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Common Pool Equipment Problems

How to Identify Common Pool Equipment Problems and When to Call a Professional

Published: 12/4/2025

Owning a pool is a wonderful experience, but maintaining the equipment that keeps it running smoothly can be a challenge. While many pool equipment issues can be resolved with a little DIY troubleshooting, others require the expertise of a professional. At Hydrologix, we specialize in both pool equipment repair and new equipment installation for homes and businesses across the Tampa Bay area. In this guide, we’ll help you identify common pool equipment problems and explain when it’s time to call in the professionals.


Common Pool Equipment Problems

1. Pool Pump Problems

The pool pump is the heart of your system, moving water through the filter and maintaining proper circulation. Common pump issues include:

  • Low or no suction: Often caused by clogged pipes or a blocked skimmer.
  • Strange noises: These can indicate problems with the motor or impeller.
  • Pump not turning on: This could be due to electrical issues, a faulty capacitor, or an overheated motor.

When to Call a Professional: If you notice unusual sounds, weak suction, or your pump won’t start, it’s time to call Hydrologix. We repair and replace pool pumps, including energy-efficient variable-speed pumps from trusted brands like Pentair and Hayward.


2. Filter Issues

Your pool’s filter is responsible for trapping debris and ensuring that your water is clean and clear. Common problems include:

  • Cloudy water: Often caused by a clogged or broken filter.
  • Pressure issues: High or low pressure could indicate that your filter needs maintenance or replacement.
  • Leaks: If the filter tank is leaking, it can cause inefficiency and a loss of pressure.

When to Call a Professional: If your water remains cloudy or your filter is showing signs of excessive pressure or leakage, Hydrologix can clean, repair, or replace your filter. We offer new filter installations for sand, cartridge, and DE (diatomaceous earth) filters, ensuring optimal filtration performance.


3. Heater Problems

Pool heaters ensure that your water stays at a comfortable temperature. Common heater problems include:

  • No heat: This could be due to a faulty thermostat, broken heating element, or gas supply issue.
  • Inconsistent heating: Often caused by a malfunctioning thermostat or dirty filters.
  • Leaks: A cracked heater body or damaged seal could lead to water leakage.

When to Call a Professional: If your heater is failing to heat the pool or leaking, it’s important to call Hydrologix immediately. Our technicians can inspect, repair, or replace your heater with energy-efficient models from top manufacturers like Pentair and Jandy.


4. Pool Light Malfunctions

Lighting adds safety and ambiance to your pool area. However, pool lights are often exposed to harsh conditions and may experience:

  • Flickering or no light: Could be a bad bulb, loose connection, or wiring issue.
  • Water leakage into light housing: A sign of a damaged seal or improper installation.

When to Call a Professional: For electrical issues or water leakage in the lighting system, it’s essential to call a professional. Hydrologix offers LED lighting installation and repair services, upgrading your pool’s lighting to energy-efficient, long-lasting LEDs.


5. Pool Automation System Problems

Modern pool automation systems allow you to control your pool’s temperature, lights, filtration, and other systems remotely. Problems can include:

  • System not responding: Could be an issue with the control board, sensor, or wiring.
  • Malfunctioning controls: Improper or inconsistent settings can indicate a software or hardware problem.

When to Call a Professional: If your pool automation system isn’t functioning as expected, call Hydrologix. We specialize in installing, repairing, and upgrading automation systems like Pentair IntelliCenter and Hayward OmniLogic, making it easier for you to manage your pool’s equipment from anywhere.


DIY Troubleshooting Tips

While some pool equipment issues require a professional, there are a few simple things you can check before calling a technician:

  • Check the filter pressure: If the pressure is too high or low, it could be time to clean the filter.
  • Inspect the pump basket: Debris can cause blockages that lead to weak suction.
  • Test the thermostat: For heater problems, check if the thermostat is set correctly or needs replacement.

However, if these DIY steps don’t resolve the issue or you’re unsure, it’s best to reach out to Hydrologix for a professional assessment and repair.


Conclusion

Keeping your pool equipment in top condition is essential for a safe, enjoyable swimming experience. By recognizing the common signs of equipment failure early on, you can save time, money, and avoid unnecessary stress. Hydrologix is here to provide expert repair services for all your pool equipment, from pumps and filters to heaters, lighting, and automation systems.

Ready to take a deeper dive? If you’re experiencing equipment issues or considering an upgrade, contact Hydrologix today to schedule a diagnostic visit or get an estimate for new installation.

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