Oh, you had the pool installed, the light looked great, and you figured it would work forever without any attention? That is cute. Now it is flickering like a horror movie scene, and you are wondering how it happened. The truth is, your light is not haunted. It is just drowning because you ignored a few important details.
Let us get into the mistakes that let your pool light turn into a water-filled hazard.
Mistake 1: Skipping Gasket Checks
The rubber gasket around your pool light keeps water out. Over time, it wears down, cracks, or warps. If you never check it, water will find a way in.
Quick Fix: Inspect and replace the gasket every 1-2 years. It is cheap, easy, and beats replacing the whole light.
Mistake 2: Ignoring Loose Light Fixtures
If your light fixture is not sealed tightly, water will slip in around the edges. A loose screw today becomes a costly repair tomorrow.
Quick Fix: Check the screws and fixture fit at least once a season, especially before closing or after storms.
Mistake 3: Forgetting to Check the Conduit Seal
Water can creep in through the conduit where the wiring runs. If the seal is bad or missing, it is like leaving your front door open in a rainstorm.
Quick Fix: Have a pool pro inspect and reseal the conduit as needed. This is not a DIY job unless you know electrical safety.
Mistake 4: Letting Small Leaks Slide
If you see condensation or a tiny flicker, do not just ignore it. That moisture will get worse until the light fails completely.
Quick Fix: Address small leaks right away. Dry the fixture, replace seals, and stop the problem before it grows.
The Brutal Truth Checklist:
- Inspect and replace gaskets regularly.
- Keep the fixture tightly sealed.
- Check and maintain the conduit seal.
- Fix leaks at the first sign of trouble.
- Treat your pool light like electrical equipment, because it is.
A flickering pool light is not a quirk you should tolerate. Take care of it now, and you will keep your pool both safe and looking good.
