Polaris Vac-Sweep® 380 Frequently Asked Questions

Q:  Why does my Polaris 380 get stuck in corners or on other obstacles longer than 3 minutes?

A:  Your Polaris cleaner needs to operate at a minimum number of wheel revolutions per minute.  The optimal range is between 28-32 RPM.  It is easy to check the RPM by bringing the cleaner to the edge of the pool keeping it submerged.  Turn it so the single side wheel is up (make sure you hold on to the sweep hose so you will not get wet). Mark the single wheel or place a leaf or twig under the tire as a starting point; count the revolutions of the marked wheel for exactly one minute, beginning after the Polaris has completed a back-up cycle (back-up jet off).  If your wheel RPM is in the correct range, you will need to make sure your back-up valve is cycling.  Hold the back up valve out of the water and watch the back up jet to make sure it turns on and turns off.  This jet should be off longer than it is on.  Turn your Polaris 380 off, remove it from the water and spin one wheel and verify that all wheels spin together.  Finally, check your thrust jet located on the back of your cleaner; it should be in the eleven o’clock position.  If all the above items check out okay, then it may be necessary to install a ladder guard kit (part #G-21) to keep your Polaris from getting stuck on the ladder.

Q:  Why does the Polaris’ sweep hose spray water out of the pool?

A:  There are three things that can cause your Polaris to spray water out of the pool.   First, your sweep hose scrubber may be worn or missing.  You can replace it by purchasing part #9-100-3105.  Secondly, your sweep hose could be operating too fast.  The sweep hose should be moving in a gentle sweeping motion.  You can adjust the motion of your sweep hose by turning the adjustment screw until it slows down to a gentle sweeping motion.  Finally, it might be necessary to add a sweep hose weight (part #B-2) to keep your hose from spraying water.

Q:  Why doesn’t my Polaris clean the entire pool?

A: Your Polaris cleaner requires a minimum number of wheel revolutions per minute.  The optimal range is between 28-32 RPM.  It is easy to check the RPM by bringing the cleaner to the edge of the pool keeping it submerged.  Turn it so the single side wheel is up (make sure you hold on to the sweep hose so you will not get wet).  Mark the single wheel or place a leaf or twig under the tire as a starting point; count the revolutions of the marked wheel for exactly one minute, beginning after the Polaris has completed a back-up cycle (back-up jet off).   If your wheel RPM is in the correct range, you will need to make sure your back-up valve is cycling.  Hold the back up valve out of the water and watch the back up jet to make sure it turns on and turns off.  This jet should be off longer than it is on.  Turn off your Polaris 380, remove it from the water and spin each wheel to verify that all wheels spin together.  It is also important to make sure the feed hose reaches within 6” of the farthest point of the pool.  Finally, check your thrust jet located on the back of your cleaner; it should be in the eleven o’clock position.

Q:  Why does my Polaris 380 move too slowly?

A: First, make sure your filter pump is operating then turn on your booster pump, either manually or by a time clock.  Your Polaris cleaner requires a minimum number of wheel revolutions per minute.  The optimal range is between 28-32 RPM.  It is easy to check the RPM by bringing the cleaner to the edge of the pool keeping it submerged.  Turn it so the single side wheel is up (make sure you hold on to the sweep hose so you will not get wet). Mark the single wheel or place a leaf or twig under the tire as a starting point; count the revolutions of the marked wheel for exactly one minute, beginning after the Polaris has completed a back-up cycle (back-up jet off).   It is very important that you keep the filter screen in the quick disconnect clean. Gently rinse any debris from the filter screen. Also, you will need to verify that your hose swivels and nuts are securely attached to your feed hose pieces to prevent any water pressure loss which can cause your cleaner to move too slowly.  Next is your back-up valve is cycling?  To check hold the back up valve out of the water and watch the back up jet to make sure it turns on and turns off.  This jet should be off longer than it is on. Finally, turn the cleaner upside down and check to make sure your Polaris 380 has 3 distinct streams of water shooting into the bag.  If any of streams are obstructed, then consult you pool professional for assistance.

Q:  Why does the Polaris run on its side?

