Unlike many pool companies that limit repair work to basic pump and filter replacements, we maintain a dedicated repair division capable of handling complex equipment diagnostics, heater issues, automation problems, lighting repairs, electrical troubleshooting, and full equipment pad rebuilds.
If your pool equipment is failing, leaking, tripping breakers, showing error codes, losing prime, refusing to heat, or simply not operating the way it should, we can diagnose the problem and give you a clear repair or replacement recommendation.
Why homeowners call Ph.D. Pool Care for repairs
- Dedicated repair division, not just weekly cleaners doing occasional equipment work
- Pump, filter, heater, automation, lighting, plumbing, and electrical troubleshooting
- Licensed electrical work available for pool equipment issues
- Repair recommendations based on diagnosis, not guesswork
- Discounted labor for existing weekly service clients
- Serving Austin and Bastrop area pools since 2016
Pool pump repair
A failing pump is usually the first thing a pool owner notices. The pool stops circulating, debris builds up, and water quality drops within days.
We diagnose and repair motor failures, capacitor issues, impeller damage, shaft seal leaks, electrical connection problems, and excessive noise or vibration. We carry common replacement parts and can resolve most pump repairs in a single visit.
If a pump is repairable, we repair it. If it has reached end of life, we will tell you directly and explain why, rather than replacing something that still has years left in it.
Pool pump replacement and installation
When a pump does need replacing, we handle the full installation, including electrical connections, plumbing modifications, and any PVC work required to fit the new unit to your existing pad layout.
We install variable-speed, single-speed, and dual-speed pumps and will walk you through the options based on your pool size, plumbing configuration, and how you use the pool.
If you are an existing weekly service client, labor on equipment work is discounted as part of your service relationship.
Pool filter repair, cleaning, and installation
We service cartridge, sand, and DE filters. Cartridge filters need periodic deep cleaning and eventual element replacement. Sand filters require media replacement every several years. DE filters need recharging and grid replacement when the grids wear out.
When a filter needs full replacement, we match the new unit to your pump output and pool volume. We handle the full swap, including plumbing connections, multiport valve replacement if needed, and startup testing to confirm the system is running within normal pressure ranges.
Pool heater repair and new installation
This is one of the areas where Ph.D. Pool Care differs from most Austin pool service companies. Many will not touch heater work. We do.
We repair gas heaters, heat pumps, and electric heaters. Common issues include ignition failure, thermostat problems, heat exchanger corrosion, flow switch errors, and error codes that require diagnostic work beyond simple troubleshooting.
If a heater is beyond repair, or if you are adding heat to a pool that has never had it, we handle the full installation, including gas line coordination, electrical requirements, plumbing tie-ins, and proper sizing for your pool volume.
Pool automation and controls
Automation systems let you manage your pump schedule, heater, lights, water features, and chemical dosing from a single panel or phone app. When these systems develop problems, most pool service companies refer you to a specialty contractor.
We repair and install automation systems from Pentair, Hayward, and Jandy in-house. For new installations, we program the system, integrate it with your existing equipment, and make sure you understand how to use it before we leave.
Pool light repair and new installation
Underwater lighting is another category that many Austin pool companies avoid because it involves working with electrical components in a wet environment. We handle pool light repair and replacement, including LED conversions, fixture replacements, cord pulls, and GFCI troubleshooting.
We diagnose the actual cause before recommending a fix. The issue may be as simple as a tripped breaker, or it may be a corroded fixture or damaged cord that needs full replacement.
Customized PVC plumbing work
Many equipment jobs require modifying the plumbing to accommodate a new pump, filter, or heater that does not match the footprint of the old one. Other jobs involve repairing cracked or leaking PVC lines on the equipment pad or replumbing sections that were poorly installed originally.
Our repair manager leads all custom PVC work. This includes cutting, fitting, gluing, and pressure-testing new plumbing runs to ensure there are no leaks and that flow rates are correct for the equipment being served.
Annual equipment maintenance
Equipment lasts longer and fails less often when it is maintained proactively. We offer annual equipment service that covers a full equipment pad review, pump and filter cleaning, heater startup testing, salt cell cleaning for saltwater pools, o-ring and gasket replacement where needed, and pressure and flow rate verification.
For weekly service clients, most of this is handled as part of regular visits. Annual maintenance as a standalone service is available for pool owners who handle their own weekly cleaning but want professional oversight on the mechanical side.
Emergency pool repair
In many cases, we can provide same-day emergency service across Travis County and Bastrop County.
Common emergency calls include pump failures, major leaks at the equipment pad, heater malfunctions in cold weather, and electrical issues that trip breakers or create safety concerns.
If your equipment has failed and the pool cannot circulate, water quality degrades quickly, especially in Austin's heat. Call us directly and we will get someone to your property the same day. Emergency service is available for both existing clients and new customers.
Equipment walk-through
Not sure what is going on with your equipment? One of our managers can visit your property, walk through the equipment pad, evaluate the condition and remaining life of each component, and give you a clear picture of what needs attention now versus what can wait.
This is especially useful if you have recently purchased a home with a pool, or if your current service provider has recommended a major repair and you want a second opinion. Call our office to schedule.
Trusted by Hundreds of Pool Owners
"I've been using PhD Pool Care for about 2.5 years. They're always on time, keep our water looking clear blue, and have been so helpful when I need troubleshooting or repairs. My technician even offers advice beyond the paid service. Great value."
Vanessa Janes "PhD Pool Care has been absolutely wonderful this year! They have been extremely thorough in cleanings and prompt in communications. I have been using them for both chemical only and full service depending upon my ability to service my own pool. I highly recommend them for any and all services."
Jesse Greenwald Common questions
How long do pool pumps last?
Most pool pumps last 4 to 8 years. Variable-speed pumps tend to last longer because they can be programmed to run at lower speeds, which reduces wear on the motor and bearings.
How long do pool filters last?
Cartridge filters last 5 to 10 years with element replacements every 1 to 2 years. Sand filters last 7 to 10 years with media replacement every 3 to 6 years. DE filters can last 10 or more years with proper grid maintenance.
How long do pool heaters last?
Gas heaters typically last 7 to 12 years. Heat pumps last 10 to 15 years. Heat exchangers and ignition components are the most common failure points.
How long do salt cells last?
3 to 7 years depending on usage and water chemistry. Proper calcium and pH management extends cell life significantly.
How do I know if I should repair or replace my equipment?
If your equipment is approaching end of life and repairs are becoming more frequent, replacement is often more cost-effective. We will give you an honest assessment either way.
Do I need to know what is wrong before I call?
No. Describe what you are seeing and we will take it from there. You can always text pictures to our office to assist with remote diagnosis so that we can bring the appropriate parts for your repair needs.
Do weekly service clients get a discount on repairs?
Yes. If you are an existing weekly service client, labor on equipment work is discounted as part of your service relationship.