Managing a commercial pool, whether it’s in a neighborhood, condominium complex, hotel, or public park, comes with its fair share of maintenance challenges. To ensure that guests and residents enjoy a safe, clean, and fully functional swimming environment, it’s essential to stay on top of common pool repairs. Identifying issues early can help prevent costly repairs down the road and minimize downtime. Here are the top five most common pool repairs for commercial pools and the key indicators that professional attention is needed.
Table of Contents
1. Pool Cracks and Structural Issues
Commercial pools are built to last, but over time, wear and tear, temperature fluctuations, and shifting ground can cause cracks to appear in the pool’s surface. Small surface cracks might not seem urgent, but they can quickly expand, leading to leaks or even structural damage if left unattended.
Indicators:
- Visible cracks in the pool deck or pool walls.
- Pool water levels dropping faster than usual.
- Crumbling or flaking plaster in older pools.
If you notice any of these issues, it’s time to bring in a pool professional to assess the situation and recommend the best course of action. Depending on the severity, repairs might include resurfacing the pool or more extensive structural work.
2. Leaks in Plumbing and Circulation Systems
Commercial pools rely on complex plumbing and circulation systems to keep water flowing properly and maintain filtration and chemical balance. Leaks in these systems can lead to water loss, reduced water quality, and increased utility costs.
Indicators:
- Unexplained water level drops, despite normal evaporation rates.
- Wet spots or soggy areas around the pool deck or equipment area.
- Reduced water pressure in returns and jets or slow filtration.
A leak can appear in your pool filter, heater, pump, underground pipes, or any number of the many complex systems that allow a pool to operate safely. This makes leaks difficult to pinpoint, which is why professional leak detection and repair services are crucial for keeping the pool in peak operating condition.
3. Pump and Motor Failures
The pool pump and motor are the heart of the circulation system, working to keep water moving through the filtration system. If the pump or motor fails, water won’t circulate properly, leading to stagnant water, unbalanced chemicals, algae growth, and more.
Indicators:
- Loud, unusual noises coming from the pump.
- Water not circulating properly, causing debris to settle at the bottom of the pool.
- Increased energy consumption due to overworked or failing equipment.
Commercial pool pumps often run for long hours daily, so it’s important to schedule regular maintenance to prevent unexpected breakdowns. Usually pool pumps last eight to twelve years before they need replacement. However, without regular maintenance this lifespan can shorten greatly.
4. Malfunctioning Heaters
For facilities that offer heated pools, malfunctioning heaters can be a common issue, especially as the weather cools. Heater repairs can range from simple fixes to replacing entire units.
Indicators:
- Water not reaching the desired temperature.
- Fluctuating pool temperatures or a heater that constantly turns on and off.
- Error codes displayed on the heater system.
Regular servicing and calibration of your pool heater can help avoid more significant problems during high-demand periods. Also consider if you are using a gas pool heater or a pool heat pump. The latter of which isn’t very effective below 50 degrees Fahrenheit. If your pool isn’t heating up, it’s possible that it is simply too cold outside for your pool heat pump.
5. Broken or Clogged Filters
Filters play a critical role in maintaining water clarity and cleanliness. Over time, commercial pool filters can become clogged with debris or damaged due to heavy usage.
Indicators:
- Cloudy or murky water despite chemical treatments.
- Filter pressure gauge reading higher than normal.
- Reduced water flow through the filter system.
The process of cleaning and/or fixing a pool filter depends on what type of filter it is. The most common commercial pool filters are sand filters, cartridge filters, and DE (Diatomaceous Earth) filters. Each of these filters have different cleaning processes. In most cases, a professional pool technician can clean or replace the filters, ensuring the water stays crystal clear and safe for swimmers.
Stay Ahead of Your Big Maintenance Costs
Routine upkeep not only keeps your pool in excellent condition but also allows you to catch potential issues before they escalate into costly repairs. For example, a small leak detected early can be easily sealed, but if left unaddressed, it could result in significant water loss, structural damage, or the need for expensive equipment replacement.
Preventative maintenance extends the lifespan of critical components such as pumps, filters, heaters, and plumbing systems. When these systems are serviced regularly, they operate more efficiently, reducing energy costs and minimizing wear and tear. Additionally, routine maintenance helps maintain water chemistry, preventing corrosion and buildup that can damage expensive equipment over time.
While the upfront cost of regular maintenance might seem like an added expense, it pales in comparison to the financial burden of major repairs or replacements caused by neglect. For example, replacing a pump motor or resurfacing a pool can cost thousands of dollars, but consistent maintenance can help you prolong the lifespan of these systems to reduce your cost over a longer period of time.
Ultimately, proactive care protects your investment, ensures your pool remains safe and enjoyable for patrons, and saves you money in the long run. It’s not just about fixing problems when they arise—it’s about preventing them from occurring in the first place.
Community Pools | Offseason | Pool Plumbing | Pool Pumps | Pump | Repairs
