Troubleshooting tips for Diaphragm Suction Cleaners

Here we are offering some troubleshooting tips on some of the most frequently asked issues about the diaphragm suction pool cleaners, including:

• Diaphragm constantly splitting
• The suction cleaner is not climbing
• The suction Cleaner does not move or stop and starts
• Suction Cleaner is getting stuck on an obstacle
• How to use a Pool Pulse to measure the suction flow
• How to adjust an AD Flow Valve

With these simple step-by-step instructions, you’ll be able to ensure your pool cleaner is working to the best of its ability all year round!

Diaphragm constantly splitting

The most common cause of diaphragm splitting is usually due to too much suction. To ensure the longest life possible for your diaphragms, please ensure that you check your suction level using the Pool Pulse after cleaning or backwashing your filter, and make sure your water is balanced. Make sure you remove the cleaner from the pool when you add any chemicals. Make sure you remove any larger debris from your pool before running your cleaner, as this can also affect the diaphragm.

Note: Suction cleaners use a diaphragm to turn suction into movement, when this part rips, stretches or deforms due to use, it can cause the cleaner to stop moving. This is an easily replaceable and consumable part you can purchase from your local pool shop. They may even be able to help you install it if you don't feel comfortable doing so yourself. If your product is still within warranty, feel free to reach out to us for further assistance. Here's a video to help if you wish to replace the diaphragm on your own:

The suction cleaner is not climbing

The main cause of a suction cleaner not climbing is usually due to lack of suction. Follow these steps to get your suction cleaner back on the climbing 

1. The first thing that should be checked is to ensure there are no blockages in the pump or skimmer basket that may prevent the pump from operating efficiently. Remove any debris found in these areas.
2. To check the current suction level, use a pool pulse. Each suction cleaner will have a specifically recommended suction reading, but 2.5-3 is a good place to be. (Note: suction can be adjusted via the AD valve or vacplate or via increasing the speed of the VS pumps. Increasing suction beyond a pool pulse reading of 3 will increase the speed of the cleaner and reduce the life of a diaphragm dramatically.)
3. Check the current location of the hose weight. Moving the hose weight further away from the head of the cleaner will help allow the cleaner to climb however, this may also cause the cleaner to unintentionally float (bad). Move in small increments and retest after each change. (Note: Each cleaner has a specific weight location for best use.– refer to the product manual)
4. Check the diaphragm for stretching, rips/tears and/or blockages inside the engine. Remove any debris found or replace the diaphragm if damaged. It is also a good idea to check the engine/outer extension tube/cup assembly/cassette chamber for damage. If cracks are apparent, water may be escaping through them, causing a loss of suction.
5. Check pool chemistry and Scrub the surface of the walls. If the pool walls are slippery or have signs of algae growing, this may prevent the suction cleaner from climbing.

The suction Cleaner does not move or stop and starts 

1. Check the pump to identify if there is water in the basket. If no water is present, check for a blockage in the pool system (skimmer box, pump basket etc) to ensure the fault is not with the suction cleaner.
2. If water is present, check the diaphragm for excessive stretching, rips or tears and check for blockages inside the suction cleaner engine that may prevent water flow.
3. Check the Flow rate/Suction level and the AD valve setting to ensure adequate suction is available.
4. Check the hose for leaks by lifting the hose out of the water and, at each joint, listening for any air escaping. We want to do that for ALL hose joints. The pump must be running during this step.

• Check all parts for damages
• Inspect the Engine/outer extension tube/cup assembly/cassette chamber for any broken or cracked pieces
• If any parts are broken – Replace the parts

Suction Cleaner is getting stuck on an obstacle

Establish if it is the cleaner or the hose that is getting stuck and the type of obstacle that is causing the problem. Some obstacles, such as ladders, may pose an issue, but this is not the fault of the cleaners.

Diaphragm suction cleaners are “pulled” by the hose, its movement and positioning is, therefore, directly controlled via the hose location. For best results, Direct the return line to gently push the cleaner hose by positioning the return directional eyeball so it aims towards the wall on the opposite side of the pool. Adjust until surface movement is visible 8 ft. (2.5 m) out from the return.

How to use a Pool Pulse to measure the suction flow

Before attaching the suction cleaner head, measure the suction flow at the hose on the final hose length (the section furthest away from the skimmer box) by connecting the Pool Pulse to the hose using the Quick connector.

Keep the Pool Pulse underwater and turn on the pool filter pump.
The suction provided by the pump will pull the spring back. Observe the indicator

A suction level of 3 is perfect.
If the reading is 0-2, adjust the AD Valve to level 3 to increase the flow
If the reading is 4-6, adjust the AD Valve to level 1 to reduce the flow

See the next paragraph to find out how to adjust an AD Flow Valve.

How to adjust an AD Flow Valve

The AD Flow valve works by regulating the flow of water through the pool cleaner to the pump.
As the filter collects debris, the valve will automatically maintain the correct flow by opening/closing a spring-loaded valve. Moving the adjustable black tab to a different position will either increase tension on the spring or reduce tension on the spring in order to allow more or less water through the valve.

The AD Flow valve has three settings: High (3), Medium (2) and Low (1). It comes preset at a factory setting of 2. You will need to adjust the AD Flow valve when and if a problem occurs.