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.
Pool filters come in three main types: sand filters (low maintenance, 5-7 year lifespan), cartridge filters (easy cleaning, 1-2 year replacement), and DE filters (finest filtration, requires backwashing every 4-6 weeks).
Most salt water pool cells can be rebuilt by replacing the titanium plates and internal hardware, typically costing 50-70% less than a new cell. However, rebuilding is only worthwhile if the cell housing is intact and you have technical skills.
Pool covers cannot replace safety fences in most jurisdictions. Safety covers must meet ASTM standards and be automatic, but local codes typically require permanent barriers like fences around pools.
Cloudy pool water results from poor filtration, chemical imbalance, or contaminants. Fix by testing chemistry, shocking to proper FC/CYA ratio, and running filtration 24/7 until clear.
Most inground pools don't need liners - concrete/gunite and fiberglass pools have built-in surfaces. Only vinyl inground pools require liners, which need replacement every 8-12 years.
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, you can clean above ground pools with unscented liquid household bleach (5.25-6% sodium hypochlorite), but liquid pool chlorine is more cost-effective and easier to dose.
While pool pH down and hydroponic pH down both lower pH, pool chemicals often contain additives that can harm plants. Use pH adjusters specifically designed for hydroponics to ensure plant safety and optimal nutrient uptake.
Whether you need a winterizing kit depends on your climate and pool type. Kits are convenient but you can buy individual chemicals separately for better value and quality control.
Yes, Walmart does carry pool chemicals both in-store and online, including chlorine tablets, liquid shock, pH adjusters, and algaecides. However, selection varies by location and season, with limited availability of professional-grade products.
You only need pool salt if you have a saltwater chlorinator system installed. Traditional chlorine pools don't use salt, while saltwater pools require 3,200-4,000 ppm of salt to operate properly.
Yes, you can use pool filter balls instead of sand in your sand filter. Filter balls provide superior filtration, are lighter to handle, and last longer than traditional sand while requiring the same basic maintenance routine.
Yes, you can replace an above-ground pool liner yourself with proper preparation and tools. Most pool owners with basic DIY skills can complete this project in 4-6 hours with help from 2-3 people.
Yes, saltwater pools still need chemicals including pH adjusters, alkalinity increasers, stabilizer, and calcium hardness increasers. The salt chlorine generator only produces chlorine - you must manually balance all other water chemistry parameters.