A:  If your bag is full of debris it may affect how your cleaner operates.  Make sure you empty the filter bag regularly.  Check for water in the head float by removing it from the cleaner and shaking it.  If there is water in the float, replace it (part #A-20).  Finally, make sure your float hose is floating and not sagging.

Q:  Why does my Polaris 380’s sweep hose get sucked into the vacuum tube?

A: The sweep hose should be moving in a gentle sweeping motion.  You can adjust its motion by turning the adjustment screw until it slows down to a gentle sweeping motion.  Also, verify that your sweep hose scrubber is not blocking the opening at the end of the sweep hose.  If it is, move the scrubber so that it will not block this opening.

Q:  Why does my feed hose tangle or tie itself in knots?

A:  To prevent your Polaris 380 from tying itself up in knots the hose length and float placement needs to be correct. The clear hose should be cut to the greatest depth of your pool and the entire feed hose (1 clear and 2 white sections) should reach within 6” of the farthest point of the pool.  If your hose needs to be cut, please refer to your owner’s manual for detailed instructions.  Next you will need to check float placement.  The clear hose should have one float behind the back-up valve and another float upstream 2-3 feet (toward the pool wall).  On the 2 white hoses the floats should be no less than 1-1/2 feet and no more than 3 feet apart.  Once you have verified that the hose and floats are properly cut and placed, you will also need to make sure your back-up valve is cycling. Hold the back up valve out of the water and watch the back up jet to make sure it turns on and turns off.  This jet should be off longer than it is on. Your Polaris 380 cleaner requires a minimum number of wheel revolutions per minute.  The optimal range is between 28-32 RPM.  It is easy to check the RPM by bringing the cleaner to the edge of the pool keeping it submerged.  Turn it so the single side wheel is up (make sure you hold on to the sweep hose so you will not get wet). Mark the single wheel or place a leaf or twig under the tire as a starting point; count the revolutions of the marked wheel for exactly one minute, beginning after the Polaris has completed a back-up cycle (back-up jet off).  Finally, the swivels that connect the hose to the cleaner and the hose sections to each other, need to turn freely and the flow arrows must be pointing toward the cleaner.

Q:  Why doesn’t my Polaris 380 climb the walls?

A: Your Polaris 380 cleaner needs to operate at a minimum number of wheel revolutions per minute.  The optimal range is between 28-32 RPM.  It is easy to check the RPM by bringing the cleaner to the edge of the pool keeping it submerged.  Turn it so the single side wheel is up (make sure you hold on to the sweep hose so you will not get wet). Mark the single wheel or place a leaf or twig under the tire as a starting point; count the revolutions of the marked wheel for exactly one minute, beginning after the Polaris has completed a back-up cycle (back-up jet off).  Next make sure the head float is pushed as close to the feed pipe as possible.  The thrust jet should be positioned between 11:00 and 1:00 o’clock for the maximum climbing ability. Turn your Polaris 380 off, remove it from the water and spin each wheel to verify that all wheels spin together.  Also, it is very important that you keep the filter screen in the quick disconnect clean.  If there is any debris in the screen, gently rinse it with water.  Finally, turn the cleaner upside down (while cleaner is operating) and check to make sure your Polaris 380 has 3 distinct streams of water shooting into the bag.  If any of streams are obstructed, then consult you pool professional for assistance.

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 Polaris Vac-Sweep® 360 Frequently Asked Questions

Q:  Why does my Polaris 360 get stuck in corners or on other obstacles longer than 3 minutes?

A:  Your Polaris cleaner needs to operate at a minimum number of wheel revolutions per minute.  The optimal range is between 28-32 RPM.  It is easy to check the RPM by bringing the cleaner to the edge of the pool keeping it submerged, turn it so the single side wheel is up (make sure you hold on to the sweep hose so you will not get wet). Mark the single wheel or place a leaf or twig under the tire as a starting point; count the revolutions of the marked wheel for exactly one minute, beginning after the Polaris has completed a back-up cycle (back-up jet off).  If your wheel RPM is in the correct range, you will need to make sure your back-up valve is cycling.  Hold the back up valve out of the water and watch the back up jet to make sure it turns on and turns off.  This jet should be off longer than it is on.  Turn your Polaris 360 off, remove it from the water and spin one wheel and verify that all wheels spin together.  Finally, check your thrust jet located on the back of your cleaner; it should be in the eleven o’clock position.  If all the above items check out okay, then it may be necessary to install a ladder guard kit (part #G-21) to keep your Polaris from getting stuck on the ladder.

