What is the difference between chlorine demand, and chlorine residual?

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Sophia Kra

In regards to a swimming pool

Answer
High chlorine demand is the inability to keep adequate chlorine in pool water, even though the water is balanced and properly maintained. Various contaminants increase oxidation levels, consuming chlorine faster than it can be replaced by automatic feeders or normal shocking. Symptoms can include slimy or slick pool walls and cloudy water, although water can be clear and still have a high chlorine demand. A sudden drop in cyanuric acid can be an indicator that there is a chlorine demand problem, as the CYA reading is often masked by the demand. If this occurs, do not add stabilizer. Another form of chlorine demand is a high level of combined chlorine that cannot be broken by successive shock applications. Often this is caused by the presence of ammonia in the water. This can come from fertilizers, pesticides, and even fill water.


1.Free available chlorine (or RESIDUAL CHLORINE) - is the amount of chlorine in the pool that can sanitise or disinfect the water and is the important measurement for us.
2.Combined chlorine - consists of undesirable, bad-smelling, irritating compounds which form when there isn't enough free available chlorine.
3.Total chlorine - is the total amount of chlorine in the water. It includes both free available and combined chlorine.
We are interested in how much available chlorine there is in the water - chlorine that can act on foreign substances in the water to keep the pool clean and safe for the swimmers.

Too little chlorine results in algal and bacterial growth, waterborne illnesses, cloudy water and insufficient sanitation of the water.

Too much chlorine can result in eye, nose and skin irritations. Remember, too, that the chlorine in the pool is carcinogenic and we should aim to keep its level to the minimum required for complete disinfection.

Test kits which use tablets rather than liquid reagents are preferred. The tablets are easier to use and provide more accurate results. Also make sure that the chlorine measuring tablets are "DPD" as only these can measure the free available chlorine.

how to clean my pool at home with only the cleaning tablets.?

mom

i have a 12'x30" pool it holds 1,718 gallons of water.the pump filters 530 gallons of water per hour. the pool by morning is green and slimmy. the bottom of the pool is covered in green and brown crud?

Answer
Cleaning your pool is a must to ensure bather comfort and protect your equipment. How to clean your pool is simple, and we've asked pool professional John Kistler to fill us in on the whys of pool cleaning.
Instructions
Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Steps:

Step 1 Use a manual brush and pool vacuum on all areas of the walls and floor at least once a week, even if your pool is equipped with an automatic system, says John Kistler of Sunflower Pool & Spa in Salina, Kansas. There are some places in every pool that the automatic cleaning systems miss.

Step 2 Pay particular attention to corners, stairs and other hard-to-reach areas that get little circulation.

Step 3 Keep your pool maintained. A clean pool is also a function of a working filtration system and proper pH levels. Use a sanitizer to help fight bacteria, and shock the pool on a regular basis (see How to Shock a Pool) to help keep it clean and crystal-clear.

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Are there companies that clean above ground pools?

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s_contr20

I know there are automatic above ground pool cleaners, but I would like to know if there are those who clean them for you.

Answer
They are out. I'm an example of one of those companies that will clean an above ground pool as that is what we specialize in. Just check through the yellow pages and makes some calls. If they won't do the work ask them if they will recommend someone or know who will do the work. Pool service is kind of a tight niche in a lot of areas and one company will usually know a few others in the area and what they would specialize in or offer as service. Also places like craiglists can be a good place to find local services at low cost, but it's 50 50 to the type of quality service you will get.

Bought an above ground automatic pool vacuum, suction too intense?

babagirls1

I bought a Dirt Devil automatic pool vacuum, hooked it up my hose, and the suction is too intense so it won't move around. Am I doing something wrong? I paid $150 for it and haven't used it once.

Thinking about selling it & getting a robot cleaner instead, but I'm afraid the suction might still be an issue. Help!!
What valve? lol On the filter?

Answer
i own a pool company.how long has it been since you back washed you filter? sounds like the pressure in your tank is too high

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What automatic pool vacuum works the best?

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bigredgevo

I want to buy an automatic pool cleaner and researched many. I came to a conclusion to either get a Polaris or Hayward. I saw many Haywards for sale on eBay and they complained that it gets stuck because of the shape of their pool. So now I am looking to get a Polaris 280. Can anyone explain the difference between Polaris 280, 360, 380, and basically all the numbers? I just need a pool vacuum that will do the job without me having to interfere with it.

