function
  • Empty the filter bag
  • Replace the head float if necessary

Polaris 280 – Flying Around Pool

Possible Causes Solutions
  • Incorrect restrictor disk installation
  • High wheel RPM
  • Back-up valve not cycling
  • Confirm the correct restrictor disk is installed
  • Reduce water flow by adjusting the pressure relief valve
  • Check the back-up valve cycling

Hose and Sweep Issues

Polaris 280 – Feed Hose Tangling

Possible Causes Solutions
  • Improper hose length
  • Swivels are obstructed
  • Hose not floating properly
  • Adjust hose length for pool shape
  • Inspect and clear swivels
  • Ensure feed hose is floating correctly

Polaris 280 – Sweep Hose Sucked Into Vacuum Tube

Possible Causes Solutions
  • Blockage in sweep hose scrubber
  • Improper sweep hose motion
  • Check and clear the scrubber for blockages
  • Adjust sweep hose for a gentle sweeping motion

Polaris 280 – Sweep Hose Spraying Too Much Water

Possible Causes Solutions
  • High sweep hose speed
  • Worn or missing scrubber
  • Lack of sweep hose weight
  • Tighten adjustment screw to reduce speed
  • Replace worn or missing scrubber
  • Add sweep hose weight to prevent excessive spraying

Movement and Operation Issues

Polaris 280 – Hanging Up on Steps or Obstacles

Possible Causes Solutions
  • Incorrect wheel RPM
  • Back-up valve not functioning
  • Poor thrust jet adjustment
  • Check wheel RPM for optimal range
  • Ensure back-up valve is cycling properly
  • Adjust thrust jet position

Polaris 280 – Only Turns in One Direction

Possible Causes Solutions
  • Thrust jet misalignment
  • Feed hose not floating correctly
  • Obstructions hindering movement
  • Adjust the thrust jet for proper water flow
  • Ensure feed hose is floating correctly
  • Remove any debris or obstacles

Polaris 280 – Reverse Wheelie Issue

Possible Causes Solutions
  • Waterlogged head float
  • Improper hose float positioning
  • Overloaded debris bag
  • Swivels not functioning
  • Check and replace head float if waterlogged
  • Ensure hose floats are evenly spaced
  • Empty debris bag if more than half full
  • Verify all swivels rotate freely

Polaris 280 Pool Cleaner Not Working?

If you're experiencing issues with your Polaris 280 pool equipment, you're not alone. Many users have faced similar challenges and have shared their experiences to help others troubleshoot and resolve these problems.

    • It sounds like your Polaris 280 is experiencing a couple of common issues. Let’s address them one by one:

      Polaris 280 Not Sinking Properly
      If the Polaris 280 is not sinking properly, it could be due to a few reasons:

      • Float Issues: Check the float at the back of the cleaner. If water has entered the float, it can cause buoyancy issues. You can remove the float and shake it to see if you hear water inside. If so, it needs to be replaced .
      • Weight Distribution: Ensure that the cleaner has the correct weight distribution. Sometimes adding a weight to the cleaner can help it sink properly.

      Polaris 280 Getting Stuck in Corners

      • Backup Valve: The Polaris 280 has a backup valve that should activate every few minutes to help it get out of corners. Make sure this valve is functioning correctly. If it’s not, it may need to be replaced or repaired
      • Pool Configuration: Sharp corners in the pool can be problematic for cleaners. Adjusting the hose length and ensuring the cleaner is set up correctly can help it navigate out of corners more effectively

      Make sure to also check the belt and drive shaft of your pool cleaner, as worn-out components can significantly affect its movement and performance; replacing them promptly can help maintain optimal functionality.

      Reply Submit Your Own Issue

  4. My brand new 280 wants to ride with his front wheels touching but his back wheels 6″ off the pool floor – popping a reverse wheelie! I’ve tinkered with adjusting float placement, replaced the Head Float which was defective when purchased, and checked the swivels. When resting, the 280 sits in the pool with it’s rear end up. What’s the fix? TIA

    Reply Submit Your Own Issue

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