Who to Call to Fix Your Pool Light

Don’t stay in the dark about this common pool problem

Photo: JRstock / Adobe Stock
Photo: JRstock / Adobe Stock
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Owning a pool involves a lot of maintenance to ensure it’s safe and working properly. A broken pool light may not seem like a big deal, but aside from being inconvenient and leaving you with unlit areas of your pool, it can be an indication of a problem within the electrical system. Because electricity and water are a dangerous combination, you’ll want to call a pool repair service to fix your pool light safely and correctly.

Benefits of Hiring a Pool Repair Service to Fix Your Pool Light

Although not all pool repair services offer pool light repair, finding one that does is the best and safest option when you discover you have a broken or malfunctioning pool light.

Code Compliance and Safety

Safety is a huge concern in and around the pool, and it’s an even bigger risk when you’re working with electrical components. A local pool repair service will know all of the necessary precautions to take to ensure that not only is the process of fixing the light performed safely, but that no safety issues will arise later on.

A pool repair service will also comply with all local codes and regulations regarding electrical work. 

Expertise With Pool Electrical Systems

Pool repair services have extensive experience working on the electrical components of pools. Pool light problems can have a number of possible causes, including:

  • Burned-out bulbs

  • Leaky housing

  • Loose fixtures

  • Problems with the electrical supply

  • Tripped GFCI switch 

A pool repair pro will be able to identify the source of the problem and quickly fix the issue so you can get back to enjoying your pool at any time of day. 

Minimal Disruption

You may think you’ll have to drain your pool to below the level of the light in order to fix it. But an experienced pro can often perform the work without needing to drain the pool. In addition, a pool repair service will be able to diagnose and rectify the problem quickly, minimizing the amount of time you need to spend out of your pool.

Can I Hire an Electrician to Fix My Pool Light?

Electricians are experts at tracking down problems with lights and other electrical components, but unless the electrician has experience working on pools, calling a pool repair service is a better bet. Pool electrical systems have different components and problems than those found in houses and other buildings, so you’ll want someone who has the necessary training and experience to work on your broken pool light.

How Do Pool Repair Services Fix a Pool Light?

Pool lights can break or malfunction in a variety of ways, so the repair process may vary depending on why the light isn’t working. In general, a pool repair service will follow these steps:

  1. Investigate and diagnose the problem.

  2. Present you with a quote for repair or replacement.

  3. Safely repair the issue or replace the bulb, following necessary safety precautions and ensuring the work is up to code. 

How Much Does Pool Light Replacement Cost?

Pool light replacement costs $625 per fixture, with bulb replacement running between $20 and $650 per light. Your fixture costs depend largely on whether you have LED, incandescent, or fiber optic lights. You’ll want to replace the fixture if there are major issues, like corrosion and repeated leaks. If your lights are repairable, expect to pay $65 to $150 per light to replace gaskets or conduit seals.

Fixture TypeAverage Replacement Costs
LED $700–$1,500
Incandescent$450–$650
Fiber optic$1,300–$1,700

Can I DIY Fixing My Pool Light?

Corner of modern swimming pool
Photo: Peter Starman / Photographer's Choice RF / Getty Images

While there are many things on your pool maintenance checklist that you can tackle yourself, fixing a broken pool light is a job best left to the pros. Because there are many reasons why your pool light might not be working properly, and due to the significant safety hazards posed by electrical components in water, it’s a good idea to let a licensed and trained pool repair serviceperson handle the task. 

If you’re certain that the issue is simply a burned-out bulb, handy homeowners may want to change the pool light bulb themselves for only the cost of a new pool light. This is still a significant safety risk, so you’re better off investing in the cost of a pool repair service to ensure the job is done right. 

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