Answer
Above ground pool or in-ground pool.
If it is an above ground pool, go for the Hayward BUG.
In-ground pool cleaners, I would have to say Hayward or Kreepy .
The fewer working parts the better.
All of these robots can get stuck, in some pools.

What kind of pool vacuum works well with the intex metal frame 16x48 pool?

Jolie

Help, I need to find a better vacuum for my intex 16x48 metal frame above ground pool. The one that came with it doesn't clean very well and I'm having a hard time finding a vacuum hose that fits my 2inch inlet adapter.

Answer
You can find automatic pool cleaners that are made for above ground metal frame pools on the website below.

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Planning on having a pool built in back yard?

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russrimm

So I'm finally going to do it. I have wanted an in-ground gunite pool all my life. I had a couple of builders out to measure and due to utility easements and sewer lines, etc, I can only get about a 10' x 30', not sure how big that is really, still have to 'map it out' in the yard. So my questions are - what options should I get? Is the colored luminescent light worth it? I'm thinking of getting the salt-water chlorination system as well. What about 250,000 BTU vs 400,000 BTU for the hottub? Any kind of 'arc fountain' type things? What's worth it and what's not? Is Jandy or Hayward better for pump/filter/automatic pool vacuum? Would it be worth it for me to pay an extra $500+ to have my sewer line re-directed?
P.S. I'm in Houston, TX

Answer
It sounds like money isn't that impotent to you so go for your dreams.

I like the fiber optic lights they are very nice. Save your money on the heater & go with the cheaper one, onece it is heated eather will maintain it at that size. Most people don't buy a heater at all & the ones that do most of them dont run them because it cost to much & thay don't use the pool enough to make it worth while. The sewer I would think thay would rerout it for free if you suply the pipe & cupplers to be able to sell you a bigger pool(it wouldn't hurt to ask since thay have to dig it up to start with or just have them dig it up & you lay the pipe). Go with the best filter he sells that you are willing to pay up frount for it will save you in chems & services in the long run. I would also like to add if you have seen the frogs & turtles that hook to the jet & swim around & clean your pool you should get one(This is the auto pool vac). These seem very expencive for what they are but most people don't have the time or disaplin to clean there pool & this will help alot. You know with that green look or the dirt on the bottum that you keep saying you will take care of tomarrow. One last thing get a very good pool cover. This is the most inportent part aside from the water & just after chems.

Have fun & good luck.

Simple directions for closing a pool for winter.?

luteachris

Please can I use the automatic cleaner for the leafs? There are not alot of them in their however it is already too cold to go in to get them. It does get very cold here. Also can I put a plate on the skimmer instead of draining below this. I have to buy water and don't want to waste if I don't have to.
Sorry the pool is new this year. It is an above ground 24 ft round.

Answer
Saving the water is wise. To remove the leaves Wal Mart or any pool place has a hand net type skimmer. Remove any mechanical skimmers and pumps drain the water from them so it does not freeze in them. Drain the water level down 4 to 6 inches from the swimming level. Put cover on the pool if you have an old auto tire inner tube fill with air and float it in the center of the pool and then put the pool cover on to keep the cover from sinking into the pool water when it rains or snows and from the weight of leaves on the pool cover. Thats basicly it untill spring and you need to begin the filters again to clean and shock the poool to swim in.

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what is the best vinyl variable depth automatic pool cleaner?

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Robin D

any suggestions? need an automatic cleaner that won't get hung up in the deep end or around the walk edge

Answer
iRobot makes the best pool cleaner but I have to tell you, they sure are proud of it. You'll know what I mean when you look at the price. What is so nice about it is that it will clean the steps, walls all the way to the top, and it's fast. They have two different models depending on the type of pool you have. You can google it (irobot) for locations to purchase.

What pool vacuum should a buy to clean an 18'x42' Easy Set Pool? Manually vacuuming it is not working!?

Tabitha Sc

Are there any automatic pool vacuums that will clean this type of pool? Thanks!

Answer
Try the website below. They have a good Hayward and Polaris model that are designed for above ground pools. They also have a section dedicated to inflatable pools.

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Discount Polaris Pool Cleaner?

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Jools

Does anyone know the best place to get a Polaris pool cleaner cheap online? I need a new one, but don't want to spend $800. Any good sites out there offering them at a steep discount? Thanks!

Answer
this page has a link for a polaris 280 with free shipping for 500 bucks.....not sure if thats cheap enough for you or not?
http://www.swimming-pool-information.com/pressure-type-automatic-pool-cleaners.html if you look on other pages on that site,they even have links to robotic self powered cleaners as low as 300 bucks!

