Expert Level Pool Inspections
Print Friendly Edit

9168 Garlington Ct., Sacramento, Ca (9:00 AM - May 9, 2026)

Google Maps

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
Wooden Side of home
Safety Fencing Notes
Access was through home
Safety Fencing Additional Notes

Pool Surface Condition: Damaged (Needs Attention) $0

Surface #1 Surface #2
Estimated Gallons Surface Type
15K - 20K Gallons Plaster
Dimensions Damaged Estimated Surface Age
14' by 24' 10-50% 7-15 Years
Pool Surface Notes
Pool Surface Additional Notes

Pool Surface
The surface appears to me to be a replaster over existing plaster, I saw a long marking in the north east corner near the skimmer (which at first I felt was a crack, but likely is more of a top surface blemish), which when re plastered over plaster is a common effect and a low cost approach at replastering, but unfortunately that type of plaster over plaster typically only lasts 7 to 15 years. Currently this plaster is pitting throughout, especially seen in the spa but also seen in the pool steps and shallow end areas, indicating that we are on the last 1-10% of our lifecycle. It would be wise to consider simply updating the plaster complete instead of attempting to replaster over plaster less desiring to get 7 to 10 years of life per plaster application. Still the cost to do it right would be to jackhammer out all the old plaster and replaster correctly. That cost will likely be around $8,000 to $14,000 depending on surface options for this pool & spa and I would classify that as a need now versus later due to age and condition.
Cost summary (this section only)
• Full replaster (jackhammer old plaster + new): $8,000–$14,000 (needed soon)

Tile Condition: Damaged - Issues Present$6300

Tile #1 Tile #2
Water Line Tile Linear Footage Tile Water Level Tile Linear Footage
Less than 110 Linear Feet Ideal 105
Tile Type Calcium Build-Up Loose or missing tile?
Ceramic Other Other
Mastic Repair
Other
Additional Mastic Repairs
Additional Tile Notes

Tile
Raised Wall / Spa Coping
The raised wall around the spa or the raised coping on the spa has some tiles popping off. This is due to tiles being too close to the concrete for a perfect finish when in reality the concrete next to it does move and pinch the tile and cause it to pop off, which is what’s happening. This backside tile will likely need to be modified in some capacity. Maybe cheapest and easiest to just knock it all off and put on some new fresh tile of your choosing likely to maintain this radius. You’ll need to choose this style tile of a 2 x 2 or smaller, but that would likely range in cost between $1,000 to $2,000 or more depending on complexity and desires.
Spa Waterline Tile
The spa waterline tile seems to be doing OK for its age. I do see significant calcium buildup that can be removed. The cost to do calcium removal and all this tile would probably be around $600 but maybe even $700 but you may desire to just simply update the tile depending on desires. Still inside the spa waterline tile does have calcium buildup. It is implied that many of the upper layer of these tiles to layers. The first top layer is likely having some issues, especially on the east side of the spa and some on the south side of the spa and more calcium coming through on the pool over leading me to believe that redoing the tile in the spa may be the most cost-effective and most complete option at time of replaster.
Spa Spillover
The spa spillover has many tiles missing and showing many signs of issue and loose tiles. That whole face will need to be redone just the face on the spa spillover and likely the tiling of the interior spa tiles will likely go for $1,000 to $2,000 as well.
Pool Waterline Tile
The waterline tile in the pool appears to be in good condition overall for its age not perfect or near new but in good condition. Its tile appears to be potentially 10 to 25 years old or more but overall no real loose mortar or plaster present. The only issues I see on the pool waterline tile is in the skimmer throat. This should likely be redone correctly as it is likely done with haste instead of quality. If we’re redoing the skimmer throat, which is what I would recommend doing, a cost may range from $500 to $1,500 depending on issues present and that should be done at the same time as replacing the skimmer which, as I mentioned previously in the report should be done at the same time as the next plaster to achieve the most cost-effective and most substantial time to be able to perform this task of updating.
Cost summary (this section only)
• Raised wall / spa coping tile repair: $1,000–$2,000
• Spa waterline tile calcium removal: $600–$700
• Spa spillover and interior spa tile redo: $1,000–$2,000
• Skimmer throat repair at replaster: $500–$1,500
• Skimmer replacement at replaster: recommended (cost not estimated here)

