You walk out to your backyard oasis and something feels off. The circulation system sounds louder than usual. The water looks cloudier even though you added chemicals yesterday. Or maybe you noticed a wet spot in the yard that wasn’t there before. These small signs often point to bigger problems brewing beneath the surface.
If you’re searching for pool repair near me, you’re probably dealing with one of the nine issues we’ll cover in this guide. After 15 years of servicing swimming pool systems across Long Beach, Seal Beach, Lakewood, and surrounding areas, we’ve seen these problems hundreds of times. Most follow predictable patterns once you know what to look for.
If your pool equipment is acting up right now and you need help fast, our Long Beach pool and spa repair service team aims to respond within 24 hours. We offer free quotes for residential and commercial properties.
Table of Contents
What Are the Most Common Pool Repair Problems?
The most common pool repair services address motor failure, water loss, heating malfunctions, cracked surfaces, clogged or damaged filtration components, broken lights, automation system failures, plumbing line issues, and salt cell deterioration. Most of these problems show warning signs before they become emergencies.
Watch for these signals that indicate you may need professional pool repair services near your Long Beach home:
- Unusual motor noises like grinding, humming, or screeching
- Water loss beyond normal evaporation (more than 1/4 inch daily)
- Heating unit cycling on and off without reaching target temperature
- Visible surface damage or hollow spots
- Poor water clarity despite proper chlorine balance
- Lights flickering or not working
- Equipment not responding to automation controls
- Air bubbles in the return lines
Catching these signs early usually means a simpler, less costly fix. Waiting turns small issues into major equipment changes that could be expensive.
Motor and Circulation Problems Are the Most Common Service Call
Motor issues are among the most common calls we get. The pump is your system’s heart. It typically runs 6-8 hours daily circulating water through the sand filter and keeping chemicals mixed. That constant work takes a toll.
Here’s what to watch for:
Motor sounds different than usual. A grinding noise often means the bearings are failing. Humming without the motor starting could be a capacitor problem. Screeching usually points to seal failure.
System loses prime or won’t prime at all. Air getting into the setup causes this. Check the lid o-ring, the plugs, and any valves on the suction side.
Air bubbles in the basket or return jets. This signals a suction leak somewhere between the skimmer and equipment. The motor pulls air instead of just water.
Equipment runs hot or trips the breaker. Overheating motors are nearing the end of their lifespan. Repeated breaker trips need immediate attention since this can be a fire hazard.
In coastal Long Beach neighborhoods like Belmont Shore and Naples, salt air accelerates motor corrosion. In our experience, we often see pool pump motors fail 2-3 years earlier in waterfront properties compared to inland areas like Bixby Knolls. If you live near the water and your equipment is over 5 years old, keep an ear out for changes.
The average motor typically lasts 8-12 years with proper pool maintenance, based on general manufacturer guidelines. But that assumes regular pool care and reasonable operating conditions. Heavy use, poor water chemistry, and coastal environments can shorten that timeline. Keeping your pump in good condition helps keep your pool ready for use.
Water Loss Can Hide for Months Before You Notice
A small break in a fitting or a deteriorating gasket might lose an inch or more of water per week. Over months, that can add up to significant water and chlorine costs. Worse, underground issues can undermine your pool deck and cause landscaping damage that goes unnoticed for months.
The bucket test confirms if you actually have a leak. Fill a bucket with water and set it on the steps so water levels inside and outside the bucket are equal. Mark both levels. Wait 24 hours without using the area. If the water level dropped more than the bucket level, you have a problem, not just evaporation.
Normal evaporation in Southern California can range from about 1/8 to 1/4 inch per day depending on temperature, humidity, and wind. Losing noticeably more than that usually indicates an issue worth investigating.
Most common locations for water loss:
- Skimmer where plastic meets concrete
- Main drain at the floor
- Return fittings and gaskets
- Light niche and conduit
- Underground plumbing lines
Wet spots in the yard near equipment or along plumbing runs are red flags. So is settling or damage around the pool area. Lakewood and Bellflower homes built in the 1960s-1980s often have cast iron or galvanized underground lines that corrode over time. These are the hardest to find and usually require specialized detection equipment.
Detection often requires pressurizing lines, using listening devices, or even dye testing. This is one situation where professional help almost always makes sense. Digging up the wrong spot gets expensive fast.
