How To Troubleshoot A Polaris 360 Backup Valve

The Polaris 360 pool sweep automatically runs over the pool bottom picking up debris and dirt. Pool cleaners like the Polaris 360 operate off of the pool's equipment, relying on the flow of water from the pump to the pool in order to move. When the Polaris 360 gets stuck in a corner or otherwise hampered by objects in the pool, the sweep's backup valve frees it. The backup valve fires a burst of high pressure water from its nozzle, which propels the pool sweep backwards, enabling it to continue cleaning the pool.

Step 1

Run the swimming pool and lift the portion of the Polaris house containing the backup valve out of the water. Examine the backup valve for small cracks or other indications of a leak. A small trickle of water constantly flows through the valve, and when it's operating correctly, a stronger burst of water erupts from the valve every few minutes. A constant large stream of water or noticeable cracks warrant replacing the backup valve case. Backup valve cases can be replaced without having to purchase a new backup valve mechanism.

Step 2

Shut the pool off and unscrew the backup valve body to disassemble it. Examine the mechanism inside the case for breaks or cracks. Broken mechanisms can be replaced separately without the need to purchase a new case.

Step 3

Spray the backup valve mechanism with water from a water hose to clean debris off of it. Brush off any gunk on the mechanism with a toothbrush or similar soft brush.

Step 4

Place the mechanism in the backup valve case. Screw the case back together by hand, ensuring you do not overtighten. Examine the hose the backup valve is attached to. Ensure the backup valve opening points towards the Polaris 360 pool sweep. If a backup valve is facing the wrong direction, it will be unable to move the pool sweep away from the corners.