Pool Problems? Here’s When to Call an Electrician vs a Pool Tech

As summer hits and pools open up, many homeowners run into issues with their pool systems — but it’s not always clear who you should call. Is it an electrical issue? Or a maintenance one?

Here’s how to know when you need a licensed electrician and when to call a pool service technician.

⚡ Call an Electrician If You Notice:

1. The Pool Pump or Lights Won’t Turn On

• Check the breaker first — if it keeps tripping or there's no power reaching the equipment, it’s likely electrical.
• This includes timers, switches, GFCI outlets, or the pool panel.

2. Breaker Keeps Tripping When Pool Equipment Runs

• This is often a sign of overloaded circuits, faulty wiring, or a short.
• Could involve underground conduit or junction boxes near the pool.

3. Lights Flicker or Don’t Work

• Underwater lights not working?
• Buzzing, dimming, or signs of water in the fixture = call an electrician.

4. You Smell Burning or Hear Buzzing

• Sounds or smells from the pool equipment panel or outlets near the pool are signs of dangerous wiring issues.

5. You’re Installing New Equipment

• Any new heaters, pumps, salt systems, or automation controllers should be installed or upgraded by an electrician to ensure proper load support and code compliance.

🛠️ Call a Pool Maintenance Tech If:

1. Water Pressure Is Low or Pump Is Making Strange Noises

• This is a mechanical issue: clogged impeller, worn bearings, or a dirty filter.

2. You Have Algae or Cloudy Water

• That’s chemistry — a pool tech can handle shocking, pH balance, or filter problems.

3. Your Pool Heater Turns On but Won’t Heat

• If it’s getting power and still not heating, it could be a thermostat, gas, or internal heater issue — that’s for your pool specialist.

💡 Tip: If You’re Not Sure, Start by Checking:

• Is power getting to the equipment?
• Is the GFCI outlet tripped or not resetting?
• Did the issue start after a storm or surge?

If anything electrical seems off, it’s safer to call an electrician first. We work alongside pool techs all the time — and often handle the wiring so their repairs go smoothly.