Urgent!!! we moved in a new house and it has above ground pool, actually ...?

lala

only a frame of the pool with a desk half way around it. the Inspector came inand told us eather to take it out or fill it with water. I need help desiding what would be easier and cheaper. to take the pool out and redo the deck or buy all the needed thing for runing a pool. Also I have no clue on taking care of the pool cleanig, the chemicals and all that.
sorry for my bad spelling,, I didn't reread what I wrote..:-/
also any of you know any stores in St.Louis MO area where I can go look at the prices and ask more questions?

Answer
i'm kinda lost bout your question but i do know how to clean a pool!
depending on it's size, when you first open it you wanta add a bit of chlorine...it's also good to get one of those little things that float around in the water, and that hold chlorine tablets.
after a little while your water may become foggy, so it would be good to add pool shock... uhmm... lets see what else...

a solar cover would a good investment too, it basically heats your water...
if it's kind of a big sized pool.. you might want a pool cleaner...

http://www.intheswim.com/Pool-Equipment/Automatic-Pool-Cleaners-for-Above-Ground-Pools/Polaris-65-Automatic-Pool-Cleaner/

that's the type of system i have.

another really good thing to have is a pool water testing kit
it will test the ph level and chlorine level, they'll run you about $10

i know this stuff seems kind of expensive, but the only stuff you'll ever have to buy repeditively are pool chemicals

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Anyone have a Hayward Viper Pool Cleaner that doesn't work well?

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Man in the

I've got a year old Hayward Viper pool cleaner that stops after about 5 minutes. Pressure is fine, had internals check. Any ideas?

Answer
heres a link with a few tips on automatic cleaners...maybe one will fix your problem: http://www.swimming-pool-information.com/automatic-pool-cleaner-problems.html

How do you get rid of efflorescence on Pavers/Stones?

CuriousJor

My steps were built using Rinox pavers and I've got alot of efflorescence on them. The contractor told me that this was a normal process from the concrete curing process and that it goes away after a short while. It's almost 3 years later and It's still there. Does anyone know if this is going to go away or how to treat it. I find it so unattractive everytime I look at it.

Thanks

Answer
Cleaning and Sealing Paving Stones

STONESAVER® premium concrete surface cleaners, water repellent and sealers have been formulated to provide the best cleaning, preparation and sealing system on the market. Originally developed for the commercial paving surface industry, STONESAVER® products have been put to the test by many satisfied professionals for years before finally being offered to the retail public.



Rust Remover.

Removes stubborn rust stains from paving stones and concrete.


Citrus Oil Degreaser

Uses a unique blend of citrus extracts to removes oil and grease stains from paving stones and concrete.


Stripper

Removes paint, graffiti, rubber, tar and chewing gum from paving stones and concrete.


Cleaner and Surface Prep

Essential pre-sealing surface preparation ensures vibrant colour and proper sealer to surface bonding.
Removes efflorescence, dirt and tire marks from paving stones and concrete.
Complete with E-Z Spray auto mixing hose adaptor.


Paving Stone Sealer

Protects paving stones against salt, oil, rust, acid rain, UV colour fading and pool chemicals.
Premium formulation, high acrylic solids.
Colour enhancing wet look.
Will not peel, wears evenly.
Comes in 3.78L and 18L containersâ 1L covers 30 to 40 square feet.


How Long to Wait Until Sealing



Sealing should be done only after the natural efflorescence process has been given time to take place. Efflorescence, being a whitish powder, is the deposit of small quantities of cement from within the pavers on its top surface after a series of wetting (rainfall) and drying (warm weather) cycles. Because a series of wet/dry cycles are required, which are weather dependant, there is no exact time frame which applies to every situation. However, allowing 8 weeks, with a minimum of 4 precipitation events during that time, is a common rule of thumb.



Stain Removal

Between installation and sealing, some pavers may become stained due to foot and vehicle trafficâ this is common. However, it is important to remove these stains prior to sealing or else their appearance through sealing may become enhanced.



The first step is to inspect for any extremely stained, cracked or broken units which should be replaced. All items which cast shadows on the area (e.g. furniture) should be removed, if possible, to allow the area to dry evenly once stain removal and cleaning is completed. Similarly, automatic sprinkler systems should be turned off during cleaning and sealing operations.



Prior to using any of these products, refer to the respective productsâ

labels for personal protection, installation and first aid suggestions.



Start stain removal at the bottom of the pavement and work up the slope in manageable sections. This prevents untreated areas from becoming wet, which can hide some stains.



