Generally filters should be backwashed when pressure rises 8-10 lbs above normal. In the case of DE filters, the filter media needs to be recharged after backwashing. This is done by adding the proper amount of DE Powder through the skimmer. If you are unsure how much media is required for the DE filter, the amount should be listed on a sticker on the side of the filter. If there is no sticker, contact us with the make and model of your filter.

*if the pressure gauge does not drop to zero when the pool is turned off, the pressure gauge is no longer functioning properly and would need to be replaced to get an accurate reading.

Typically every 5- years the sand needs to be replaced to allow for proper filtration. It is also recommended to chemically clean the sand once or twice a year to prolong the life of the sand.

To reduce the risk of having a green pool, covered pools should be opened in early to mid March. Once temperatures begin to rise, algae is more likely to grow in a covered pool that has no circulation. Opening the pool earlier and allowing the water to circulate along with balancing your chemicals reduces the chance of having a green pool.

Improper chemical balance is the number one cause of wrinkles in liners. Balancing the pH and Alkalinity regularly helps prevent wrinkles and prolongs the life of your liner.

While the pool is open, it is recommended to have a computerized chemical test done at least once a month. It is recommended to check the chemicals with a home test kit or strips weekly. We offer free computerized water testing year round.

During the pool season, pools should be shocked or superchlorinated every 1-2 weeks (may need to be done more often depending on how frequently the pool is used).

If you are starting to see some green on the bottom of your pool, algae is probably starting to grow. You should first start by testing the water chemistry. A properly balanced pool is easier to treat. To prevent the algae from continuing to grow, the pool needs a dose of algaecide and shock. Algaecide alone is not designed to kill algae. The algaecide is designed to break down the cell wall of the algae, allowing the shock to penetrate and kill the algae. Not all algaecide and shock are the same. Be sure to use shock with calcium hypochlorite (typically 73% is best) and an algaecide with a higher percentage (typically 50-60% algaecide is best). When adding shock to a green pool, you should add 2-3 pounds per 10,000 gallons. It is best to add the shock and algaecide at the same time during the evening while the pool is still running. Once the chemicals have been added, brush the pool and let the water circulate overnight.
*even if you have a salt water pool, it is still necessary to add shock and algaecide to treat the algae.

During warm weather (70 Degrees F+), pools need to be circulating between 8-12 consecutive hours/day during daylight hours. The cooler the weather the less the pool needs to be run. During winter months, 4 hours/day during the day is typically adequate. There are no energy savings running the pool at night compared to during the day.

When we select our chemicals, we choose chemicals with professional grade and quality ingredients from reputable manufacturers. Not all pool chemicals are the same. Our prices are comparable to those of the big box retailers while the quality of the chemicals and customer service are superior.