To raise pool pH, add sodium carbonate (soda ash) for quick increases or sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) for gradual increases. Test first, calculate dosage based on pool size, and add chemicals slowly with circulation running.
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.
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.
You can vacuum your pool after adding most chemicals, but timing matters. Wait 15-30 minutes for liquid chemicals to circulate, and 2-4 hours for granular chemicals to fully dissolve before vacuuming.
Clear cloudy pool water by testing and balancing your chemistry first, then shock with liquid chlorine to 3x your CYA level and run your filter 24/7 until the water clears completely.
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.
Yes, you should shock your pool before closing it for winter, but timing is crucial. Shock 24-48 hours before adding winterizing chemicals to ensure proper sanitization without chemical conflicts.
Yes, you can shock your pool two days in a row if your chlorine levels haven't reached the proper shock level or if you're treating algae. However, test your water first to avoid over-chlorination.
Solar pool heaters work by circulating pool water through dark collectors that absorb solar energy and transfer heat to the water. The heated water returns to your pool through a system of pumps, valves, and controllers.
Yes, you absolutely need to wash pool filter sand before installation. New sand contains dust, debris, and fine particles that will cloud your pool water if not properly cleaned first.
You can shock your pool during the day, but it's less effective due to UV rays breaking down chlorine. Evening shocking after sunset provides better results and longer-lasting sanitization.
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.
Pool jets can indeed leak from loose fittings, cracked housings, or plumbing connections behind the wall. Most jet leaks occur at the fitting where the jet screws into the return line or from deteriorated gaskets and O-rings.
You can close a green pool, but it's not recommended as algae will worsen over winter. Either treat the algae with SLAM method before closing, or use extra winterizing chemicals and accept potential spring cleanup issues.
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.
