Expert Level Pool Inspections
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3800 San Ysidro, Sacramento, Ca (1:00 PM - May 23, 2025)

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Front Of House Pool Spa

Equipment Pad

Equipment #1 Equipment #2 Equipment #3 Equipment #4 Equipment #5

Safety Fencing Condition: Other $0

Safety Fence #1 Safety Fence #2
Style Location
Safety Fencing Notes
Safety Fencing Additional Notes

Pool Surface Condition: Damaged (Needs Attention) $12000

Surface #1 Surface #2
Estimated Gallons Surface Type
20K - 25K Gallons Plaster
Dimensions Damaged Estimated Surface Age
15' by 32' 10-50% 15+ Years
Pool Surface Notes
Pool Surface Additional Notes

The pool and spa surfaces show visible signs of deterioration, particularly with missing material along the step edges—including the top step of the pool and spa. Such pitting commonly indicates underlying water loss issues, suggesting the surface may no longer be fully waterproof.

While the finish may still have some remaining life, resurfacing is likely needed to ensure structural integrity and water retention. The estimated cost for replastering a pool of this size is between $10,000 and $12,000.

Tile Condition: Damaged (Needs Attention)$8500

Tile #1 Tile #2
Water Line Tile Linear Footage Tile Water Level Tile Linear Footage
Less than 150 Linear Feet Low
Tile Type Calcium Build-Up Loose or missing tile?
Ceramic, Natural / Stone Other Other
Mastic Repair
Other
Additional Mastic Repairs
Additional Tile Notes

The waterline tile around the pool and spa shows signs of deterioration, primarily due to failing mortar. Repairing the mortar would cost an estimated $1,000–$2,000, but full re-tiling may be a wiser investment given the condition—particularly in the pool, where issues are more significant.

The spa spillover tiles are in poor condition, with several pieces loose, chipped, or missing grout. This section should be completely re-tiled, with an estimated cost of approximately $1,000.

Additionally, there is a raised coping area near the skimmer on the south side of the pool. This is abnormal, and while the exact cause is unclear, it may indicate structural issues. Assuming no deeper structural damage is found, replacing the skimmer and addressing the surrounding coping would likely cost between $3,500 and $5,500.

Water Quality Condition: Damaged (Needs Attention) $565

Water Picture #1 Water Picture #2
pH Level Free Chlorine Total Chlorine Cyanuric Alkalinity Calcium
6.8 - 7.2 (Ideal) .05 (Low) 2 - 5 (Ideal) 20 - 50 (Low) 70 - 100 (Slightly High) 250 - 400 (Ideal)
pH Level Details Free Chlorine Details Total Chlorine Details Cyanuric Acid Details Alkalinity Notes Calcium Notes
Algae present? Foliage found in water? Water loss present?
An enzyme treatment would reduce dissolved organics additionally through enzyme breakdown and oxidization ($65), Filter Cleaning and Filter Treatment 1 - 10 days after treatments would help reduce and eliminate algae and organic debris ($125), Increasing chlorine, adjusting chemicals to proper levels, and doing enzyme and phosphate treatments along with 2 separate filter cleanings, one before treatments and one after will help reduce or eliminate algae ($375) No
Additional Water Quality Notes

The pool water is in poor condition, with algae growth visible throughout, especially in corners and along the walls. Chemical readings show low chlorine levels, elevated pH and alkalinity, and slightly low cyanuric acid. Calcium hardness is within the ideal range, which may suggest no significant water loss—though this is not confirmed.

While chemical treatments are an option, a more cost-effective and practical solution—given the age of the plaster and extent of algae—would be a full drain and acid wash. This service is estimated at approximately $550 or more.

Skimmer & Main Drain Circulation: Damaged (Needs Attention) $440

Drain #1 Drain #2 Skimmer #1 Skimmer #2
Water Flow Through Skimmer Water Flow Through Main Drain Skimmer Float Valve
Damaged (Needs Attention) 1
Pool Skimmer QTY Spa Skimmer QTY Pool Main Drain QTY Spa Main Drain QTY
1 N/A 2 1
VGBA Compliant Drain Covers
240
Skimmer & Main Drain Details


Skimmer & Main Drain Additional Notes

There is one main drain in the spa and one in the pool. Both covers are aged and should be replaced immediately for safety ($120 x 2). During resurfacing or replastering, it is strongly recommended to update the entire drain assemblies to meet current VGBA (Virginia Graeme Baker Act) compliance standards ($500+x2) .