Pool Heater Failures Follow Predictable Patterns
Heating systems create comfortable water temperatures but add mechanical complexity. Natural gas units have ignition systems, valves, and heat exchangers. Heat systems using electricity have compressors, fans, and refrigerant circuits. Both can fail in ways that are difficult to diagnose without training.
Common heating problems we see:
Unit cycles on and off without reaching temperature. This often indicates a flow problem. Dirty media restricts water flow and triggers the safety switch. Check your filtration pressure first.
Error codes on the display. Modern units communicate problems through codes. Write down the exact code and check your owner’s manual or search online. Some codes indicate simple fixes. Others signal component failures.
Pilot light won’t stay lit (natural gas units). Thermocouple failure is the usual cause. This safety device shuts off gas if the pilot goes out. Replacement is straightforward but involves gas connections. Propane units have similar issues.
Heat exchanger corrosion. Improper water chemistry, especially low pH and low calcium hardness, eats away at copper components. The CDC’s healthy swimming guidelines emphasize proper water balance for both safety and equipment longevity. By the time you notice poor heating, the damage is often beyond the ability to replace individual parts. This is why weekly chemical testing matters so much.
Pool heater systems can last anywhere from 7-15 years or more depending on usage, maintenance, and environmental factors. Gas units often fall toward the shorter end of that range. Units in coastal areas may face accelerated corrosion. In our experience, we’ve seen equipment in waterfront Seal Beach homes need replacement sooner than expected due to salt air exposure.
Surface Cracks Need Professional Assessment
Cracks in your surface range from cosmetic annoyances to serious structural concerns. The difference isn’t always obvious to untrained eyes.
Hairline fractures in plaster are common and often cosmetic. Plaster naturally develops small lines as it cures and ages. These typically don’t cause water loss and can often wait for your next scheduled resurfacing. Plaster lifespan varies widely based on water chemistry, maintenance, and usage, but many surfaces need attention somewhere in the 7-15 year range.
Spider webbing looks like a web of fine lines concentrated in one area. This usually indicates a bonding problem where the plaster didn’t adhere properly to the underlying gunite. It’s cosmetic but will get worse over time.
Structural damage shows wider separations, often with jagged edges that may show movement. If you can fit a credit card edge into the gap, or if the two sides are at different heights, this is serious. These problems can allow water to penetrate behind the shell and undermine the foundation.
Delamination and hollow spots happen when the surface layer separates from the shell beneath. Tap around the suspected area with a hard object. A hollow sound indicates delamination.
Homes in established Long Beach neighborhoods like Bixby Knolls and Los Altos often have systems from the 1970s-1990s with original plaster or first-generation resurfacing. These commonly need surface assessment. Small fixes can buy time, but they’re temporary. The question is whether spot work makes sense or whether it’s time for a full resurface, possibly including new tile around the waterline.
Can you fix surface damage underwater?
Sometimes, yes. There are underwater epoxy products for small issues. But proper work usually requires draining, preparing the surface, and applying materials that need to cure in dry conditions. An honest assessment from a qualified professional helps you make the right decision. We can evaluate the severity during an initial visit.
Filter Problems Affect Everything Else
Your filter removes particles and contaminants that the motor moves through the equipment. When the filter struggles, water quality suffers, and other equipment works harder to compensate. This is why pool cleaning and pool maintenance go hand in hand with keeping equipment running smoothly. As a homeowner, understanding this connection helps you catch problems early.
Pressure tells the story. Every unit has a normal operating pressure, usually noted on the system when it’s clean. As material accumulates, pressure rises. A general rule of thumb is to clean or backwash when pressure rises about 8-10 PSI above your clean baseline, though your manufacturer may have specific recommendations.
High pressure means restriction. The media is dirty, or something is blocking flow on the return side.
Low pressure usually points back to the circulation side. Air getting in, clogged skimmer baskets, or motor problems all reduce pressure.
Different types have different maintenance needs:
- Cartridge types need periodic removal and hosing, with new cartridges typically needed every 1-3 years depending on use and water conditions
- DE (diatomaceous earth) types require backwashing and recharging with DE powder, plus annual teardown for internal cleaning
- Sand filter types need backwashing but the media typically lasts 5-7 years before needing attention, depending on usage and water quality
Torn cartridge elements, damaged DE grids, or channeled sand all reduce effectiveness. If your water stays cloudy despite proper chemistry, the media may be the problem.
Tank damage or multiport valve failures require professional attention. These components hold pressure and must seal properly to function. The Pool & Hot Tub Alliance sets industry standards for equipment safety and performance.
