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.
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 can vacuum a pool without a skimmer using several methods: connecting directly to a dedicated suction line, using a manual vacuum with garden hose, employing a submersible pump, or utilizing a robotic pool cleaner.
Pool skimmers work by creating suction that draws surface water through a basket filter, removing debris like leaves and insects before water returns to the pump and filtration system.
Pool cleaners typically last 2-8 years depending on type. Robotic cleaners have the longest lifespan at 5-8 years, pressure cleaners last 4-6 years, and suction cleaners last 2-4 years with proper maintenance.
Fiberglass pools need calcium hardness maintained between 150-300 ppm for proper water balance and equipment protection. Lower levels than plaster pools are acceptable since fiberglass doesn't dissolve like concrete surfaces.
Yes, you absolutely need a pool pump. Pool pumps are essential for water circulation, filtration, chemical distribution, and preventing algae growth - your pool cannot function safely without one.
Pool filter cartridges typically last 2-4 weeks with proper maintenance, but actual lifespan depends on bather load, water chemistry balance, and cleaning frequency. Cartridges should be replaced when cleaning no longer restores proper flow.
Yes, Intex pools absolutely need chemicals to maintain safe, clean water. Like any pool, they require chlorine for sanitization, pH adjusters, and stabilizer to prevent algae growth and protect swimmers' health.
Backwash your pool sand filter for 2-3 minutes or until the water in the sight glass runs clear. This typically happens when your pressure gauge reads 8-10 PSI above the clean starting pressure.