Water Quality Condition: Damaged (Needs Attention) $375

Water Picture #1 Water Picture #2
pH Level Free Chlorine Total Chlorine Cyanuric Alkalinity Calcium
7.6 - 8.0 (High) 0 (Very Low) 0 (Very Low) 20 - 50 (Low) 100 - 140 (High) 400 - 650 (Slightly High)
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?
Yes, Light Algae was found In Shade or Corners of Pool, 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

Water Quality
The water quality is indicating there is no chlorine present. It is due for some attention ASAP as there is algae in the spa. It is likely that there is algae presence throughout the pool as there is high pH and high alkalinity. Cyanuric acid does eventually come up and the calcium hardness as well, which is generally indicating that water loss is not likely present but because we have such high alkalinity and pH recommend retesting in 1 to 30 days to confirm.
The adjustments needed to this body of water are pH and alkalinity lowering, chlorine raising, phosphate removing, enzyme treating and likely an algicide nonmetal first.
Cost summary (this section only)
• Water chemistry adjustments and treatments (pH/alkalinity lowering, chlorine raising, phosphate removal, enzymes, non-metal algicide): not estimated (ASAP)
• Retest in 1–30 days: recommended

Skimmer & Main Drain Circulation: Recommend Safety / Updates $1100

Drain #1 Drain #2 Skimmer #1 Skimmer #2
Water Flow Through Skimmer Water Flow Through Main Drain Skimmer Float Valve
Recommend Safety / Updates 1
Pool Skimmer QTY Spa Skimmer QTY Pool Main Drain QTY Spa Main Drain QTY
1 N/A 4 or more 2
VGBA Compliant Drain Covers
600
Skimmer & Main Drain Details


Skimmer & Main Drain Additional Notes

Skimmer and Main Drain
Skimmer
The skimmer is original from 2000 and shows heavy chlorine abuse and wear. Due to its current condition it may be wise to consider updating the skimmer at the next replaster stage to avoid any issues with longevity in the future. That cost may be $1,500 and up. But what is needed now is a new weighted basket, a new lid, a new float, a new float O-ring and a new weir door for this Sta-Rite skimmer. That could all be installed for less than $500.
Main Drains
There are two main drains, and then two likely suction ports and or equalizer line covers on the wall. All four of these covers need to be updated for safety. They are older. They should all be updated at approximately $100 each so there’s four of them. Additionally, there are two more in the spa for a total of six covers that need to be updated at $100 each for safety to compliant VGBA compliant covers now.
Note at the next plaster stage recommend installing channel drains in the spa — one of them or even ideally two of them in the spa. That might be around $1,000 extra at time of plaster. And then in the pool it might be wise to consider at least installing one in the main drain portion in the pool so $1,000 extra there. And then on the equalizer lines below the skimmer it may not be required, just recommended, another channel drain and that might be cheaper if you’re already handling the skimmer so we’ll say that’s around $500 to be updated. And I updated I mean to a VGBA compliance drain. Currently the pool is likely compliant. The spa may be nearing noncompliance as it does not appear to be approximately 3 feet apart, but the pool on the skimmer and the main drain appear to be compliant, but the covers themselves are due to be updated to reach true compliance.
Cost summary (this section only)
Now (immediate):
• Skimmer internal parts update (weighted basket, lid, float, O-ring, weir door): <$500
• Update six main drain / wall port covers: ~$600
At replaster stage (recommended):
• Channel drain upgrades (spa and pool): $1,000–$2,000 extra
• Equalizer line channel drain: ~$500

Bottom Cleaner Condition: Fair - Working - Recommend Service $0

Cleaner #1 Cleaner #2
Bottom Cleaner Brand Bottom Cleaner Model
Polaris 280/380
Bottom Cleaner Additional Notes

The cleaner is in working condition, but poor working condition, recommend service to bring this unit back to a more ideal standard ($105) = adjustments , likely new tires / hose segments / etc soon.