Light Work Involves Electrical Safety
Lighting creates ambiance and extends your swim season into the evening hours. But water and electricity require respect. Lights operate with safety features specifically designed to prevent electrocution, and those systems need to stay intact.
Warning signs of light problems:
- Lights flickering or not turning on
- Water visible inside the fixture (seal failure)
- Tripping GFCI (ground fault circuit interrupter) breaker
GFCI protection is required for pool electrical equipment under California building codes. This device detects tiny current imbalances that could indicate electricity entering the water and shuts off power instantly. If your light trips the GFCI, something is wrong with the fixture or its wiring.
LED vs incandescent options. If you need a replacement, LED fixtures use less electricity and last longer than traditional incandescent bulbs. The upfront cost is higher, but the long-term savings and reliability make LEDs the best option in most situations.
Older homes in Seal Beach and Rossmoor often have original lights from the 1970s or 1980s that still work but use outdated technology and may not meet current electrical codes.
Electrical work around water should be done by someone who understands both systems and safety requirements. This isn’t a place to cut corners. The risk of electrocution in water is real, and the consequences are serious.
Automation and Control System Failures
Modern installations often include automation systems that control motors, heating, lights, and other equipment from a central panel or smartphone app. Pentair IntelliCenter and Jandy iAqualink are the most common systems in our service area.
When automation works, it’s wonderful. When it doesn’t, troubleshooting can be frustrating.
Common automation problems:
Communication errors between equipment. Most systems use RS-485 communication cables to connect components. Loose connections, damaged cables, or failed communication boards cause devices to stop responding.
Remote control or app connectivity problems. WiFi connection issues, router changes, or cloud service outages can all disconnect your app control. Often the equipment still works from the panel even when the app doesn’t.
Relay and actuator failures. Relays switch equipment on and off. Actuators move valves. Both are mechanical devices that wear out. A motor that won’t turn on through automation but runs fine when manually started suggests a relay problem.
Software and firmware issues. Sometimes systems need updates or resets. Power cycling the control panel fixes some glitches, just like restarting a computer.
Our technician team holds certifications for both Jandy and Pentair systems, the two major manufacturers. We specialize in diagnosing whether your problem is a simple communication error or a component failure that needs replacement.
If your automation system needs service, professional help usually saves time compared to troubleshooting through trial and error. These systems have multiple failure points, and jumping to the wrong conclusion means buying parts you don’t need.
Plumbing Line Problems
Plumbing runs underground from skimmers and drains to the equipment pad, then back through return lines. Hundreds of feet of pipe, most of it buried and invisible. Both in-ground setups and portable systems can experience line issues.
Suction side vs pressure side matters. Lines going to the motor are suction lines. Lines going back are pressure lines. They fail differently.
Suction side issues pull air into the system. You’ll see air bubbles in the basket or at return jets. The system may have trouble priming or lose prime frequently.
Pressure side issues push water out into the ground. You might notice wet areas in the yard, or just higher water bills with no visible explanation.
Above-ground equipment issues are easier to address. Broken valves, damaged union fittings, and failed o-rings can usually be fixed without digging. These systems and even hot tubs share similar connection points that can fail.
Underground line problems are more serious. These require locating the exact point, excavating to access the pipe, making the fix, and restoring the landscape. Pressure testing helps locate problems, but pinpointing them precisely sometimes requires multiple approaches.
Older plumbing used materials that don’t hold up as well as modern PVC. If you’re dealing with underground issues in a system built before 1985, consider whether spot work makes sense or whether a liner upgrade or replumbing sections might be more cost-effective long term.
Saltwater Cell and System Issues
Saltwater setups use salt chlorine generators to produce sanitizer from salt dissolved in the water. The system includes a salt cell, control board, flow sensor, and salt level sensor. Each component can fail.
Salt cell not producing chlorine is the most common complaint. Cells have a limited lifespan that varies based on usage, water chemistry, and maintenance. Many cells last somewhere in the 3-7 year range, though some last longer with proper care. Scale buildup on the cell plates reduces efficiency. Most cells benefit from periodic cleaning with manufacturer-recommended solutions.
When to clean vs when to get a new cell: If cleaning restores production, the cell still has life. If production stays low after cleaning, the cell is reaching end of life.
Flow sensor problems trigger low flow errors even when water is moving properly. These sensors detect whether enough water passes through the cell for safe operation.
