While the Zodiac Mx6 pool cleaner provides excellent traction for all surfaces, it can struggle to climb the pool walls when there’s an underlying problem affecting its performance. This guide is all about the common issues that can make the Zodiac Mx6 or Mx8 fail at climbing walls.
So let’s move forward and find out how to get your star pool cleaner back into action!
Zodiac Mx6 Not Climbing Walls: Troubleshooting Guide
Following is all you need to know about your Zodiac Mx6 not climbing walls—the causes, the solutions, and everything in between!
Slippery Pool Surface
It is not uncommon for pool surfaces to develop algae, scale, or contaminant buildup over time. The presence of algae or grime on pool walls can make the surface slippery and impact the ability of the Zodiac Mx6 to climb as a result.
Other than that, newly plastered walls or tiled pools generally do not make good friends with pool robots and hinder their traction power, which can result in climbing issues.
What To Do
- Clean the Pool Surface
Thoroughly wash the walls of your pool to get rid of any buildup. Scrub the walls and consider using a good pool algaecide to prevent such issues in the future.
- Check the Water Chemistry
If the pH and alkalinity levels in your pool are off, it can trigger the growth of algae in the pool and make it difficult for the Zodiac pool cleaner to climb the slippery surface. Use a water testing kit to determine the pH levels in your pool and take corrective measures, as required.
- Improve Pool Surface
In the case of an inherently slippery pool surface, consider applying a non-slip coating to the pool walls or regularly scrub the walls to add some natural roughness to the surface and minimise slipperiness.
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Clogged Canister
A clogged canister can impair the movement of the Zodiac pool cleaner, reduce suction, or increase strain on the cleaner’s motor, and hence, make the Mx6 fail at climbing walls. A canister usually clogs due to debris accumulation over time and is not something you should worry about.
What To Do
If you find your Zodiac Mx6 or Mx8 stalling or struggling to climb walls, consider examining the canister for any buildup.
- Carefully remove the canister from the Zodiac cleaner.
- Empty the contents of the canister and look for other blockages around the hose or filter and clean up, as required.
- Reassemble the Mx6 and see if it works fine now.
Worn Out Tread
The tires of pool cleaners, especially the ones that are designed to climb walls, often rely on their tread to get a good grip on the pool surface and do their job effectively. However, continuous friction between the wheels and the pool surface gradually results in wear and tear of the tire tread. When the tread wears down, the Zodiac Mx6/Mx8 pool cleaner loses its ability to climb the pool walls.
What To Do
- Thoroughly examine the tires of your Zodiac Mx6 suction pool cleaner.
- If you notice signs of wear and tear on the tires, it’s best to get replacement tires for your cleaner.
- Find compatible replacement tracks for Zodiac Mx6/Mx8 pool cleaner and refer to the user manual to replace the tires or seek professional help.
Insufficient Suction
Your Zodiac pool cleaner requires suction to function properly. The suction of the cleaner can be compromised due to a messed up vacuum pressure, which usually happens if there are any air leaks in the system. As a result of insufficient suction, it is only natural for the Mx6/Mx8 pool cleaner to fail at climbing the pool walls.
What To Do
- Check the connections and hoses for any air leaks.
- In case you find any leaks, repair them to restore the suction power of your cleaner.
- Clean the hoses and filters to clear out clogs and optimize the water flow.
Short Hose Length
It is critical for the pool cleaner to have sufficient hose length for an uninterrupted operation. A shorter hose length can hinder the ability of the Mx6 to move around in the pool, let alone climb walls.
What To Do
- Find out if the hose length is sufficient for your pool size by referring to the user guide of your Zodiac cleaner.
- Make sure the hose is not kinked or coiled. Lay it out in the sun to straighten, if required.
- In case of a shorter hose, consider adding hose extensions or get a replacement hose that is compatible with the Zodiac Mx6/Mx8 pool cleaner.
Dirt Build-up in the Engine
After continued and frequent use, it is normal for dirt to accumulate in the middle engine of the Zodiac pool cleaner. The dirt build-up in the engine and other moving parts around it can easily hamper the Mx6’s ability to move smoothly and climb the pool walls.
What To Do
- Remove the middle engine housing and inspect for any dust accumulation around this area.
- Clean any debris you find in there and while you’re at it, keep an eye out for any parts that might be showing signs of wear and tear or not doing their job properly.