When you notice a crack in your pool’s plaster or your pump’s not running correctly, you might think DIY pool repairs are the best option. While there are some benefits to handling repairs yourself, there are some major cons as well. Before you grab your tools and start the repairs, make sure you know what’s involved and whether tackling the job yourself is a good idea.
Benefits of DIY Repairs
Risks of DIY Repairs
Pro: Save Money
The most obvious benefit of DIY pool repairs is the cost savings. It’s also why so many pool owners turn to YouTube videos to learn how to fix their own pools.
According to Home Advisor, the average pool repair costs range between $223 and $1,009. Thumbtack shows a similar range with costs between $50 and $1,050. Of course, you’ll also have to consider that you will need to buy any supplies to fix the problem. Still, you could easily save hundreds by doing the repair yourself.
Con: May Cost You More
On the other hand, those simple looking repairs aren’t always as easy as they look. They often require specialty tools and extensive training. Something as simple as fixing a light in your pool could result in shorting out the entire pool and hurting yourself.
Often, repairs go sideways when you’re not sure what you’re doing. In the end, you spend money on supplies only to cause a bigger issue. Then, you still have to call in the professionals to fix it. The hundreds you saved easily disappear when the DIY repairs don’t quite go as planned.
Pro: No Waiting
No one wants to see their pool and know they can’t use it because they’re waiting on someone to repair it. DIY pool repairs mean you’re in control of when they’re completed. You don’t have to wait for an appointment. Instead, you buy the necessary supplies and start the work whenever you’re ready. This can get you back in your pool faster.
Con: The Damage May End Up Worse
The other side of the coin is the damage may end up worse than when you started. When pool owners try to repair cracks, for example, you could cause a much bigger crack and damage the materials inside your pool. This can weaken a larger area.
Professionals know the exact supplies to use based on what your pool is made of. They also know how to apply it and ensure it sets properly to avoid making problems worse. Working on a pump might seem straightforward until something breaks. Now, the pump is ruined and you have to buy a new one.
Con: It’s Not Always Safe
Safety should always come first with pool repairs. Electrical components near water, chemical fumes in enclosed pump rooms, and moving mechanical parts create real hazards. If you are unsure about any aspect of a repair, the risk of injury far outweighs the cost savings of doing it yourself.
One thing pool owners often overlook is safety when it comes to DIY pool repairs. Professionals take precautions to avoid getting hurt. For instance, when repairing cracks, you may breathe in harmful chemicals if you’re not wearing the right kind of mask.
Or, if you’re working on electrical components, you can get electrocuted. Even when you drain the pool, water may still seep in around components. You could also get your hand caught in the pump if it’s not properly turned off before working on it.
Pool lighting, pumps, and heaters involve electrical connections near water. Even when drained, moisture can create dangerous conditions without proper lockout/tagout procedures.
Repair materials like epoxies, sealants, and acid wash solutions release harmful fumes. Professional-grade respirators and ventilation are essential — a basic dust mask is not enough.
Pool pumps, motors, and filter systems have moving parts that can cause serious injury if not properly shut down and isolated before servicing.
Draining a pool improperly — especially in areas with high water tables — can cause the shell to crack or pop out of the ground, creating a dangerous and extremely costly situation.
DIY Pool Repairs Vs Professionals
Unless you have experience in working on pools, it’s usually more cost-effective and safe to hire the professionals. Of course, proper pool maintenance helps prevent many costly repairs. This is a great and much better way to save money.
If you do opt to try a repair yourself, visit your local pool supply store to discuss the type of pool and the right supplies for your needs. Starting with the right tools and supplies always helps.
Want to save both time and money? Contact Koko Head Pool Service to handle your pool cleaning, helping your pool last longer.
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