Control board failures stop the whole system. The board monitors salt levels, cell output, and flow, then adjusts production accordingly. When the board fails, the cell stops working.
Low salt readings vs actual salt level. If your system shows low salt but the water tests correctly, the salt sensor may be failing. These sensors drift over time and need calibration or a new unit.
Saltwater systems have become popular in newer developments around Cypress and Westminster. They’re convenient and produce consistent sanitizer, but they add components that can fail.
If your saltwater setup isn’t maintaining proper levels despite correct salt readings, professional diagnosis helps identify whether the cell, board, or another component needs attention. For urgent questions about your system, our technician team can help.
How to Know When You Need Professional Help
Not every problem requires a pool service call. Knowing the difference saves money and frustration. A full-service company can handle everything, but some tasks are DIY appropriate.
DIY appropriate:
- Replacing a pool accessory like skimmer baskets and lids
- Basic pool cleaning and cartridge replacement
- Simple chemical adjustments based on test results
- Clearing debris from skimmers and baskets
- Resetting tripped breakers (once, to test)
- Cleaning salt cells according to manufacturer instructions
Professional needed:
- Anything involving electrical connections inside equipment
- Gas line work of any kind
- Structural damage or serious surface issues
- Underground detection and work
- Motor replacement
- Heating component failures
- Automation system diagnosis beyond basic resets
Warning signs that need urgent attention:
- Burning smell from any equipment
- Visible sparking or arcing
- Gas smell near equipment
- Equipment running but not shutting off
- Water contamination (black algae, illness after using the water)
- Movement in the shell
The cost of waiting too long usually exceeds the cost of prompt attention. A bearing that sounds rough might run for another month. But when it seizes, it can burn out the motor and damage the seal, turning a small fix into something costly.
What to look for in the best pool company:
- Proper license (California Contractors State License Board)
- Manufacturer certifications (Jandy, Pentair, etc.)
- Clear warranties on parts and labor
- Response time commitments
- Insured and bonded
- Willingness to explain what’s wrong and why
In our 15 years serving Long Beach and surrounding communities, we’ve found that education matters as much as the work itself. When you understand what failed and why, you can make better decisions about how to keep your pool sparkling clean for years to come.
What to Expect When You Call for Service
If you’ve never called a pool repair company, here’s how the process typically works with a trusted partner like our team.
Initial phone call
Describe what you’re experiencing. Strange noises, visual symptoms, error codes, or performance issues all help narrow down possibilities. We ask questions about your equipment age, any recent changes, and what you’ve already tried. You can personalize the call by letting us know your specific concerns.
Diagnostic visit
A technician comes to your property, inspects the equipment, and runs tests to identify the problem. This might take 30 minutes or so for a straightforward issue, or longer for complex diagnostics. Our team members are insured and trained to handle both residential pool and commercial situations.
Estimate
You get a clear breakdown of what needs to be fixed, parts costs, labor, and timeline. No surprises. If multiple options exist, we explain the tradeoffs so you can find the best service approach for your situation.
Parts and scheduling
Common parts we carry on our trucks for same-day completion. Specialized components may need ordering, which adds a day or two. For new pool equipment installation, we can often coordinate delivery.
Completion
We complete the work, test the system, and clean up. Before we leave, we explain what was done, any follow-up steps you should do, and what to watch for going forward.
Warranties
Our work carries a one-year parts and labor warranty. Equipment installed through our Jandy certified program may qualify for extended manufacturer warranties. Ask us about current warranty options when we provide your estimate. The warranty gives you peace of mind that if something fails early, you’re covered. We want to ensure your investment is protected.
We serve Long Beach, Seal Beach, Los Alamitos, Lakewood, Bellflower, Downey, Paramount, Westminster, Rossmoor, and Cypress. We aim to schedule service calls within 24 hours when possible. For emergencies, we do our best to respond same-day without hassle.
If you’re dealing with equipment problems and want a clear diagnosis and honest options, give us a call at (562) 522-2203 or schedule online. Whether you have a backyard in-ground setup, an above-ground system, or even a spa with water issues, we’ll help you figure out what’s wrong and what it takes to fix it. You can also find supplies at retailers like Leslie’s Pool Supplies, but for the work itself, trust a licensed contractor.
FAQs About Pool Repair in Long Beaches
Q: What are the most common pool repair problems that require professional pool repair services?
