How to fix a clogged pool pipe

If you have a swimming pool, then you know that keeping it clean is essential. One of the most important parts of maintaining your pool is making sure the pipes are clear and free of debris. If your pool's pipes become clogged, it can be difficult to keep the water clean and flowing properly. In this article, we will discuss how to fix a clogged pool pipe.

Clean the pool more often

The best way to avoid a clogged pool pipe is to clean the pool more often. This will help to remove any debris or dirt that could potentially cause a blockage in the pipes. Not to mention, fewer blockages reduce the chances of a burst pipe.  Be sure to vacuum the pool regularly and brush the walls and floor to remove any build-up of dirt. You should also empty the skimmer basket on a regular basis. This will help to keep the water flowing freely and prevent any blockages from forming. But let’s say that you are already there and your pool pipe is clogged. This is how you can go over fixing it.

Identify the blockage

If you notice that your pool isn't draining properly, or if the water is cloudy or murky, then you may have a clogged pipe. You can identify a clogged pipe by checking the water flow. If the water is flowing slowly or not at all, then there is likely a blockage somewhere in the pipe.

Another way to identify a clogged pipe is to look for signs of drainage on the ground around your pool. If the water is draining slowly or not at all, you may see evidence of this on the ground near your pool. Pool drainage can create wet spots on the ground, as well as pools of water that won't evaporate.

Turn off the pool circuit breaker

If you have determined that your pool's pipes are clogged, the next step is to turn off the pool circuit breaker. This will shut off the power to the pump, which will help to clear the blockage.

Once you have turned off the circuit breaker, you can begin to clear the clog. There are a few different ways to do this, but one of the most common methods is to use a plunger.

Once the clog has been cleared, turn on the pool circuit breaker and test the water flow. If everything is working properly, you can start using the pool again without worries.

Try a plunger

If you suspect that your pool's pipes are clogged, the first thing you should try is using a plunger. This is a simple and easy way to try to clear any blockages in the pipes. Just place the plunger over the drain hole and push and pull it up and down until the obstruction clears.

If the clog is further down in the pipe, you may need to use a longer plunger extension. This will allow you to reach further down into the pipe and clear any blockages.

Use a drain snake

If the plunger doesn't work, or if you can't reach the clog with a plunger, then you may need to use a drain snake. A drain snake is a long, flexible tool that can be inserted into the pipe to clear any obstructions.

To use a drain snake, insert the tip of the tool into the pipe and push it through until you feel resistance. Once you feel resistance, start twisting the tool in a clockwise motion. This will help to loosen any blockages in the pipe. Continue twisting and pushing the tool until the obstruction is cleared.

Redo the pipes

If clearing the clog doesn't seem possible, you might want to consider replacing some of your pool's pipes. This is a more drastic measure, but it may be necessary if the clog is severe. You can replace the pipes yourself, or you can hire a professional to do it for you. Either way, this is a big job and it will likely take some time to complete. Keep in mind that professional pool renovation would be a better idea, as contractors know how to install pipes more effectively, and they can give you guidelines for keeping them unclogged.

Conclusion

Clogged pool pipes can be a pain, but fortunately, there are a few ways to fix them. Just remember to turn off the pool circuit breaker before you start any work on the pipes. And if all else fails, you can always replace the pipes altogether.

Guest Contributor: Tim Tylor