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).
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.
Salt water pools use electrolysis to generate chlorine from dissolved salt, requiring proper water chemistry balance including pH, alkalinity, and CYA levels. They still need regular maintenance and chemical adjustments despite producing their own chlorine.
Pool pumps require regular maintenance and troubleshooting to operate efficiently. Common issues include low water flow, unusual noises, and electrical problems that can often be resolved with proper diagnosis and maintenance.
Pool filter lifespan depends on the type: cartridge filters last 1-2 years, sand filters last 5-7 years, and DE filters last 8-10 years. Replace when cleaning becomes ineffective or damage occurs.
Variable speed pool pumps can save 50-90% on energy costs compared to single speed pumps and are required by law in many areas. They're worth the investment for most pool owners despite higher upfront costs.
Pool filter sand should not be used in aquariums as it contains sharp edges, chemical treatments, and lacks the proper grain size for fish safety. Use aquarium-specific sand instead.
To measure pool length, use a measuring tape from the waterline at one end to the other, measuring the longest straight distance. For irregular pools, measure multiple sections and add them together.
Above ground pool pumps typically last 5-10 years depending on quality, usage, and maintenance. Higher-end pumps with proper care can reach 10-15 years, while budget models may only last 3-5 years.
Above ground pools typically last 7-15 years, with resin pools lasting longest (10-15 years), followed by aluminum (8-12 years), and steel pools (7-10 years). Proper maintenance, water chemistry, and climate protection significantly extend lifespan.
You need a new pool filter if it's damaged, cleaning doesn't restore flow, or it's reached its replacement schedule (1-2 years for cartridge, 5-7 years for DE grids, 10-15 years for sand). Check for tears, reduced flow, and cleaning frequency to determine replacement needs.
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.
Yes, above ground pools can be converted to salt water, but you need to verify liner compatibility, install a properly sized salt water generator, and maintain CYA levels between 70-80 ppm for optimal performance.
Connect your pool vacuum by attaching the vacuum head to telescoping pole, connecting vacuum hose from head to skimmer, and priming the system by submerging the hose completely underwater before turning on the pump.
Yes, a pool sand filter can be too big, causing poor water clarity due to insufficient backwash velocity and channeling. Proper sizing should match your pump's flow rate at 15-20 GPM per square foot of filter area.
