The cost of inadequate pool repairs: How unqualified contractors impact long-term maintenance budgets

by jason_cramp | June 5, 2024 9:16 pm

Tom Soukup

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Recently, a technical issue emerged at an aquatic therapy facility, highlighting the challenges and industry trends that affect modern pool systems.

A competitor, with whom there is an amicable relationship with the author’s company, called for assistance; both parties serve a common customer. The competitor proficiently manages the chemical control system among other responsibilities and typically contacts the team when an issue arises with the pool heating equipment.

The situation was not about placing blame. The urgency of customer demands, especially when the alternative involves calling an out-of-state specialist, is well recognized. Mistakes are commonplace, but their frequency is increasing as automated chemical treatment and pool heating systems evolve.

In this case, while replacing a chemical controller, a technician caused the heating system’s boiler screen to go blank. Upon receiving the call, the author gave advice to check all the breakers and fuses. When this did not resolve the issue, a visit to the site followed.

In summary, the technician incorrectly sent line voltage through the boiler’s low voltage control system. This error routed 120-volt power through an 18-gauge thermostat wire back to the boiler control, frying it and incurring a $2,500 cost for the customer.

The root problem is that some technicians in the commercial pool industry, who work on high-tech equipment, lack the necessary qualifications. These “parts dealers,” as the author sometimes refers to them as, are quick to sell parts and upgrade equipment without a fundamental understanding of the components or the system as a whole.

Pumps go up in smoke

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In another example, the author’s team paid a visit to a resort struggling with a persistent issue: their two $8,000 pool pumps kept failing every few months. A different pool company had serviced the property for years, continuously replacing parts at costs ranging from $1,500 to $5,000 each time, without identifying the root cause.

Upon investigation, it was discovered the problem stemmed from improper hydraulics. According to the pump manual, five pipe diameters of straight pipe must be installed on both the influent and effluent sides of the pump before any other pipe fitting can be used. Without this, turbulent flow, pump cavitation, low pressure, and overheating can occur, which had destroyed the pump seals and impellers.

The inspection revealed a 90-degree elbow just inches from the pumps, a configuration that had been in place since the pools were constructed. Despite various contractors working on the site over the years, none had pinpointed this issue.

While this situation may have generated recurring revenue for a parts dealer, it significantly disadvantaged the customer. The financial impact extended beyond the cost of repairing or replacing the pumps. The faulty setup caused the pumps to draw excessive amperage and compromised water treatment and filtration due to inadequate flow rates. This not only increased operational costs but also led to frequent pool downtimes, further aggravated by suppliers’ limited stock of the specific parts needed.

The facility director, who had been at the property for six years, mentioned the pumps had been repaired or replaced countless times. Ultimately, the author’s team resolved the issue by re-piping both pumps for less than $5,000, finally addressing a long-standing problem and offering a more sustainable solution.

Weeding out the parts dealers

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The key to maintaining pool systems efficiently and avoiding continuous repair bills lies in selecting the right contractors. To ensure competency, it is important to ask specific questions.

Inquire whether their technicians have undergone training specific to the pumps, chemical controllers, or pool heaters installed at the property. Also, check if they hold the electrical or gas certifications required by local codes.

After allowing them some time to assess the equipment, ask about their proposed solution. Determine whether they aim to apply a temporary fix or are prepared to implement a comprehensive solution that addresses the root of the problem. While a simple part failure might occasionally be just that, recurring issues require a deeper investigation to ensure they fully understand and can resolve the underlying problem.

If a problem reoccurs after their initial repair, it is crucial to call the contractor back to investigate further. If their first attempt fails, they should be able to identify the reason and adjust their approach accordingly.

Additionally, reach out to other facilities such as resorts, clubs, or waterparks in the area and inquire about who they trust for maintaining or repairing their major pool equipment. Gathering recommendations can provide insight into reliable service providers.

A competent pool specialist should engage with the facility manager or owner about their objectives for the pool system. They should be proactive in creating a plan and developing a proposal that not only meets but exceeds expectations, rather than merely replacing parts without addressing the broader system needs.

The facility manager who is pressed for time

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Sometimes, the gap in understanding necessary for effective pool maintenance is not solely on the contractor but involves the facilities director or maintenance staff at a resort.

Some resorts, which often include aquatic facilities, spread their maintenance staff quite thin. Due to the demands of their roles, these individuals must be jacks-of-all-trades, with the property’s buildings often taking precedence over the pools. Consequently, pools may be overlooked or receive less attention, with maintenance personnel rarely possessing a solid grasp on pool heating equipment—a specialization requiring years of experience. Given their extensive responsibilities, it is unreasonable to expect them to have such specialized knowledge.

The issue becomes evident when ownership burdens the facilities team with all aspects of pool maintenance, including technical tasks for which they may not be adequately trained. If facilities personnel are indeed expected to handle comprehensive pool maintenance, they should receive specialized training. Manufacturers of heating appliances, pumps, and chemical controllers typically offer such training, and if not, sales representatives usually can arrange it.

However, for complex equipment such as pool heating appliances, large pumps, and advanced controls, it is advisable to engage a specialist for maintenance and repair. Specialists bring the necessary expertise to ensure the equipment operates efficiently and effectively, reducing the risk of costly failures and ensuring the longevity of the facility’s aquatic features.

[5]Tom Soukup is the principal of Patriot Water Works Co. with more than 20 years as a hydronic designer and installer. He specializes in high-efficiency and green technology and brings his expertise to residential and commercial pool heating, custom hydronic work, water treatment, and agricultural projects. Reach him at twsoukup@patriotwaterworks.com[6].

Source URL: https://www.poolspamarketing.com/trade/features/expert-advice/the-cost-of-inadequate-pool-repairs/

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