A: The most common pool repair problems include cracks in the pool structure, pump and filtration system failures, heater malfunctions, leak detection and repair, damaged pool liners, broken or malfunctioning pool lights, issues with the circulation system, skimmer and drain problems, and tile or pool deck damage. While some minor issues can be handled by a homeowner, many of these problems require a trusted partner with proper license and expertise to ensure your swimming pool remains safe and functional for years to come.
Q: How do I know when to call a pro for pool repair service instead of attempting DIY repairs?
A: You should call a professional pool repair service when dealing with electrical issues like pool lights or pumps, suspected leaks that could cause costly damage, problems with your filtration system or circulation system, heater repairs involving natural gas or propane, structural cracks in your swimming pool or above-ground pool, and any repairs that require specialized equipment or technical knowledge. A licensed and insured contractor can prevent damage and ensure repairs are completed safely and correctly, protecting your backyard oasis and keeping your pool ready for swim season.
Q: What should I look for when searching for pool repair services near me?
A: When searching for pool repair services near your location, look for contractors who are licensed and insured, have positive reviews and a solid rate of customer satisfaction, offer residential and commercial services, provide free quotes, have experience with both swimming pool and hot tubs or spa repairs, offer full-service pool care including installation and pool maintenance, and have years of experience serving residential pool owners. A trusted partner should also be able to handle everything from routine pool cleaning to complex repairs, ensuring you receive high-quality service for all your pool and spa needs.
Q: How can I trust that a pool service contractor will provide quality work?
A: To trust a pool service contractor, verify their license and insurance credentials, check online reviews and ask for references from other homeowners, confirm they have experience with your specific type of swimming pool or above-ground pool, ask about warranties on their repair work, ensure they provide detailed written estimates before beginning work, and look for contractors who are transparent about their processes and timeline. The best pool repair services will have established reputations in the community, possibly partnering with trusted suppliers like Leslie’s Pool Supplies, and will prioritize customer satisfaction to keep your pool in sparkling clean condition.
Q: What is the average rate for professional pool repair services?
A: The rate for pool repair services varies depending on the complexity of the problem, your location, and the type of swimming pool you have. Simple repairs like replacing a pool cleaner or basic pool maintenance might cost $100-$300, while more complex issues like leak detection and repair, pump or heater replacement, or liner installation can range from $500 to several thousand dollars. Structural repairs to your pool deck or in-ground pool can be even more costly. Most reputable contractors offer free quotes so you can understand the rate before committing to repairs, helping you budget appropriately while ensuring you receive the best service for your residential pool.
Q: How often should I schedule pool maintenance to prevent common repair problems?
A: Regular pool maintenance is essential to prevent damage and avoid costly repairs. You should perform basic pool cleaning weekly, including skimming debris and checking chemical levels. Professional pool service should be scheduled at least monthly during swim season, with comprehensive inspections quarterly. Your filtration system should be checked regularly, and your circulation system should be evaluated by a pro at least annually. For hot tubs and spas, more frequent maintenance may be required due to higher usage and temperature. Consistent pool care helps identify potential issues early, extends the life of your swimming pool equipment, and ensures your pool remains a sparkling clean oasis in your backyard for years to come.
Q: What types of pool equipment installation require a licensed contractor?
A: Any installation involving electrical connections, gas lines (natural gas or propane), or major plumbing modifications should be performed by a licensed contractor to ensure safety and code compliance. This includes heater installation, pump and filtration system installation, automated pool controls, pool lighting, circulation system upgrades, and any equipment for hot tubs or spas. A qualified pro will also be necessary for new pool installation, liner replacement, and tile work on your pool deck or pool area. Using insured professionals for these installations helps prevent damage, ensures proper functioning, and protects your investment in your residential pool or above-ground pool.
Q: How can I find the best pool repair service for my swimming pool needs?
A: To find the best pool repair service, start by asking neighbors and friends for recommendations, then research pool repair services near your location online. Look for full-service providers who handle everything from routine pool cleaning to complex repairs and installation work. Verify that contractors are licensed and insured for residential and commercial work. Request free quotes from multiple providers to compare rates and services. Check if they have experience with your specific type of swimming pool, above-ground pool, hot tubs, or spa. The best service providers will offer personalized solutions, have urgent questions hotlines for emergencies, carry high-quality parts and accessories, and demonstrate a commitment to keeping your pool in excellent condition with minimal hassle throughout the swim season and beyond.
