Expert Level Pool Inspections
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3785 Greenview Dr., El Dorado Hills, Ca (10:00 AM - July 21, 2026)

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Front Of House Pool Spa

Equipment Pad

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

Safety Fencing Condition: Minor Adjustments Needed $125

Safety Fence #1 Safety Fence #2
Style Location
Wrought Iron Side of home
Safety Fencing Notes
The fencing needs minor repair to self close and self latch
Safety Fencing Additional Notes

North access point checked - Bottom snake block /
tray is collecting debris , remove and likely fence will work perfectly fine at self closing self latching.

Pool Surface Condition: Damaged (Needs Attention) $3600

Surface #1 Surface #2
Estimated Gallons Surface Type
20K - 25K Gallons Pebble Surface
Dimensions Damaged Estimated Surface Age
10' by 24' 0-10% 15+ Years
Pool Surface Notes
Pool Surface Additional Notes

The spa surface is likely less than five years, it does have a cracked edge / step of plaster present on the east step edge of the spa, it appears to be a delaminating + crack - of some kind - recommend further investigation ($100)+ / attn / repair.

Note a cost typically replaster a spa this size - expect a cost of $2-3k to re do that spas surface complete vs just a temp repair of $100 to apply water stop = a+b epoxy.

The spa surface also has rust colored, likely surface stains on it, recommend attention to it to identify stain issues / type ($100), this stain ident / treatment should also to be done in the Pool in several locations ($400+), note that stain ident would also likely remove the stains present if surface stains are only surface rust issue vs rebar.

The pool surface is likely older, approx 20 years old, heavy wear seen on top step, surface may be nearing final stage of life left (10 years or less in pool) may be wise to re plaster spa at time of pool for best cost / longevity.

Tile Condition: Damaged - Issues Present$2000

Tile #1 Tile #2
Water Line Tile Linear Footage Tile Water Level Tile Linear Footage
Less than 110 Linear Feet Ideal 110
Tile Type Calcium Build-Up Loose or missing tile?
Ceramic, Natural / Stone N/A or none Other
Mastic Repair
Other
Additional Mastic Repairs
Additional Tile Notes

### Raised Spa Area (Flagstone and Spillover)
The raised spa features flagstone surfacing that appears to have been updated within the past five years or less. The spa plaster may have also been refreshed during this time. The mortar and joints were redone with a fairly decent level of workmanship.

However, there are visible issues at the spillover stones and likely throughout the face of the flagstone. Water loss is occurring through the flagstone surface, beginning at the spillover area and migrating to other sections. White calcium deposits are forming on corners of the spillover stones that are not in direct contact with water from the spillover process.

**Recommended Approach & Estimated Cost:**
Waterproofing the spillover area alone is estimated at **less than $2,000**. However, it would be wise to address the **entire spa stonework** in one complete pass to ensure thorough waterproofing, especially since surface issues are already present in the spa. Doing the full scope at once avoids repeated disruption and provides better long-term results.

- **Entire outside spa stonework:** $2,000 – $5,000 (standard repair)
- **Up to $10,000** if material changes or other design modifications are incorporated.

### Waterline Tile
The waterline tile is in relatively fair to good condition overall. No major issues were observed. Even inside the skimmer throat, the mortar between the tile and skimmer connection shows minimal wear. The waterline tile does not require attention at this time.

### Coping / Decking
There are a few very small cracks (less than dime-width) visible, specifically two on the west side. These appear to be minor and are likely related to concrete settling. They do not extend further into the surface below, so no immediate repairs are needed.

### West Raised Wall (Waterfalls & Water Features)
This wall supports one waterfall and two water features. Calcium deposits are visible in approximately four locations on the backside (north-facing) wall. Several tiles sound hollow when tapped — particularly closer to the west side and along the north top edge — indicating water migration behind the tile. This is a common issue with waterfall features after 20+ years of use.

These areas should be addressed together with the spa repairs (when the tile work in the spa is opened up), as the issues are likely related to the same water migration. Addressing them separately would likely increase the total cost.

**Estimated Cost (if done at the time of spa repairs):** $2,000 – $4,000.
Doing this work independently would probably cost more.

---

**Summary of Estimated Costs (when coordinated together):**
- Spa spillover waterproofing only: **<$2,000**
- Full spa stonework: **$2,000 – $5,000** (up to $10,000 with material/design changes)
- North raised wall / waterfall repairs: **$2,000 – $4,000**

Coordinating the spa stonework and the north waterfall raised wall repairs together during the same project is strongly recommended for best results and cost efficiency.

Water Quality Condition: Damaged (Needs Attention) $400

Water Picture #1 Water Picture #2
pH Level Free Chlorine Total Chlorine Cyanuric Alkalinity Calcium
6.5 - 6.8 (Low) 20 + (Extremely High, Do Not Swim) 20 + (Extremely High, Do Not Swim) 0 - 20 (Very Low) 20 - 45 (Low) 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?
No No
Additional Water Quality Notes

Extremely high chlorine levels, unsafe. Inhalation hazard during functionality testing of the pool system (waterfall / spa jets) due to combined chlorine, a.k.a. chloramines.

