A backyard swimming pool provides plenty of fun in the sun for the homeowner - until the pool stops working like it should. Repairing an in ground swimming pool may seem like an insurmountable task, but many of the common problems are relatively easy to fix. If fact, some repairs might even be DIY tasks for the savvy homeowner. Here are some of the most common problems seen with in ground swimming pools and a brief overview of what to do about them.

Pool Leaks

Leaks can occur in an in ground swimming pool, no matter the material. You will know if you have a leak because your water level will begin to decrease. Even very small holes can drain your pool in less than a day! Vinyl liners can be more complicated to repair than the wall of a gunite or concrete pool. To find the leak, use a water dye that will leave a darkened color ring where the leak is located. In many cases, you can simply use a filling agent, like caulk specifically designed for this purpose, to successfully plug the leak. This substance can also be used to fill in cracks in the pool floor to prevent leaking problems in the future.

Pump Problems

Pump issues can largely be eliminated by performing regular maintenance on your pump and cleaning your filter regularly. Pumps that are not maintained properly will burn themselves out much more quickly. You can also cause damage to your pool pump by not priming it properly before starting it up for the swim season. This can be a costly mistake, since replacement pumps can range from hundreds to thousands of dollars. If you pay to have your pump professionally installed, the cost goes up even more. Good maintenance is the key to a swimming pool pump that will last a good long time without problems.

Cloudy Water

Cloudy water is a common complaint for pool owners who have not maintained the filter or the chemical balance properly. There are products available to help get debris out of your pool that doesn't go away with normal cleaning. You can also try shocking your pool to get rid of the cloudy appearance. You may need to combine a shock treatment with the use of clarifiers over a period of time to bring water back to a normal appearance.

Equipment Issues

Any of the equipment you use in your pool may also require repair from time to time. Pool lights will need to be changed periodically and may develop leaks around them that need attention. Railings and ladders can become damaged and will need repairs or replacement to keep them safe for swimmers.

Swimming pools are a fun addition to the yard, but they do require some effort to keep them running. Regular inspection of the various parts of your pool will help you keep problems in check and address issues as soon as they arise. Following your prescribed maintenance schedule will also keep problems to a minimum.