How to Troubleshoot and Fix Common Pool Equipment Issues

Pool Parts To Go

Owning a pool is fantastic—until something stops working. One day, your pool is sparkling; the next, your neighbor is complaining about the noise your pump is making, and your water's gone cloudy. The good news? You don’t have to be a pool pro to troubleshoot and fix many common issues! With a little know-how and support from us at PoolPartsToGo.com, you can get back to worry-free swimming in no time.

Here’s a handy guide to identifying and fixing some of the most common pool equipment issues.

1. Pool Pump Isn’t Working

Symptoms:

  • Won’t turn on

  • Running with less flow

  • Turns off unexpectedly

Possible Causes:

  • Power issues: Tripped breaker or faulty wiring

  • Clogged impeller: Small debris stuck in the pump

  • Overheating: Often due to blocked airflow or a worn-out motor

Fixes:

  • Check your circuit breaker and reset if necessary. For wiring, inspect the lines for disconnections.

  • Inspect and clean out the pump basket and impeller.

  • Make sure the motor has proper ventilation. Clear away any leaves or dirt.

Pro Tip: If your pump is old and frequently overheating, it might be time to upgrade. Pool pumps from PoolPartsToGo.com are energy-efficient and super reliable.

2. Cloudy Pool Water

Symptoms:

  • Murky, hazy water

  • Reduced visibility of the pool floor

Possible Causes:

  • Poor filtration

  • Imbalanced chemicals

  • Algae beginning to bloom

Fixes:

  • Clean or replace your filter cartridges. Backwash your DE and sand filter.

  • Test and adjust your pH, chlorine, and alkalinity levels.

  • Brush the pool walls and vacuum thoroughly.

Bonus Tip: Using a quality pool brush and keeping your chlorine at optimal levels can prevent most cloudiness before it starts.

3. Heater Not Heating

Symptoms:

  • Water remains cold despite heater being on

  • Error codes on digital display (if available)

Possible Causes:

  • Dirty or blocked filter

  • Malfunctioning thermostat

Fixes:

  • Backwash or clean the filter to improve water flow.

  • Check for error codes in your manual and reset the system.

  • Ensure your heat pump is receiving proper voltage and airflow.

Many pool owners choose energy-efficient heat pumps available through PoolPartsToGo.com for reliable performance.

4. Cover Pump Not Draining

Symptoms:

  • Water accumulating on top of your pool cover

  • Pump not activating automatically

Possible Causes:

  • Clogged intake or discharge

  • Electrical or float switch malfunction

Fixes:

  • Unplug and clean the intake screen and discharge hose.

  • Check the float switch for debris and free movement.

  • Test the outlet and pump with another device to rule out power issues.

5. Air Bubbles in Return Jets

Symptoms:

  • Bubbles coming out of pool jets

  • Gurgling noises near pump

Possible Causes:

  • Air leak in the suction line

  • Low water level

  • Loose pump lid or O-ring

Fixes:

  • Check water level—it should be halfway up the skimmer.

  • Tighten the pump lid and inspect the O-ring for cracks and flattening.

  • Use soapy water to detect suction leaks in exposed pipes.

When to Call in a Pro

If you've tried the above and the issue persists—or if electrical components are involved—it’s smart (and safe) to bring in a professional. No DIY fix is worth risking damage or injury.

Keeping your pool equipment running smoothly doesn’t have to be complicated. With a bit of patience, regular maintenance, and help from trusted resources like PoolPartsToGo.com, you’ll be back to enjoying your pool in no time.