Why Does My Hayward Navigator Go in Circles?

If your Hayward Navigator robotic pool cleaner keeps circling the pool without cleaning effectively, you’ve come to the right place. Below are common causes—and fixes—presented clearly and pragmatically.

Frequently Asked Questions

Cable Too Short or Tangled?

What’s happening: A tangled or cramped cable limits the pool cleaner’s ability to roam freely. Instead of covering the entire pool, it loops around itself.

Fix it:

• Unwind the full length of the cable before each use.
• Lay it straight from the robot to the power supply—no coils or kinks.
• Replace frayed or kinked sections if they don’t lie flat.

Steering Gear Inside Isn’t Adjusted Right

What’s happening: The Navigator uses internal steering gears to turn. If one is loose or slipping, the robot might spin in circles.

Fix it:

• Turn off the unit and unplug it from power.
• Remove the bottom cover to access the steering motor and belt.
• Tighten if loose or replace if worn.
• Reassemble and test—normal operation should resume.

Stuck or Worn Drive Tracks

What’s happening: Dirty, jammed, or worn drive tracks can keep one side of the cleaner from moving properly. When one side drags, the unit turns in circles.

Fix it:

• Flip the cleaner over and inspect each track.
• Remove debris, twigs, or hair.
• Check for tears or cracks—replace if worn.
• Ensure full rotation by hand before testing it in the pool.

Incorrect Timer/Program Settings

What’s happening: The Navigator’s timer cycles can affect movement patterns. Incorrect settings can make it loop repeatedly instead of crisscrossing for full coverage.

Fix it:

• Consult the user manual to reset the timer properly.
• Choose the correct cleaning cycle (like “standard” or “deep”).
• Check after reprogramming to confirm the cleaner behaves normally.

Pool Size and Shape Mismatch

What’s happening: If the Navigator isn’t matched to your pool's size or shape, it can fail to adjust its path, ending up in repetitive loops.

Fix it:

• Confirm your Navigator model suits your pool’s surface and size.
• If you’ve got a larger or complex-shaped pool, consider upgrading to a higher‑capacity model like the Hayward Navigator Pro.

Malfunctioning Sensors or Circuit Board

What’s happening: When sensors fail or the logic board misbehaves, the robot loses its bearings and can’t determine where to go, hence the circles.

Fix it:

• Power-cycle the unit first—sometimes it resets logic faults.
• If looping continues, reach out to Aqua Pool Supply. We carry OEM spare parts and test sensors and boards professionally.

Additional Tips & Troubleshooting

• Empty and rinse the filter bag after every use to maintain peak suction.
• Clean roller bearings and hose ends periodically to prevent drag.
• Invest in regular maintenance — Aqua Pool Supply offers full-service inspections of belts, tracks, gears, and electronics.

Quick Troubleshooting Checklist

Do You Need a Complete Replacement

A malfunctioning Navigator doesn’t have to mean a complete replacement. Our team at Aqua Pool Supply can diagnose issues, assist with genuine Hayward replacement parts, or recommend replacements like the Hayward Navigator Pro designed for your pool’s size and shape.

Visit our store(s) in Phoenix, Scottsdale, or Las Vegas, or shop online today!

Need help right now? Give us a call or use our online chat for fast, professional support—no waterside guessing.