Polaris 280 Head Float – OEM Replacement for Polaris Pressure Cleaners

Restore Perfect Balance and Cleaning Efficiency to Your Polaris Cleaner

Keep your Polaris pressure-side pool cleaner running like new with the Polaris 280 Head Float, a genuine OEM replacement part engineered to maintain the correct balance and buoyancy of your cleaner head. Designed specifically for the Polaris 180, 280, and 480 models, this lightweight yet durable float prevents your cleaner from tipping, sinking, or losing traction—ensuring consistent coverage across your entire pool.

Whether you’re performing routine maintenance or replacing a worn-out component, the Polaris 280 Head Float is a small but essential part that makes a big difference in your cleaner’s performance and longevity.

Maintain Optimal Buoyancy and Movement

The head float plays a critical role in your pressure cleaner’s balance and navigation. By keeping the cleaner head neutrally buoyant, it helps the Polaris 280 glide smoothly along the pool floor and walls, rather than dragging or flipping.

A degraded or waterlogged float can cause the cleaner to:

• Tip forward or sideways

• Climb excessively or lose traction

• Tangle hoses and miss areas

• Strain the backup valve and drive mechanism

Replacing it with an authentic Polaris OEM part restores proper balance, stability, and cleaning efficiency—keeping your pool spotless and your cleaner running smoothly.

Genuine Polaris OEM Quality

The Polaris 280 Head Float is a factory-original part (Part #A20) manufactured to Polaris specifications. Unlike generic substitutes, it’s made from closed-cell foam that resists water absorption, chlorine damage, and UV degradation.

Key Benefits

• OEM replacement ensures perfect fit and buoyancy.

• Prevents sinking or unstable movement during operation.

• Durable closed-cell construction resists wear and chemical exposure.

• Easy to install—no tools required.

• Compatible with multiple Polaris models.

By choosing genuine Polaris parts, you’re protecting your investment and ensuring consistent cleaning performance year after year.

Compatible Polaris Models

The Polaris 280 Head Float (A20) fits the following Polaris pressure-side pool cleaners:

• Polaris 180

• Polaris 280

• Polaris 480 PRO

• Polaris 380 (select configurations)

If your cleaner head has started dipping forward or struggling to climb, replacing the float will usually restore perfect balance and motion.

Easy, Tool-Free Installation

Installing your Polaris 280 Head Float takes just a minute—no tools, glue, or adjustments required.

Installation Steps

1. Turn off your pump and remove the Polaris cleaner from the pool.

2. Locate the head float on the cleaner feed hose or head assembly.

3. Gently slide off the old float. If it’s waterlogged, discard it.

4. Slide the new Polaris 280 Head Float into the same position.

5. Reconnect and return the cleaner to the pool.

Once installed, you’ll immediately notice smoother movement, improved wall climbing, and more even coverage across your pool surfaces.

When to Replace Your Head Float

Over time, pool chemicals and UV exposure can cause the foam float to deteriorate or absorb water. Signs that it’s time to replace include:

• The cleaner front end dives or drags on the pool floor.

• The head flips or spins excessively.

• The float feels heavy or saturated with water.

• Visible cracks, discoloration, or shrinkage appear.

For optimal performance, most professionals recommend replacing the float once per season or anytime your cleaner shows signs of imbalance.

Lightweight Yet Durable Construction

The closed-cell polyethylene foam used in Polaris OEM floats offers the perfect combination of lightness, rigidity, and chemical resistance. It will not absorb water or compress under pressure, maintaining its shape and buoyancy even after hundreds of cleaning cycles.

This robust material is designed to withstand:

• Continuous chlorinated water exposure

• UV sunlight degradation

• High-pressure water flow from the cleaner’s jets

It’s built to last—season after season.

Ensures Balanced Waterline Performance

With the correct buoyancy restored, the Polaris 280 Head Float helps your cleaner maintain ideal waterline performance. It keeps the rear jets positioned correctly, improving:

• Wall-climbing ability

• Coverage across steps and slopes

• Hose stability to reduce tangling

• Backup valve timing for consistent direction changes

The result is a cleaner that moves precisely as designed—saving time, energy, and wear on your pump and drive system.

OEM Replacement vs. Generic Parts

Aftermarket floats may look similar but often fail prematurely due to low-quality foam or improper sizing. Genuine Polaris A20 Floats are designed for exact buoyancy and balance, ensuring your cleaner operates as the manufacturer intended.

Choosing OEM parts means:

• Guaranteed fit and performance.

• Extended cleaner lifespan.

• Proper hydrodynamic balance.

• Peace of mind knowing your system remains under Polaris specifications.

Avoid cheap alternatives—they often lead to costly performance issues down the road.

Product Specifications

Maintenance Tips

• Rinse the float occasionally with fresh water to remove chlorine residue.

• Store the cleaner in a shaded area when not in use.

• Avoid using petroleum-based cleaners or adhesives on the float.

• Replace annually for optimal cleaning performance.

Proper care helps extend the life of both the float and your Polaris cleaner.

Why Choose Genuine Polaris OEM Parts

Polaris has been the industry leader in automatic pool cleaners for over 40 years, known for innovation, precision, and quality. Every genuine Polaris part—like the A20 Head Float—is engineered to exact factory specifications for seamless integration and long-term reliability.

When you choose authentic Polaris replacement parts, you get:

• Manufacturer-tested durability

• Exact buoyancy calibration

• Trusted performance and warranty protection

Your Polaris cleaner deserves genuine Polaris quality.

Buy with Confidence from Benchmark Pool Supply

At Benchmark Pool Supply, we carry authentic Polaris OEM replacement parts to keep your pool equipment performing at its best. The Polaris 280 Head Float (A20) is a must-have maintenance item that restores balance, protects your investment, and ensures spotless pool cleaning.

We offer fast shipping, verified genuine parts, and expert customer support—so your Polaris cleaner stays in perfect working order.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does the Polaris 280 Head Float do?

The Polaris 280 Head Float maintains the cleaner’s balance by providing buoyancy, preventing it from tipping forward or sinking during operation.

How do I know if my float needs replacing?

If your Polaris cleaner dives, drags, or flips, or the float feels heavy or waterlogged, it’s time for a replacement.

Is this part compatible with my cleaner?

Yes. The A20 Head Float fits Polaris 180, 280, 380, and 480 PRO pressure-side cleaners.

Can I install it myself?

Absolutely. The float slides on and off easily—no tools or adhesives are required for installation.

How often should I replace it?

Most professionals recommend replacing annually or whenever the cleaner loses balance or directional stability.