Lesson 9 - Problems

    Okay, so you've done your best to prevent problems before they arise, but now despite your best efforts, "Houston, we have a problem." What do you do? First of all, don't panic. You're not in outer space and help is not a light year away. Most emergency situations can be controlled by simply turning off the pump. 

    Once I did have a customer call and ask where the on/off switch was located. I like to spoil my customers, but this one was so reliant on me that he had plumb forgotten how to turn the pool off. This is not as uncommon as it might initially sound. As mentioned in Lesson 2 - Safety First, we always label switches and valves so that in an emergency everything can be turned off in a hurry, even by someone not familiar with the pool system.

    I can think of one scenario when turning off the pump makes your pool problem even worse. If it's below freezing outside and the pool is turned off, your system is in danger of freezing once the water stops moving. If you must turn your pool off in sub freezing conditions, the system's drain plugs will need to be removed quickly. More than once I've had customers call me in just such a situation. Each time I was able to remove the plugs to drain the equipment before more serious damage could occur. 

    In one case it was so cold the water was coagulating as it was hitting the freezing cold air. That was a close one. If this ever happens to you, a blanket or tarp can be thrown over the pool equipment and a light can be placed underneath to keep things toasty until help arrives. You'd be surprised how handy a drop cord is in this kind of situation.

    Aside from that one scenario, simply turning the pool off is the safest way to handle a pool emergency. Whether it's air in the system, a leak, a strange noise, low water level, you name it, my first advice is to turn all the switches off, make sure any timers are disabled, close all valves, and phone for assistance. 

    Next question, who should you call? That depends on the nature of the problem. If your chlorinator just blew up or your pump wiring is smoking, you might want to call the Fire Department. If the unthinkable occurs and someone hurts themselves or drowns in your pool, obviously 911 or an ambulance would be called. But short of those kinds of serious emergencies, you'll probably want to call your regular pool company. If you don't have one, now would be a good time to look for one. 

    In Lesson 1 - Find A Mentor I discuss how to go about looking for a good pool service company. I recommend doing this in advance of a problem occurring. That way you already know who to call in an emergency. When you have a problem, you don't need the additional burden of searching for a qualified repair person. 

    Most pool problems are not emergencies. A good pool service company can handle the usual problems that arise. Occasionally you'll need a specialist. For certain problems like leaks, clogged underground pipes, vinyl liner damage, or tile repair your regular pool service company may bring in an expert who specializes in these kinds of repairs. This helps you because an expert will do a better job for a lower price.

    Many pool companies don't have a certified diver on staff to troubleshoot problems that can only be dealt with underwater.  In these cases a diver outside the company will be called in. Most pool companies subcontract other companies to re-plaster and re-tile gunite pools. Plaster and tile companies routinely do jobs for most of the builders and service companies because such procedures require expensive equipment and specially trained crews. 

    Every company has some specialties of its own. It's worthwhile to ask what they are. You might be surprised to learn that the guy or gal who cleans your pool every week is a whiz at removing metal stains, or has a knack for replacing missing tiles. Perhaps the person who you buy chemicals from at your local pool store knows all there is to know about automatic cleaners.

    Our company, not surprisingly, specializes in teaching new pool owners how to take care of their pools. That's the basis of this website which I hope you are finding useful.

    There isn't much more advice to give about pool problems since each problem must be dealt with as it arises. Many problems you can handle yourself if you are mechanically inclined and have a few common tools. Often the store where you buy parts will give you some idea about how to install a part they sell. But if the problem is complicated or technical, your best bet is to hire a professional to make the repair.

    Most companies offer free estimates and will warranty the parts and installation for a period of time. Again, let me stress that things will go much smoother if you have already established a working relationship with a mentor who can help you make the right decision about what to do when problems arise.

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