As we move into the winter months here in Florida and our temperatures drop sometimes to unseasonably record lows, we don’t use our pools quite as much as other times of the year so it’s a great time to review the most common inground pool issues.
Florida’s sunny climate makes inground pools a popular feature for homeowners. However, the state’s unique environmental conditions can contribute to specific challenges and issues for pool owners.
With our nearly four decades of experience in the Florida pool industry, we’ve seen it all. We’ve found the following are the five most common things that break in inground pools.
Challenges with Water Chemistry:
We’ve said it before, and it bears repeating: Florida’s warm and humid climate creates an environment conducive to algae and bacteria growth in pool water. Improperly balanced water chemistry can lead to issues such as algae blooms, scaling, and surface corrosion. Regular testing and maintenance of the pool’s water chemistry is critical to prevent these problems. Pool owners should monitor pH levels, chlorine, and alkalinity, and give us a call if they are having trouble maintaining the proper balance, even in the winter months.
Saltwater Pool System Corrosion:
Many Florida pool owners opt for saltwater systems for the overall lower maintenance and reduced use of traditional chlorine. However, the corrosive nature of saltwater can pose additional challenges, particularly in the longevity of pool equipment and fixtures. Pool owners must regularly inspect the salt chlorinator cells, metal components, and pool accessories to be able to identify the signs of corrosion early. Coating metal surfaces with protective substances and using corrosion-resistant materials can help mitigate these issues but nothing beats early detection. We check for signs of corrosion in every saltwater pool we service.
Pump and Motor Failures:
The high temperatures in Florida necessitate frequent operation of pool pumps and motors to maintain water circulation and filtration. Over time, the continuous use can lead to wear and tear, resulting in pump and motor failures. Adding in a below-freezing nighttime temperature can lead to freezing and expansion of these critical components. If you need help protecting your pool from temperature variations, be sure to let us know. Our regular maintenance inspections include lubricating of moving parts, checking for leaks, and cleaning debris from pump baskets. You also may want to consider upgrading to energy-efficient pump systems to contribute to your pump and motor longevity and reduce energy costs.
Tile and Grout Deterioration:
Florida’s humidity and frequent rain can contribute to the deterioration of tile and grout in pool areas. Cracked or damaged tiles not only compromise the aesthetic appeal but can also lead to more severe structural issues if left unaddressed. Routine inspections of pool tiles and grout, along with timely repairs or replacements, can prevent water infiltration and protect the pool’s structure. Just like road surfaces, a little bit of water can become a big problem, like potholes.
Pool Surface Cracks:
The intense Florida sun, combined with frequent temperature fluctuations, can lead to surface cracks in the finish of an inground pool. In addition to being an eyesore, over time, these cracks can compromise the structural integrity of the pool. To address this issue, it’s crucial to invest in high-quality pool finishes that are specifically designed to withstand the harsh Florida climate. We regularly inspect your surface whenever we service your pool. It is important to address minor cracks as soon as possible to keep them from turning into major structural problems down the road. While we don’t do crack repair or leak detection we can certainly refer you to other companies that offer those services.
Owning an inground pool in Florida comes with unique challenges due to the state’s climate and environmental conditions. By staying proactive and investing in regular maintenance, pool owners can address common issues quickly to keep their pools in the best shape all year. Regular professional inspections, prompt repairs, and the use of quality materials are key to preserving the integrity and longevity of inground pools in the Sunshine State.
Swim ‘N Fun is fully licensed and insured and has been serving Central Florida since 1986. Our pool company is ready to help you with any pool repairs that you may need such as repairing a broken pool pump, pool filter, pool vacuum, pool filtration system or pool lights. Our pool technicians will arrive at your home in our fully stocked service trucks. They will evaluate the problem and then make the repair. Many times, an extensive or expensive pool repair is not needed. No job is too big or too small!
We service all major brands. Let us help you with your pool repairs. Please give us a call at 407-699-5588.