Know When and How to Hire a Pool Electrician
Some pool problems are best left to the pros
Swimming pools are amazing for cooling off and enjoying hot summer days, but they also require a bit of maintenance to stay in good working order. Most pools have various electrical components, like pool pumps and pool lighting, that will require maintenance at some point. If any of your pool's electrical systems are on the fritz, a pool electrician can help.
Whether you're installing your first pool or troubleshooting a new electrical problem, this guide can help you find the right pool electrician for the job.
Why Should You Hire a Pool Electrician?
Pools usually come with a variety of electrical components, including lights, a filter, and a pump. When any of these components have issues, it's typically best to hire a local electrician to address them.
Electrical problems are often hazardous, especially when paired with water, so trying to fix them without the necessary electrical expertise can be dangerous and lead to additional pool repair costs down the road. Plus, licensed pool electricians can ensure all of the electrical work meets your local codes and regulations.
How to Find a Pool Electrician
Not all electricians are trained to work on pool equipment, so you want to make sure to hire the right pro for the job. You can start by doing an online search of the top pool services near you, then take some time to read any online reviews and testimonials of prospective companies. If a pool service doesn’t offer electrical work, you can call a nearby electrical company to ask if they’re experienced with pool systems.
Asking friends and family for recommendations is another great way to find a pool electrician because they'll have firsthand experience with the quality of work. Many local pool supply stores also partner with qualified electricians, so you can reach out to a pool store in your area for potential recommendations.
Before Hiring a Pro
Before reaching out to prospective pool electricians, it's best to plan your repair project first to get the most accurate quotes. You'll also want to make sure you check any prospective electrician's qualifications and references.
Plan Your Pool Installation or Repair Project for Accurate Quotes
Having a clear understanding of your pool installation or repair project will help you get the most accurate quotes from prospective electricians. For instance, inground pool installation costs can range anywhere from $39,000 to $70,000, depending on factors like size, shape, liner, and special features. And while your pool electrician won't complete all aspects of a pool installation, they can give you a more accurate estimate if they know the details of your project.
The same goes for pool repairs. If you're hiring a pool electrician to repair a specific issue, gather as much information about the issue as you can, such as the symptoms of the problem you've been noticing and the type and age of electrical systems your pool uses.
Check Your Pool Electricians’ Qualifications and References
The best pool electricians can provide you with solid references and evidence of their qualifications, such as licenses and certifications. You also want to make sure your electrician has insurance to protect you and your home from any unforeseen problems that might arise during the repair.
Licensure and certification requirements vary by region, but make sure any certifications are from reputable organizations, like the National Swimming Pool Foundation or the National Electric Code.
Tips for Hiring a Pool Electrician
When you're working through the hiring process, there are a few tips that can help ensure you hire the right pro. For instance, you'll want to make sure you ask any pressing questions you might have about your pool project when interviewing candidates.
Interview Your Pool Electrician
Make sure to interview at least three pool electricians, asking key questions about their experience. Some helpful questions to ask include:
Do you service other types of pools, like hot tubs or spools?
Is your work covered by any warranties? If so, for how long?
Can you provide copies of your license, insurance, and certifications?
Do you have any references you can share?
How do you handle unexpected issues that come up during a repair?
What's your experience with working on the specific electrical systems my pool has?
What does your troubleshooting process look like during a repair?
How many years of experience do you have?
What's your communication process like during a pool project?
What is the timeline for this project?
Do you offer any ongoing pool inspection or maintenance services?
Ask for a Background Check
It's not typical for clients to ask for formal background checks from pool electricians since they don't deal with sensitive information. However, you can still get key background information by asking for and following up with their references, as well as seeking proof of their license, insurance, and certification. You can also do your own background check by searching the electrician or company name online and looking for reviews and testimonials.
Get a Contract and Arrange Payments With Your Pool Electrician
Once you decide to hire a pool electrician, make sure to ask for a contract. The contract should outline the cost and scope of work, as well as any contingencies that might affect the total cost of the project.
You'll also want to get clear on the payment schedule. Payment arrangements vary by company and client, but if it's a complex, multi-day or multi-week project, it's common to pay an upfront deposit before the job begins and make incremental payments as the job progresses. However, if you're hiring for a one-off project that won't take more than a few hours, you can probably just pay when the project is finished.
Keep Records of Your Pool Installation or Repairs
Make sure to keep records of any pool installation or repair project you hire for. Keeping records includes saving all important paperwork, such as contracts, invoices, and receipts. It's also a good idea to take photos during and after the project.
Finally, make note of any issues or potential problems you see while the project is being completed. Going through these steps can help protect you and your wallet in the event anything goes wrong. These records can also help inform repairs and projects you complete down the road.
Look for Red Flags
When hiring a pool electrician, there are several red flags that might indicate they're not right for the job. Important red flags to watch out for include:
Poor or no reviews
Lack of license and/or insurance
Vague or unrealistic quotes
Poor communication
Unwillingness to share references
Pressuring you into making a decision
After Your Pool Electrician Has Finished
Once your pool electrician completes your project, take some time to inspect their work. Test the pump, pool heater, lighting, and any other electrical systems to ensure they're in good working order. If something isn't working properly, make sure to document it by writing it down and taking a photo, then share it with your electrician. You should also ask for any relevant receipts and invoices, and review your contract to make sure it was fulfilled to your satisfaction.
If you're satisfied with the project, consider writing an online review to help boost your electrician's business. You can also volunteer as a reference to help them gain more future clients.