Pool repairs can cost anywhere from $10 to $3,100 on average, but most homeowners pay around $650 to repair a pool. The range is so large because costs vary significantly depending on the type of pool repair you need, with some uncommon pool issues costing even more than this average range.
Learn all about the cost of pool repairs so you can plan your budget and get your pool back into tip-top shape for the swimming season.
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Average Pool Repair Cost | ||
---|---|---|
Average Cost | $650 | |
Highest Cost | $3,100 | |
Lowest Cost | $10 |
Pool Repair Cost by Type of Repair
The type of repair you need is by far the biggest factor affecting the cost to repair a pool. Some simple repairs might only cost $10 to fix, while other, more complicated issues, can cost $5,000 or more.
Pump Motor Repair
When a pool pump no longer works, it’s often due to a faulty motor. It typically costs between $50 and $300 to repair a pump motor, including labor. However, if you need a brand-new motor, you should budget between $250 and $800, depending on the motor’s size.
Pump Leak Repair
In most cases, you need to replace a leaky pool pump since it’s tough to fix pump leaks. Pool pump replacements can cost anywhere from $400 to $5,500 or more, depending on the pump’s size and features. Most homeowners will pay between $700 and $1,300 for a standard pool pump.
Pool Leak Repair
Pool leak repairs range from $10 to $3,500 or more. If all you need to do is patch a small crack, then you likely won’t need to pay for more than a patch kit, which usually costs between $10 and $20. However, if your liner is badly damaged or you have significant plumbing leaks, you could pay $3,500 or more for materials and labor.
Skimmer Repair
Pool skimmers help to keep your pool free of debris. Skimmer repairs usually cost $50 to $300, depending on the repair you need, such as a new basket or cover. However, if your skimmer is broken beyond repair, you should budget for a new one. Pool skimmer replacements typically range from $50 to $1,500, depending on the type of skimmer and pool you have, but high-end units can cost even more.
Drain Repair
Pool drains can crack over time, leading to leaks. It usually costs between $450 and $1,500 to repair a pool drain, but most people will pay between $500 and $700. Much of that cost goes to the labor required to drain the pool, fix the drain, and refill it.
Tile Replacement
Broken pool tiles are typically fairly easy and inexpensive to replace, so most homeowners can take this project on themselves. Tile replacement usually costs between $2 and $35 per square foot, but prices can reach up to $100 per square foot, depending on the material. Glass and mosaic tiles may hit the higher end of this range, as will highly decorative or premium tiles. If you hire a pro to replace the tile, you should tack on an additional $100 to $250 to your budget.
Pool Heater Repair
Pool heaters can significantly prolong your swimming season, but after a few seasons of hard work, they will likely eventually need repairs. Pool heater repairs usually cost between $150 and $800, depending on the type of repair needed. Tackling issues early here is wise, as replacing your pool heater can cost you thousands.
Pool Light Repair
It usually costs between $65 and $175 to repair a pool light. But if you need a brand-new unit for the light, you should budget $500 to $700.
Pool Beam Repair
Pool beams offer structural support to your pool, so they’re critical for safety. Pool beam repairs are fairly time-consuming and tricky to fix, so you should expect to pay around $75 per linear foot for the repair. If the entire beam needs to be repaired, it will likely cost around $4,000 to $6,000.
Filter Repair
Pool filters keep your pool clean and safe for swimming, but after one or two years, they run out of steam. Filter replacements cost between $250 and $2,500, but costs usually amount to $1,500 to $2,000, including labor. Filters for very large pools with lots of added features, like backwash automation and programmable timers, cost the most, while basic filters for small pools cost the least.
Cost by Type of Repair | ||
---|---|---|
Pump Motor Repair | $50 - $300 | |
Pump Leak Repair | $700 - $1,300 | |
Pool Leak Repair | $10 -$3,500 | |
Skimmer Repair | $50 - $300 | |
Drain Repair | $450 - $700 | |
Tile Replacement | $20 - $30 | |
Pool Heater Repair | $150 - $800 | |
Pool Light Repair | $65 - $175 | |
Pool Beam Repair | $4,000 - $5,000 | |
Filter Repair | $1,500 - $2,000 |
Pool Repair Cost by Pool Type
Pool repairs also vary greatly depending on the type of pool you have. Generally, inground pools usually cost more to repair than above-ground pools.
