During spring start up, owners of pool solar systems should be aware of common maintenance issues. For customers who chose to use our spring start up service, these are issues we will be looking for as we start up your system. For tips on how to start up your system yourself, see our Resources page.
Leaks:
In a system that has been properly maintained and that is between 1 and 10 years old, it is not uncommon to have a leak every few years due to natural aging/exposure to weather elements, wind damage (e.g. branches falling on roof), animals (especially roof rats and squirrels, but also birds), or human caused (e.g. person stepping on it). Leaks can occur in panels or in connective pipework. If the leak is due to a workmanship issue and it is within two years from your installation date, we will repair such a leak at no charge. If the leak occurs in a panel and it is a defect in the panel that was not caused by external damage, then we can contact the manufacturer to get a free replacement panel under the 12-year warranty (most brands) but we may need to charge you a service charge to install it. For repairs that are not under warranty, we typically charge between $75 and $225 to repair minor leaks (depending on number and severity of leaks). If the damage is extensive and beyond repair, we typically would charge about $800 to replace an entire panel. (Note: some types of non-rectangular panels must be replaced in sets of two or three.)
For a system that has not been properly maintained, such as a system that was not properly drained each winter and that has therefore experienced freeze damage, or for a system that is between 10 and 15 years old, it is typical that once one leak is discovered and repaired, the system will sprout new leaks at a regular rate. When water pressure is restored to the system after the first weak spot is repaired, other weak spots will emerge. In such cases, we recommend system replacement versus repair.
Broken Temperature Sensors, Valves or Pumps:
When starting up a system for the season, it is not unusual to discover that valves or pool pumps are not properly functioning. In many cases, equipment breaks due to age and/or constant exposure to the elements. It is common for such equipment to need occasional replacement or repair, no matter who installed them. Temperature sensors are usually easy to replace and not too costly. Valves and pumps can be more expensive. If we are turning on your system, we will advise you of any issues and gain your permission before proceeding with any work over $150. For small repairs that are not costly, we prefer not to charge customers for a second service call when we are able to make the repairs DURING the spring start up service.
Broken Pool Control Electronics:
Whether mounted on an indoor wall, remote control, or out by the pool, control systems don’t last forever. Many come with only one or two year warranties from their manufacturers. We share your frustration when electronics fail. In some cases, we are the first to discover the issues when we turn on a system for the season. Please don’t shoot the messenger. We will advise you of the issue and let you know if we can replace or repair the unit or if we need to refer you to someone else.