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Hayward Pool Vacuum Not Moving: Causes & Fixes

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The Hayward pool vacuum makes it much easier to keep your pool clean. It comes with a user-friendly design and ergonomic features that assure you of years of use. However, problems like your pool vacuum not operating well or being stuck tend to be common. 

Fortunately, there are several ways to handle this situation, all of which we have explained in this guide. 

Hayward Pool Vacuum Not Moving: Likely Causes

hayward pool vacuum not moving

Clogged Hose

This should be obvious. One of the most common causes of a Hayward pool vacuum not moving is a clogged hose. The hose can become clogged with debris, such as leaves and dirt, which can prevent the vacuum from moving. The hose should be the first place to check 

Air Leaks

Another common cause of a Hayward pool vacuum not moving is air leaks in the system. Air leaks can occur in the hose, the vacuum head, or the skimmer basket, and can prevent the vacuum from suctioning properly.

Low Water Level

A low water level in the pool could also be a problem. The vacuum needs a certain amount of water to work properly, so if the water level is too low, the vacuum may not have enough water to create suction.

Clogged Skimmer Basket

You might also be dealing with a clogged skimmer basket. The skimmer basket collects debris before it reaches the pump, so if it is clogged, the vacuum may not have enough suction to move.

Blocked Impeller

An impeller is a component of the pool pump that helps to create suction. The impeller tends to get clogged or blocked with continuous use. A blocked impeller will not be able to create suction, the and your vacuum may not move.

Clogged Filter

A clogged filter can also cause a Hayward pool vacuum not to move. The filter traps debris before it reaches the pump. With continuous use, the filter would get clogged. When this happens, the vacuum may not have enough suction to move.

Blocked or Damaged Return Jet

The return jet is responsible for returning the water back to the pool after it has been filtered. A damaged or blocked return jet can prevent the vacuum from working properly.

Faulty Vacuum Motor

If the vacuum motor is not working properly, it can prevent the vacuum from moving. This could be caused by a faulty motor or a problem with the vacuum’s power supply.

Hayward Pool Vacuum Not Moving: DIY Fixes

Once you’ve identified the cause of the suction issue with the Hayward pool vacuum, you can apply the following fixes. 

1. Clean the Hose

  • Turn off the pool pump and disconnect the hose from the vacuum head.
  • Use a hose brush or a leaf rake to remove any debris that may be blocking the hose.
  • Flush out the hose with a garden hose to remove any remaining debris.
  • Reattach the hose to the vacuum head and turn the pool pump back on.

2. Check for Air Leaks

  • Check the hose for any signs of damage or leaks. If there are any, patch it or replace the damaged part of the hose.
  • Check the vacuum head and skimmer basket for any signs of damage or leaks. Replace the damaged part if you find any.
  • Turn the pool pump back on and check for any air leaks again.

3. Raise the Water Level

  • Measure the water level in the pool. The recommended water level is usually halfway up the skimmer.
  • If the water level is too low, fill the pool to the recommended level.
  • When done, test the pool vacuum to see if it is moving.

4. Clean the Skimmer Basket

  • To locate the skimmer basket in the pool, check near the pool pump or the pool filter.
  • Remove the skimmer basket and empty out any debris that may be inside.
  • Use a hose or a bucket to flush out any debris that may be blocking the basket.
  • Reinstall the skimmer basket and turn the pool pump back on.

5. Unblock the Impeller

  • To get the impeller, you will have to access the pump strainer basket. You can find this near the pool pump or the pool filter.
  • Remove the pump strainer basket.
  • Check the impeller for any debris that may be blocking it. Use a small brush or a piece of wire to remove any debris.

6. Clean the Filter

  • Check your user manual to get the proper location of the filter
  • Remove the filter and clean it out. When done, use a hose or a bucket to flush out any debris that may be blocking the filter.
  • After that, reinstall the filter and check if the pool vacuum is functioning

7. Check the Return Jet

  • Check the user manual for the exact location of the return jet in your model. 
  • Once you’ve accessed the return jet, check it for any blockages or damage.
  • If any, clear the blockages and replace any damaged parts.

8. Check the Vacuum Motor

  • Check the power supply to the vacuum motor. Make sure that it is connected and that the circuit breaker is not tripped.
  • If the power supply is fine, the vacuum motor may be faulty and will need to be replaced. However, you should reach out to a technician and have them take a look at the pool vacuum before replacing the motor.

Note: It’s always advisable to refer to the manufacturer’s manual for specific troubleshooting and fixes for the pool vacuum, as the design and function of the pool vacuums may vary from model to model.

Conclusion

By following these steps, you can fix a Hayward pool vacuum that is not moving. However, if the vacuum still does not move after trying these steps, it may be necessary to call a professional for further assistance. It’s also crucial to perform regular maintenance checks as detailed in the user manual and keep the pool clean to prevent these problems from happening in the future.