Inground Pool
The cost to repair an inground pool heavily depends on the type of repair you need, but it usually costs between $400 and $3,000. Inground pool repairs usually cost more to repair than above-ground pools because their problems take longer to diagnose and fix due to buried plumbing and electrical components.
Above-Ground Pool
Above-ground pool repairs typically cost between $300 and $600, but again, costs are highly variable depending on the repair. Minor leaks might only cost around $20 to repair, while an entire liner replacement can cost you more than $2,500.
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Pool Repair Labor Costs
Most pool repair pros typically charge $50 to $70 per hour to repair a pool, although this can vary based on demand, season, and your specific pool issue. Professional repairs can take anywhere from one hour to several days to complete, so your labor costs really depend on the complexity of the issue.
Material Costs
In addition to labor, you should factor in the cost of the materials needed to fix your pool. Material costs can range anywhere from $10 for a patch kit to $5,000 or more for a new liner. If you’re not sure how much the materials will cost, make sure to ask your pro for an estimate ASAP. You can also research common material costs for your specific problem online, but a local pro will have the most accurate info.
8 Signs Your Pool Needs Repair
Several red flags can indicate it’s time for a pool repair, including:
- Unusually low water levels
- Cracks or other damage to the pool
- Excessive algae or cloudy water
- Noisy pumps or filters
- An uneven pool deck
- Unpleasant odors coming from the pool
- Rust on any pool components
- Loss of suction from the skimmer
Factors That Affect Pool Repair Costs
The main factor that affects pool repair costs is the type of repair you need, but your pool’s size, type, and material will also impact your final price.
Pool Size
Your pool’s size can impact how much you’ll pay to repair it. For instance, fixing a beam that runs the length of your pool will cost more for larger pools since more materials and labor are involved. Additionally, equipment for larger pools is often bigger and more expensive than equipment for small pools, so it often costs more to repair or replace as well.
Pool Type
Things like pool plumbing lines and electrical components are often tougher to access in inground pools than in above-ground pools, so it usually costs more to repair them. However, in some cases, like patching minor leaks, repair prices are comparable between the two types.
Pool Material
Pool liners are typically made of vinyl, fiberglass, or concrete. Since concrete is the heaviest and hardest, it’s usually the most costly to repair concrete pools, followed by fiberglass pools. Vinyl pools typically cost the least to repair.
Extent of Damage
The extent of repair needed is the main cost factor to consider when budgeting for a pool repair. Extensive damage from, say, the demise of a major pool component, requires more time, labor, and materials to fix than basic problems, like minor leaks.
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How to Save Money on Pool Repair
There are a few ways you can potentially cut down on your pool repair costs, including:
- Getting quotes from multiple repair pros to find the best price
- Repairing minor damage yourself
- Performing regular pool maintenance to prevent costly problems
- Getting annual pool inspections to catch problems before they get too expensive
DIY Pool Repair vs. Hiring a Professional
Most pool repair pros charge $50 to $70 per hour to repair a pool, so you can save money by tackling repairs yourself. But since pool repairs often involve plumbing and electrical expertise, as well as specialized tools, it’s typically best to hire a professional pool company for anything other than very basic repairs, like minor leak patches.
To arrive at the average costs in this article, we surveyed three contractors and retailers and seven local and national cost databases. All averaged figures were correct at the time of publication and may be subject to change.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long should an inground pool last?
A properly maintained inground pool can last anywhere from 10 to 50 years or more. Concrete pools tend to last the longest, followed by fiberglass pools. Vinyl pool liners usually have the shortest lifespan, ranging from 10 to 15 years.
What is the most expensive part of owning a pool?
