The SLAM method (Shock Level And Maintain) clears green pools by maintaining high chlorine levels continuously until water clears. Use liquid chlorine to reach shock level based on CYA, maintain 24/7 until overnight chlorine loss is 1ppm or less.
Yes, pool chemicals can cause rashes through unbalanced water chemistry, excessive chlorine exposure, or pH imbalances. The key is maintaining proper chemical balance and testing regularly to prevent skin irritation.
Most states don't require a license for basic pool cleaning services, but commercial pool service businesses may need business licenses or permits. Chemical handling and pool maintenance involving equipment repairs often have additional requirements.
No, you should not use pool chlorine tablets in your toilet. Pool tablets contain trichlor which is too concentrated for toilets and can damage plumbing, create toxic gases, and pose serious health risks.
Pool chlorine can make you sick when levels are too high (causing irritation) or too low (allowing harmful bacteria). Proper chlorine levels of 1-4 ppm based on your CYA level prevent illness.
Pool chlorine does not make your skin darker. The sun exposure you get while swimming in the pool causes tanning, not the chlorine itself. Chlorine can actually make skin more sensitive to UV rays.
To raise pool stabilizer levels, add cyanuric acid at 1.3 pounds per 10,000 gallons to increase CYA by 10 ppm. Use granular stabilizer in a sock method or liquid stabilizer for faster results.
Above ground pool liners typically last 15-20 years, but harsh winter conditions can reduce this lifespan by 2-3 years if not properly winterized. Proper water level maintenance, chemical balance, and cover protection are essential for winter liner preservation.
Cloudy pool water can be dangerous to your health as it often indicates the presence of harmful bacteria, parasites, and contaminants. Never swim in cloudy water - clear it first using proper shock treatment.
You can swim after shocking once free chlorine drops to 4 ppm or below, typically 8-24 hours depending on shock type and dosage. Test water before entering and ensure pH is balanced.
You should wait until chlorine levels drop below 5 ppm before covering your pool after shocking. Covering too early can trap high chlorine concentrations and damage your pool cover.
Pool chlorine can burn your skin, especially in concentrated form or when pool chemistry is imbalanced. Proper handling of chemicals and maintaining correct chlorine levels (1-3 ppm) prevents most skin irritation and burns.
Pool stabilizer (cyanuric acid) dissolves slowly and requires warm water, agitation, and patience. The most effective methods are pre-dissolving in a bucket with hot water or using the sock method directly in your pool.
While pool chlorine can technically clean some household surfaces, it's not recommended due to safety risks and potential damage. Household bleach or specialized cleaners are safer alternatives.
Yes, saltwater pools absolutely need calcium hardness maintained between 200-400 ppm depending on surface type. Low calcium can damage equipment and surfaces, while high levels cause scaling on the salt cell.
