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Even if you’re on top of your maintenance, your pool equipment doesn’t last forever, and there will be times when repairs need to be undertaken. Luckily, most of these repairs are easy to carry out. If you’re having issues with your pool equipment, remember that it’s a good idea to get your pool technician in to take a look – they can also carry out any minor repairs. As the experts in pool equipment repairs, we’ll be looking at some of the most common pool equipment repairs you may be faced with when it comes to your pool.
1. Clogged pump impeller
In some cases, an issue with your pool pump could indicate a clogged pump impeller. An indication of a clogged impeller could be low pressure, reduce water flow, or a stained sounding pump. To clean the impeller, turn off the electricity and remove the pump basket lid and pump basket. You can use a piece of wire or your fingers to reach into the impeller and pull out any lodged debris. If you’re still having issues, you may need to disassemble the pump to get to the impeller.
2. Pool filter leaks
A leak in your pool filter could indicate several issues that need to be repaired. A leak could mean that the filter is cracked, either in the body of the filter or the tank. A crack can often mean that the filter needs replacing. If the filter is leaking at the bulkhead fittings, it may mean the gaskets need replacing, or new o-rings need to be installed. It could also only be a case of tightening the fittings.
3. Filter media replacement
If you’re struggling with poor quality, cloudy water, it could be that the filter media requires replacing. This means your filter cartridge or your filter sand should be looked at. Signs that your filter cartridge needs replacing could be cracked end caps, flattening of pleats, and frayed or ripped fabric. When it comes to filtering sand, you should generally replace it after about five years.
4. Defective pool pump bearings
Over time, the pool pump bearings can become damaged, which means they need to be replaced. If your pool pump is making screeching noises, this can be a good sign that it’s time to replace the bearings! You can do this yourself, or you can get a technician in to take a look.
5. Pool pump leaks
If you’re noticing that your pool pump is leaking water, this is generally a pressure-side leak. Check your pump and see if you can spot any worn or cracked o-rings or seals. If your seals need replacing, it’s a good idea to replace all of the seals while you’re at it. Your pump could also be leaking around the pipe fitting. If you can’t locate the source of the leak, your pool technician will be able to give you some guidance and repair the issue.
6. Leaking skimmer
When there’s a leak in the pool, and you’re noticing that your pool water levels are dropping, the first thing to check is the skimmer. An excellent way to detect a skimmer leak is to put a few drops of food coloring in the water – you may notice that the dye flows into the seams of the skimmer, which indicates that the skimmer is the issue. Pool putty is available to seal up most skimmer leaks permanently and quickly.
7. Suction cleaner not working well
If you have a suction pool cleaner, you may notice that it’s not cleaning as well as it usually does. In the first instance, always check to make sure it’s appropriately connected to the skimmer box. If it’s connected properly and the skimmer box is empty, check the hose segments to see if any portions are damaged and require replacements. You should also check the cleaner head to see if any obstructions are getting in the way.
8. Filter backwash valve
If you’re noticing that your pool is losing water, this can mean that your filter backwash valve is broken. The o-rings and seals inside the valve can wear, which can lead to water dripping or even streaming out of the backwash line. To fix this issue, you can disassemble the backwash valve and inspect the o-rings and seals to see if they need replacing.
9. Heater not working
A standard equipment issue that can come up is a pool heater which isn’t heating the water as it should be. Firstly, always check the thermostat to make sure it’s not set too low – that’s an easy fix! It may also indicate that your heat pump isn’t getting sufficient water flow, so check that the valves are open, and the filter is clean.
10. Pool pump sucking in air
If your pool pump is sucking in air, it usually means there’s an issue on the intake side of the pool pump. If you have an air leak, you will notice air bubbles in the pump pot and air coming out of the returns in the pool water. Some causes for your pool pump sucking in the air could fall below water level, brittle or cracked pump lid, or an o-ring that needs replacing. Air leaks usually occur around the mechanical seal or the valves and fittings on the suction side.
The team at Pool Assist has over 100 years of collective experience, which makes us the experts when it comes to pool equipment repairs. We have three strategically placed service hubs, and our certified technicians offer mobile servicing for commercial and domestic pools. We’re accredited with SPASA (Swimming Pool and Spa Association) WA, and our team undergoes on-going industry training.