The most expensive part of owning a pool is the cost to install it, which typically ranges from $28,000 to $55,000. After that, you’ll need to factor in the cost of ongoing pool maintenance, as well as repair, water, and energy costs. You might also need to pay for insurance and safety measures, such as a fence and a pool cover.
How much does it cost to replace a pool valve?
You can expect to pay anywhere from $150 to $800 to replace a pool valve, including the cost of labor and the valve itself.
How do you fix a damaged pool?
The way to fix a damaged pool entirely depends on the type of repair you need. For instance, if you have a minor leak, you can often patch it with a DIY kit. But if the pool liner is badly damaged, you probably need a pro with specialized tools and expertise to tackle it.
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FAQs
How Much Do Pool Repairs Cost? ›
Pump Leak Repair
In most cases, you need to replace a leaky pool pump since it's tough to fix pump leaks. Pool pump replacements can cost anywhere from $400 to $5,500 or more, depending on the pump's size and features. Most homeowners will pay between $700 and $1,300 for a standard pool pump.
Pump Leak Repair
In most cases, you need to replace a leaky pool pump since it's tough to fix pump leaks. Pool pump replacements can cost anywhere from $400 to $5,500 or more, depending on the pump's size and features. Most homeowners will pay between $700 and $1,300 for a standard pool pump.
Pools with vinyl liners will last more than 20 years, as long as you replace your liner every 6-12 years. Concrete pools have exceptional longevity, but you need to resurface the concrete every 10 years or so. Fiberglass pools have the longest lifespans of any in-ground pool, often easily surpassing 30 years.
How much does it cost to replace inground pool skimmer? ›Repairing or Replacing the Skimmer Cost
Repairing a skimmer costs around $50 to $300, depending on the problem. A leak around your skimmer costs $100 to $130 to repair. But if a repair isn't possible, a professional skimmer replacement can cost $1,200 or more.
The cost to install an inground pool is $35,000 on average and can range from $28,000 to $55,000 and sometimes upwards of $65,000 for special customizations and extra features. An added hot tub, for example, will cost $6,000 to $15,000 and pool lighting will be another $700 to $1,800, according to HomeGuide.
How serious is a pool leak? ›Even a minuscule pool leak may seriously harm your pool's construction, plumbing, mechanical systems, and water quality over time. Leak detection in your pool may save you money on repairs and maintenance.
Is it worth fixing a pool pump? ›Within the first five years, you will probably need to replace a motor on the pump and maybe a few pump baskets or seals. It generally makes good sense to spend the money to repair it because the rest of the pump is still in good condition and has several good years left in it.
What time of year is cheapest to install pool? ›WinterPool Installations
Often times, the most discounts and best deals are available in the winter. If a low price is your main concern, then the winter is the best time to build your dream pool. Manufacturers tend to increase prices for the New Year, so be sure to contact a builder sometime before January.
The best time to drain the swimming pool
Too cold or too hot weather can seriously affect an empty pool and cause cracks in the liner. Most homeowners decide to do it in the spring so that the pool is ready for summer activities. It's also OK to do so in early autumn when temperatures are still mild.
A pool can increase not only your social worth but also the value of your home. However, the increase is probably not as much as you think. According to HouseLogic, there's no real guarantee that you'll make your money back. In fact, adding a swimming pool may only increase your home's value by 7%.
How do I find out where my pool is leaking? ›
- Check Equipment. Give the equipment pad a thorough check. ...
- Wait for a Still, Clear Say. If no leak is found in the equipment, proceed to inspect the pool. ...
- Look for Cracks. ...
- Decide which Areas to Focus On. ...
- Turn Off any Pumps or Filtration Systems. ...
- Open Leak Detector Dye. ...
- Apply the Dye. ...
- Observe Closely.
If the water in your swimming pool is too low, the skimmer can bottom out and suck air into your filter system. And when that happens, you're at risk for burning out the motor on your pool pump. This could be a costly problem, which is why you should definitely keep an eye on the water level of your swimming pool.
