The most common swimming pool problems include leaks, cracks, cloudy water, low circulation, and equipment failure. Minor issues can sometimes be fixed with basic troubleshooting, but major leaks, structural cracks, pump problems, and persistent water chemistry issues should be handled by a licensed pool repair professional to prevent costly damage.

Common Swimming Pool Problems and How to Fix Them (2025 Guide)

Owning a swimming pool is a luxury—but it also requires consistent maintenance to keep the water safe, clean, and running efficiently. When something goes wrong, it’s important to know whether the issue is a simple DIY fix or a sign that you need professional pool repair services.

Below is a breakdown of the most common pool problems, how to diagnose them, and when to call a licensed expert.

1. Pool Leaks

A leaking pool is one of the most common and costly issues homeowners face. Even a small leak can lead to significant water loss, higher utility bills, and long-term structural damage.

Signs of a pool leak:

• Water level drops faster than normal evaporation

• Wet spots in the yard or around equipment

• Cracks in the pool surface

• Air bubbles coming from the return jets

How to troubleshoot:

• Perform a bucket test to confirm water loss

• Check the pump, filter, heater, and pipe connections

• Inspect tiles and lights for gaps

When to call a professional:

If the water loss continues or if you suspect underground plumbing or shell damage, a licensed pool leak detection specialist is essential.

2. Cracks in the Pool Surface

Cracks can occur for several reasons including ground movement, worn-out plaster, temperature fluctuations, or improper construction.

Types of cracks:

• Hairline cracks (cosmetic but should be monitored)

• Structural cracks (serious damage that requires immediate repair)

DIY vs Professional Fix:

• Minor surface cracking can be patched with pool putty (temporary fix).

• Structural cracks require a licensed pool plastering or resurfacing contractor to prevent major water loss or shell failure.

3. Cloudy or Murky Water

Cloudy water is extremely common and often easy to resolve once the cause is identified.

Possible causes:

• Unbalanced water chemistry

• Poor filtration

• Algae growth

• Inadequate circulation

• High levels of debris or contaminants

How to fix it:

• Test and adjust pH, chlorine, and alkalinity

• Run the pump longer to improve circulation

• Clean or replace the filter

• Shock the pool if needed

When to call a professional:

If water remains cloudy after balancing chemicals and improving circulation, there may be a hidden equipment issue or algae bloom that requires expert treatment.

4. Low Water Circulation

Proper circulation is key to keeping water clean and preventing algae.

Symptoms:

• Weak return jet pressure

• Debris settling on the bottom

• Cloudiness or green tinge

Possible causes:

• Dirty filter

• Blocked skimmer or pump basket

• Air leaks in the system

• A failing pool pump

A pool technician can diagnose pump or plumbing failures before they lead to major breakdowns.

5. Pump, Filter, or Heater Problems

Your equipment pad is the heart of your pool system. When one component fails, it affects the entire pool.

Common issues include:

• Pump not priming

• Filter pressure too high or too low

• Heater not turning on

• Air leaks

• Loud or grinding noises

Many equipment issues require a trained technician, especially electrical or gas-powered repairs.

When to Call a Professional Pool Repair Company

While some pool issues can be fixed with routine maintenance, you should call a licensed pool professional if:

• The pool is leaking

• Cracks continue to grow or reappear

• Equipment is failing or making unusual noises

• Water chemistry problems won’t stabilize

• You suspect underground plumbing issues

• Your pool requires resurfacing or plaster repair

Attempting large repairs on your own can create bigger, more expensive problems.

Keep Your Pool in Excellent Condition Year-Round

Staying on top of pool maintenance helps prevent major repairs, but when problems do arise, knowing the signs—and acting quickly—can save you time, money, and stress.

At Silverking Leisure Pool Services, we specialize in:

• Pool leak detection

• Pool plaster repair & resurfacing

• Equipment troubleshooting (pumps, filters, heaters)

• Regular maintenance

• Seasonal pool inspections

Whether you're dealing with cloudy water, a suspected leak, or cracks in your pool surface, our licensed technicians are here to help.

Need professional pool repair? Contact Silverking Leisure today to schedule your inspection and keep your pool running smoothly all season long.