Pool Care Costs
Back to Common Pool Problems and Repairs
circulation

Return Line / Plumbing Blockage

moderate severityoccasionalDIY: partially
Pro repair$150–$400LA-area, parts and labor
DIY cost$0–$100parts and supplies
Typical time1.5 hrfor a pro
Difficulty2 / 51 is easiest

What you'll notice

  • Reduced water pressure returning to pool
  • weak or no return flow
  • high filter pressure

Likely causes

  • Calcium deposits accumulating in return lines
  • debris or biofilm clogging lines
  • closed or partially closed return valves

How to keep it from coming back

  • Check return valves monthly
  • use pool plumbing conditioner
  • run equipment regularly

Ranges are estimates; see How We Estimate. Affects: all.

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