Upgrading to modern, safe drain systems (as opposed to outdated, raised, toe-catching styles) would add approximately $500 per drain to the resurfacing cost—an essential investment for swimmer safety.

Skimmer repairs were detailed in the tile section, But before replacement, recommend a simple, weird door and float and float O-ring ($200+).

Also know that looking at the skimmer itself close-up, it has a lot of chlorine wear And blemishes present.

Bottom Cleaner Condition: Damaged, unit is in distressed shape and will need more than $250 in repair items currently, consider replacement options ($405-655+). $1300

Cleaner #1 Cleaner #2
Bottom Cleaner Brand Bottom Cleaner Model
Robot - Plug In
Bottom Cleaner Additional Notes

This robot style cleaner is due for service ($650) Or replacement $1-2k+. I would lean more towards replacement due to its age and condition.

Bottom Cleaner Additional Repairs
650

Auto-Fill Condition: Poor ($125)$250

Autofill #1 Autofill #2
Pool Auto-Fill Spa Auto-Fill Auto-Fill Style Fill Speed
No No Manual Slow
Auto-Fill Additional Notes

There is not appear to be an Auto fill present only a manual fill and hose bib. A hose to auto fill device would likely cost less than $250. But note that adding an auto fill canister to this existing pool, likely during plaster stage would be easiest and most efficient and may run approximately $1500-$2500+ To add.

I am seeing very little water Los, but some presents on the valve handle body. Recommend minor service to resolve ($125-250).

Pool Light Condition: Damaged$900

Pool Light #1 Pool Light #2
Pool Light Type Distance From Electrical
Incandescent Bulb 100'
Pool Light Notes

The pool light shows water condensation inside the lens, indicating a compromised seal and presenting a safety concern. The existing light appears to be an older, smaller SwimQuip-style niche, which limits replacement options to compatible models.

Replacing the light now would cost approximately $500 for the fixture and $400 for installation, totaling around $900. However, updating the light during the replastering stage would reduce the cost to approximately $500 and allow for greater flexibility in upgrading to modern lighting solutions in the future.

Spa Light Condition: Damaged$900

Spa Light #1 Spa Light #2
Spa Light Notes
Spa Light Additional Notes

The spotlight is in the same category as a pool light = $900 now

Equipment Pad


Filter Condition: Damaged $700

Filter #1 Filter #2
Filter Brand Filter Model
Sta-Rite Posi Flo - Cartridge
Filter Notes
Filter Additional Notes

The current pool filter is likely over 25 years old and shows multiple signs of failure. The pressure gauge reads 5 PSI, but it appears aged and likely inaccurate. The filter is undersized at 100 sq. ft., which is too small for the pool and is being pushed beyond its maximum flow rate by the oversized pump—potentially causing internal damage.

Visible leaks are present at the drain plug, and internal components such as the element and O-rings may be worn or obsolete. While refurbishing the filter could cost $500–$700, replacement is strongly recommended due to its age, undersizing, and inefficiency. A new filter would provide better performance and value, with quality replacements available starting around $700.

Filter Pump Condition: Damaged$2200

Filter Pump #1 Filter Pump #2
Filter Pump Brand Filter Pump Model Horsepower
Hayward Max E Flo Xl Pump 2.00HP - 2.50HP
Filter Pump Condition
The motor is a level 4 out of 4 of heat, indicating the motor is in a distressed state and in need of immediate repair, adjustment, or most likely replacement will be required in the next 1-24 months.
Filter Pump Notes
Filter Pump Additional Notes

The existing 2 HP Hayward filter pump is highly energy-inefficient due to its oversized horsepower relative to the undersized plumbing. It is also drawing air on the suction side, likely from failing valves that need to be cut out and replaced. Additionally, the pump is leaking at the return connection, which will require plumbing repairs estimated at approximately $400.

The motor is running extremely hot—rated at 5 out of 4 in terms of heat severity—and will likely fail prematurely even if the filters are cleaned, due to the persistent issue of restricted flow from inadequate plumbing size. Full replacement of the pump is strongly recommended. An ideal upgrade would be a 1 HP or variable-speed unit such as the Pentair SuperFlo VS, priced at around $1,200 or approximately $2,200 installed.

