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.
Yes, you absolutely need proper alkalinity in your pool water. Alkalinity acts as a pH buffer, preventing rapid pH swings and maintaining water balance for swimmer comfort and equipment protection.
In Florida, above ground pools typically require permits if they hold more than 5,000 gallons of water or are deeper than 24 inches. Requirements vary by county, so check with your local building department before installation.
Pool covers are highly effective at preventing algae by blocking sunlight and reducing debris, but they don't eliminate the need for proper chemical balance and filtration.
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.
Most pool chemicals take 2-8 hours to fully circulate and settle, depending on the type of chemical and your pump runtime. Always wait before retesting water levels.
You need a pool heater if you live in a climate where water temperatures drop below 78°F during your desired swimming season, or if you want to extend your pool usage beyond the natural warm months.
Yes, salt pools absolutely need CYA (cyanuric acid) stabilizer to protect the chlorine produced by your salt water generator from UV degradation. Salt pools actually require higher CYA levels (70-80 ppm) compared to traditional chlorine pools (30-50 ppm).
Yes, you need to run your pool pump regularly for proper filtration and circulation, but not 24/7. Most pools need 8-12 hours daily, with timing based on pool size, bather load, and seasonal conditions.
Yes, saltwater pools absolutely need calcium hardness maintained between 200-400 ppm depending on surface type. Low calcium can damage equipment and surfaces, while high levels cause scaling on the salt cell.
Yes, most Walmart stores carry pool vacuums in-store during pool season (April-September), including manual, automatic, and robotic models. Availability varies by location and season.
Most Florida pool owners benefit from a heater, especially in Central and North Florida where winter temperatures can drop pool water into the 60s. Even South Florida pools may need heating for year-round comfort.
Yes, you can turn your pool pump off at night in most cases, but your pump should run 8-12 hours daily for proper circulation and filtration. The key is ensuring adequate daily runtime for your pool size and conditions.
You can typically swim 15-30 minutes after adding granular stabilizer if properly dissolved, or immediately after adding liquid stabilizer. The key is ensuring complete dissolution and proper circulation.
Yes, you can pre-dissolve pool stabilizer (cyanuric acid) in warm water before adding it to your pool. This method actually improves distribution and reduces the time needed for complete dissolution.
