Pool Care /
How to Clean the Polaris Pool Cleaner Tail Sweep
Turn off the pump, remove the Polaris from the pool, and check the tail sweep for grit, scale, or damage. Rinse gently, then reinstall it per the manual.
Archive date: this article was written for PoolSkimmer on Oct 24, 2026 and given the earlier archive date of Sep 27, 2025 so the blog reads as an organized archive. It was not published on that date.
Safely cleaning a Polaris tail sweep
The first step is to turn off the pump and let the cleaner sit before you put your hands on it. Once you have lifted the Polaris from the pool, take a good look at the tail sweep. For the most part, a light rinse and some wiping will be enough to get rid of any loose debris. But should you find the tip is clogged, stiff, warped or cracked even after you are done, it is likely time for a replacement or to call in a pro.
Pre-cleaning inspection
Before you start, examine the tail sweep and the hose connection for any trouble. You may come across leaves, hair, string or fine grit wound around the tail, or sand and sticky residue on the tip. Also note if the tail has lost its flexibility or shows uneven wear and hardening. Such things will tell you whether you are dealing with ordinary buildup or a worn out spare. Should the unit be underperforming in general, consult the owner’s manual for your particular model before making any other changes.
The proper way to go about it
1. Switch off the pump and make sure there is no more movement. 2. Take the cleaner out of the water and place it somewhere clean. 3. Use fresh water to rinse the tail sweep and work the dirt loose. 4. A soft cloth or scrubber can be used to wipe it down. 5. Make sure to clear the joint and the tip of any remaining debris. 6. Verify the tail has free movement before returning the unit to service.
There is no need for harsh chemicals or tools that might leave a scratch; PPE should be worn where necessary and one should heed the equipment manual and chemical labels when tending to the surrounding pool area as well.
What causes the grime?
Being in the path of the pool’s circulation, the tail sweep is bound to pick up fine sediment from the bottom, organic matter like petals and leaves, and scale from hard water. It is just a fact of regular use. Keeping on top of your skimming, brushing and filter maintenance will ease the load on the Polaris and keep the tail from clogging up.
When to call it quits
A routine cleaning will handle light accumulation, but not system problems or damage. If the tail remains clogged after a thorough rinsing, or if you see cracks and missing pieces, put down the tools and contact a qualified pool professional. The same goes if the cleaner is not moving right after you have done your maintenance, or if you notice odd noises, leaks or what appears to be a pressure or filtration issue. Never try to do electrical work yourself or put your hand in operating suction gear. If it is more than a simple clean, shut the equipment down and let an expert have at it.
Sources and further reading
- [Hayward: Weekly pool maintenance](https://www.hayward.com/maintenance/weekly-pool-maintenance)