Best Automatic Pool Cleaner: 2014-06-08

Sabtu, 14 Juni 2014

What is the best automatic pool cleaner?

I have a below ground pool and am trying to find reviews on automatic pool cleaners. Consumer Reports doesn't seem to have anything on the subject :( Can anyone lend some insight and perspective on automatic pool cleaners and make a recommendation? Much thanks in advance.

Answer
Suction-Side Automatic Pool Cleaners

In researching suction-side cleaners, weâve found that the Stanley PoolTec DLX In-Ground Automatic Pool Vacuum Cleaner is the newest and most innovative way to keep your pool clean. The trusted brand of Stanley, with its master craftsmanship and innovative design provides a cleaner that is easy to install and operate and provides continuous cleaning of most in-ground pools. Operating with your poolâs filter, this suction cleaning mechanism maintains a proper angle for optimal performance while cleaning pools with depths of 9 ft.

Pressure-Side Automatic Pool Cleaners

If you are looking for a pressure-side cleaner and you want your pool cleaned quickly and completely, we recommend the Kreepy Krauly Legend cleaner from Pentair. A host of design features combine to keep the Legend cleaner on the move, thoroughly cleaning most pools in just 1 to 3 hours. The debris channel and large intake throat handles leaves, twigs and other large debris with ease. The Front-wheel drive generates maximum traction on inclined surfaces for total coverage of pool bottom and walls. The independent booster pump helps provide optimum cleaning power and unimpeded surface skimming. Another great feature is that disposable cleaner bags are also availableâno need to empty or touch debris again.

Robotic / Electronic Automatic Pool Cleaners

Many consumers are now selecting incredibly efficient robotic units as their cleaners of choice. These are great at cleaning small debris and sand as well as one of the only types that clean and scrub the walls and tile line. The Dolphin Supreme M3 and M4 from Maytronics are great options for robotic cleaners. These award-winning models have features that are designed for customers and are backed by the Maytronics name which has provided 25 years of technological leadership. Not only are Dolphin M3 and M4 energy efficient (average cost of less than $0.15 to clean the pool), but they have weekly timers where a user can preset cleanings throughout the week.

Here are some more links to more information. I hope this helps.

I am looking to purchase an automatic pool cleaner, any suggestions? ?

Chris

I have an in-ground vinyl liner pool that is 17x36. At its deepest point, it is 8.5 feet deep with sloped walls and tight corners going down. (Someone called it a diving pool?) I want one that is self contained and doesn't hook up to my filter. I was originally looking at the Dolphin Diagnostic Advantage (DL2019) In-Ground Robotic Pool Cleaner but am open for suggestions. Anyone have any experience with these or can throw me some pros or cons of a different type? I am not willing to spend more than a $1,000.00.

Answer
Look at any of the Polaris products. They come in several different types of pool cleaners and price range.

Google:

Reviews and prices on automatic pool cleaners.

:-)

Jumat, 13 Juni 2014

Above ground pool vac.?

Karen M

I have been looking at automatic above ground pool vacuums and i was wondering what one you would say to be the best. I have seen the Zodiac Baracuda Zoom and Ranger and they seem like good machines but i havent been able to find any reviews on either of them and for that hefty a price i would like to know what i am really getting. Any help is greatly appreciated.

Answer
My mom's colleague has a Baracuda Zoom and she said its the best thing she ever bought...she just lets it go and wah-lah, your pool is CLEAN!!! I would recomend it to you.

Why is my pool green and how do I fix it?

Q. My pool is this freaky green color. I moved into this house a little more than a year ago, and since then I have never had any problems with the pool. Well, usually, I let my parents take care of it since they're afraid I'm going to "fall into the pool and drown". But it's our first time ever having a pool, so my family knows zilch about pH levels, how much chlorine to put, and basically everything about a pool. We clean it with that net thing and have this automatic vacumn machine, but since it's summer, everyone's been really busy and we haven't been as careful. Now on the steps of the pool, there's this dark brown-green mold-like thing. So can somebody explain how to properly take care of the pool and how to fix this problem with the green water? Yes, there's a few flowers and leaves (we have this huge tree shadowing our house, and out neighbor's huge flower hedge contributes, too), but it's really minimum - just a few floating on the surface. And the green-brown moldish thing is only on the steps of the pool. Thanks.

Answer
You are starting to get an algae bloom in your pool. I can't tell you how much of a particular chemical to add because I don't have access to test your water, nor did you say how many gallons of water are in your pool.

An algae bloom happens to everyone sooner or later. You will have to shock the heck out it and add an algacide. Hand vacuum the algae off your steps and anywhere else you see starting to develop. Most importantly, NOW, take a water sample to you local pool supply store and have them test it. The test is free. From that it will be accurately determined what type and levels of chemicals will need to be added. Worst case scenario is that you will have to drain your pool, scrub it, rinse it and refill it.

An algae bloom can take over your entire pool in just a few days.

What is the best automatic pool cleaner?

What is the best automatic inground pool cleaner? What brand and price?

Francaise

Its a vinyl inground pool. Rectangular 18x36. Also budget is an issue, I am looking at spending $500 or less.

Answer
After 25 years of hearing how great floor head systems are, I have come to a conclusion. If your pool would have stayed looking nice with any cleaning system in your pool, it will stay nice with a floor head system.
If you plan on owning a pool for 5-6 years, or longer, in my opinion the best cleaning system(Dollar for Dollar) is a Polaris 280 with a booster pump and a separate time clock. The reasons are as follows:
1.)Low cost of repairs. I have clients with Polaris 180âs that are 25 years old. (The 280 has the same drive system.) Total repair costs in 25 years are less than $300.00 total (Not counting bag replacements.) I Personally, have owned a Polaris 280 for almost 5 years and have not spent a dime. (other than on 2 bags, and one of them was torn by my kids, and the other by a big pine cone. )

2.)It will clean most pools spotless in 10-20 minutes per day. You have seen our (5) 40â plus Ponderosa pines that overhang our pool area. Not counting steps and love seat, if we keep the bag cleaned, the floor stays spotless.