Q:  Why doesn’t my Polaris clean the entire pool?

A: Your Polaris 360 cleaner needs to operate at a minimum number of wheel revolutions per minute.  The optimal range is between 28-32 RPM.  It is easy to check the RPM by bringing the cleaner to the edge of the pool keeping it submerged.  Turn it so the single side wheel is up (make sure you hold on to the sweep hose so you will not get wet). Mark the single wheel or place a leaf or twig under the tire as a starting point; count the revolutions of the marked wheel for exactly one minute, beginning after the Polaris has completed a back-up cycle (back-up jet off).  If your wheel RPM is in the correct range, you will need to make sure your back-up valve is cycling.  Hold the back up valve out of the water and watch the back up jet to make sure it turns on and turns off.  This jet should be off longer than it is on.  Turn off your Polaris 360, remove it from the water and spin each wheel to verify that all wheels spin together.  It is also important to make sure the feed hose reaches within 6” of the farthest point of the pool.  If the hose is either too long or too short, please see your owner’s manual for detailed hose cutting instructions. Next, check your thrust jet located on the back of your cleaner; it should be in the eleven o’clock position.  Finally, the swivel on the 360’s feed pipe must move freely for optimum turning ability.  If it binds then you will need to replace the feed pipe assembly (part # 9-100-1002).

Q:  Why does my Polaris 360 move too slowly?

A: Your Polaris cleaner needs to operate at a minimum number of wheel revolutions per minute.  The optimal range is between 28-32 RPM.  It is easy to check the RPM by bringing the cleaner to the edge of the pool keeping it submerged.  Turn it so the single side wheel is up (make sure you hold on to the sweep hose so you will not get wet).  Mark the single wheel or place a leaf or twig under the tire as a starting point; count the revolutions of the marked wheel for exactly one minute, beginning after the Polaris has completed a back-up cycle (back-up jet off).   Is your Polaris 360 plugged into a return line or a dedicated cleaner line?  Return line installations may require you to restrict the flow to one or more of your extra return lines.  Please verify that the flow has been restricted to these extra return lines.  You may need to purchase restrictor plugs (sizes vary depending on the diameter of the holes).  Since the Polaris 360 uses your existing filter pump (does not require a booster pump), it is very important that you keep the filter screen in the quick disconnect clean.  Also, your skimmer and filter baskets need to be cleaned regularly as well as keeping your pool filter clean.  If your pool filter is dirty, you will need to back wash it.  Next you will need to verify that your hose swivels and nuts are securely attached to your feed hose pieces to prevent any water pressure loss which can cause your cleaner to move too slowly. Finally, you will need to make sure your back-up valve is cycling.  Hold the back up valve out of the water and watch the back up jet to make sure it turns on and turns off.  This jet should be off longer than it is on.

Q:  Why does my Polaris 360 move too fast?

A:  Just as low RPM will cause your cleaner to move too slowly, high RPM will cause your 360 to move too quickly.  The optimal range is between 28-32 RPM.  It is easy to check the RPM by bringing the cleaner to the edge of the pool keeping it submerged.  Turn it so the single side wheel is up (make sure you hold on to the sweep hose so you will not get wet).  Mark the single wheel or place a leaf or twig under the tire as a starting point; count the revolutions of the marked wheel for exactly one minute, beginning after the Polaris has completed a back-up cycle (back-up jet off).    Then unscrew the pressure relief valve on the quick disconnect until your Polaris is operating between 28-32 RPM.

Q:  Why doesn’t my Polaris back-up?

A:  First, you will need to make sure your back-up valve is cycling.  Hold the back up valve out of the water and watch the back up jet to make sure it turns on and turns off.  This jet should be off longer than it is on.  Check your 360’s wheel RPM; they should be between 28-32 revolutions per minute.  It is easy to check the RPM by bringing the cleaner to the edge of the pool keeping it submerged.  Turn it so the single side wheel is up (make sure you hold on to the sweep hose so you will not get wet).  Mark the single wheel or place a leaf or twig under the tire as a starting point; count the revolutions of the marked wheel for exactly one minute, beginning after the Polaris has completed a back-up cycle (back-up jet off). You may need to replace the head float (part #A-20), if it is full of water.  Finally, verify that your Polaris’ feed hose is floating and not sagging. 

