A swimming pool can be a great source of relaxation, exercise, and entertainment. But like any other major home feature, a pool requires maintenance and occasional repairs to ensure it remains in optimal condition. If you notice something amiss with your pool, it’s essential to address it quickly before small issues turn into costly repairs or safety hazards.

The key to avoiding significant problems lies in identifying common pool repair signs early on. While some problems may be obvious, others can be more subtle, requiring a keen eye to detect. This guide will walk you through the most common signs that your pool needs repair and provide practical steps for resolving these issues. From leaks to worn-out pumps, we’ll help you understand what to look for and how to handle each situation.

1. Pool Water Leaks: A Silent Threat

One of the most common and insidious issues pool owners face is water loss. Even a small leak can cause your pool to lose more water than expected, leading to higher water bills, inefficient filtration, and potential damage to surrounding landscaping.

Why Leaks Happen:

Leaks can occur for several reasons, such as cracks in the pool shell, damaged pipes, or faulty equipment. The problem may worsen over time, especially if the leak is located underground, making it harder to detect. Not only does water loss affect your pool’s chemical balance, but it can also make your pool unsafe due to uneven water levels.

How to Spot a Leak:

• Water level test: First, mark the water level on your pool wall with a piece of tape or a pencil. If the water level drops significantly over 24 hours, it’s time to investigate further.
• Bucket test: This is a reliable method to determine whether the leak is from the pool itself or environmental evaporation. Fill a bucket with pool water and place it on the steps. Mark both the bucket’s water level and the pool’s water level. If the pool’s water level drops more than the bucket’s, the problem is likely a leak.
• Check for wet spots: Inspect the area around the pool, looking for wet patches or eroding soil. These could indicate an underground leak.

What to Do:

If you suspect a leak, contact a pool technician who can conduct a pressure test to locate the exact source of the leak. It could be in your pool’s plumbing, skimmers, drains, or the pool shell itself. While minor leaks can be patched using DIY methods, more significant leaks require professional help.

2. Cracks in the Swimming Pool Surface

The surface of your pool—whether it’s a fiberglass, vinyl, or concrete pool—can suffer from cracks over time due to wear, settling soil, or fluctuating temperatures. Cracks not only affect the aesthetics of your pool but can also lead to leaks and larger structural issues.

Types of Cracks:

• Surface cracks: These are typically minor cosmetic issues that don’t affect the overall structure of the pool. However, they should be repaired to prevent water from seeping in and causing further damage.
• Structural cracks: More serious and concerning, structural cracks can compromise the pool’s integrity, leading to water leaks and potential safety risks.

Causes of Cracks:

• Temperature changes: Expanding and contracting due to hot and cold weather can cause the materials in your pool to crack, particularly in concrete pools.
• Settling ground: If the soil underneath the pool shifts, it can cause uneven pressure on the pool shell, leading to cracks.
• Poor installation: Sometimes, cracks can occur due to poor installation or faulty materials used during construction.

What to Do:

Inspect the cracks closely. Small, hairline cracks can often be sealed with a patching compound or sealant. For more significant cracks, you will likely need to hire a professional to inspect and repair the damage. A pool contractor can assess the severity of the cracks and determine whether resurfacing, re-cementing, or structural repair is needed.

3. Unusual Pool Water Chemistry

One of the key signs that your pool needs repair is an imbalance in the water chemistry. Proper water balance is essential not only for the comfort of swimmers but also for the health of your pool’s equipment and surfaces. If you notice persistent problems with the water chemistry, it could be a sign of an underlying issue with your filtration system or other pool equipment.

Signs of Imbalanced Pool Water:

• Cloudy or green water: Cloudy water is typically a sign of poor filtration or improper chemical balance. Green water, on the other hand, usually indicates algae growth due to a lack of proper circulation or chlorination.
• Skin or eye irritation: If you or swimmers in your pool experience red, itchy eyes or skin rashes, it’s often a sign of high chlorine levels or unbalanced water chemistry.
• Unusual odors: A strong chlorine smell may actually indicate that the pool water is not properly sanitized and is producing chloramines, a byproduct of chlorine interacting with contaminants.
• Constantly adjusting chemicals: If you find yourself adding chemicals more frequently than normal but still struggling to maintain balance, the issue might be with your filtration system.