Bottom Cleaner Additional Repairs

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

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

Auto Fill
The auto fill shut off is leaking and the float head is older. The float head should be updated for longevity $125 to $250.
Cost summary (this section only)
• Auto fill shut off repair and float head update: $125–$250

Pool Light Condition: Damaged$1600

Pool Light #1 Pool Light #2
Pool Light Type Distance From Electrical
LED 50' or less
Pool Light Notes

Pool Light
The pool light is above issue. It appears that it has condensation present inside the light lens and will need to be swapped out for safety. A low-cost model light can complete run around $200-$300 for an Amazon option or for a Pentair incandescent expect the cost of around 600 or for the very best the Pentair LED 12 V non-lethal pool light at around $1200. Note that you’ll pay someone around 400 to install the pool light new.
Cost summary (this section only)
• Low-cost Amazon light can + install: $600–$700
• Pentair incandescent light can + install: ~$1,000
• Pentair 12 V LED light can + install: ~$1,600

Spa Light Condition: Damaged$1500

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

Spa Light
The spa light has the same issue. It appears that it has condensation present inside the light lens and will need to be swapped out for safety. A low-cost model light can complete run around $100-$200 for an Amazon option or for a Pentair incandescent expect the cost of around $500 or for the very best the Pentair LED 12 V non-lethal pool light at around $1,100. Note that you’ll pay someone around $400 to install the spa light new.
Cost summary (this section only)
• Low-cost Amazon light can + install: $500–$600
• Pentair incandescent light can + install: ~$900
• Pentair 12 V LED light can + install: ~$1,500

Equipment Pad


Filter Condition: Fair - Damaged - Rec Service $1000

Filter #1 Filter #2
Filter Brand Filter Model
Sta-Rite S7M120
Filter Notes
Filter Additional Notes

Filter
The filter is an older likely original filter in working condition, but it is leaking out of its tank O-ring. It appears the pressure is high indicating that the filter element may be due for replacement. The filter element on this is between $500-$700 along with service of around $150 and I’m just gonna go ahead and recommend a new tank O-ring at around $100 installed, a new pressure gauge at around $50 installed, new liquid fill pressure gauge and this would likely get the filter good and ready for the next 5 to 10 more years of additional life.
Cost summary (this section only)
• New filter element: $500–$700
• Service: ~$150
• New tank O-ring + install: ~$100
• New liquid-filled pressure gauge + install: ~$50

Filter Pump Condition: Damaged$1250

Filter Pump #1 Filter Pump #2
Filter Pump Brand Filter Pump Model Horsepower
Hayward Vs Variable Speed 1.5 - 3.1hp
Filter Pump Condition
The bonding wire is connected and secure
Filter Pump Notes
Filter Pump Additional Notes

Filter Pump
The filter pump is in working condition at this time however in damaged working condition. It sounds as if the bearings are failing, grinding and showing signs of issue indicating that the motor itself is likely compromised and will likely need replacement soon. I would estimate in the next 1 to 24 months. It will be required as the grinding of the bearings are obvious.
To replace just the motor and likely attached drive in some capacity will run between $850 to $1,250 to bring this pump back up to like new condition. However I would likely recommend a different pump and possibly the upgrade version of this pump, which may cost around $1,150 to $1,550 for the pump itself and it may be a better buy. Also note that this pump may be under manufacture warranty if it is between 1 to 3 years old or less. Recommend confirming with the installer if possible.
Cost summary (this section only)
• Motor and drive replacement: $850–$1,250
• New/upgrade pump + install: $1,150–$1,550 (recommended)
• Warranty check: recommended (if 1–3 years old)

Filter Pump Additional Repairs
1250

Booster Pump Condition: Fair - Working$0

Booster Pump #1 Booster Pump #2
Booster Pump Brand Booster Pump Model Horsepower
Hayward Hard Plumb
Booster Pump Additional Notes

