Pool equipment plays a crucial role in keeping your swimming pool clean, safe, and enjoyable. However, like any machine, pool equipment can malfunction or encounter problems that require troubleshooting.
In this guide, we will discuss some common swimming pool equipment problems and how to troubleshoot them.
Pump Won’t Prime or Loses Prime:
A pump that fails to draw water often points to a suction-side air leak. Check the pump lid O-ring for cracks or debris, ensuring it is lubricated and tight. Examine the visible plumbing before the pump for cracks. Verify the water level in the skimmer is adequate; if it’s too low, the pump will draw air. Also, inspect the pool skimmer and pump baskets for clogs, as blocked flow can prevent priming.
Filter Pressure Issues:
High pressure on your filter gauge indicates restricted flow. This usually signals a dirty filter that needs cleaning. For sand filters, perform a backwash. Cartridge filters require removal and hosing, while D.E. filters need backwashing and a fresh powder charge. Consistently low pressure, conversely, suggests a problem on the suction side, such as a clogged basket, a stuck skimmer weir, or a leaking O-ring on the pump strainer lid.
Heater Fails to Ignite:
When a pool heater refuses to fire up, start with simple checks. Ensure the pool pump is running, as most heaters have a safety switch requiring water flow. Verify the gas supply valve is open and the thermostat is set above the current water temperature. If these are correct, the issue may be a dirty filter causing low flow, tripping the pressure switch, or a more complex fault like a failed igniter or blocked burner tray, which require professional service.
Automatic Cleaner Malfunctions:
Poor cleaner movement or performance often stems from water flow problems. For pressure-side cleaners, check the dedicated booster pump is running and the filter pressure is sufficient. For suction-side models, ensure the pump is on and the skimmer line is fully open. Inspect the cleaner’s hoses for cracks or blockages, and examine the unit itself for worn parts like treads, tires, or diaphragms that may need replacement.
Persistent Cloudy Water:
Cloudy water that persists despite normal filter cycles often points to a chemical imbalance, not necessarily equipment failure. First, test and balance the water, focusing on pH, alkalinity, and sanitizer levels. If chemistry is correct, the filter may be the culprit. A damaged cartridge, cracked lateral in a sand filter, or torn grid in a D.E. filter can allow unfiltered water to pass through.
