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Top Pool Repairs Horizon West Homeowners Face During Cooler Months

  • matt1755
  • Jan 14
  • 3 min read

When temperatures drop in Horizon West, many homeowners notice new pool issues popping up—or existing ones getting worse. Even though Central Florida winters are mild, cooler evenings and fluctuating temps put extra stress on pool systems, especially heaters, pumps, filters, and plumbing.


If your pool isn’t heating properly, the water looks cloudy, or the equipment is making strange noises, these winter-season issues may be to blame. Below, we break down the most common winter pool repairs Horizon West homeowners face, why they happen, and when it’s smart to call a professional.


1. Pool Heater Not Heating — or Heating Too Slowly

As temperatures dip into the 50s and 60s, heat pumps and gas heaters both work harder to maintain warm pool water.


Common Winter Heater Problems in Horizon West

  • Heat pump freezes overnight

  • Low refrigerant or failing compressor

  • Burners not igniting on gas heaters

  • Dirty coils or blocked airflow

  • Faulty sensors shutting the heater down


If your heater runs constantly but can’t raise the water temperature, it’s usually a performance issue—not the weather.



2. Pump Motor Failures From Increased Runtime

During cooler months, many Horizon West homeowners run their pumps longer to prevent algae, especially in shaded backyards common in newer Horizon West communities.

But more runtime = more wear.


Pump issues commonly seen in winter

  • Failing bearings

  • Overheating motors

  • Loud whining noises

  • Air leaks causing loss of prime

  • Impeller blockages


If your pump is making noise or constantly shutting off, it needs attention before it leads to bigger electrical problems.


3. Automation & Smart System Malfunctions

Horizon West homes often feature modern smart automation: Aqualink, Pentair automation, Jandy systems, Wi-Fi timers, LED lighting controls.

Cooler temperatures and moisture exposure cause:

  • Malfunctioning relays

  • Sensor errors

  • Automation panels shutting off

  • Pool/spa mode switching issues


If your spa won’t switch modes or your automation panel displays errors, it’s a sign the system needs recalibration—or a new board. For more information, check our our Electrical & automation repair services.


4. New Cracks in the Pool Surface

Winter temperature swings cause pool surfaces—plaster, pebble, quartz—to expand/contract slightly. In Horizon West’s newer homes, recent construction can also cause settling.


Why cracks appear more often in cooler months:

  • Ground shifting after heavy rain

  • Temperature-based expansion

  • Chemical imbalance

  • High use from short-term rental guests


Some hairline cracks are cosmetic……but if water level drops, you likely need leak detection.


5. New Leaks Around the Pump, Filter, or Heater

Cooler weather exposes failing O-rings, brittle PVC glue joints, and worn valves. If you see drips near the equipment pad, winter moisture and temperature swings are often the trigger.


Look for:

  • Water pooling under the heater

  • Air bubbles blowing through the returns

  • Drips where pipes enter the pump

  • Wet soil around the filter


A small winter leak becomes a big spring problem—especially if water reaches electrical components. Pool heater installation & repair services are available in Horizon West.


6. Cloudy Water or Algae Returning

Even in winter, Horizon West pools with:

  • Screen enclosures

  • Wrapping shade

  • Heavy landscaping…often experience cloudy water or early algae blooms.

Why? Winter = fewer hours of sunlight + lower chlorine efficiency.


This leads to:

  • Filter overload

  • Low circulation

  • High phosphates

  • Unbalanced water chemistry


If the pool goes cloudy quickly, there’s usually an underlying equipment issue.


7. Spa Not Heating or Switching Modes

Horizon West homes with integrated spas see more spa usage during the cooler months—and therefore more spa-related problems:

  • Spa draining when pump turns off

  • Incorrect valve positions

  • Heater struggles when switching from pool to spa

  • Weak spa jets

These are typically automation or plumbing issues—both affected by cooler weather.


When Should Horizon West Homeowners Call a Professional?

You should schedule a repair if:

  • The heater won’t turn on

  • Water level drops more than ¼ inch per day

  • The pump is unusually loud

  • Spa won’t heat or won’t switch modes

  • Pressure on the filter spikes or drops suddenly

  • You’re adding chlorine constantly but the pool still looks dull


Delaying repairs often leads to:

  • Full motor replacements

  • Heater failures

  • Major leaks requiring excavation

  • Expensive surface damage


Your Trusted Pool Repair Experts in Horizon West

Whether you live in Hamlin, Lakeside Village, Waterleigh, or Flamingo Crossings, The Pool Mechanic provides fast, local winter-season repairs built for Central Florida’s climate.


Schedule a pool heater inspection or call (407) 883-0896 to book your winter pool repair today.

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