Booster Pump
The booster pump is in working condition. I did not see any leaks present in the hose, plumbing or connections. No issues overall. This pump is likely a few years old but without issue. When it does expire, the cost to replace this pump itself is only $300 to $600.
Cost summary (this section only)
• New booster pump (when needed): $300–$600

Spa Jet Pump Condition: Damaged (Needs Attention)$1250

Spa Jet Pump #1 Spa Jet Pump #2
Spa Jet Brand Spa Jet Model Horsepower
Sta-Rite Dyna Glas 1.00HP - 1.25HP
Spa Jet Additional Notes

Spa Jet Pump
The spa jet pump is a Sta-Rite Dura-Glass. It currently is in poor/damaged condition. It has been attempted to be waterproofed but this has only complicated future repairs. Still I wouldn’t spend too much time repairing this pump due to its age and condition. The motor and pump show signs of heavy sun damage over a prolonged period of life, approximately 26 years old. It is leaking from its seal plate, pump lid area, drain plug O-ring and likely more. The motor also appears to be in fair running condition but poor physical condition. This is a one horsepower pump. It appears to be working at this time. It also appears that the pump basket is having some type of trouble. Maybe it’s filled with debris or it’s chipped or all the above. Still recommend attention.
Overall I think the best and wisest option would be to just simply cut this out and replace it. The cost of approximately $450 up to $1,800 depending on pump options whether being sourced from Amazon as a low cost replacement or a high-quality option like the Pentair I3. Installation on either of those pumps will likely cost around $800 including parts and labor.
Cost summary (this section only)
• Full spa jet pump replacement + install: $1,250–$2,600 (depending on options)


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) $250

Heater #1 Heater #2
Heater Model Heater Brand
Hayward Hayward Nat Gas
Heater Additional Notes

Could not get this heater to turn on through automation. Looks nearly new (less than 3-5 years old). Recommend service to program / repair ($250+) and confirm if working status.

Equipment Control System


Board & Timer Condition: Great$0

Board/Timer #1 Board/Timer #2
GFCI Compliant
Yes - The plug and or breaker are connected to the pool light and test and reset.
Board & Timer Additional Notes

Board and Timer
The board and timer, which is in excellent condition like new with GFCIs present on both the variable speed pump and additional equipment. My only complaint is it does not appear that the booster and the variable speed pump are on separate breakers. Not a requirement, but it is recommended for additional layer of safety that the filter pump is on its own unique breaker. Otherwise this panel is in ideal condition with working breakers on all aspects. Additionally, it has a Hayward Omni PL with connected display above all in working condition at this time.
Cost summary (this section only)
• Add separate GFCI breaker for booster pump: not estimated (recommended, not required)

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: Poor - Recommend Updates$600

Overall Details

The entire equipment pad is heavily sun exposed, and has signs of previous water loss issues. It is likely coming up to be due for updates again ($300-1200+) in the next 3-10 years.

Recommend covering from uv after re painting and re labeling ($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
Poor
Notes

Likely due for service soon

Condition
Good
Notes

Previous valve issue. Non leaking at this time.

Condition
Poor
Notes

Slightly older check valve

Condition
Notes
Condition
Notes

Estimated pool repair costs based on typical seasonal construction pricing.(seasonal pricing changes $15475Est. Totals


Edit
 

Comments are closed.



Looking for something?

Use the form below to search the site:

Still not finding what you're looking for? Drop a comment on a post or contact us so we can
take care of it!

Pool Questions ? Call Us!

Do you need some swimming pool assistance? Maybe just a few questions answered ? Well give us a call, we are only a phone call away.

Sometimes you just need a second, qualified opinion.

Office: (916) 467-8038

Mobile: (916) 905-5818

Sacramento Pool Inspections & Service

We provide Weekly Pool & Spa Service, Pool Inspections, Pool Repairs, & Pool Tile Cleaning around the Sacramento Area, CA and the surrounding communities.

Swimming Pool Inspections & Service | (916) 905-5818