Q:  Why does my 360 only turn in one direction?

A:  First, you will need to check the thrust jet located on the back of your cleaner; it should be in the eleven o’clock position. Turn off your Polaris 360, remove it from the water and spin each wheel to verify that all wheels spin together.  Next, the swivel on the 360’s feed pipe must move freely for optimum turning ability.  If it binds then you will need to replace the feed pipe assembly (part #9-100-1002).  Verify that your Polaris’ feed hose is floating and not sagging, and that any curve in the hose that connects to the cleaner head is aligned with the curve of the feed pipe.  Finally, check your 360’s wheel RPM; they should be between 28-32 revolutions per minute.  It is easy to check the RPM by bringing the cleaner to the edge of the pool keeping it submerged.  Turn it so the single side wheel is up (make sure you hold on to the sweep hose so you will not get wet). Mark the single wheel or place a leaf or twig under the tire as a starting point; count the revolutions of the marked wheel for exactly one minute, beginning after the Polaris has completed a back-up cycle (back-up jet off).

Q:  Why does the Polaris run on its side?

A:  If your bag is full of debris it may affect how your cleaner operates.  Make sure you empty the filter bag regularly.  Check for water in the head float by removing it from the cleaner and shaking it.  If there is water in the float, replace it (part #A-20).  Finally, make sure your float hose is floating and not sagging.

Q:  Why does my Polaris 360 feed hose become tangled?

A:  The Polaris 360 feed hose needs to be the proper size for your pool.  First, make sure the feed hose does not extend beyond the farthest point of the pool.  If it does, cut off the overage amount from the first section of your feed hose from the pool wall. Next, you will need to make sure your back-up valve is cycling.  Hold the back up valve out of the water and watch the back up jet to make sure it turns on and turns off.  This jet should be off longer than it is on. Finally, verify that your Polaris’ feed hose is floating and not sagging and that the 3 hose floats are positioned properly.  The first float is located behind the back-up valve, the second one 4 feet up the feed hose (toward the pool wall) and the third float is located 7 feet from the back-up valve.

Q:  Why does my Polaris 360’s sweep hose get sucked into the vacuum tube?

A: The sweep hose should be moving in a gentle sweeping motion.  You can adjust its motion by turning the adjustment screw until it slows down to a gentle sweeping motion.  Also, verify that your sweep hose scrubber is not blocking the opening at the end of the sweep hose.  If it is, move the scrubber so that it will not block this opening.

Q:  Why does the Polaris’ sweep hose spray water out of the pool?

A:  There are three things that can cause your Polaris to spray water out of the pool.   First, your sweep hose scrubber may be worn or missing.  You can replace it by purchasing part #9-100-3105.  Secondly, your sweep hose could be operating too fast.  The sweep hose should be moving in a gentle sweeping motion.  You can adjust the motion of your sweep hose by turning the adjustment screw until it slows down to a gentle sweeping motion.  Finally, it might be necessary to add a sweep hose weight (part #B-2) to keep your hose from spraying water.

For additional information regarding the Polaris 360, please contact the Polaris Customer Service Department at 1-800-VAC-SWEEP.

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We recommend that you follow the answers in the order they appear.  For parts identification refer to the exploded parts diagram for the Polaris 340.  To view or print a copy of the 340 Owner’s Manual, please go back to the pool cleaner section and scroll down to Polaris 340.  The numbers in parenthesis refer to the Exploded Parts Diagram located in the pool cleaner section of our website.

Your Polaris 340 cleaner is a suction side cleaner therefore depositing the debris it vacuums into the pump basket or in your circulation pump.  The cleaner’s overall operation is dependent upon many factors such as:

• A clean pump basket

• A clean circulation pump

• Secure hose connections

• Any adjustments made to the valves in your pool equipment area; on both the suction and pressure sides of the pump

• A properly working flow regulator (skimmer installations only) that holds its adjusted position

• A properly functioning pool filtration system

Q:  Why is my Polaris 340 not moving?