How much does it cost to replace an inground pool filter and pump? ›Inground pools have more plumbing than above ground pools, and in some parts, the piping is underground. These pools require more powerful pumps and bigger and more efficient filters to keep the water clean. Plan to spend $250 to $2,000 to install or replace inground pool filters.
Which type of inground pool is cheapest? ›Overall, vinyl liner pools are the cheapest inground swimming pools that money can buy. It's rare to find a pool builder who can build a concrete or fiberglass pool at a vinyl liner pool price. This does not mean that vinyl liner pools are never expensive.
Are inground pools a good investment? ›Pools are certainly popular, and recent research suggests that adding an in-ground pool can boost your home's worth by around 7 percent. But the cost of pool installation and ongoing maintenance expenses may outweigh the potential value increase.
Is a salt water pool better than chlorine? ›Because they have lower chlorine levels, saltwater pools are gentler on the eyes and skin. Research indicates that saltwater systems may be safer than chlorine pools, which require pool owners to store and handle harsh chemicals. Saltwater pools produce softer-feeling water, which many find desirable.
Where is the most likely place for an inground pool to leak? ›- Pool Liners. Pool liners cover the swimming pool's wall and floor structure. ...
- Pool Pump. You can view the pump as the heart of the pool. ...
- Pool Filters. ...
- Underground Plumbing. ...
- Pool Skimmer. ...
- Structural leak. ...
- Pool Leaks Can Happen.
Pool Is Losing 1 Inch of Water Per Day
Losing more than ½” of pool water per day indicates you likely have a leak in your pool's structure or your pool pump system. You should call your pool service for a thorough leak inspection. You might not be able to keep up with refilling your pool at this point.
Every pool should cycle through all of its water at least once a day, so most pool owners will want to run their pumps for at least 4-8 hours daily. But you don't have to run those 4-8 hours all at once so you can split the pump time up at different parts of the day to ease your energy budget.
How expensive is running a pool pump? ›The average cost to run a pool pump is $30 to $150 a month. Operating costs depend on pump type, size, and running time. Local electricity rates have a big impact on the monthly cost. Switching to a variable speed pump can save you up to 80%.
How many years does a pool pump last? ›
On average, a pool pump motor can last between 8 and 10 years before it needs to be replaced. If you hear a noise, such as screeching, humming, or even no noise at all, these are warnings that something has to be done.
Is it expensive to keep up with a pool? ›Weekly pool maintenance typically costs less since the pool cleaners can keep up with the cleaning schedule and avoid water-quality challenges. Monthly pool maintenance costs $30 to $260, and an annual visit is priced anywhere between $960 and $1,800.
How can I save money on pool costs? ›- Use a pool cover. ...
- Keep on top of things. ...
- Turn off water features when you're not using the pool. ...
- Only use your filter when necessary. ...
- Use an energy efficient pump. ...
- Don't over-clean. ...
- Turn the temperature down. ...
- Create the right environment for your pool.
Generally, pool water needs to be replaced once every five to seven years. This should be done during mild weather so that your pool surface is not at risk from strong sunlight and heat. Your pool maintenance company can recommend when it is time to drain your pool.
Can I leave my pool empty for the winter? ›A: It's not a good idea to drain an above ground pool for winter. Snow, ice, extreme cold and errant debris will likely cause significant damage to a pool sitting out exposed to the elements. It's also expensive and time consuming to refill and chemically balance a new pool full of water in the spring.
Can I leave my pool up all year? ›A common question asked is, “Can above ground pools stay up year round?” And although the easy answer is that “Yes, they can,” whether you want to leave them up year-round really depends on the type of pool you have. Dismantling some above ground pools for the winter may be more hassle than it's worth.
What are the disadvantages of having a pool in your house? ›Disadvantages of Having a Pool in Your Home:
Pools attract more people, giving unnecessary attention and making your home vulnerable to threats. These threats can be theft, accidents and other damages in your home that are covered by your insurance plan.
