Common Pool Issues and How to Prevent Them

Owning a swimming pool is a rewarding investment, but it requires consistent care to stay in peak condition. Regular maintenance not only extends the life of your pool—it also helps you avoid costly repairs, preserve water quality, and ensure a safe and enjoyable swim season.

At Cox Pools, we’ve seen firsthand how early detection and professional maintenance can prevent minor problems from turning into major headaches. Below, we’re breaking down some of the most common pool issues—and how you can stop them before they start.

Cloudy water and algae growth

Cloudy water and algae are often the result of poor filtration, chemical imbalances, or infrequent cleaning. These problems can escalate quickly, affecting water safety and appearance.

Prevention Tips:

• Maintain proper chlorine and pH levels
• Run your filtration system daily
• Shock your pool as needed to kill contaminants
• Schedule regular professional water testing and cleaning

By staying on top of your water chemistry and cleaning schedule, you can keep your pool clear and algae-free. 

Learn more about our pool cleaning and maintenance services.

Cracks, leaks, and surface damage

From hairline cracks to serious structural issues, surface damage can compromise both the look and function of your pool. Causes range from weather fluctuations to aging materials or ground movement.

Prevention Tips:

• Conduct routine visual inspections
• Address small cracks or peeling before they spread
• Act quickly if you notice unexplained water loss

Cox Pools offers expert resurfacing and repair services to fix cracks, leaks, and deterioration.

Noticed cracks or suspicious water loss? Schedule a professional inspection with Cox Pools today.

Pump and filter malfunctions

If your pump is making strange noises or the water flow feels weak, you could be dealing with a clogged filter, a worn-out pump, or an electrical issue. These problems can impact circulation and water cleanliness.

Prevention Tips:

• Clean filters according to manufacturer guidelines
• Avoid overworking your equipment
• Schedule seasonal system checks with Cox Pools’ technicians

Timely service ensures your pool equipment is running efficiently—and saves you from costly replacements down the road.

Tile and grout deterioration

Loose tiles, crumbling grout, or sharp edges aren’t just unsightly—they can also be dangerous. These issues often stem from imbalanced water chemistry, age, or shifting ground.

Prevention Tips:

• Keep water chemistry balanced to minimize corrosion
• Use sealants and re-grouting to extend tile lifespan
• Call in professionals for stubborn or widespread issues

Maintaining tile and grout not only protects swimmers—it keeps your pool looking beautiful for years to come.

When to call the professionals

While some issues can be handled with routine DIY care, others require expert attention. If you’re noticing persistent problems, equipment failure, or surface damage, it’s time to call in the pros.

Cox Pools offers a full range of services—from cleaning and resurfacing to equipment repair and complete pool renovations. We make it easy to stay ahead of issues with proactive inspections and seasonal maintenance.

Explore our full range of pool services here.

Keep your pool in peak condition year-round

Even the best-maintained pools can develop issues over time. The key is staying proactive and knowing when to seek expert help. With Cox Pools on your side, you can feel confident that your pool will remain safe, clean, and beautiful—season after season in Alabama.

Need help with pool maintenance or repairs? Contact Cox Pools today to schedule your service or request an inspection.