Rust Remover- Pre-wet the stained area with water. Apply a liberal amount of the stain remover to the stained area only and let stand for two minutes. Vigorously scrub the stain with a stiff bristle scrub brush and rinse immediately with generous amounts of water. Repeat if necessary.



Citrus Oil Degreaserâ Pre-wet the stained area with water. Apply a liberal amount of stain remover to the stained area and let stand for one minute. Vigorously scrub the stain with a stiff bristle scrub brush and rinse away cleaner and residue thoroughly with water (strong water pressure works best). Stains that have deeply penetrated into the pavers may resurface after initial cleaning and dryingâ repeat stain removal process if necessary.



Stripperâ Remove excess material with a scraper. Apply sufficient Stripper to cover the remaining stain. Allow product to stand for approximately 5 minutes. Do not let product dry on surface. Scrub stained area with a stiff bristle brush. Rinse thoroughly with water (strong water pressure works best). Repeat if necessary.



When all stains are removed, rinse the entire area down to ensure any residuals are washed away.



Cleaning Process



Once the stains are removed, the entire area should be thoroughly cleaned to remove any efflorescence and dirt. Note: Because of the effectiveness of the Surface Cleaner, spot cleaning will be noticeable in the final product; therefore, it is recommended that the entire area be cleaned.



Prior to starting each application, lightly pre-wet the area with water, as well as any vegetated areas that may be subject to overspray and/or runoff. As a precaution, delicate vegetation can be pulled back or covered to protect from overspray.



Concrete Cleaner- Simply attach your water hose to the inlet port of the E-Z sprayer and you are ready to start. Working quickly, start at the lowest point of your surface and work in 27 square metre (300 square feet) pre measured sections. Work side to side, making sure the entire surface is covered. If there is still cleaner remaining in the bottle after the section is done, apply the remaining cleaner as an additional spray over the same areaâ this will reinforce the cleaning application and prevent drying of the surface. Use a long handled stiff bristled broom to brush the treated area, loosening stubborn dirt and deposits. Rinse thoroughly (usually 5-6 rinses with a pressure sprayer until foaming is no longer visible. However, care should be taken to not blow or wash the sand from the jointsâ sand will remain in the joints if a wide spray nozzle is used and the angle of the spray is kept from directly penetrating the joints. Be sure to rinse all cleaner from the surface as you progress to additional sections until the entire surface is cleaned and thoroughly rinsed. Do not let the cleaner dry on surface or stand in low spots as this may stain the pavers; mist surface with water if it begins to dry.



When the entire surface is cleaned and well rinsed, allow to dry and inspect. Repeat application to the white (efflorescence) areas if necessary.



For vegetated areas that were subject to overspray or runoff, dilute the areas one last time with large quantities of clean water.



Sealing

Allow at least 24 hours without moisture or surface dampness before sealing. If the pavers and jointing sand are not totally dry (not just surface dry), moisture blushing may occur under the sealer after it is applied, or the sealer may become cloudy/white.



Never re-sand paving joints between cleaning and sealing applications as this will leave residue on the surface of the pavers.



Paving Stone Sealerâ For best results, use a lint free high pile roller and a metal paint tray, or airless sprayer, to apply the sealer. Apply at a temperature above 7 Degrees C (45 Degrees F). Apply sufficient sealer to fully saturate the surface and penetrate at least 15 mm (5/8â) into the jointing sand. Excess sealer on the surface should be pushed to an unsealed area with a rubber squeegee, which are effective in achieving good penetration but avoid bringing jointing sand to the surface of the pavers.



For surfaces being sealed for the first time, apply a second coat by rolling in a cross direction from the first coat. Allow one hour to dry between applications. Allow sealed surfaces to dry for 24 hours before using.

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what's the best automatic pool cleaner money can buy?

best automatic pool cleaner for the money image

Roger

Looking for a good pool cleaner, low on maintenence but high on effectiveness.

Answer
For suction side cleaners I like the Kreepy Krauly. For pressure side I'd go with Letro Legend.

Can anyone tell me what the best automatic in-ground pool cleaner is?

kittenscla

I just got an in-ground pool and am looking to purchase an automatic cleaner. I haved checked out all the info I can, but can't seem to come to a decision! I don't want to spend $700-$1000 on a product only to find out it doesn't work! I don't mind spending the money if I know it's going to be worth it!

