Pool Care Costs
Back to Common Pool Problems and Repairs
circulation

Main Drain Blockage

moderate severityoccasionalDIY: yes
Pro repair$150–$400LA-area, parts and labor
DIY cost$0–$100parts and supplies
Typical time1 hrfor a pro
Difficulty2 / 51 is easiest

What you'll notice

  • Reduced water flow toward main drain
  • suction imbalance between skimmer and drain
  • pump struggling to prime

Likely causes

  • Debris accumulation in drain line
  • leaves and organic matter tangled in drain
  • calcium deposits blocking drain line

How to keep it from coming back

  • Use drain grate cover
  • clear surrounding area of debris
  • use drain King or similar tool quarterly

Ranges are estimates; see How We Estimate. Affects: in-ground.

Equipment involved

Maintenance that prevents it

Related costs

  • Annual Pump Operation (Variable-Speed, 1.5HP, 8 hrs/day): $400–$600
  • Annual Heat Pump Operation (electric heating, 6 months): $300–$600
  • Pump Replacement (variable-speed, 1.5-2.5 HP): $1,200–$2,500
  • Pump Motor Repair (capacitor, seal, bearing): $50–$600

See full ownership costs

Other circulation problems