The extremely high levels of chlorine are throwing off all other water results, therefore water quality cannot be fully confirmed. Recommend re testing once chlorine levels are re aligned = Recommend attention $100+

Note algae is going to likely be present and if so, recommend attn ($300 or less to help eliminate).

Skimmer & Main Drain Circulation: Recommend Safety Updates $2700

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
Other
Skimmer & Main Drain Details


Skimmer & Main Drain Additional Notes

**Recommended Safety Updates**

### Main Drain Covers
All main drain covers are older and due for replacement for safety reasons. There are **6 main drains** total:

- **4x** Waterway 3.5”/4” 100 GPM covers
- **1x** MDX 10”/12” cover
- **1x** natural plaster cover (in the pool)
- **2x** covers (in the spa)

None of these covers appear to be **VGBA compliant**. They should be updated at the next re-plaster stage (which is coming soon) to ensure proper safety compliance.

**Recommended Timing:** Ideally replace during the upcoming re-plaster for best integration and efficiency.

**Cost Estimates:**
- Individual replacements (installed):
- MDX 10/12” cover: **$650**
- Other covers: **≈ $200 each or less** (7 covers total)
- Full channel upgrade at re-plaster (recommended for full VGBA compliance): **$4,000 – $8,000** across all locations

### Skimmer Weir & Related Components
The skimmer weir is still functioning but is likely older and nearing the end of its service life.

**Recommendations:**
- Replace the weir
- Install a new float, float O-ring, and lid

**Estimated Cost:** **$500 or less** (installed)

### Additional Investigation Needed
The main drain line and/or equalizer line is currently plugged. Further diagnosis is recommended to identify and clear the blockage.

**Estimated Cost for Diagnosis/Clearing:** **$100**

---

**Summary of Safety Update Costs:**
- Individual drain cover replacements: **≈ $650 (MDX) + $1,400 (others)** = **~$2,050**
- Full VGBA-compliant upgrade at re-plaster: **$4,000 – $8,000**
- Weir + float/lid assembly: **≤ $500**
- Plugged line investigation: **$100**

Updating all drain covers during the next re-plaster is the most cost-effective and safest long-term approach.

Bottom Cleaner Condition: Damaged $1900

Cleaner #1 Cleaner #2
Bottom Cleaner Brand Bottom Cleaner Model
In Floor
Bottom Cleaner Additional Notes

Updates Likely Needed - **Pressure Gauge:** A pressure gauge is missing from the top of the filter unit. Recommended installation: **$50**.

- **Gear Drive / Valve Unit:** The gearing unit appears to be original and is likely due for service in the near future.
**Estimated service cost:** **$500+**.

- **Pop-Up Cleaning Heads:** All pop-up heads appear to be original. Replacement is recommended.
**Quantity:** 11 heads
**Estimated cost:** **$40 each** or more (**$440+** total).

- **Canister / Filter Components:** The canister requires new notches, lid, and lid O-ring, along with general service.
**Estimated cost:** **$300 or less** for parts + **up to $400** for service.

**Important Note:** Even after completing the above repairs and replacements, the existing cleaning system may still not perform as effectively or efficiently as a modern robotic pool cleaner.

**Robotic Pool Cleaner Alternative:** **$650+**

Bottom Cleaner Additional Repairs
1900

Auto-Fill Condition: $0

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

Float and drain seen. Fill canister / Lid not able to be opened without tools to check auto fill float.

Pool Light Condition: Damaged$1650

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

Condensation present , recommend updating or start by disconnecting from power for safety.

This appears to be the $1250 Pentair Color LED Light -

$200-1250 + install $400/light

Spa Light Condition: Damaged$1650

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

Failed light, recommend update , new can $200-1250+, and labor $400.

Approx cost for high quality like light is $1250+ 400

Equipment Pad


Filter Condition: $1100

Filter #1 Filter #2
Filter Brand Filter Model
Jandy Cl 460
Filter Notes
Filter Additional Notes

### Filter System

The filter unit is likely approaching the end of its useful life cycle. During testing, the system operated normally upon initial startup. However, when switching from pool to spa mode after shutdown, significant leaking (gushing) was observed at the tank seal.

