Cara's Pool School

I recently replaced my grids, but dirt and/or D.E. keeps coming back into my pool. What could be the problem?

Posted by cara knapp on

If it's a D.E. filter, ensure that the grid manifold and assembly were properly reinstalled, inspect the grids more closely for possible tears, confirm there are no structural cracks or breaks throughout the internals, and inspect the backwash valve for possible o-ring or structural flaws that could allow the debris to unexpectedly return to the pool. If it's a sand filter, inspect the backwash valve in the same manner; and, if nothing seems visibly suspect, there may be a need to replace the sand inside the filter and/or broken internal components.

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Why am I getting so much calcium build up, and what can I do to eliminate the problem?

Posted by cara knapp on

Calcium hardness levels tend to be high throughout the southwest, when it comes to tap and fill water. Over time, that number only increases as calcium-based products are added for balance or treatment and also as water evaporates; since the calcium and other minerals contained within the evaporated water are left behind. Calcium is necessary for proper water balance, so there's no real and effective way to remove it from the equation all together. However, routine use of an effective scale control product -- sometimes referred to as a sequestrant or chelant -- can make a notable difference and impact...

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Why is a clarifier needed? Shouldn’t my filter be keeping my pool clean?

Posted by cara knapp on

Although your filter can be effective at removing most dirt and small particles from the water, it cannot possibly remove all possible impurities. Like the screens used on windows, there is a limit as to how much it can and must allow to pass through without becoming a solid surface. Over time, these tiny particles will accumulate in number and the water's clarity can be adversely affected (cloudy to view, or "dust" particles floating in the water when the light is turned on are common indicators). To assist the filter in dirt and debris removal, routine use of a clarifier...

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Why is a drain and refill necessary, and how often should it be done?

Posted by cara knapp on

Unfortunately, timing and the need to drain can vary from pool to pool since it depends heavily on usage and chemistry. Aside from repair needs and other exceptional circumstances, pools should be drained whenever the Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) levels exceed roughly 2000 - 2500 ppm. At these levels, water will have a difficult time in accepting chemicals intended to properly balance parameters and could be inclined to promote staining and discoloration. It is recommended to have a full water test performed monthly by your local and trusted pool professional, in order to effectively monitor TDS levels and other potential...

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Why would I need an automatic pool cleaner if I have pool service?

Posted by cara knapp on

Automatic pool cleaners help to maintain the pool's clean appearance in between service visits. However, your service also provides what any automatic cleaner cannot -- cleaning of baskets, cleaning of filters, and maintaining proper water chemistry balance. Another advantage of an automatic pool cleaner is that it removes the dirt every time the pump is ran allowing the dirt to be removed immediately. This helps in preventing dirt staining and embedment in the plaster walls.

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