What to Do:

Start by testing the pool’s water regularly and adjusting chemicals as needed. Keep an eye on pH levels, alkalinity, calcium hardness, and chlorine levels. If the water still isn’t balanced, check the filtration system for issues. A malfunctioning filter can result in poor circulation and unbalanced water. Consider contacting a pool professional to assess and repair the filtration system or other equipment.

4. Swimming Pool Pump Problems

The pool pump is essential for keeping water circulating through the filter and ensuring your pool stays clean. If the pump is malfunctioning, water may not circulate properly, leading to dirty water, algae growth, and potential damage to the pool’s surfaces and equipment.

Common Pool Pump Issues:

• Low or no water flow: If you notice that the water is moving slowly or not at all, this could be due to a blockage or debris in the pump or filter system.
• Pump motor failure: A broken pump motor can prevent the pump from working entirely, stopping the circulation of water in your pool.
• Strange noises: A loud, grinding, or whining noise may be a sign of a broken motor, faulty bearings, or a worn-out impeller.
• Leaks around the pump: If you notice water pooling around the pump, it could indicate a leak in the pump seals or a cracked pump housing.

What to Do:

First, check the pump basket and filter for debris and clean them out. If you hear strange noises or the pump isn’t working at all, contact a pool professional to inspect and repair or replace the motor or other components. Routine maintenance, such as cleaning the pump and replacing worn-out seals, can help prevent these problems from developing.

5. Deteriorating Pool Tiles and Coping

The tiles around your pool and the coping (the edge of the pool) are not only decorative but also serve a functional purpose. Coping helps prevent water from spilling over the sides of the pool, while tiles protect the pool’s surface. Over time, both tiles and coping can deteriorate, crack, or come loose.

Signs of Tile and Coping Issues:

• Loose or cracked tiles: Tiles can crack due to pool water temperature fluctuations, improper installation, or impact damage.
• Chipped or cracked coping: If the coping around your pool starts to crack or become loose, it may be allowing water to seep through, causing damage to the pool structure.
• Water damage: Worn-out coping can result in water pooling at the base of the pool, which can lead to structural damage over time.

What to Do:

If you notice loose or cracked tiles, try replacing the individual tiles using a pool tile adhesive. However, extensive damage may require a professional to replace the tiles or re-secure the coping. Ensure the replacement tiles match the existing ones, so the aesthetic integrity of the pool is maintained.

6. Inefficient Pool Heater

An inefficient pool heater is not only inconvenient but can also lead to rising energy costs. If your pool heater is struggling to maintain a comfortable temperature, it could be due to a malfunctioning part or improper maintenance.

Common Heater Problems:

• No heat: If your heater won’t turn on or fails to generate heat, the problem may lie in the thermostat, gas line, or electrical components.
• Inconsistent heating: If the heater works intermittently, it could be a sign that the heating element or flow sensor needs repair.
• Noisy operation: A pool heater making excessive noise may have internal component issues that need attention.

What to Do:

Inspect the heater’s filter and clean it if necessary. If the heater still doesn’t function properly, consult a professional who can check the electrical components, flow sensors, or replace the heating element. Scheduling annual maintenance for your heater can also help extend its lifespan.

7. Filtration System Malfunctions

The filtration system is responsible for keeping the pool clean and clear by removing debris and particles from the water. If the filter isn’t working properly, you’ll likely notice murky water, algae growth, or debris buildup on the pool’s floor.

Common Filtration Issues:

• Clogged filters: Over time, pool filters can become clogged with dirt, debris, and oils. This reduces their effectiveness and can result in dirty water.
• Low pump pressure: Low pressure could indicate a clogged filter, a leak, or a pump that’s not working properly.
• Broken skimmers or suction system: A malfunctioning skimmer or suction line can prevent the filter from pulling in water and debris.

What to Do:

Start by cleaning or replacing the filter cartridges or sand. If the problem persists, the issue could be with the filter’s motor, pressure valve, or pipes. Have a pool technician inspect and repair the system to ensure it’s working correctly.

Conclusion

While some pool issues are simple to fix, others require professional attention to prevent further damage.

If you notice any of these signs, it’s essential to act quickly to avoid higher repair costs and potential safety hazards. Regular pool maintenance and early intervention can keep your pool in great shape for years to come. Whether you choose to handle minor repairs yourself or call in the pros for more significant issues, the key is to stay vigilant and proactive about pool care.

If you’re unsure about tackling a pool repair, don’t hesitate to contact a pool professional for expert advice and services. Pool repair professionals have the skills, knowledge, and equipment to address a wide range of issues and ensure your pool is always ready for a swim.