**Observed Issues & Recommendations:**

- Tank seal leaking when switching modes — **Repair cost: $100 or less**
- Clamp band nearing expiration — **Replacement: $300**
- Filter elements may need replacement — **Estimated: $500 or less**
- Missing pressure gauge (see equipment section) — **$50**
- General filter service — **$150**

**Repair Option Total:** Approximately **$1,000 – $1,500** (parts + labor)

**Replacement Option:**
- New complete filter (AquaStar Pipeline 35,000 or equivalent): **≈ $800**
- Installation labor: **≈ $800**
- **Total estimated replacement cost: $1,600**

Another Option I would Prefer - Lowest On Going Cost

Pentair Tr-140C - $2K
Install - $1K

---

**Recommendation:** Given the age of the filter, the condition of the band and filter and the seal failure when switching modes, serious consideration should be given to full replacement rather than continued repairs, especially if a re-plaster or major renovation is planned in the near future.

Filter Pump Condition: Older - Working - Leak at Drain Plug ?$100

Filter Pump #1 Filter Pump #2
Filter Pump Brand Filter Pump Model Horsepower
Sta-Rite IntelliPro Variable Speed 1.5 - 3.1hp
Filter Pump Condition
Filter Pump Notes
Filter Pump Additional Notes

Leak at drain plug ($50?) and recommend minor lid o ring / basket update ($50). No other major issue seen.

Filter Pump Additional Repairs
100

Booster Pump Condition: $0

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

Spa Jet Pump Condition: N/A$

Spa Jet Pump #1 Spa Jet Pump #2
Spa Jet Brand Spa Jet Model Horsepower
Jandy Stealth 1.50HP - 2.00HP
Spa Jet Additional Notes

Inspection Limitations & Pump Observation

The pool pump could only be operated for approximately one minute due to extremely high chlorine levels, which posed a safety concern.
When the filter pump was started a second time, it expelled a significant amount of water from the filter unit onto the equipment pad. This leakage made it difficult to fully inspect other equipment for additional small leaks. As a result, no further issues could be reliably identified at this time.

Recommendation: Lower the chlorine levels to a safe operating range and re-inspect the pump and surrounding equipment once conditions allow for a more thorough evaluation.


Waterfall Pump Condition: N/A$

Waterfall Pump #1 Waterfall Pump #2
Waterfall Pump Brand Waterfall Pump Model Horsepower
Jandy Stealth 1.50HP - 2.00HP
Waterfall Pump Additional Notes

Inspection Limitations & Pump Observation
The pool pump could only be operated for approximately one minute due to extremely high chlorine levels, which posed a safety concern.

When the filter pump was started a second time, it expelled a significant amount of water from the filter unit onto the equipment pad. This leakage made it difficult to fully inspect other equipment for additional small leaks. As a result, no further issues could be reliably identified at this time.
Recommendation: Lower the chlorine levels to a safe operating range and re-inspect the pump and surrounding equipment once conditions allow for a more thorough evaluation.

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: Good $

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

Worked for 22 minutes without issue. Appears to be approx 12 years old. Heaters typically last 10-15 years before service is needed to sensor array $350-750, likely nearing that time soon (1-3 years or less).

Gas leg could be updated, and a bypass installed ($500-1000) at next update.

Equipment Control System


Board & Timer Condition: Recommend Safety Updates$600

Board/Timer #1 Board/Timer #2
GFCI Compliant
600
Board & Timer Additional Notes

Recommend adding a GFCI to the Filter Pump, Lights, and Plug ($300+) electrician labor ($300+) Otherwise no other major issues seen.

Note that this panel needs a working AUX display panel to do programming on, usually a PDA unit or an indoor display. If this is missing expect a cost of $650-1250+ to allow programming to occur.

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: Fair - Working Condition$200

Overall Details

Equipment Pad & Automation
The equipment pad is approaching the recommended interval for standard maintenance. This includes valve servicing, repainting, and relabeling of all valves and components.
Recommended Work:

Standard valve maintenance, repaint, and relabel: $200
Updating additional components for improved longevity: $500+
(Note: Some check valves have been updated recently)
New actuators (4 units): $200 each ($800 total)
Associated service and parts: $500+

Subtotal for Equipment Pad & Actuators: $1,500 – $2,000+
Additional System Items

Solar System: Older components and check valves are due for replacement in the near future.
Hose Bibs: Due for updates in the near term (not urgent).
Programming & Operation: Minor programming adjustments recommended to allow the spa to function as a separate body of water instead of spilling over daily. This will help reduce excess wear on the system.
Estimated cost: $300+

Overall Recommendation: The equipment pad and automation components would benefit from proactive maintenance soon to prevent future failures and improve system reliability.



Condition
Notes

Older actuators

Condition
Notes

Aux Pumps

Condition
Notes

Older check valves , solar piping due to be modified / conduits moved to allow pipes to not get stepped on and crack the lower quality ABS pipe.

Condition
Notes

This is a chlorine alternative, recommend considering a UV unit ($600+) as an example of a good option for this pool or ozone (if in floor wasn't present).

Condition
Damaged (Needs Attention)
Notes

Rust blemish ? Recommend stain ident / removal service to confirm issue / type of stain present ($100).


Estimated pool repair costs based on typical seasonal construction pricing.(seasonal pricing changes $16025Est. Totals


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