To fix low stabilizer, add cyanuric acid at 1 pound per 10,000 gallons to raise CYA by 10ppm. For high levels over 80ppm, partially drain and refill your pool, as there's no chemical way to lower stabilizer.
Above ground pools require proper installation on level ground, regular liner maintenance (lasting 6-10 years), and balanced water chemistry with chlorine levels based on CYA. This comprehensive guide covers everything from DIY installation to winterization and troubleshooting common issues.
Pool opening involves removing winter covers, inspecting equipment, reconnecting plumbing, and balancing water chemistry. Start with equipment inspection, fill and reconnect systems, then shock and balance chemicals before swimming.
Pool heaters can fail due to electrical issues, gas problems, water flow restrictions, or component failures. Most common issues like pilot light problems, low water flow, and thermostat malfunctions can be diagnosed and often fixed without professional help.
Most pools don't need algaecide if you maintain proper chlorine levels (2-5ppm FC) and adequate CYA (30-50ppm). Algaecide is mainly useful for prevention during high-risk periods or as backup insurance, not for treating active algae blooms.
Most Texas pools operate 8-10 months per year (March through November) due to the warm climate. With proper heating systems, many pools can stay open year-round in most Texas regions.
Pool chemical shelf life varies dramatically: liquid chlorine lasts 2-5 years, granular chlorine 2-3 years, while pH adjusters and alkalinity increasers can last indefinitely when stored properly.
Above ground pool liners typically last 6-10 years, with premium vinyl liners potentially lasting up to 15 years. Proper water chemistry, UV protection, and maintenance significantly extend liner life.
Yes, green pool water can make you sick with infections, gastrointestinal illness, and respiratory problems. The algae indicates dangerous bacteria and parasites are present, making swimming unsafe until properly treated.
Pool algae can cause skin rashes, irritation, and other health issues through direct contact or by creating conditions that harbor harmful bacteria. The key is eliminating algae through proper SLAM treatment and maintaining balanced water chemistry.
Clear cloudy pool water by testing and balancing chemicals first, then shock with liquid chlorine to 2-3x your stabilizer level, run the filter 24/7, and backwash frequently until water clears completely.
Most pools don't need phosphate remover if you maintain proper chlorine levels. Only consider phosphate removal if you have persistent algae problems despite balanced water chemistry and proper sanitizer levels.
Salt water pools are not self-cleaning and require regular maintenance including proper water chemistry balance, algae prevention, and equipment upkeep. The salt water generator only produces chlorine automatically but doesn't eliminate the need for active pool care.
Pool algae itself cannot kill you, but certain types like blue-green algae can cause serious illness, and algae creates slippery, dangerous swimming conditions that increase drowning risk.
Yes, you can leave your pool filter running continuously, and it's actually beneficial for water clarity and chemical distribution. However, running it 8-12 hours daily is usually sufficient for most pools while saving energy costs.