A:  Ensure that your pool circulation pump is on and the Polaris 340 hose is securely connected to the skimmer or dedicated cleaner line. With  the pump on, remove the cleaner from the leader hose keeping the hose submerged.  Attach the flow indicator (#29) to the end of  the hose and verify proper flow.  If the flow is low, then clean pump basket and/or backwash pool filter.  If the flow is high then adjust the flow down at the flow regulator (#23) located in your skimmer or the valves in your pool equipment area.  Your Polaris cleaner needs to operate at a minimum number of wheel revolutions per minute.  The optimal range is between 30-34 RPM.  It is easy to check the RPM by brining the cleaner to the edge of the pool keeping it submerged.  Mark the wheel or place a leaf or twig under the tire as a starting point; count the revolutions of the marked wheel for exactly one minute.  If the cleaner goes into back-up cycle (wheels begin to rotate backwards, counterclockwise) during the count; stop counting.  Wait until all the wheels are turning forward (clockwise) and begin counting again. Also, remove the top housing (#3) and verify that the propeller (#4) is free of debris.  Finally, check the turbine to make sure it is free of debris by removing the bottom plate (#21).  Finally, check the belts by removing the bottom housing (#20).  Verify they have not fallen off and are properly tensioned.  The proper tension is no more than ¼” inflection.  For further assistance, call the Polaris Customer Service Department at 1-800-822-7933.

Q:  Why does my Polaris 340 get stuck on steps or other pool obstacles for longer than 5 minutes?

A:  Your Polaris cleaner needs to operate at a minimum number of wheel revolutions per minute.  The optimal range is between 30-34 RPM.  It is easy to check the RPM by bringing the cleaner to the edge of the pool keeping it submerged.  Mark the wheel or place a leaf or twig under the tire as a starting point; count the revolutions of the marked wheel for exactly one minute.  If the cleaner goes into a back-up cycle (wheels begin to rotate backwards) during the count; stop counting.  Wait until all the wheels are turning forward and begin counting again.  If the wheel RPM is in the correct range you will need to make sure your Polaris 340 is cycling properly.  Hold the cleaner below the surface of the water.  All wheels should turn backwards approximately every 1-½ minutes.  If the wheel RPM is correct and the unit is cycling properly, then remove unnecessary pool hardware or install a ladder guard kit (part #G-21) to prevent your Polaris 340 from getting stuck on or near your ladder.  Contact the Polaris Customer Service Department at 1-800-822-7933 for further information. 

Q:  Why does my Polaris 340 move too slowly?

A:  Your Polaris cleaner needs to operate at a minimum number of wheel revolutions per minute.  The optimal range is between 30-34 RPM.  It is easy to check the RPM by brining the cleaner to the edge of the pool keeping it submerged.  Mark the wheel or place a leaf or twig under the tire as a starting point; count the revolutions of the marked wheel for exactly one minute.  If the cleaner goes into back-up cycle (wheels begin to rotate backwards) during the count; stop counting.  Wait until all the wheels are turning forward and begin counting again.  If the wheel RPM is under 30, then check the following: 

• Pump basket is empty

• Pool filter is clean (filter pressure is not 5-10 psi above the cleaning operating pressure as indicted by the gauge on your pool filter)

• Verify that the propeller (#4) is free of debris by removing the top housing (#3)

• Turbine is free of debris, check by removing the bottom plate (#21).

Q:  Why does my Polaris 340 appear to be stuck repeatedly at the water line?

A: Your Polaris cleaner needs to operate at a minimum number of wheel revolutions per minute.  The optimal range is between 30-34 RPM.  It is easy to check the RPM by brining the cleaner to the edge of the pool keeping it submerged.  Mark the wheel or place a leaf or twig under the tire as a starting point; count the revolutions of the marked wheel for exactly one minute.  If the cleaner goes into back-up cycle (wheels begin to rotate backwards) during the count; stop counting.  Wait until all the wheels are turning forward and begin counting again.  If the wheel RPM is above 34, then verify that your flow regulator (#23) (which is used on skimmer installations) that is plugged into the skimmer is free of debris.  If the wheel RPM is in the correct range and the cleaner is still repeating this behavior, then move the hose weights to the 2^nd and 4^th hose sections approximately 6 feet and 12 feet respectively from the head.

