Why a Spring Equipment Inspection Is Essential

Opening your pool isn't just about removing the cover and adding chemicals. After months of winter downtime, your equipment can suffer from wear, corrosion, or unseen damage. Neglecting these components could result in inefficient performance or even complete equipment failure when the weather warms up and demand peaks.
Conducting a full pool equipment inspection in early spring ensures your system is ready to go—and gives you time to order parts or schedule service before summer hits.

Pool Pump Inspection Checklist

Your pool pump is the heart of your pool’s circulation system. A malfunctioning pump can lead to cloudy water, algae growth, and ineffective filtration.

Inspect your pump:

- Check for leaks: Examine around the pump housing and fittings.

- Inspect O-rings and gaskets: Cracks or flattening mean it's time to replace.

- Look for corrosion: Especially on older pumps or in coastal environments.

- Test motor function: Listen for unusual humming, grinding, or irregular startup.

- Inspect wiring and connections: Make sure everything is dry and secure.

Tip: If your pump is struggling or over 8–10 years old, consider replacing it with a variable-speed model to boost efficiency and reduce energy costs.

Filter System Inspection

Filters remove debris and fine particles from your pool water. Whether you have a sand, cartridge, or DE filter, spring is the time for a full system inspection.

Sand Filters:

- Backwash and rinse thoroughly.

- Inspect the multiport valve for smooth operation.

- Check the pressure gauge for accuracy.

Cartridge Filters:

- Remove and rinse cartridges with a garden hose.

- Inspect for tears or flattening.

- Replace if the pleats are frayed or collapsed.

DE Filters:

- Disassemble and clean grids thoroughly.

- Inspect manifold and fingers for cracks.

- Reassemble and recharge with new DE powder.

Tip: Always monitor filter pressure and clean or backwash when it rises 8–10 psi above the baseline.

Pool Heater Inspection

Even if you don’t plan to heat the pool right away, testing your pool heater in the spring ensures it’s ready when needed.

Gas Heaters:

- Inspect for rust or debris around the burner tray.

- Confirm gas line connections are tight.

- Clean out nests or debris (a common problem after winter).

- Start up the heater and verify ignition and temperature rise.

Electric Heat Pumps:

- Check the evaporator coil for cleanliness.

- Inspect wiring and electrical components.

- Confirm fan and compressor startup.

Tip: Schedule a professional inspection for complex issues—especially if your heater is still under warranty.

UV and Ozone System Maintenance

Many commercial and high-end residential pools use UV systems or ozone generators to sanitize water more efficiently and reduce chemical use.

UV System Maintenance Checklist:

- Clean the quartz sleeve with a soft cloth and scale remover.

- Check for any cracks or discoloration in the sleeve.

- Replace the UV lamp if it’s older than 12–18 months (even if it still lights up).

- Inspect O-rings and seals.

- Run the system and check the control panel for fault codes.

Tip: Visit OrcaUV.com for UV lamp replacements and other Neptune Benson ETS-UV parts.

Pool Automation Systems and Controllers

Pool automation systems can control everything from lights and pumps to spa modes and chemical dosing. Malfunctioning automation leads to unnecessary headaches.

Check Your Automation Setup:

- Confirm your controller is booting up and not showing error codes.

- Test timers and schedules.

- Update the system firmware (if applicable).

- Inspect relays and wiring.

- Check Wi-Fi or app connectivity for remote access.

Tip: If you’re not tech-savvy, schedule a pool tech to perform a spring system checkup.

Plumbing and Valves

Don’t forget the plumbing that connects all your equipment.

What to Inspect:

- Cracks in PVC pipes or unions (especially around freeze-prone areas).

- Leaks when the pump is running.

- Stiff or leaky valves.

- Air bubbles in return jets—may indicate suction leaks.

Tip: Lubricate valve O-rings with a silicone-based lubricant to extend life.

Skimmers, Returns, and Drains

These areas often accumulate debris or develop cracks during the off-season.

Checklist:

- Remove plugs and inspect for cracks.

- Clean out leaves or small animals.

- Confirm all jets and drains have VGBA-compliant covers.

Important: If your pool does not have compliant anti-entrapment drain covers, schedule a replacement now to meet safety regulations.

Lighting and Electrical Systems

Lights not only enhance the ambiance—they’re also important for evening safety.

Inspect All Lighting Components:

- Look for moisture behind lenses.

- Test GFCI outlets and breakers.

- Confirm low-voltage transformers are operational.

- Replace any bulbs or fixtures that flicker or remain dim.

Recommended Tools and Supplies to Have on Hand

- Multimeter for testing electrical components

- Extra O-rings and seal kits

- Filter cartridges or DE powder

- Silicone lubricant

- Pool-safe scale remover

- Spare fuses for automation panels

- UV replacement lamps or sleeves

When to Call the Pros

While many pool owners can handle basic pool equipment inspections, certain issues—especially those involving gas lines, complex wiring, or major part replacements—should be left to professionals.

Contact a pro if:

- You hear odd noises from pumps or motors.

- Your heater won’t fire.

- You find leaks at multiple connections.

- Your automation system is unresponsive.

Pro Tip: Scheduling service early in the season guarantees faster response times and avoids the peak-season backlog.

Save Money and Headaches with Pre-Season Maintenance

Opening your pool early and running through this spring pool checklist not only improves performance—it protects your investment. From filter pressure to UV system maintenance, tackling inspections before Memorial Day helps ensure a smooth and stress-free summer.
Don’t wait until something breaks to take action. Your pool—and your guests—deserve to dive into a clean, functional, and perfectly balanced swim season.

Need Replacement Parts or Professional Service? Orca Pacific is here to help commercial and residential pool owners with everything from Neptune Benson UV parts to full-service spring tune-ups.

✔️ Click here to order your pool supplies today

✔️ Click here to schedule inspections and maintenance

✔️ Need UV parts? Visit OrcaUV.com

Let’s make this season your smoothest yet.