How Much Does It Cost to Replace a Pool Pump Seal

Is your pool pump leaking water and running inefficiently? A faulty pool pump seal could be the culprit.

Left unaddressed, a damaged seal will cause your pump to work harder, driving up energy costs and potentially leading to a complete pump failure.

Fortunately, replacing a pool pump seal is a straightforward fix that can be done yourself for under $50 in parts, or by a professional for $150-300 including labor.

Cost to Replace a Pool Pump Seal

The cost to replace a pool pump seal depends on whether you do it yourself or hire a professional:

DIY Replacement: $25–$50 for Parts Alone

Replacing a pool pump seal yourself typically costs between $25 and $50 just for the parts. The seal itself usually runs around $15-25, while additional materials like O-rings, lubricant and gaskets add another $10-25.

While it is possible for a handy homeowner to replace the seal themselves with the right parts and tools, it does require some mechanical skills. Improperly installing the seal can lead to leaks or further damage to the pump. If you are not fully confident in your ability to complete the repair, it’s best to call a professional.

Professional Replacement: $150–$300 Including Labor

Hiring a pool professional to replace your pump seal will run anywhere from $150 to $300 total. The job typically takes 1-2 hours of labor, at rates averaging $75 to $150 per hour. The seal and other minor parts are usually an additional $25 to $50.

While more expensive up front, professional seal replacement provides greater peace of mind the job is done right. This reduces risk of future leaks or pump failures. Many pool owners find the time savings and assurance worth the added cost versus attempting DIY replacement.

Factors Affecting Costs

Type of Seals

Pool pump seals come in different styles, such as single spring and double spring. Some types of seals are more expensive than others. Always purchase the seal type specified by your pump manufacturer to ensure compatibility and performance.

Material

In addition to the type, seals are made from different materials that influence cost and longevity. Common options include Buna-N rubber, Viton, EPDM, and Teflon. Each has different resistance properties for chemicals, heat, and weather conditions. Premium materials command higher prices but often last longer, especially in harsher environments.

Labor Rates in Your Area

For professional replacement, a major cost component is the labor to remove the pump housing, replace the seal, and reinstall the pump. Labor rates vary considerably across different markets based on factors like local economy, competition, licensing requirements, and cost of living. Urban and coastal areas typically have higher labor costs than in rural locations.

Additional Repairs Needed

While the pump is disassembled for a seal replacement, the professional may identify other worn parts that necessitate replacement for optimal performance or to prevent future issues. Commonly replaced items include:

• Impeller: The impeller can suffer damage, especially if the pump ran dry or sucked up debris. A new impeller costs $40 to $80.
• Gaskets: Pump housing gaskets can deteriorate over time, leading to leaks. Replacing worn gaskets in addition to the seal helps ensure a watertight seal. New gaskets range from $5 to $20.
• Capacitor: If the pump has been having intermittent starting issues, the capacitor may be diagnosed as failing. A new capacitor runs between $10 to $40.

These are just a few examples of additional parts that could be required during a professional seal replacement, adding to the total repair cost. The technician should review any recommended additional work with the pool owner and provide an updated estimate before proceeding.