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.
Yes, diatomaceous earth (DE) pool filters require regular backwashing, typically every 4-6 weeks or when the pressure gauge reads 8-10 PSI above the clean starting pressure. After backwashing, you must add fresh DE powder to recharge the filter.
Pool pillows are essential for winter pool closing in freeze-prone areas. They absorb ice expansion pressure, preventing damage to pool walls and equipment.
Running a pool pump without a filter will damage your pump's impeller, allow debris to circulate, and create dangerous pressure imbalances. Only run briefly in emergencies while replacing the filter cartridge or cleaning DE/sand media.
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, you can vacuum a pool on recirculate, but it won't filter debris - it only circulates water back to the pool. This setting is useful for extremely dirty pools to avoid clogging your filter system.
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.
Pool antifreeze is necessary if your pool equipment and plumbing lines can't be completely drained or if temperatures regularly drop below freezing. Use only propylene glycol-based pool antifreeze, never automotive antifreeze.
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.
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.
Never shock your pool with the solar cover on. Always remove the solar cover before adding any chemicals, allow proper circulation for 1-2 hours, then replace the cover once chemicals are distributed.
Yes, you can clean pool filters with diluted household bleach (1 part bleach to 10 parts water), but avoid bleach on DE filters and always rinse thoroughly afterward to prevent equipment damage.
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.
To raise pool alkalinity, add sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) at 1.5 pounds per 10,000 gallons to increase alkalinity by 10 ppm. Test first, add chemicals slowly, and retest after 6 hours.
Above ground pools typically last 7-15 years, with steel frame pools lasting longest (10-15 years) and inflatable pools shortest (2-5 years). Proper maintenance, water chemistry, and winterization can significantly extend their lifespan.
