Dolphin power supply 3 blinks

dolphin

Double-check before purchasing

PSU blink code meanings vary between hardware revisions — check your specific PSU documentation.
Internal PSU repair is not a DIY procedure — replace the unit rather than attempting to open it.

The Problem

Three blinks on a Dolphin power supply LED typically signals an overcurrent condition or an internal PSU fault — a more serious error than two blinks. The PSU has detected the robot drawing more power than expected, or has an internal failure. One simple test isolates which it is.

Steps

1
Unplug the PSU and disconnect the cable. Wait 90 seconds, then reconnect and try again. A one-off transient overcurrent can sometimes trigger this error without an ongoing fault.
2
Remove the robot from the pool. Flip it over and spin both tracks and the impeller by hand. All should rotate freely. Remove any blockage.
3
Try the PSU on a different wall outlet, preferably on a separate circuit.
4
Connect the PSU without the cable attached. If it still shows three blinks with no cable, the fault is internal to the PSU and it needs replacement.
💡 If the LED is steady without the cable, the fault is in the cable or the robot — not the PSU.
5
Inspect the full cable length for visible cuts, damage, or sections where the outer jacket is compromised.
6
If the robot moves freely and the cable looks fine but the error persists with the cable connected, contact Maytronics support with your model number and the blink count.

Possible Causes & Solutions

common

Overcurrent from a stalled or jammed motor in the robot

A motor that cannot spin draws far more current than normal, triggering the PSU's protection circuit. Check for jammed tracks, stuck impellers, or blocked drive wheels.

occasional

Partial short circuit in the floating cable

A damaged cable with partial internal shorts can cause current spikes that trigger overcurrent protection. Inspect the cable for damage.

occasional

Voltage fluctuation on the wall circuit triggering protection

Try a different outlet on a separate circuit. Voltage drops or surges on a shared circuit can cause false overcurrent detection.

occasional

Internal PSU component failure

If the PSU blinks three times even with no cable attached, the fault is internal to the PSU. Replace it.

When to Replace

Replace the PSU if it consistently shows three blinks with no cable attached. Replace the cable if the error only appears with the cable connected and all robot components move freely.

Where to Buy

Find compatible replacement parts from these retailers:

Check price for dolphin replacement parts on Amazon

Compatible Parts

Maytronics Dolphin Power Supply Unit

Model-specific. Confirm your model number before ordering.

Full Cable Assembly

Confirm your model's cable length (18m or 10m) before ordering.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is 3 blinks worse than 2 blinks on a Dolphin PSU?

Three blinks typically indicates an overcurrent or internal fault, which is more serious than the connection fault signalled by two blinks. Three blinks is more likely to require a part replacement.

Can a jammed impeller really trigger a PSU error?

Yes. A motor that cannot spin draws far more current than normal. The PSU detects this overcurrent and shuts down to protect itself and the robot.

How do I know if my PSU has an internal fault?

Connect the PSU with nothing attached — no cable, no robot. If it still blinks three times, the fault is internal. If it shows a steady light with nothing connected, the fault is in the cable or robot.