Q:  Why does my Polaris “wheelie” or pull severely to one side?

A: Your Polaris cleaner needs to operate at a minimum number of wheel revolutions per minute.  The optimal range is between 30-34 RPM.  It is easy to check the RPM by brining the cleaner to the edge of the pool keeping it submerged.  Mark the wheel or place a leaf or twig under the tire as a starting point; count the revolutions of the marked wheel for exactly one minute.  If the cleaner goes into back-up cycle (wheels begin to rotate backwards) during the count; stop counting.  Wait until all the wheels are turning forward and begin counting again.  Next, in operation verify that the hose swivel (#19) at the rear of  the cleaner moves freely.  You can also check the propeller (#4) for debris by removing the top housing (#3).  Remove any debris by hand that may be interfering with the propeller’s operation.  Finally, check to make sure the hose weights (#27) are positioned properly on the first 2 sections of the hose.  The proper positions for the 2 weights (#27) are 3 feet and 6 feet from the Polaris if the pool is more than 5 feet deep.  If the pool is less than 5 feet deep, then you can remove the hose weight (#27) from the leader hose (#28) and position the other weight on the standard hose (2^nd section) so it is approximately 4 feet from the Polaris. 

Q:  Why does my Polaris 340 hose become tangled?

A: Your Polaris cleaner needs to operate at a minimum number of wheel revolutions per minute.  The optimal range is between 30-34 RPM.  It is easy to check the RPM by brining the cleaner to the edge of the pool keeping it submerged.  Mark the wheel or place a leaf or twig under the tire as a starting point; count the revolutions of the marked wheel for exactly one minute.  If the cleaner goes into back-up cycle (wheels begin to rotate backwards) during the count; stop counting.  Wait until all the wheels are turning forward and begin counting again. In addition to correct wheel RPM, the cleaner’s hose needs to be the correct length.  Proper hose length is where the hose extends 2-3 sections past the farthest point of the pool.  Verify that the hose weights (#27) are positioned properly on the first 2 sections of the hose.  The proper positions for the 2 weights (#27) are 3 feet and 6 feet from the Polaris if the pool is more than 5 feet deep.  If the pool is less than 5 feet deep, then you can remove the hose weight (#27) from the leader hose (#28) and position the other weight on the standard hose (2^nd section) so it is approximately 4 feet from the Polaris.   Next, you will need to make sure your Polaris 340 is cycling properly.  Hold the cleaner below the surface of the water.  All wheels should turn backwards approximately ever 1-½ minutes.  Finally, if your Polaris 340 is installed in a dedicated suction line (not the skimmer), attach the 45-degree elbow to the universal adapter  (#22) or wall connection.  Angle it upward and attach the hose.

Q:  Why do air bubble come out of the return line during operation?

A: Your Polaris cleaner needs to operate at a minimum number of wheel revolutions per minute.  The optimal range is between 30-34 RPM.  It is easy to check the RPM by brining the cleaner to the edge of the pool keeping it submerged.  Mark the wheel or place a leaf or twig under the tire as a starting point; count the revolutions of the marked wheel for exactly one minute.  If the cleaner goes into back-up cycle (wheels begin to rotate backwards) during the count; stop counting.  Wait until all the wheels are turning forward and begin counting again.  If the wheel RPM is less than 30 verify the hose connections are secure as well as the connection to your skimmer or dedicated line.  After securing the connections, check the wheel RPM again.  If air bubbles are still coming out of the return line, contact you local pool professional.

Q:  Why do the belts keep falling off my Polaris 340?

A:  If your Polaris 340 serial number is prior to 113700 your tensioner pulley may need to be changed.  Call the Polaris Customer Service Department at 1-800-822-7933 for further assistance.  If your serial number is after 113700 then your belts may be tensioned too loose.  You can check the belt tension by removing the bottom housing (#20).  The proper tension is no more than ¼” inflection.

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 Polaris Vac-Sweep® 280 Frequently Asked Questions

Q:  Why does my Polaris get stuck longer than 3 minutes on my ladder, including corners, or on other obstacles?

