Pool lighting is one of the best ways to upgrade your pool. High-quality lights make swimming safer, especially after dark, and elevate the aesthetic of your outdoor space. However, when your inground pool lights start flickering, you might find yourself both annoyed and frustrated with the situation. Fortunately, this malfunction might not mean your lights are a lost cause. Here’s what you need to know about common pool light issues and how to repair inground pool lights.

 

Why Is My Pool Light Flickering?

If your inground pool lights aren’t working properly, it could be due to a variety of reasons. Get to know the most common causes of lighting issues:

Loose or Damaged Bulbs

A flickering pool light could be the result of something as simple as a broken bulb. Over time, water movement and general wear and tear can damage or loosen a bulb’s connection. Older bulbs might also be more prone to flickering, especially as they come to the end of their useful life.

Loose Wiring Connections

Maybe nothing is wrong with the bulb itself, and the wiring is the culprit. Loose connections between the fixture, junction box, or controller might all cause flickering and problems with power flow.

Corrosion

Pools are harsh environments for metal. Heat, moisture, pool chemicals, and plain-old water exposure can corrode your pool lighting components. Left unchecked, corrosion may disrupt the electrical connections and cause interruptions to the power flow.

Water Leaks

If water leaks into the pool light fixture, it could cause flickering or complete failure. As your lights age, their housings can lose their water resistance and allow leaks. Water and electricity are never a safe combination, so be sure to disconnect the power before taking a closer look.

Power Supply Issues

Perhaps the problem has nothing to do with the lighting fixture itself, but rather the power supply. Aging transformers, overheating components, or incorrect wiring can all lead to flickering pool lights.

 

Simple Fixes for Pool Light Flickering

Once you know what’s causing the problem, it’s easier to take steps to fix it. While not every lighting issue is something you can DIY, these fixes will usually get your lights back up and running with minimal downtime:

Replace or Reseat the Bulb

If the issue is nothing more than a loose or burnt-out bulb, tighten or install a new one. We recommend taking this opportunity to switch to LED bulbs if you haven’t already. Vivid 360â„¢ LED lights are an excellent option that brings all of these benefits compared to traditional bulbs:

  • Longer lifespan
  • Lower energy consumption
  • Better durability
  • Simple installation
  • Perfect for most pool, spa, and nicheless lighting

Repair Damaged Wiring

If the problem involves corrosion or loose connections, you may need to take steps to repair damaged wiring. Never attempt this type of inground pool light repair on your own, as only qualified professionals should work on electrical repairs near water.

Install a New Transformer

If your transformer is failing or too small for your pool lighting system, consider upgrading to a properly rated unit. A pool lighting expert can help you choose the right upgrades that will accommodate your bulbs.

Update Dimmers

Does the flickering only happen when your lights are dimmed? If so, there could be a problem with the dimmer. We often recommend upgrading to a more modern control system that works for all kinds of pool lighting, including LEDs.

 

How to Prevent Pool Light Flickering

Even when you know how to remove an inground pool light and make the right repairs, you probably just want to avoid problems in the first place. These practical tips can keep your pool lighting in top shape for as long as possible:

  • Inspect bulbs at least once a year for signs of wear and tear.
  • Keep your pool clean and free of debris.
  • Check the gaskets periodically for evidence of leaks.
  • Choose LED lights, which tend to last much longer than other types.
  • Have your wiring inspected during your routine pool service.

 

Take Your Pool Lighting to the Next Level

Fixing a flickering pool light doesn’t have to be a headache. While issues can occur in the best of situations, you can minimize the chances of a malfunction when you choose high-quality LED lighting from Blue Square. Our solutions are designed for durability, reliability, and energy efficiency. Contact us today to learn more about our products.

 

FAQs

Is a flickering pool light dangerous?
A flickering pool light isn’t always cause for concern, but if the problem stems from electrical issues, fixing it could be dangerous. Always disconnect the power before inspecting your pool lighting, and don’t hesitate to call a professional for help.

Do I need to drain the pool to replace a pool light?
Usually, you won’t need to drain the pool. Most pool fixtures are designed to be removed at the surface while the pool is still full. Talk to a pool service expert if you aren’t sure whether draining is necessary.

How long does pool lighting last?
It depends on the type of bulb you choose. Incandescent pool lights last around 1,000 hours, while halogens can last up to 4,000 hours. However, LED pool lights blow the others out of the water, with anywhere from 25,000 to 50,000 hours of use.