7 Common Pool Repairs Tampa Homeowners Face
Owning a pool in Tampa, FL, is a fantastic way to beat the heat and enjoy the beautiful Florida sunshine. However, pool ownership also comes with the responsibility of maintenance and occasional repairs. From leaky pipes to cracked plaster, a number of issues can arise that require attention.
This guide will walk you through some of the most common pool problems faced by homeowners in the Tampa area. We'll cover how to identify these issues, what causes them, and whether you can tackle them yourself or if it's time to call in a professional for pool repair. Understanding these common problems will help you keep your pool in excellent condition, ensuring it’s always ready for a refreshing dip.
1. Leaky Pool Plumbing
A leak in your pool's plumbing system is one of the most frequent issues homeowners encounter. These leaks can occur in the pipes that carry water to and from the pool, often hidden underground.
How to Spot It
The most obvious sign of a leak is a noticeable drop in your pool's water level, more than what you'd expect from normal evaporation. You might also find damp or soggy spots in your yard near the pool equipment or along the underground pipe routes. If your water bill has unexpectedly increased, a hidden leak could be the culprit.
Common Causes
Florida's shifting soil and the constant exposure to chemically treated water can cause PVC pipes to crack or joints to fail over time. Tree roots can also grow into and damage underground plumbing.
DIY or Professional?
Finding and fixing a plumbing leak can be tricky. While a small, visible leak near the equipment pad might be a manageable DIY project for a handy homeowner, most plumbing repairs require professional expertise. Locating underground leaks often involves specialized pressure testing equipment. For reliable pool repair in Tampa, calling a professional is the safest bet to ensure the job is done correctly.
2. Cracked or Damaged Pool Plaster
The plaster surface of your pool provides a waterproof, smooth finish. Over time, this surface can develop cracks, stains, or become rough.
How to Spot It
You might see visible cracks, ranging from small hairline fractures (craze cracks) to larger structural cracks. The surface might also feel rough to the touch, a condition known as "etching." Discoloration and staining from minerals or algae are other common signs that your plaster needs attention.
Common Causes
Pool plaster can be damaged by improper chemical balance, particularly low pH or calcium levels, which can corrode the surface. The intense Florida sun and natural ground shifting can also contribute to cracks forming over the years.
DIY or Professional?
Minor stain removal can sometimes be handled with special pool chemicals. However, repairing cracks and replastering a pool is a significant undertaking that requires draining the pool and applying the new surface with skill and precision. This is a job best left to experienced professionals.
3. Malfunctioning Pool Pump
The pool pump is the heart of your pool's circulation system, responsible for moving water through the filter. When it stops working correctly, your water quality will quickly decline.
How to Spot It
Signs of a pump problem include the pump not turning on, making loud grinding or humming noises, or leaking water from the housing. You might also notice poor water circulation or a weak flow from the return jets.
Common Causes
Pump issues can stem from a variety of sources, such as a clogged impeller, a bad motor bearing, a faulty capacitor, or an air leak in the suction line. Normal wear and tear over several years is also a common factor.
DIY or Professional?
Some simple fixes, like cleaning a clogged impeller or replacing a lid o-ring, can be done by a homeowner. However, any repairs involving the pump's motor or electrical components should be handled by a qualified pool repair technician in Tampa, FL, to avoid electrical hazards and further damage.
4. Clogged or Dirty Pool Filter
Your pool filter is essential for keeping the water clean and clear by trapping debris. When it becomes clogged, its effectiveness drops dramatically.
How to Spot It
The most common indicator of a filter issue is a high reading on the filter's pressure gauge. Cloudy water, even after running the pump for an extended period, is another sign. You may also notice a weaker flow of water returning to the pool.
Common Causes
The filter naturally collects dirt, leaves, oils, and other contaminants over time. If not cleaned regularly, this buildup will restrict water flow. For DE (diatomaceous earth) filters, torn grids can allow debris to pass back into the pool.
DIY or Professional?
Regular filter cleaning is a standard part of pool maintenance that homeowners can and should do. This involves backwashing a sand or DE filter or rinsing off a cartridge filter. However, if you have a persistent issue, like torn DE grids or a broken multiport valve, a professional repair is necessary.
5. Broken Pool Heater
In Tampa, a pool heater can extend your swimming season into the cooler months. When it fails, your comfortable swims can come to an abrupt halt.
How to Spot It
The most obvious sign is that the heater isn't heating the water, even though it appears to be running. It might not turn on at all, or it could be making unusual noises. Some heaters will display an error code.
Common Causes
Heater problems can be caused by a faulty pilot light (on older models), a broken ignition system, a malfunctioning pressure switch, or corrosion of internal components due to improper water chemistry.
DIY or Professional?
Due to the complexity of gas lines, electrical wiring, and refrigerant systems (in heat pumps), pool heater repair is not a DIY job. It requires a certified technician who can safely diagnose and fix the problem.
6. Damaged Pool Tiles
The waterline tiles in your pool add a decorative touch and make it easier to clean scum lines. Over time, these tiles can become loose, cracked, or fall off completely.
How to Spot It
You'll see missing tiles, cracked tiles, or find loose tiles at the bottom of your pool. The grout between the tiles may also be deteriorating.
Common Causes
Ground movement and the expansion and contraction caused by temperature changes in Florida can stress the tile line. Improper water chemistry can also erode the grout and adhesive holding the tiles in place.
DIY or Professional?
Replacing a few loose tiles can be a straightforward DIY task if you have the right waterproof adhesive and grout. However, if a large section of tile is damaged, it's better to hire a professional to ensure a uniform and long-lasting repair.
7. Faulty Pool Lights
Underwater pool lights create ambiance and improve safety for night swimming. When they burn out or malfunction, they can be tricky to fix.
How to Spot It
A light that won't turn on is the clearest sign. You might also see flickering or notice water inside the light fixture's lens.
Common Causes
The most common cause is simply a burnt-out bulb. However, the problem could also be a bad seal allowing water to get in, a tripped GFCI outlet, or a faulty transformer.
DIY or Professional?
Because this repair involves both water and electricity, it's highly recommended to hire a professional. A qualified technician can safely replace the bulb or the entire fixture, ensuring all seals are watertight to prevent dangerous electrical situations.
Your Go-To for Pool Repair in Tampa
While some minor pool maintenance tasks can be handled on your own, most significant repairs require professional knowledge and tools. Attempting complex repairs without the proper expertise can lead to more expensive problems or even create safety hazards.
If you’re facing any of these common issues and need professional pool repair in Tampa, FL, don't hesitate to seek expert help. The team at Aqua Coat Pool Plastering has the experience to diagnose and fix any pool problem, from plumbing leaks to plaster resurfacing. Contact us today for a free estimate and get your pool back in perfect shape for year-round enjoyment.