Swimming pools face a massive amount of stress, both from the variety of weather conditions that they are exposed to and the harsh chemicals used to sanitize the water so that it is safe to swim in. Combined with age, these factors can cause all sorts of damage to the various parts of your pool. Being able to identify malfunctions and damage as it appears can allow you to have such issues repaired before they turn into significant problems.
Discolored Water
One of the most common signs that there is an issue with your pool's pump is if you notice that the water in your pool is discolored. This usually points to excessive age and stress to your pump and filter, which can be caused by an increase in the amount of debris that makes it into your pool water or because of a poor pool cleaning schedule. Either way, your pump and filter will have to be inspected and replaced by a professional to get your water clean and sparkling (not to mention safe and healthy) again.
Liner Damage
Another extremely common but serious sign that your pool is in dire need of repairs is if you notice that the vinyl liner, which covers the entire surface area of your pool, has changed its appearance in any notable way. This includes wrinkling, bunching up, and most serious of all, any sort of ripping or tearing that exposes the supporting material underneath. Liner damage can allow water to damage the concrete base of your pool, causing cracks and other forms of physical damage that are quite expensive and complicated to fix.
Draining Water
One more thing that you should watch out for that points to a serious leak within your pool is if your water levels drop significantly within a short period of time. While pools will need to be refilled periodically, as the water will evaporate and spill out of the pool itself, a drop of several inches over the course of a day or two points to a leak or another underlying structural issue. Not only will this cause your utility bills to skyrocket as you constantly refill your pool, but you also run the risk of experiencing damage to the pool wall itself, or even landscaping damage and flooding in severe cases, both of which can be hard to properly repair.
Contact a company pool repair company in your area for further assistance.