The average cost to repair a pool is $720
Homeowners spend an average of $720 on pool repairs, with most paying between $241 and $1,200.
Factors like location, size, and materials can push projects to the higher end.
Standard pool repairs range from minor leak fixes to major overhauls.
Professional pool maintenance helps you avoid bigger costs and extend your pool’s lifespan.
This article was updated using automation technology and thoroughly reviewed for accuracy by HomeAdvisor Editor Ryan Noonan.
Pool repairs average $720, but you’ll often spend between $85 and $3,500 to restore your backyard oasis to its original shape. Your final price depends on factors such as location, pool size, and material quality; regular upkeep can also increase this figure. Build these numbers into your budget and work with a trusted pool pro to protect your investment and keep swimming season on track.
What you ultimately pay comes down to three key factors: the size of your pool, its construction, and the extent of the damage.
Because pros often price repairs by square or linear foot, a bigger pool almost always means a bigger bill.
Pool Size (Ft.) | Average Repair Cost |
---|---|
6x10 | $180–$1,500 |
8x15 | $360–$3,000 |
9x15 | $400–$3,400 |
6x30 | $540–$4,500 |
10x20 | $600–$5,000 |
12x24 | $900–$7,200 |
16x32 | $1,500–$12,800 |
20x40 | $2,400–$20,000 |
If you have an in-ground pool, expect higher repair costs compared to an above-ground model. Concrete pools top the price ladder because they take the most time and labor to fix. Fiberglass liners also cost more to mend than vinyl ones.
Pool Type | Average Repair Cost |
---|---|
In-ground | $350–$2,700 |
Aboveground | $100–$700 |
The scope of your pool repairs matters. You might spend as little as $10 to patch a pinhole leak, but resurfacing a concrete shell costs $10,000 to $20,000.
Above-ground or in-ground, every pool faces a similar list of fixes, though each style brings its own quirks and price tags.
Repair Type | Average Cost |
---|---|
Draining, filling, and treating | $180–$230 |
Pump motor repair | $50–$300 |
Skimmer repair | $50–$300 |
Heater repair | $160–$730 |
Pool light repair and replacement | $65–$150 per fixture |
Plan on spending $180 to $230 to drain the pool for repairs, plus $55 for every 5,000 gallons you refill. Don’t forget the chemicals that follow—treating the water keeps swimmers safe and algae at bay.
Fixing a pump motor costs $50 to $300, including parts and labor, with individual components ranging from $15 to $300. If the motor’s shot, you’ll pay $250 to $650 to replace it. A full pump replacement costs between $700 and $1,300, and a top-tier solar unit can reach $5,400.
Skimmer fixes range from $50 to $300, with the average cost being $175 for most homeowners. Replacing a leaky seal costs $100 to $130, and when repair isn’t an option, a full skimmer swap can run $1,200 or more.
Pool heater repairs cost between $160 and $730, depending on the specific issue. In many cases, fixing the unit is far cheaper than buying a brand-new heater.
Repairing a pool light runs $65 to $150 per fixture. Swapping the entire unit averages about $630, while a simple bulb change costs just $20 to $100.
Expect to spend between $350 and $2,700 to repair an in-ground pool leak, plus the additional costs of draining, refilling, and treating the water. Your final price depends on the severity of the leak, its location, and the material of your pool.
Repairing or replacing a vinyl pool liner costs between $10 and $2,500. Holes don’t always cause leaks; the bead holding the liner can weaken, allowing the liner to slip and cause leaks, which can cost $130 to $300 to fix. Sun damage may degrade the vinyl, leading to leaks. Consider installing a UV protective shield for $530 per 150 feet.
Fiberglass pool repairs usually require a gel coat to restore dinged, scratched, and cracked surfaces. The gel coat costs between $300 and $400. If repainting is required, an additional $800 may be charged. The price for a complete resurfacing is $6,500. You’ll also need to cover the cost of draining the water, refilling the pool, and chemically treating it.
Repairing small cracks in a gunite or concrete pool costs about $75 per linear foot. Resurfacing a concrete pool costs between $10,000 and $20,000.
Pool leak detection services range from $100 to $500. Pool repair professionals might include minor patch jobs in the detection price, but you should expect a separate bid for major repairs.
Remove all toys and floaties from the pool.
Clear any debris from the water.
Ensure the water is clear and safe for inspection.
Fixing a leak in an above-ground pool costs between $100 and $700, but more complex jobs can increase this figure.
A kit can cost as little as $20 to repair a minor above-ground pool leak. Depending on the pool’s size, replacing the pool liner can cost $1,200 to $2,500.
Patching cracks on your own might save a few bucks today, but hiring a pool repair professional is almost always worth the investment. A qualified pool contractor can also tackle upgrades—just remember to budget for the cost of a swimming-pool remodel. When you’re ready, hire a local professional to restore your pool to its peak condition. Schedule a local pool repair pro today to prevent further damage and get back to swimming sooner.
To keep your pool repair costs within budget, consider the following tips:
Schedule repairs at the first sign of trouble to prevent worsening issues
Compare quotes from several pool repair pros to find the best deal in your area.
Complete repairs during the off-season to take advantage of lower labor rates.
Check your warranty to see if you have additional coverage for repairs.
No place is more important than your home, which is why HomeAdvisor connects homeowners with local pros to transform their houses into homes they love. To help homeowners prepare for their next project, HomeAdvisor provides readers with accurate cost data and follows strict editorial guidelines. We surveyed thousands of real customers about their project costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We pair this data with research from reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects.
Start by scanning the waterline and surrounding deck for cracks, damp spots, or an unexplained drop in water level. On large pools, you’ll likely need professional leak-detection tools to zero in on the problem. If any of these red flags appear, contact a local pool repair professional for a thorough evaluation and repair.
Wind, heat, and low humidity cause everyday evaporation, so an in-ground pool will always lose a bit of water. Splashing, diving, and cannonballs speed up that loss. Keep an eye on the waterline—if it drops too low, the pump can suck in air and burn out, leaving you with a pricey repair.
Most policies only pay for leaks caused by sudden events—a fallen limb or a fire, for example, not for everyday wear and tear. Pull out your paperwork and read the fine print, then call your insurer to clarify precisely what’s covered and how much of the repair bill they’ll cover.
To find a pool leak, try the food-coloring test: squeeze a few drops of dye along seams or fittings and watch the color. If it drifts outward, you’ve found the leak. It’s a quick DIY check that works well on small pools, but larger or stubborn leaks often call for professional gear and expertise.
Maintenance costs swing with your pool’s size and condition. A single deep clean costs most homeowners $250, while weekly service often ranges between $25 and $40. Staying on top of cleaning and chemistry helps keep the water safe, protects equipment, and helps you avoid larger repair bills down the road.