FAQs

Find answers to your questions about pool upkeep, from water balance to pool equipment maintenance. We're here to help guide you through common issues and provide expert tips.

Pool Maintenance Questions

Regular pool cleaning is essential to maintain water quality and prevent the buildup of debris and algae. Generally, it is recommended to clean your pool at least once a week. However, this can vary depending on factors such as pool usage, weather conditions, and surrounding vegetation. Consulting a professional or referring to your pool manufacturer's guidelines can help you determine the appropriate cleaning frequency for your specific pool.

Regular pool maintenance involves several key steps. These include skimming the surface to remove leaves and debris, vacuuming the pool floor and walls, brushing the walls and tile, checking and adjusting water chemistry (pH, chlorine levels, etc.), and emptying skimmer baskets and pump strainers. Additionally, regular inspections of pool equipment, such as filters and pumps, are crucial to ensure their proper functioning.

Testing your pool water regularly is vital to maintain its balance and ensure safe swimming conditions. It is generally recommended to test the water at least two to three times a week, especially during periods of heavy usage or extreme weather conditions. Testing helps you monitor and adjust chlorine levels, pH, alkalinity, and other chemical parameters to prevent issues like algae growth, cloudy water, and skin irritation.

Cloudy pool water can be a result of several factors, including improper water balance, inadequate filtration, or the presence of contaminants. If your pool water turns cloudy, first check and adjust the water chemistry parameters within the recommended ranges. Ensure your pool filtration system is working correctly, clean or backwash the filter if necessary, and run the pump for an extended period to promote better water circulation. If the problem persists, consider contacting a professional for further assistance.

Preventing algae growth is a crucial aspect of pool maintenance. To minimize the risk of algae, maintain proper water balance, regularly sanitize the pool using an appropriate amount of chlorine, and ensure adequate filtration and circulation. Additionally, skimming the pool regularly, brushing the walls and floors, and vacuuming the pool can help eliminate potential algae spores and prevent their growth.

Backwashing is the process of cleaning a pool filter by reversing the water flow to flush out trapped debris. The frequency of backwashing depends on various factors, including the type of filter, the size of the pool, and the level of debris accumulation. As a general guideline, sand filters typically require backwashing every 4-6 weeks, while cartridge filters may need cleaning every 1-2 months. However, it's important to refer to your pool filters manufacturer recommendations for specific guidance.

Pool maintenance can be done by homeowners who are comfortable with the required tasks. However, if you're unsure or lack the time or expertise to maintain your pool, it's advisable to hire a professional pool maintenance service. They have the knowledge, experience, and specialized equipment to ensure proper maintenance, address potential issues promptly, and keep your pool in optimal condition.

Winterizing your pool is essential to protect it from potential damage during the colder months when it's not in use. The process typically involves cleaning the pool, balancing the water chemistry, lowering the water level, draining and winterizing pool equipment, adding winterizing chemicals, and covering the pool with a suitable winter cover. It's recommended to follow the specific winterization guidelines provided by your pool manufacturer or consult a professional for assistance.

While regular pool cleaning routines can be adjusted during the winter months, it is still important to perform some maintenance tasks to prevent issues and ensure a smooth reopening when the pool season begins again. This may include periodically removing debris from the pool cover, checking and adjusting water chemistry if needed, and inspecting the pool equipment for any potential issues.

Calcium buildup, often seen as white, crusty deposits on pool tiles and surfaces, can be prevented with proper water chemistry and regular maintenance. Maintaining the recommended pH and alkalinity levels can help minimize calcium scaling. Regular brushing of the pool walls and tile line can also prevent the accumulation of calcium deposits. If you notice significant calcium buildup, you may need to consult a professional for appropriate cleaning methods or consider using specialized products designed for removing scale.

It is recommended to clean your skimmer and pump baskets at least once a week. If you have an abundance of trees or any debris around your pool, then you may have to increase the number of times you clean each week.  After storms or high winds, it is recommended to clean your skimmers and pool pump baskets to ensure the best possible cleaning.

It is recommended to drain your pool water about every 5 years. Depending on usage and location this may vary but overall, this is the optimal time to change the water out to ensure proper chemical balancing.

Yes! Pool chemicals can go bad! It is very important to follow all the storage rules supplied on each package to ensure the items are stored properly and away from any children or pets.

All filter types like DE Filters, Sand Filters, and Cartridge filters are great for all water filtration. To decide which is best for your pool you will want to look at two factors: ease of maintenance and filtration capabilities. The easiest to maintain will be a cartridge filter. These will provide the middle filtration level and can provide filtration down to 5 microns. The best filtration comes from a DE Filter (diatomaceous earth) with a filtration system of 1-6 microns, but can be a little more difficult to maintain.

Pool Automation in simple terms, means the ability to control your pool equipment from a wireless device. Some pool automation will require an external controller to run your equipment, where others can allow you to control your pool equipment from your phone or tablet. Each automation system is unique and can require a lot of equipment specific to the brand you are purchasing. We always suggest contacting your pool professional for recommendations on what will work best with your pool equipment and needs. If you have specific equipment questions we always suggest contacting the manufacturer directly for technical service.

Pool Equipment Service Questions

Regular pool pump maintenance is crucial for efficient pool operation. It is generally recommended to have your pool pump serviced at least once a year. However, heavy usage or challenging environmental conditions may require more frequent servicing. A professional pool equipment service can inspect the pump, clean or replace filters, lubricate moving parts, and ensure optimal performance to extend the lifespan of the pump.

Several indicators suggest that your pool filter requires servicing. These include reduced water flow, increased pressure on the filter gauge, cloudy water despite proper chemical balance, or the presence of debris in the pool. If you notice any of these signs, it's advisable to have your pool filter checked and serviced. A professional can clean or replace filter media, inspect internal components, and resolve any issues affecting filtration efficiency.

The pool skimmer plays a vital role in removing floating debris from the water before it reaches the pool filter. Cleaning the skimmer basket should be done on a regular basis, typically once a week or as needed, depending on the amount of debris in your pool. A clogged or overflowing skimmer basket can hinder proper water circulation and strain the pool pump, potentially leading to equipment damage or decreased efficiency.

In most cases, draining the entire pool is not necessary for routine equipment servicing. Many pool equipment components, such as pumps, filters, heaters, and chlorinators, can be serviced without draining the pool. However, there may be certain situations or repairs that require partial or complete pool draining. It's best to consult a professional pool equipment service to determine the appropriate course of action based on your specific needs.

Regular maintenance and proper care can significantly extend the lifespan of your pool equipment. Some key practices include keeping the pool water balanced, cleaning and backwashing filters as recommended, ensuring adequate water circulation and filtration, protecting equipment from extreme weather conditions, and promptly addressing any issues or malfunctions. Additionally, scheduling regular professional inspections and servicing can help identify and prevent potential problems before they escalate.

While some minor repairs or replacements, such as changing a pump seal or a filter cartridge, can be done by homeowners, it's generally recommended to hire a professional for pool equipment repairs. Pool equipment can be complex, and improper repairs may result in further damage or compromise safety. A professional technician has the knowledge, experience, and tools to diagnose issues accurately and carry out repairs effectively, ensuring the equipment operates optimally.