Answer
Depends on the kind of dirt you need to pick up. Generally speaking, "suction side" cleaners that constantly vacuum your pool (hose goes into your skimmer) are best when you have mostly dust and dirt. They tend to have difficulty with larger debris like leaves and needles. If that is you main debris then I suggest a "pressure side" cleaner. Some of these have a booster pump, some don't. But they all use a hose with water pressure to propel them. They have a debris bag that will collect the leaves very well, but dust and dirt may go through the bag.

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I have a pool with a robotic shark sweeper. How long do you keep it on in hours per day?

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Sean K

I have a pool with a robotic shark sweeper. How long do you keep it on in hours per day?

Answer
We have a similar automatic pool cleaner (iRobot Verro), and I presume you are using a Tiger Shark Robotic pool cleaner, which is very similar. We use it twice a week (Wednesdays and Saturdays), and run it for approximately 4 hours each day (for a total of eight hours per week), but are pretty fortunate to have few trees near the pool. However, we do make adjustments for the amount of leaves that are falling to the bottom of the pool and often put the pool cleaner than just before pool parties, so the pool is nice and clean when people arrive to swim. Keeping the skimmer weir clean will really help to minimize how much you will want to use your pool cleaner. But there is no substitute for a pool cleaner's ability to get all the small sand and calcium flaking off the bottom of the pool. And there is no substitute for manually brushing steps and corners about once a week.

How much chlorine will I use in my pool?

z400wood

We just bought a house in MI with a 16x32 inground pool. I am getting ready to buy chemicals for it. The pool has an automatic chlorinator and I am wondering whether or not to buy 3" or 1" tabs or the sticks or whatever else there is. Also how many pounds of chlorine will I go through in the summer running the pump for 12 hours a day. Any other pool tips or chemical advice would be greatly appreciated.

Answer
You definetly DO have to chlorinate a private residential pool, otherwise you will very quickly have a swamp rather than a swimming pool. Go with the 3" tabs, they dissolve less quickly so you won't have to add tabs but about every one to two weeks ( I have some pools on my route that I only have to add once a month). As far as how much to buy, as with everything, the more you buy the more you save. It does not expire so if you have some left at the end of the season, just store until the next.

As far as other tips, the key to keeping a nice pool if preventative maintenance ( as with any investment).
I recommend taking one day a week (only an hour or so) and perform maintenance:
*clean the water line (with a tile/vinyl cleaner from your local pool store)
*Remove large debris from bottom of pool with a leaf rake (large deep net that attaches to the end of telescopic pole)
*empty skimmer and pump baskets
*vacuum pool
*clean filter according to filter type (backwash sand filter, *clean cartridge elements in cartridge filter, and for DE backwash and recharge with DE)
*Test chemicals -- Test Chlorine and pH weekly, Total Alkalinty biweekly, and Calcium Hardness monthly.

Recommended chemical levels:
Chlorine: 1-5 ppm
pH: 7.2-7.6
Total Alkalinity: 80-120 ppm
Calcium Hardness: 200-300 ppm

In addition to chlorine, you will need to purchase other chemicals for balancing, namely Sodium Bicarbonate (for Total Alkalinity), Soda Ash (for pH), and Calcium Chloride( for calcium). If you would ever need to lower the pH, use Muriatic Acid.

You can buy these chemicals at your local pool store. They will most likely try to sell you BioGuard or some other brand of pool chemicals. The ones that I named are what we call bulk chemicals, they come in 50 lb. bags and are much less expensive. They are the exact same thing, you're just not paying for advertisement. Again they do not go bad, so you can save them for years. Just make sure you store chemicals out of the elements.

I recommend getting yourself a good test kit (the best is made by Taylor). Do not use test strips as they are difficult to read and often wrong.

I see that you are in michigan. If you happen to be near the Saginaw/ Bay City area there is a great company there called Cherokee Pools. They have a retail store and also do service if you would ever need any repair work done.( My husband got his start with them years ago and we now own our own business in Myrtle Beach).

If you have any other questions I would be more than happy to answer them.

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what is the best automatic pool cleaner for a fiberglass pool?

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bslevin8

I am wondering what is the best pool cleaner for a fiberglass pool, i have heard many different opinions from stores trying to sell their products, some say baracuda X7 is the best then another store said no way for a fiberglass pool, that i should use polaris. Anyone have any input? what are my options?

Answer
i own a pool company.and have seen many different auto pool cleaners.( 13 years) and by far a polaris would be your best bet.however you would be better off if you by one online as it is cheaper.look for SWIMMING POOL DEALERS. buying one online you cut out the middle man because of the price mark up they have.if you go to a pool store expect to pay a thousand 1000.00 dollars or more.buy it online most of the time it is cheaper

what is the best vinyl variable depth automatic pool cleaner?