A:  Your Polaris 280 cleaner needs to operate at a minimum number of wheel revolutions per minute.  The optimal range is between 28-34 RPM.  It is easy to check the RPM by bringing the cleaner to the edge of the pool keeping it submerged.  Turn it so the single side wheel is up (make sure you hold on to the sweep hose so you will not get wet). Mark the single wheel or place a leaf or twig under the tire as a starting point; count the revolutions of the marked wheel for exactly one minute, beginning after the Polaris has completed a back-up cycle (back-up jet off).   If your wheel RPM are in the correct range, you will need to make sure your back-up valve is cycling.  Hold the back up valve out of the water and watch the back up jet to make sure it turns on and turns off.  This jet should be off longer than it is on.  Finally, check your thrust jet located on the back of your cleaner; it should be in a straight back position.  If all the above items check out okay, then it may be necessary to install a ladder guard kit (part #G-21) to keep your Polaris from getting stuck on the ladder.

Q:  Why does the Polaris’ sweep hose spray water out of the pool?

A:  There are three things that can cause your Polaris to spray water out of the pool.   First, your sweep hose scrubber may be worn or missing.  You can replace it by purchasing part #9-100-3105.  Secondly, your sweep hose could be operating too fast.  The sweep hose should be moving in a gentle sweeping motion.  You can adjust the motion of your sweep hose by turning the adjustment screw until it slows down to a gentle sweeping motion.  Finally, it might be necessary to add a sweep hose weight (part #B-2) to keep your hose from spraying water.

Q:  Why doesn’t my Polaris clean the entire pool?

A:  Your Polaris needs to be adjusted properly so that it can clean your entire pool; one of the most important variables is that your wheel RPM is between 28-34. It is easy to check the RPM by bringing the cleaner to the edge of the pool keeping it submerged.  Turn it so the single side wheel is up (make sure you hold on to the sweep hose so you will not get wet). Mark the single wheel or place a leaf or twig under the tire as a starting point; count the revolutions of the marked wheel for exactly one minute, beginning after the Polaris has completed a back-up cycle (back-up jet off).   Also, verify that the thrust jet is in the straight back position. 

If your Polaris still is not covering the entire pool you will need to make sure your feed hose is cut properly.  The clear hose should be cut to the greatest depth of your pool and the entire feed hose (1 clear and 2 white sections) should reach within 6” of the farthest point of the pool.  If your hose needs to be cut, please refer to your owner’s manual for detailed instructions.  Next you will need to check float placement.  The clear hose should have one float behind the back-up valve and another float upstream 2-3 feet (toward the pool wall).  On the 2 white hoses the floats should be no less than 1-1/2 feet and no more than 3 feet apart.  Hook your cleaner up to the wall and turn on your filter pump and booster pump and check to make sure all of the wheels are turning.

Q:  Why doesn’t my Polaris climb the walls?

A:  For optimum climbing your cleaner needs to have the following adjustment:  The wheel RPM need to be between 28-34.  It is easy to check the RPM by bringing the cleaner to the edge of the pool keeping it submerged.  Turn it so the single side wheel is up (make sure you hold on to the sweep hose so you will not get wet). Mark the single wheel or place a leaf or twig under the tire as a starting point; count the revolutions of the marked wheel for exactly one minute, beginning after the Polaris has completed a back-up cycle (back-up jet off).   Also, the thrust jet should be at 12:00; head float should be pushed to within one inch of the feed mast; and the idler wheel needs to be driving the back wheel.  If the idler is not doing this, push down on it to dislodge any sand or dirt.

Q:  How do I keep my sweep hose from getting sucked into the vac tube?

A: The sweep hose should be moving in a gentle sweeping motion.  You can adjust its motion by turning the adjustment screw until it slows down to a gentle sweeping motion.  Also, verify that your sweep hose scrubber is not blocking the opening at the end of the sweep hose.  If it is, move the scrubber so that it will not block this opening.

Q:  Why does my Polaris run on its side?

A:  If your bag is full of debris it may affect how your cleaner operates.  Make sure you empty the filter bag regularly.  Check for water in the head float by removing it from the cleaner and shaking it.  If there is water in the float, replace it (part #A-20).  Finally, make sure your hose floats are floating and are spaced properly on the feed hose. The clear hose should have one float behind the back-up valve and another float upstream 2-3 feet (toward the pool wall).  Then on the 2 white hoses the floats should be no less than 1-1/2 feet and no more than 3 feet apart.

