Portland residents, if your spa stopped working, learn common issues and when to call a technician. Schedule your repair with Rose City Pool & Spa today!

5 Signs Your Pool Needs a Repair Before Summer Heats Up 

Portland’s sun is finally sticking around, and swim season is officially on the horizon. But before you send out party invites or plan your first pool day, it’s worth asking: is your pool really ready? 

Small issues can turn into major repairs once summer kicks into gear. And in the Portland-Vancouver area—where winter freezes, spring windstorms, and lots of rain can take their toll—early intervention can save you serious time and money. 

At Rose City Pool & Spa, we help homeowners from Forest Grove to Fisher’s Landing stay ahead of costly surprises. If you spot any of these signs, your pool might be overdue for a little professional attention. 

1. You’ve Got Cracks, Chips, or Peeling Surfaces 

Surface damage is more than just a cosmetic issue. If you’re seeing chipped plaster, peeling paint, or spiderweb cracks in concrete, moisture may be seeping beneath the surface—and that can lead to long-term structural problems. 

Whether you’re in a plaster-lined pool in Tualatin or dealing with vintage tiles in Vancouver Heights, this kind of wear needs repair before it gets worse. 

2. The Water’s Cloudy—Even After Cleaning 

If your water’s still murky after vacuuming, brushing, and shocking, there could be a deeper issue. Cloudy water may point to: 

  • Failing filter media 
  • Leaks pulling in air or dirt 
  • Undetected circulation issues 

A system check-up can pinpoint the problem and prevent you from wasting chemicals—or your weekends trying to fix it solo. Schedule a professional inspection here if you’re tired of guessing. 

3. Strange Noises From the Pump or Filter 

That loud hum or grinding sound? It’s not just annoying—it’s often the first sign of mechanical trouble. Worn-out bearings, loose fittings, or misaligned components can snowball into full system failure. 

In pools across Southeast Portland and Salmon Creek, early repairs to pumps and filters can extend equipment life by years. If your system’s louder than it used to be, don’t ignore it. 

4. Unexpected Water Loss 

A little evaporation is normal—especially in the drier late-spring days. But if your pool’s water level is noticeably lower day after day, you may be dealing with a leak. 

Signs of trouble include: 

  • Constant refilling 
  • Soggy spots around the pool 
  • Air bubbles in the return jets 

Even a pinhole leak can waste hundreds of gallons a week and destabilize your water chemistry. A pressure test or dye test can confirm the source. 

5. Your Equipment Is Just… Old 

If your system is over 8–10 years old and needs frequent troubleshooting, it may be time to replace instead of repair. Modern pumps, heaters, and automation systems are quieter, more efficient, and often qualify for Oregon or Washington energy rebates. 

If you’re not sure whether to repair or upgrade, we can walk you through the best-fit options based on your system’s age, condition, and usage. Schedule a call with our team for honest advice and zero pressure. 

Don’t Let Repairs Ruin Summer 

If your pool is already showing signs of wear in May, waiting until June or July could mean longer delays and more expensive fixes. By scheduling repairs now, you’ll be swimming confidently by the first heatwave—not calling for emergency service. 

Ready to Dive In—Not Patch It Up? 

From Northeast Portland to East Vancouver, we help homeowners spot and solve pool issues early. Whether it’s a hairline crack or a noisy pump, our pros can get things back in shape quickly. 

Book your inspection or repair service or start a seasonal maintenance plan** and stay ahead of summer’s surprises.**