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.
Most Las Vegas pools operate year-round due to the desert climate, with peak season from May through October. Many commercial pools and resorts stay open 24/7 during peak months, while residential pools typically benefit from heating systems November through March.
Wait 24-48 hours after shocking your pool before adding algaecide, allowing chlorine levels to drop below 5 ppm. Test your water first to ensure proper chemical balance and maximum algaecide effectiveness.
Orlando pools in April typically reach 75-78°F naturally, which most people find comfortable for swimming. Pool heating is generally not necessary unless you prefer water temperatures above 82°F.
Yes, most pool owners need pH Up and pH Down chemicals to maintain the ideal pH range of 7.4-7.6, but you may not need both products depending on your water's natural tendencies.
Whether you need to winterize your pool depends on your climate zone. Areas with freezing temperatures require full winterization, while warmer regions need only reduced maintenance and chemical adjustments.
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.
Most Texas pools operate 8-10 months per year (March through November) due to the warm climate. With proper heating systems, many pools can stay open year-round in most Texas regions.
Yes, salt water pools do freeze, but at slightly lower temperatures than fresh water (around 28-32°F vs 32°F). The salt content provides minimal freeze protection, so proper winterization is still essential.
Add sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) to increase pool alkalinity - use 1.5 lbs per 10,000 gallons to raise alkalinity by 10 ppm. Test first, add slowly, and retest after 6 hours.
To backwash a pool filter, turn off the pump, set the multiport valve to BACKWASH, turn the pump back on for 2-3 minutes until water runs clear, then switch to RINSE for 30 seconds before returning to FILTER mode.
Yes, saltwater pools absolutely need cyanuric acid (stabilizer) to protect the chlorine generated by the salt cell from UV degradation. Maintain CYA levels between 70-80 ppm for optimal protection.
A properly winterized pool can stay closed for 6-8 months safely, while emergency closures should be limited to 2-4 weeks maximum. Beyond these timeframes, water chemistry deterioration and equipment damage risks increase significantly.
Salt water pools still require chemicals for proper water balance, including pH adjusters, stabilizer, and calcium hardness increasers. The salt chlorine generator only produces chlorine, not other essential chemicals needed for safe swimming water.
Most modern pool vacuums, especially robotic and suction-side cleaners, can safely run all night. However, proper setup and equipment condition are crucial for safe overnight operation.