Florida homeowners install pool enclosures as a safety barrier option when building a backyard pool. Pool cages are very common in central Florida due to the pool safety requirements. They also provide an excellent barrier to bugs and harsh sunlight.
What are the disadvantages of house with pool? ›The disadvantages of having a pool
The cost of constructing a pool is significant, and the ongoing costs of maintenance and repairs can also add up. Not to mention the added energy bills of powering pool cleaning systems. Purchasing a home with an existing pool can save you the headache and cost of installing one.
Is your swimming pool leaking? It's important to fix the problem as soon as possible. Signs of a pool leak include high water bills, standing water near the pool, unbalanced chemical levels, and discolored water.
How do you fix a leaking underground pool? ›
- Bypass the Filter. ...
- Soak Fix-A-Leak in a bucket of warm water for ten minutes. ...
- With pump running, add Fix-A-Leak directly to the skimmer or in front of any suction outlet. ...
- Adjust suction valves after all Fix-A-Leak has been sucked into the pump. ...
- Continue to Run the Pump for 8-10 hours.
Should I run my pump while it's raining? Zagers says yes! We recommend that our customers run their pumps rain or shine UNLESS you have an electrical storm. In that case, lightning could strike an outside circuit, which could damage your pump and other equipment.
How often should you have to add water to your pool? ›Eight hours is usually a minimum. In the dry season, water will need to be added to your pool each week. If you are adding more than 2″ of water/week, you probably have a leak. Pool leaks are pretty common; we detect and repair them every day.
How long should an inground pool pump run each day? ›On average, you should run your pool pump around 6-8 hours per day during winter and 10-12 hours per day during summer. Note that you need to run your pool pump longer during summer because algae grow more in warm temperatures.
How often should you clean your inground pool filter? ›A pool needs a clean filter and it needs to be cleaned periodically-usually once a month in swim season and perhaps less frequently in the offseason. If your pool's filter is oversized by design, these filters need cleaning 3-4 times per year by a pool professional.
What is the difference between a pool pump and a pool filter? ›While the pool pump and filter are critical to pool maintenance, we must understand that they serve different purposes. The pump keeps the water moving and prevents stagnation while the filter removes debris and contaminants.
What is the easiest type of pool to maintain? ›A fiberglass pool is not prone to growing algae, which is one of the main reasons why this pool is easier to maintain. Anyone who is looking for a pool that doesn't require a lot of maintenance may want to consider going with a fiberglass pool.
What type of inground pool is easiest to maintain? ›Long story short, the type of inground pool that is the easiest to maintain is clearly fiberglass. If you want an even more in-depth comparison of vinyl vs concrete vs fiberglass pools, check out our comparisons of inground pools.
What type of inground pool lasts the longest? ›A concrete pool has the highest lifetime cost and takes the longest to install (approximately three to six months), but it can be built to any specifications. They are the most difficult to maintain, but they also last the longest.
What are the disadvantages of ground pools? ›In-ground pools tend to be more costly and time-consuming to maintain than above-ground pools. Because in-ground pools are larger and hold more water, you'll also spend more on your electric and water bills, chemicals, and cleanings.
What is the upkeep of a inground pool? ›
In addition to cleaning the pool, a professional hired to help with pool maintenance should check filters and pumps, empty traps and baskets, brush the pool walls and vacuum. The average cost for pool comprehensive maintenance is $150 to $200.
What are the pros and cons of owning a pool? ›- Pro: Everyone loves the pool. ...
- Con: Installation is expensive. ...
- Pro: Pools offer physical and mental health benefits. ...
- Con: You may need more insurance. ...
- Pro: Your pool can increase curb appeal. ...
- Con: Maintenance never ends. ...
- Diving In.
Gentle on Eyes – Saltwater pools have much less salt than the ocean. When you open your eyes under water or get splashed in the face, it doesn't sting. The salt concentration is very similar to that of human tears. Most people have experienced the fumes associated with an indoor hotel pool.
Can salt water pools be heated? ›Can Saltwater Pools Be Heated? Saltwater pools are heated in the same way as standard chlorinated pools. These methods include a solar heater, solar blanket, heat pump, or an electric, gas, or propane heater. The least expensive and most eco-friendly is solar.