Robin D

any suggestions? need an automatic cleaner that won't get hung up in the deep end or around the walk edge

Answer
iRobot makes the best pool cleaner but I have to tell you, they sure are proud of it. You'll know what I mean when you look at the price. What is so nice about it is that it will clean the steps, walls all the way to the top, and it's fast. They have two different models depending on the type of pool you have. You can google it (irobot) for locations to purchase.

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What Chemicals Should I Use To Remove Green Algae From My Swimming Pool?

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kenne727

My pool has been looking very green lately. I have noticed that the bottom (the floor) and the walls of the pool are frequently greenish and needs to be vacuumed very often. But I want to know why this is the case. Is this because of algae growing? What chemicals should I buy. I know that shock and phosfree is needed. What effect will these chemicals have on the algae and water, and what do these chemicals do?

Thank you

Answer
Every pool owner has, at one time or another, done battle with the occasional algae bloom. Algae spores constantly enter the pool, brought in by wind, rain or even contaminated swimsuits or equipment.
Algae are a living aquatic creature that multiplies rapidly on warm, sunny days. Containing chlorophyll, algae utilizes photosynthesis to grow. That is, they take in carbon dioxide and expend oxygen as a byproduct. There are over 21,000 known varieties of algae and they classified into colors âgreen, yellow, black, pink.
Proper chemical balance and sanitizer residuals will prevent many opportunities for algae to bloom. High pH and low chlorine (or other sanitizer) can give algae a great start to genesis. General cleanliness of the pool is also important. Organic material and bacteria can contribute to algae growth.
Regular brushing of seemingly clean pools is not only good exercise for you, but prevents dirt from harboring in the pores of the plaster, which is a good start for an algae colony. Add unstabilized clorine granules (shock) to the pool. the amount of chlorine you add will depend on the capacity of your pool (150gr/10,000L or approx. 5oz of chlorine/2500gal of water). Vacuum the white residue from the bottom of the pool the next day. Clean your filter to remove any alga residue. Rebalance your pool water.
The cause of reoccurring algae, especially if it keeps appearing in the same places, is poor circulation. Often we find the return(s) of the pool (where water reenters the pool from the filter system) directed towards the surface of the pool. Dead spots are areas where little or no water is circulating. Even with main drains, the returns pointed upward to the surface mean little or no circulation on the bottom or lower areas of the walls. This results in little or no algaecide reaching these spots and algae never really being eradicated.
The there are ways to increase the area of circulation is to run your automatic cleaner. Even when the pool is not dirty, it helps to bring clean, just running your cleaner once a week can make a big difference in preventing algae from reoccurring. The best

How do I lower the alkalinity in my pool?

Tony

The alkalinity in my in ground pool (25K gallons) is very high. It takes 20 drops in the tester to produce clear test. I've already bought a new tester. My ph is normal. How do I lower the alkalinity without also lowering the PH too much? I have to add acid but won't that also lower th PH too much?

Answer
You can lower the alkalinity with muriatic acid. 1.3 pints per 10,000 gallons will lower it by 10ppm. 3.25 pints in your pool will lower it by 10ppm. To get to the level you need of approximately 100-120 you will need to use 26 pints of muriatic acid to reduce it by 80ppm or 3.25 gallons of liquid muriatic acid.

You are testing the TA and getting 200ppm for your inground pool right? Make sure you walk a perimeter around the pool while pouring this in and wear proper safety equipment (eye protection and gloves) as muriatic acid is a diluted form of hydrochloric acid. Make sure you turn off any automatic chlorinators or remove chlorine pucks/sticks from the pool and NEVER let muriatic acid come into direct contact with chlorine products. Once in the water it will play safe but outside of water it will create chlorine gas which will kill a human in a matter of minutes.

You can get muriatic acid from the pool store or a local hardware store (sold as a cleaning agent).

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Anyone here know why water makes a stain in the bathtub?

automatic swimming pool cleaning equipment image

B

My water makes a pink slimy stain when it pools up somewhere for a day or two. It stains the drain and the toilet. Also, when you leave a few drops of water in the bathtub, a pink stain appears. Its gross, it comes off with soap. But I wonder why it does that?

