Dolphin Troubleshooting Guide
Maytronics US Inc. 2221 Northmont Pkwy. Suite 400 Duluth, GA 30096 www.maytronicsus.com
04/2019
Page 2
• Video demonstrations: Out-of-Water Self-test on 2010 models or Out-of-Water Self-test on 2015 models: Turn
the cleaner upside down on dry land and turn the power supply on. The impeller fan should spin for 10-15
seconds (you’ll hear a soft, high-pitched whine), and the tracks should move forward, then reverse and go
backward. Turn the unit o. If it can perform these steps, try it in the pool again. If it cannot perform these
steps, take your Dolphin to your local dealer or call Maytronics Customer Service.
• If you are using an extension cord, unplug it. Plug the Power Supply Unit directly into a GFI outlet. Note – (The
Dolphin is not designed to be used with an extension cord, surge protectors, or any other electrical component
other than originally manufactured by Maytronics).
• If your cleaner is still not operating properly, please take cleaner to your local Maytronics dealer. Your dealer
can test the power supply, cable, and motor and perform warranty repair services.
3. My Dolphin won’t climb the walls, or it gets stuck in the deep end and can’t get out:
• The Power Supply Unit (PSU) or Remote Control could be set on Quick-Clean (floors only) mode. Switch to the
Standard or Enhanced (if applicable) cleaning mode.
• The most common reason for this is that the Dolphin’s filters are clogged and need to be cleaned. We
recommend cleaning after each use. Do not allow filters to dry out before cleaning. Deeper cleaning may be
required occasionally and is highly encouraged. Just because your filters LOOK clean doesn’t mean fine debris
isn’t clogging them.
> For filter bags: machine wash with mild detergent and bleach – AIR DRY ONLY.
> For filter cartridges or panels: soak cartridges in a cartridge cleaning solution.
• If the unit still won’t climb: Remove the filters altogether. IF THE POOL IS CLEAN ENOUGH, run the cleaner
briefly (no more than 10 minutes). If the unit will climb without them in place, replace the filters.
> If the unit still won’t climb without the filters in place, continue troubleshooting below.
• Make sure the rapid drain flap is in place or not missing – these create a seal, allowing the Dolphin to climb.
(The flap is a black rubber part located behind the rear roller brush, visible by turning the unit upside down).
• Water temperature may be too high or too low – Ideal water temperature between 43° - 93°F / 6° - 32°C.
• Pool chemistry matters! High pH levels allow for growth of algae which make the pool’s surface slick and
inhibits the Dolphin’s climbing ability. (Refer to your owner’s manual for proper pH levels).
> Adding a liquid UV filter like Enhance Summer protects the chlorine from the sun and inhibits growth of
algae! Learn more about Dr. Dryden’s Activate and Enhance Summer!
• Sometimes, a buildup on the walls or slope of the pool occurs due to excess body oils, sunscreens, or liquid
solar blankets, preventing the Dolphin from climbing properly. If you cleaner is attempting to climb, but slipping
on the wall as it does so, try brushing the walls manually to loosen this buildup.
• If your model has white Climbing Rings on its brushes, allow time for the climbing rings to absorb water (5 -10
minutes). They will become soft and pliable, allowing them to grip walls. Squeeze the rings – they should give.
If the Dolphin still can’t climb, take your Dolphin to your local dealer for service.
• Above-Ground Dolphin models do not climb walls.
4. My Dolphin runs, but it won’t run a full cycle:
• Make sure the filters are not full of leaves or clogged with other debris.
• Check your settings to see if your Dolphin is programmed for the “Quick-Clean” cycle – (a shorter 1 - 1 ½ hour
cycle). This is visible on the Power Supply Unit (PSU) where you see a “semi-circle” icon.
• If your cleaner has a remote control or My Dolphin App (Pro) check your cycle settings.