What is the healthiest pool system? ›Ozone Swim is 3,500 times faster at killing bacteria than chlorine making it one of the most powerful and effective sanitation systems on the market.
Can you repair a leaking pool pump? ›Amongst the three, the most common type of leakage is where the motor attaches to the basket housing. A home owner with basic mechanical skills can fix a leaky pool pump by finding the source of the leak and obtaining a new gasket or O-ring based on the brand and model of the pump.
What to do if your pool pump is leaking? ›As long as the motor doesn't have water damage, all you need to do is replace the shaft seal. If the motor has water damage, you will need to replace both the motor and the shaft seal. Leaking pool pumps can be a real hassle!
How much does labor cost to replace a pool pump? ›Labor. The labor cost to replace a pool pump with one that's the same size, type, and brand is typically less than $200. If the replacement is a different model and brand, labor costs can run from $280 to $320. If new pipes, wiring, or couplings are needed, expect to pay more for labor costs.
How do I know if my pool pump seal is leaking? ›- Puddle of water on the ground under the center of the pump underneath the motor connection point.
- Water damage to the surrounding area.
- Consistent, abnormal noise coming from the motor which could point to a bearing motor problem.
If the water loss is larger when the pump is running, the likely culprit is the underground return line. However, a leak in the return or jet fitting will also leak at a greater rate when the pump is on (there is pressure in the system). How do we find pool plumbing leaks? The first step is to pressure test the line.
What causes pool pump seal to leak? ›
If there are no fluids available to lubricate, the seal runs dry which causes extra friction and heat. The seal will burn or melt and become damaged, which causes fluid leakage due to the pressure. Even a few seconds of dry running can cause heat cracks or blisters, which leads to a leaking pump shaft seal.
What causes pool pump to leak? ›It can be due to broken seals, pump housing, pump drain plugs, improper fittings, or the lid to name a few. Let's look at why this is important, the different reasons why the pool pump is leaking, as well as other reasons it may not be working, grading of the land, pool safety, and when to call a professional for help.
How much is a pool pump? ›The price of pool pumps ranges from $400 to $3,100, though most homeowners pay $1,750 on average. Get started on the installation process by getting familiar with the details of pool pump costs. From the pump type, size, and more, there are many factors you need to keep in mind.
How do you know if your pool pump is blown? ›- Strange Noises from the Pump. Unusual sounds from your pump when it is running are an indication that the unit is not working properly. ...
- Constant Pump Leaks. ...
- Frequent Breakdowns After Repairs. ...
- The Pump Keeps Shutting Off. ...
- Loss of Suction. ...
- Power Keeps Tripping Out. ...
- Old Age.
In fact, due to the high energy costs, even with an energy efficient in-ground single speed swimming pool pump, it would still cost a fortune to run it 24-hours a day. Some commercial properties require 24-hour a day pump circulation, but as a homeowner, this is not advisable.
Should I replace my pool pump or just the motor? ›Replacing the entire pump can cost twice or even four times as much as replacing the motor. Some pool repairmen might try to talk you into replacing the entire pump, but you'll actually be better off with a simple pool pump motor replacement.
How often should a pool pump be serviced? ›We recommend seeking a yearly checkup by a professional, just to make sure everything is in order, and running as it should be. The best time to do this is in spring, right before peak use, so you can guarantee friends and family a safe swim.
How do you diagnose a pool leak? ›Place a bucket on the step of your pool, making sure the water level is the same both inside and outside the bucket. Mark the water level in the bucket and the pool water level on the outside. Wait 24–48 hours, then check the loss of both. If the pool loses more water than the bucket, then you have a leak.
What is the most common symptom of a pump suction leak? ›A suction side air leak shows itself most commonly by bubbles and splashing and frothing in the pump basket This indicates your pump is not getting the water it needs to function smoothly but, instead, air is getting into the system and starving or semi-starving the pump.