Pool water chemistry involves maintaining proper levels of chlorine (1-3ppm based on CYA), pH (7.4-7.6), alkalinity (60-120ppm), and calcium hardness (250-350ppm for plaster). Regular testing with quality kits and proper chemical dosing ensures safe, clear water.
Most Las Vegas pools operate year-round due to the desert climate, with peak season from May through October. Many commercial pools and resorts stay open 24/7 during peak months, while residential pools typically benefit from heating systems November through March.
Pool winterization involves balancing chemicals, protecting equipment, and proper closing procedures. The process varies by climate zone but typically includes shocking, lowering water levels, and winterizing plumbing to prevent freeze damage.
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.
Pool salt cells use electrolysis to convert dissolved salt (sodium chloride) into chlorine gas and sodium hydroxide. The chlorine sanitizes your pool while the sodium hydroxide raises pH, creating a continuous chlorination cycle.
Salt water pools still require chemicals for proper water balance, including pH adjusters, stabilizer, and calcium hardness increasers. The salt chlorine generator only produces chlorine, not other essential chemicals needed for safe swimming water.
Yes, you can clean pool filter sand through backwashing, chemical cleaning with muriatic acid or filter cleaners, and eventually replacing it every 2-3 years when cleaning becomes ineffective.
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 heating time depends on heater type, pool size, and temperature difference. Gas heaters typically raise temperature 1-2°F per hour, while heat pumps achieve 3-5°F per hour on smaller pools.
Yes, you absolutely need proper alkalinity in your pool water. Alkalinity acts as a pH buffer, preventing rapid pH swings and maintaining water balance for swimmer comfort and equipment protection.
Pool cartridge filters typically last 1-4 weeks between cleanings and should be completely replaced every 3-6 months depending on usage, bather load, and maintenance frequency.
Cartridge pool filters cannot be backwashed like sand or DE filters. Instead, they must be removed and cleaned by hosing off debris, soaking in cleaning solution, and rotating between multiple cartridges for best results.
No, fiberglass pools do not need liners because the fiberglass shell itself serves as the water barrier. The gelcoat surface provides the waterproof finish that liners provide in vinyl pools.
Yes, you should turn off your salt cell when shocking your pool with liquid chlorine or other chemical shock products. This prevents damage to the cell and ensures proper shock effectiveness.
Pool vacuums work by creating suction or using pressure to remove debris from pool surfaces. There are three main types: suction-side, pressure-side, and robotic vacuums, each with different mechanisms and troubleshooting needs.
