Dealing with Pool Emergencies: What to Do When Something Breaks
Owning a swimming pool is a great luxury, but like any feature of your home, it can sometimes experience issues or breakdowns that need immediate attention. Whether it’s a malfunctioning pump, a cracked pool liner, or an unexpected water leak, pool emergencies can disrupt your enjoyment and potentially lead to costly damage if not handled quickly. Knowing what to do when something goes wrong is crucial for minimising damage and ensuring the safety of your pool.
At Pool Engineering, we understand that pool problems can arise at any time and can be stressful to deal with. That’s why we offer a professional and prompt emergency call-out service to help you fix any urgent issues and get your pool back in working order as soon as possible. In his blog post, we’ll discuss common pool emergencies, how to handle them, and how Pool Engineering can assist with swift repairs.
Pool Pump Failure
What happens:
The pool pump is the heart of your pool’s filtration system, circulating water to keep it clean and clear. When the pump fails, the water stops circulating, leading to a buildup of dirt, debris, and bacteria. A broken pump can cause cloudy water, unsafe swimming conditions, and, if left untreated, even damage other pool equipment.
What to do:
If your pump stops working or starts making unusual noises, turn off the pool’s power to prevent further damage. Check for obvious issues like clogged skimmer baskets or debris in the pump basket, which might restrict water flow. If the problem persists, it’s best to call professionals to inspect the pump and repair it.
Pool Leak or Cracked Structure
What happens:
A pool leak can be a serious problem. Whether it’s a plumbing leak, a crack in the pool’s structure, or a tear in the liner, water loss can cause significant damage if not addressed quickly. Leaks can lead to soil erosion around your pool, damage to your property, and high water bills as you constantly refill the pool.
What to do:
If you suspect a leak—from a noticeable drop in water levels or damp areas around the pool—try the “bucket test” to confirm it. Fill a bucket with pool water, place it on a pool step, and mark the water levels inside the bucket and in the pool. After 24 hours, compare the levels. If the pool water has dropped more than the bucket water, you likely have a leak.
Turn off the pool equipment and contact a professional as soon as possible. Pool leaks often require expert detection and repair.
Pool Heater Malfunction
What happens:
A malfunctioning pool heater can ruin your plans for a relaxing swim, especially if you rely on your pool year-round. Pool heaters can fail for various reasons, such as electrical issues, clogged filters, or broken internal components.
What to do:
If your heater isn’t working or is heating the water unevenly, first check the thermostat and reset any circuit breakers. Clean or replace any dirty filters that may be blocking water flow. If these steps don’t solve the issue, it’s time to call a professional.
Green or Cloudy Water
What happens:
Green or cloudy pool water is usually a sign of poor water circulation, chemical imbalance, or algae growth. This can happen due to an issue with the filtration system, such as a broken pump or filter, or simply from neglecting regular maintenance. Cloudy water makes swimming unpleasant and can even pose health risks.
What to do:
If your pool water turns green or cloudy, test the water’s chemical levels first. Adjust the pH, chlorine, and alkalinity as needed. If the problem persists, it could indicate a malfunction in your pool’s filtration system or pump, which may require professional repair.
Broken Pool Cover or Equipment
What happens:
Pool covers, ladders, lights, and other equipment are essential for safety and convenience. When something breaks, such as a torn pool cover or damaged ladder, it can create a safety hazard and make your pool less enjoyable to use.
What to do:
If you notice broken or malfunctioning pool equipment, avoid using it until it’s been properly repaired. For example, don’t allow swimmers to use a broken ladder, and never swim in a pool without a functioning cover if safety depends on it.
Why Choose Pool Engineering’s Emergency Call-Out Service?
At Pool Engineering, we understand that pool emergencies can happen at any time, and waiting too long to address them can cause unnecessary stress and expense. That’s why we offer a **dedicated call-out service** for emergency pool repairs. Whether it’s a malfunctioning pump, a major leak, or a chemical imbalance, our experienced team is ready to assist you quickly and professionally.
By calling Pool Engineering, you can expect:
Prompt response to your pool emergency
Experienced professionals with over 20 years of expertise
Comprehensive repairs for all types of pool equipment and structures
Access to a wide range of pool supplies and products available at our Sudbury showroom
Pool emergencies can be frustrating and potentially costly if not addressed quickly. Whether it’s a leaking pool, broken pump, or heater malfunction, it’s important to act fast and call in experts to fix the issue. At Pool Engineering, our emergency call-out service is designed to give you peace of mind, knowing that help is just a phone call away.