Q:  Why does my feed hose tangle or tie itself in knots?

A: To prevent your Polaris 280 from tying itself up in knots, you will need to check the wheel RPM .  The optimal range is between 28-34 RPM. It is easy to check the RPM by bringing the cleaner to the edge of the pool keeping it submerged.  Turn it so the single side wheel is up (make sure you hold on to the sweep hose so you will not get wet). Mark the single wheel or place a leaf or twig under the tire as a starting point; count the revolutions of the marked wheel for exactly one minute, beginning after the Polaris has completed a back-up cycle (back-up jet off).   Also, the hose length and float placement needs to be correct. The clear hose should be cut to the greatest depth of your pool and the entire feed hose (1 clear and 2 white sections) should reach within 6” of the farthest point of the pool.  If your hose needs to be cut, please refer to your owner’s manual for detailed instructions.  Next you will need to check float placement.  The clear hose should have one float behind the back-up valve and another float upstream 2-3 feet (toward the pool wall).  On the 2 white hoses the floats should be no less than 1-1/2 feet and no more than 3 feet apart.  Once you have verified that the hose and floats are properly cut and placed, you will need to make sure your back-up valve is cycling. Hold the back up valve out of the water and watch the back up jet to make sure it turns on and turns off.  This jet should be off longer than it is on.  Finally, the swivels that connect the hose to the cleaner and the hose sections to one each other, need to turn freely and the flow arrows must be pointing toward the cleaner.

Q:  Why does the Polaris seem to float around the pool, not staying on the bottom?

A:  You will need to make sure your back-up valve is cycling.  Holding the back up valve out of the water and watch the back up jet to make sure it turns on and turns off.  This jet should be off longer than it is on.  Next, the spacing of the floats will need to be checked. The clear hose should have one float behind the back-up valve and another float upstream 2-3 feet (toward the pool wall).  On the 2 white hoses the floats should be no less than 1-1/2 feet and no more than 3 feet apart.  Finally, your Polaris cleaner requires a minimum number of wheel revolutions per minute.  The optimal range is between 28-34 RPM.  It is easy to check the RPM by bringing the cleaner to the edge of the pool keeping it submerged, turn it so the single side wheel is up (make sure you hold on to the sweep hose so you will not get wet).  Mark the single wheel with a leaf or twig for a starting point; count the revolutions of the marked wheel for exactly one minute, beginning after the Polaris has completed a back-up cycle (back-up jet off).

Q:  Why does the Polaris move slowly?

A: First, make sure your filter pump is operating then turn on your booster pump, either manually or by a time clock.  Your Polaris 280 cleaner requires a minimum number of wheel revolutions per minute.  The optimal range is between 28-34 RPM.  It is easy to check the RPM by bringing the cleaner to the edge of the pool keeping it submerged.  Turn it so the single side wheel is up (make sure you hold on to the sweep hose so you will not get wet). Mark the single wheel or place a leaf or twig under the tire as a starting point; count the revolutions of the marked wheel for exactly one minute, beginning after the Polaris has completed a back-up cycle (back-up jet off). 

If your wheel RPM is in the correct range, you will need to check the filter screen in the quick disconnect (wall fitting) and your filter basket for debris and rinse if necessary.  Finally, check to see if the feed hose is leaking any water from the hose nuts (part #D15) or swivels (part #D20) that connect the sections together.  If a leak has occurred tighten the hose nuts or replace one or both of these parts.

Q:  Why does the feed hose keep disconnecting from the Universal Wall Fitting?

A: The quick disconnect must be installed correctly in the pool wall (Universal Wall Fitting). As you insert the QD into the UWF you will turn the quick disconnect clockwise until it stops and then gently pull back locking the it in place.  If either of the pegs that lock the QD into the UWF  are damaged or broken, you will need to replace the UWF (part #6-500-00).

Q:  Why does the feed hose keep disconnecting at the swivels?

A:  The hose nuts on your feed hose should be positioned on the swivel so that the smaller end of the nut is facing the swivel; if the nuts are installed backwards, then you cannot tighten them enough to keep the hose sections connected to one another under pressure.  Back the nut down onto the hose and tighten until you cannot turn any further.

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