Answer
Check this out....it is off the internet:

What White Water Mold is & what it looks like:

a naturally occurring bacterium (of the newly formed genus Methylobacterium) (this is NOT a form of Algae, it is animal not vegetable)
Pink-pigmented, forms a heavy, protective slime coating providing the organism with an unusually high level of protection, methanol consuming, oftentimes found WITH White Water Mold
that is very resilient against halogen-based (chlorine, bromine) as well as non-halogen sanitizers or germicides can remain a contaminant even after treatment
this is NOT a biguanide problem ONLY
bacterium has an affinity for the matrix that exists on the surface of PVC plastics; it will attach itself to & inside of the matrix, allowing it to re-contaminate long after it appears that it has been destroyed (includes pool toys, floats, ladders, steps, fountains, automatic pool cleaner parts, skimmer baskets, weirs, directional fittings, garden hoses, etc.)
small quantities can lead to a re-establishment of the problem
caused by improper water & pool maintenance, environment, poor circulation
prefers areas that are "dark" (not exposed to direct sunlight) & with "slow moving" water
** in another industry, medical technology, this bacterium occurs regularly in laboratory tubing

White Water Mold & Pink Slime are NOT CAUSED BY USING BIGUANIDES (Soft Swim, Baquacil, Polyclear, etc.)!
It is an environmental issue.

Prevention:
Prevention of "white water mold" & "pink slime" is preferred over treatment. Follow these steps to help prevent white water mold:
1. Physically brush & clean ALL Spa surfaces weekly, including steps, jet recesses, & behind pillows
2. Expose ALL pool surfaces to as much sunlight as possible (sunlight & UV are natural
oxidizers)
3. Remove the lid from the skimmer to allow sunlight into the basket for several hours each
day ** INGROUND POOLS MUST USE EXTREME CAUTION in doing this in order to avoid
a person falling into or otherwise injuring themselves due to an open skimmer.
4. Regularly add oxidizing chemicals into the skimmer to purge & clean the filtration lines of
any bio-film*
5. When adding make-up water from the garden hose, allow the water to run for 2 to 3
minutes before putting the hose into the pool.
6. Regularly clean spa & hot tub toys & floats (use BioGuard® Stow Away)
7. Regularly clean pool solar blanket (use BioGuard® Stow Away)
8. Chemically clean pool filter every 4 to 6 weeks (use SpaGuard® Filter Cleaner or SoftSoak® Filter Cleaner)
9. Add regular Maintenance dosages of "Shock" (SpaGuard® Spa Shock, SpaGuard® Enhanced Shock, SpaGuard® Chlorinating Concentrate, SpaGuard® Brominating Concentrate or SoftSoak® Shock) every week as prescribed
10. Run the filter a minimum of 6 hours daily to prevent "dead spots" in the pool
11. Remember to clean & rinse the brushes, hoses & vacuums that you use to clean the spa
12. Leave as much of your spa equipment exposed to the sun
13. Keep the water balanced at all times. Recheck after heavy usage or rain or large "top-offs" of new water. Water balance refers to Free Available Sanitizer level, pH, Total Alkalinity, Calcium Hardness.

Are little bubbles supposed to be coming out of a sand filter on a swimming pool?

Beto24

On our swimming pool, little tiny bubbles are coming out of the sand filter. Is this normal? it looks like when someone spits on the ground, those kind of little bubbles. Is this normal?
Thanks
the bubbles are coming out in the pool from where the pump returns the water back into the pool.

Answer
Bubbles out the pool returns generally indicate one of two things.A suction leak or an obstruction in the suction line. First things that you can do.
1/ A small suction leak. Check the incoming plumbing connections to your pump. Also check the drain plugs on the front end of the pump to make sure the gaskets are ok or the teflon tape is fine and that they're snug. Check the pump lid gasket to see that it's properly seated and not damaged. If it's cracked it's time to replace it.
If you use an automatic cleaner that relies on being hooked up to the skimmer, check the hoses and connections for it for leaks. While you're at it, check to see if it's tried to eat something it can't swallow. A twig caught in the cleaner head can cause cavitation as the water rushes around it and be the source of a little air as it literally beats gas out of solution.
2/ Time to call a pool tech.
There may be something stuck in the pump's impeller blades or the pump's volute may have a faulty gasket between it and the pump body. The shaft seal may also be leaking. Water dripping under the motor with no obvious source, is a dead give away for this. There may also be a slight suction leak between the equipment and the skimmer. If this is an above ground, an easy fix, but if an in ground pool a tech is your best bet.
One last thing that's possible but unlikely is that the suction line has too many 90 degree elbows too close together in the line. This can cause cavitation as the water changes course in the line.