Filter Pump Additional Repairs
2200

Booster Pump Condition: Removed$1300

Booster Pump #1 Booster Pump #2
Booster Pump Brand Booster Pump Model Horsepower
Pressure
Booster Pump Additional Notes

Booster Pump Summary:

The booster pump has been removed for an unknown reason. If you choose to reinstall a booster pump, expect a replacement cost of approximately $500 for the pump itself, or around $1,300 including installation.

Spa Jet Pump Condition: $

Spa Jet Pump #1 Spa Jet Pump #2
Spa Jet Brand Spa Jet Model Horsepower
Spa Jet Additional Notes

Waterfall Pump Condition: $

Waterfall Pump #1 Waterfall Pump #2
Waterfall Pump Brand Waterfall Pump Model Horsepower
Waterfall Pump Additional Notes

Auxiliary Pump A Condition: $

Auxiliary Pump A #1 Auxiliary Pump A #2
Auxiliary Pump A Brand Auxiliary Pump A Model Horsepower
Auxiliary Pump A Additional Notes

Auxiliary Pump B Condition: $

Auxiliary B #1 Auxiliary B #2
Auxiliary Pump B Brand Auxiliary Pump B Model Horsepower
Auxiliary Pump B Additional Notes

Heater Condition: Damaged (Needs Attention) $4800

Heater #1 Heater #2
Heater Model Heater Brand
Unlabeled Heater Teledyne Laars
Heater Additional Notes

The pool heater is extremely outdated—likely between 25 to 35 years old—and is nonfunctional. An attempt to activate it produced no response, which aligns with expectations given its age. The gas line connected to the heater also appears to be old and should be pressure-tested for safety, a service typically offered for free by the gas company.

Replacing the heater with a modern, efficient unit installed at the current equipment pad is estimated at approximately $4,800.

Note just to cap the gas line and the plumbing and remove this heater. Expect to pay approximately 500 to 700 including waste.

Equipment Control System


Board & Timer Condition: Recommend Safety Updates$700

Board/Timer #1 Board/Timer #2
GFCI Compliant
700
Board & Timer Additional Notes

The main panel is in generally good condition, though it contains older breakers that should be upgraded to GFCI breakers to meet modern variable speed pump compliance standards. This upgrade is recommended in preparation for future pump installations and is estimated at approximately $300.

Additionally, the system includes unconventional dimmer-style switches for pool lighting. While they currently function, these switches are not rated for pool light use and should be replaced with proper smart switches—estimated at around $300 or less.

The plug breaker should also be updated to a GFCI breaker, with an anticipated cost of approximately $100.

Auxiliary Timer Condition: $

Auxiliary Timer #1 Auxiliary Timer #2
Auxiliary Timer Additional Notes

Salt Control Systems Condition: $

Salt Control #1 Salt Control #2
Salt System Power Detect Salt Flow Detect Salt Presence Low Salt
Salt Control System Additional Notes

Valves & Fittings Condition: Damaged (Needs Attention)$1800

Overall Details

The existing plumbing system is outdated and should be fully removed and replaced for maximum efficiency and long-term reliability. Even if the booster pump is not reinstalled, its dedicated line should be reconnected to the return system. The heater should be bypassed, and a new check valve installed.

Additionally, both existing three-way valves should be replaced. The recommended plumbing updates would include a suction-side check valve for the filter pump and a heater bypass setup to accommodate future heater installation. The total estimated cost for this comprehensive plumbing upgrade is approximately $1,500.

Also recommend painting and labeling as well as covering form UV using a $50 UV mesh = $300



No, the equipment pad is not UV protected by a UV protectant paint, recommend painting this pad to ensure long PVC piping life as well as certain equipment, The equipment appears to be in direct sunlight a large portion of the day. By simply covering the equipment with a UV mesh shade ($25-55 on Amazon + Installation) you will see approx 3x equipment life and 3x less equipment breakdown. This is recommended here.
Condition
Damaged (Needs Attention)
Notes
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Damaged (Needs Attention)
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Estimated pool repair costs based on typical seasonal construction pricing.(seasonal pricing changes $36355Est. Totals


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