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.
Pool opening involves removing winter covers, inspecting equipment, reconnecting plumbing, and balancing water chemistry. Start with equipment inspection, fill and reconnect systems, then shock and balance chemicals before swimming.
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.
Most pool owners do need a pool vacuum for thorough cleaning, but the type depends on your pool size, debris load, and maintenance preferences. Manual vacuums work for small pools with light debris, while automatic cleaners are essential for larger pools or heavy leaf loads.
Yes, Lowe's carries a variety of pool vacuums including manual, automatic, and robotic models both in-store and online. Their selection includes popular brands like Hayward, Pentair, and Dolphin with prices ranging from $30 for basic manual vacuums to $1,500+ for premium robotic cleaners.
Yes, you can run your pool pump with a solar cover on. The pump will still circulate water effectively underneath the cover, and this is actually recommended for maintaining water quality.
Connect your vacuum head to telescoping pole and hose, prime the system by submerging the hose underwater until bubbles stop, then attach to skimmer and systematically vacuum in overlapping strokes.
Yes, Costco does carry pool vacuums both in-store and online, primarily during pool season (March-August). They typically stock robotic cleaners from brands like Dolphin and Polaris, plus manual vacuum heads and hoses.
Yes, Walmart carries pool vacuums both in-store and online, including manual, automatic, and robotic models. Selection varies by season and location, with the best inventory available from spring through summer.
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.
Yes, you absolutely need a pool skimmer - it's essential equipment that removes surface debris and maintains proper water circulation. Skimmers are required by most building codes and without them, your pool would quickly become dirty and potentially unsafe.
A vacuum plate is needed when your pool skimmer lacks a dedicated vacuum port or when you want to maintain skimming action while vacuuming. It blocks the skimmer basket area and redirects suction to your vacuum hose.
Cleaning a salt water pool requires testing and balancing chemistry (FC, pH, CYA), maintaining the salt cell, and regular physical cleaning of surfaces and equipment.
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.
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.