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what is the best above groung automatic pool cleaner?

automatic pool cleaner above ground image

chris j

what do u guys and gals think the best above ground AUTOMATIC pool cleaner is the best. i have a baracuda zippy now it did ok for a while now its just dead. please give me some SERIOUS answers. i know my kids can do it. im looking for some advice. thanks you in advance.

Answer
I do realize you said serious advice ... but I can't help myself. Actually I have a "spider" cleaner that I sometimes have used in my above ground pool - BUT ... in all seriousness - I now have a "pool boy" ... not the speedo kind - but a gentleman that comes weekly from my pool chemical supply place for a cost of only $35 weekly + chemicals. Money well spent! Just wanted to let you know to check into it because it is probably more affordable than you realize. The fellow brings chemicals and adds them as needed and that cost then is added to my charge ticket.

It is nice to not have to worry about time consuming (although relaxing) cleaning. It never gets out of hand due to weather or heat etc. All we have to do is come in from work & enjoy the water.

Good luck.

does anyone know how to fix a robo Kleen above ground pool cleaner?

IBnkc

My Robo Kleen automatic above ground pool cleaner worked at first, then it began running a little forward and a little backwards then it stopped altogether?

Answer
Is this the one that runs on pool suction ? I had one that ran that way and it would clog up if leaves or debris got in it.

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I have a pool with massive amounts of leaves, twigs, and worms at the bottom. Anyone have any ideas?

automatic pool cleaner with bag image

Vince

I have a sand filter with a waste setting that allows me to pump garbage out of the pool but i have no idea if it can handle all those worms, twigs and leaves.

Answer
Try to physically remove the debris (or as much as you can) from the pool first. Scooping around with a leaf net attached to your telepole is the best way. You can lower the water level a bit to help you see down there, but if it's as bad as you say, it very likely will clog the pump basket, pump impeller, etc. Do not add any chemicals until most of the debris is out. (Chlorine, for example, will take a thousand leaves and break them up into a million little pieces, making an even bigger mess to clean up.... it will work ok on the worms, though.)

There is what's known as a leaf canister that attaches to your vacuum hose that would help if you're looking to vacuum the debris to waste. It will catch the debris in its bag and prevent the pump from clogging up. (It is a special type for use in vacuum hoses - Leslie's should carry it... internet searches turn up the ones for automatic cleaners.) It would just need to be emptied a few times... (or more)... much easier than taking apart the pump.

Pros and cons of getting a backyard pool?

poolgirl22

Inground. I guess I know the pros. Wanting to know if the pros outweigh the cons. I have a 5 & 10 yr old. Is maintaining it overly costly or time consuming. I would be the pool guy.

Answer
Get the pool, but only if you are willing to "feed it" just as you would a pet. DAILY-- even when you can't use it because it's too cold. You must commit to cleaning (made easier by automatic cleaners), checking and adjusting chemicals, emptying bags and baskets, adding water to it. Higher utility bills are a given. Pools don't cost much in repairs UNTIL the warranties expire. Then get ready!
And, most importantly, do NOT buy price! Quality costs money. Remember, this fixture is attached to your property and can add to-- or take away from-- your property value. It will not add as much value as it's cost, however.
Consider a pool as you would a room addition. An outdoor room!

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what is the best automatic pool cleaner for a fiberglass pool?

best automatic pool cleaner for fiberglass pool image

bslevin8

I am wondering what is the best pool cleaner for a fiberglass pool, i have heard many different opinions from stores trying to sell their products, some say baracuda X7 is the best then another store said no way for a fiberglass pool, that i should use polaris. Anyone have any input? what are my options?

Answer
i own a pool company.and have seen many different auto pool cleaners.( 13 years) and by far a polaris would be your best bet.however you would be better off if you by one online as it is cheaper.look for SWIMMING POOL DEALERS. buying one online you cut out the middle man because of the price mark up they have.if you go to a pool store expect to pay a thousand 1000.00 dollars or more.buy it online most of the time it is cheaper

My Poolshark Auto Pool Cleaner has left mark on fibreglass pool.Has this happened to you, will it damage pool?

poolconsum

We recently installed a Pentair Water Poolshark Automatic Pool cleaner and it seems to have left a white line mark, that is rough to touch, on the bottom of all sides of the pool and especially the corners. Has anyone else had this experience and will it damage the pool. Thank you.

Answer
id call pool shark maybe its missing a piece of trim or something

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