Help library
Pool troubleshooting, in plain English
Pumps, heaters, salt systems and filters: safe things you can check yourself, what the codes mean, and when it's time to get a tech on video.
- Safe checks first
- Reviewed by our techs
- Live tech on video from $49
Common problems
Pump not priming
Pump runs but the basket won't fill. Almost always air or water level.
Read the guideHeater won't fire
No heat, a flow or pressure code, or an ignition lockout. Flow comes first.
Read the guideFilter pressure high or low
The gauge tells you when to clean the filter, and when something upstream is wrong.
Read the guideCloudy pool water
Test first. Cloudy water is usually chlorine, pH or filtration.
Read the guideGreen pool water
Green means chlorine ran out. Find out why so it doesn't come back.
Read the guidePool losing water
Evaporation or a leak? The bucket test tells you in a day.
Read the guideElectrical safety & pool lights
Tingling, flickering lights or a GFCI that won't reset. Treat it as an emergency.
Read the guideAutomation not responding
Equipment ignoring the controller or app? Check communication and service mode.
Read the guideBrands and error codes
Salt cell / chlorinator codes
No Flow, Check Salt, Inspect Cell and what the IntelliChlor LEDs mean.
Read the guidePentair error codes
MasterTemp ERR PS, HLS, IGN, AGS; IntelliFlo3 alarms; IntelliChlor lights.
Read the guideHayward error codes
Heater LO, IF, HS, AO; MaxFlo VS Check System messages; AquaRite lights.
Read the guideJandy error codes
JXi CHECK FLOW, HIGH LIMIT, CHECK IGN CONTROL and the ignition LED flashes.
Read the guideVariable-speed pump codes
Priming, overheat, overcurrent and voltage alarms across the big three brands.
Read the guideThese guides cover safe checks a pool owner can do and explain what the manufacturers' own documents say. Always follow your equipment manuals. Turn the pump off and switch off the breaker before opening the pump, filter or any equipment panel, and relieve filter pressure first. Gas, wiring, breakers, GFCIs and pool lights are jobs for a licensed professional. Never enter the water if you suspect an electrical problem.
Need a replacement part? Pool parts, matched to your model (pumps, filters, heaters & heat pumps, salt & chlorinators, automation & electrical, lights, cleaners, plumbing & valves, covers & liners, ladders & boards, feeders & test kits). Need someone on site instead? Find a local pro.