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.
Above ground pools require proper installation on level ground, regular liner maintenance (lasting 6-10 years), and balanced water chemistry with chlorine levels based on CYA. This comprehensive guide covers everything from DIY installation to winterization and troubleshooting common issues.
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, you can swim during your period safely. Proper menstrual protection and maintaining balanced pool chemistry ensure hygiene and comfort for all swimmers.
You can shock a pool with high pH, but it reduces chlorine effectiveness significantly. Lower pH to 7.2-7.4 first for optimal shock treatment, or use 25-50% more chlorine if shocking immediately is necessary.
Yes, saltwater pools absolutely need cyanuric acid (stabilizer) to protect the chlorine generated by your salt cell from being destroyed by UV rays. Target levels should be 70-80ppm for optimal protection.
Salt water pool systems use electrolysis to convert dissolved salt into chlorine sanitizer. The salt cell generates chlorine from sodium chloride, eliminating the need to manually add chlorine while maintaining proper sanitation.
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.
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, you can absolutely do your own pool maintenance with the right knowledge and tools. The key components are weekly water testing, proper chemical balancing, regular cleaning, and basic equipment maintenance.
To clear cloudy pool water, test and balance your water chemistry, shock to the proper level based on your CYA, run the filter continuously, and maintain shock level until the water clears completely.
The only way to lower CYA (cyanuric acid/stabilizer) in a pool is through dilution - either by partial draining and refilling with fresh water, or using reverse osmosis treatment. CYA cannot be chemically neutralized.
Yes, cloudy pool water can make you sick by harboring harmful bacteria, viruses, and parasites that cause infections, skin irritation, and respiratory issues. The cloudiness indicates poor water quality and inadequate sanitation.
Yes, you can clean your pool liner with bleach, but only when properly diluted (1:10 ratio with water) and never use concentrated bleach directly on the liner as it can cause permanent damage.
