Introduction
Noticing leaks, pressure loss, or sky-high water bills? You might be due for a pool plumbing replacement. Learning how to replace pool plumbing can feel intimidating, but with the right steps and guidance, this essential maintenance task becomes much more manageable. In this complete guide, we’ll walk you through why plumbing replacement matters, how to do it correctly, and what pitfalls to avoid.
Why Replacing Pool Plumbing Matters for Your Pool
Over time, underground pool pipes can become corroded, cracked, or clogged, leading to major water loss and inefficient circulation. Faulty plumbing can affect your entire pool system—from your pump and filter to heating, cleaning, and chemical balance.
By replacing damaged or outdated plumbing, you can:
- Improve water flow and energy efficiency
- Prevent underground leaks and water waste
- Extend the life of your pool equipment
- Reduce maintenance and repair costs long-term
Proper plumbing is the backbone of any healthy pool system, ensuring crystal-clear water, safe swimming, and reliable operation all season long.
Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing Pool Plumbing
Step 1: Inspect and Locate Problem Areas
Before beginning any replacement work, determine where the issue lies.
- Look for visible leaks: Around valves, joints, or near the pump/filter area.
- Use a pressure test: This helps detect underground leaks by isolating plumbing lines and checking for pressure drops.
- Check water flow: Weak suction or return flow can indicate a blockage or collapse in the pipe.
Use marking paint to identify plumbing lines you’ll need to excavate or replace.
Step 2: Plan the Replacement Layout
Next, sketch a layout of your pool plumbing system, including:
- Suction Lines: From skimmers, main drain, and vacuum ports to the pump.
- Return Lines: From the filter/heater back to pool returns.
- Auxiliary Lines: For water features, spa, auto-fill, or cleaning systems.
Ensure new plumbing meets current building codes and can support your pool’s size and equipment. Opt for high-quality materials like Schedule 40 PVC for long-term durability.
Step 3: Turn Off Power and Drain the System
Safety first! Shut off all pool equipment power at the breaker box. Then:
- Drain the pool partially if necessary to expose plumbing fixtures.
- Remove water from pump, filter, heater, and pipes to prevent spills or water pressure.
This ensures a clean, safe work area before cutting or digging.
Step 4: Excavate the Plumbing Lines
If the damaged pipes are underground, excavation is necessary.
- Use a shovel or trenching tool to dig along the marked line.
- Be cautious not to damage other pipes or nearby structures.
- Expose at least 6–12 inches on each side of the damaged section for easy work access.
If replacing all lines, plan your trench depth (typically 12–18 inches for pool plumbing) and slope lines slightly for proper drainage.
Step 5: Cut and Remove Old Plumbing
Once exposed:
- Use a PVC cutter or saw to cut out the old, damaged pipes.
- Remove debris and clean the pipe ends if reconnecting to any existing sections.
- Cap any open lines temporarily to prevent debris from entering.
Check fittings, joints, and valves for wear—and replace any old or brittle components along with the piping.
Step 6: Install New Plumbing Lines
Now it’s time to install the replacement lines:
- Dry fit all PVC pipe and fittings before gluing to ensure correct alignment.
- Apply PVC primer to both the pipe and fitting ends.
- Apply PVC cement, push the pieces together, and twist slightly for a secure bond.
- Allow time to cure as directed on the cement label (typically 15–30 minutes).
Be sure to support the lines properly and avoid tight bends that can stress the pipe.
Step 7: Reconnect to Pool Equipment
Reconnect the newly installed plumbing lines to your:
- Pump
- Filter
- Heater
- Return jets
- Skimmer or drain
Use threaded unions and Teflon tape where necessary for removable parts. Confirm that all connections are secure but not overtightened, which could crack fittings.
Step 8: Test for Leaks and Restore Power
With everything connected:
- Open all valves and fill lines with water.
- Watch closely for leaks at all joints, seals, and unions.
- Turn on the pool equipment and monitor the pressure and water flow.
A steady, leak-free system means your plumbing replacement was successful!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the Pressure Test
- Mistake: Guessing where the leak is without testing.
- Fix: Use proper leak detection or hire a professional to avoid unnecessary digging.
- Using the Wrong PVC Type
- Mistake: Installing lightweight or low-grade pipe that cracks under pressure.
- Fix: Use Schedule 40 PVC for all underground or high-pressure plumbing.
- Improper Pipe Slope
- Mistake: Installing flat or uphill plumbing runs.
- Fix: Slope lines gently for effective drainage and flow.
- Overtightening Fittings
- Mistake: Cracking unions or threads by tightening too much.
- Fix: Hand-tighten fittings, then give a slight additional turn—no more.
- Forgetting to Cure Glue Joints
- Mistake: Running water through fresh PVC joints too soon.
- Fix: Wait at least 30 minutes or follow product instructions before pressurizing.
Extra Tips & Pool Hacks
- Color-Code Your Lines: Use colored tape or markers to identify suction, return, and auxiliary lines during installation.
- Install Unions at Key Points: Makes future repairs or upgrades easier by allowing for quick disconnects.
- Use Expansion Joints for Long Runs: This prevents stress fractures in areas with temperature fluctuations.
📖 Related article: [How to Fix a Leaking Pool Pump] for addressing equipment leaks alongside plumbing upgrades.
Conclusion
Replacing pool plumbing may seem daunting, but with careful planning and the right tools, it’s a smart investment in your pool’s long-term health and performance. From identifying leaks to installing brand-new lines, each step plays a crucial role in restoring strong, clean circulation. Take your time, follow this guide, and your backyard pool will be flowing smoothly again in no time.
👉 Bookmark this guide and save it for your next pool upgrade project!