3.)Initial installation costs should be in the $1400.00-1600.00 range. Floor head systems are usually about double the initial expense. Also, the motor for the cleaning system is usually a 2 H.P. or larger, and the pool needs to run for substantially greater times to even get close to what a Polaris will do in Â½ hour or less. Also, if you are not the initial purchaser of the system, you will not get a lifetime warrantee. Replacement gear systems, floor heads, â¦ can average more than $200.00 per year after the first 2 year, not to mention if the cleaner is not working correctly, i.e. heads jammed in the up position, actuator gears jammed, â¦ you are running that large motor with absolutely no cleaning going on. Any way you look at it, running a Â¾ H.P. booster motor for 20-30 minutes is going to be a lot cheaper than running a 2 H.P. for 3-4 hours. Add into this that most motors run for more than 2 hours per day seem to have a life span in the 5-6 year range, and that a 2 H.P. motor is about double the cost, I cannot see spending the money.

4.)Suction side cleaners have a lower initial cost, but are annoying because either they will not pick up sticks, twigs, small rocks, â¦ or they will, and then they will completely stop working until you spend 10 minutes pulling them out and cleaning the debris out of them. Some of these will end up needing replacement parts just because of punctured diaphragms, â¦ This is in addition to an average annual repair cost of about $200-250, after the first year or two. In less than 5 years(More likely 3 years), if you add in electricity savings, pool cleanliness and thus chemical costs savings, and electrical savings, you have more than paid for the Polaris. If you add to this the fact that, if you have a suction side cleaner, you will have had to bring it in to the shop at least 4-5 times, having a non-functional cleaning system, thus a horridly dirty pool at least 4-5 times, the fact that often it dies a slow death each time so your pool doesnât look right for months prior to each rebuilding, and the repeated hassles of needing to unplug the system when ever any ârealâ debris ends up in the pool, and I wonât have anything else in my pool, or my families pools. To summarize, If you are buying a cleaner and are selling the home quickly, I would probably go with a pool Vac(if there are no rocks, sticks, big leaves, â¦ In other words, dirt only, but your annual repair costs will be high) or a Kreepy Krauley if you have anything else(Or want 40% less repair costs than the Pool Vac).

5.)Floor heads, or suction cleaners destroy the natural water flow around the pool which is responsible for moving the debris around to the skimmer on the surface, and for moving silt, and dirt to the main drain. Therefore, the surface areas of both sides of the pool(If the cleaners are functioning properly) will be an average of 20-40% dirtier than the same pool with a pool vac, return lines properly adjusted, and approximately Â¾ of the suction of the pool going to the main drain. Also, since almost all of the suction for a suction side cleaner is directed to the cleaner, and thatâs run through an extra 30 feet or so of corrugated hose, the water flow is greatly reduced, and to get the same water filtration you will need to run that system approximately 25% -30% longer than a system without a suction cleaner. Thatâs 1 Â¾ hrs longer running a 1 H.P. motor than is needed to run the Â¾ H.P booster. Also, as a suction cleaner picks up debris, assuming it doesnât get plugged up and stop functioning all together, the baskets will fill up and all the suction to the pool will decrease or stop. There are times during the year where about 60% of the repair work I do is related to suction cleaning systems picking up too much debris. Note: This is never covered under any warrantee.

There is more that I could add, but I am too tired to do so now. Installation is as follows:

Kamis, 12 Juni 2014

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!

Question for Inground pool owners?

Dani

We are a family of 4 and wanting to buy a house with an inground pool. We have never owned a house with a pool before, so we are basically clueless as to what all it entails. I know we would use the pool a lot. So, we were wondering:

1. How much is upkeep (pool service, chemicals, etc.)
2. How much does it add to your house taxes
3. We live in Arizona, so would it be beneficial to have saltwater or chlorine
4. Anything else we need to consider / advice

Thanks in advance!!

Answer
1. I've found that upkeep costs differ from season to season; we'll spend far more on the pool during the swimming season than in the winter months. I have an in-ground gunite, and in the summer, ballpark cost figure I would guess would be $500 total. No pool service or hired cleaner; we do it all ourselves. Again, this is an estimate!!! It depends a lot on where you buy your supplies, how often you use your pool, etc.

2. I am not aware of any huge chunk it costs to our property taxes, if anything at all. Hell, our homeowner's insurance is only $8 a year more for our pool, and that's because we have a diving board.

3. I've heard some pretty great things about saltwater pools. Chlorine is derived from salt, so maintenance is supposed to be a lot easier and less time-consuming.

4. If you do get a pool, make sure you buy locks for all gates leading into your back yard, if they don't have any already. I use just a simple locker-combination lock on mine.

Pools can be time-consuming if you want them looking great day after day, so if you want a great looking pool but don't want to spend a lot of time on it, you should seriously reconsider. I don't consider cleaning mine a chore; I wanted a pool in my house so I consider myself responsible for it's care. It is a hobby for me, as swimming is my favorite sport.

Essential cleaning supplies: a brush, a vacuum (manual or automatic; automatic will wash hours of cleaning time off your hands), a hose that covers the length and depth of the pool, a skimmer pole, skimmer net; I have one flat one and one that's a basket, a chemical test kit to see how the chemcial levels in your water are, and a "backflow" garden hose attachment for possible clogs in your underground pipes. Depending on your pump system too, you might also require a backwash hose. Also keep in good supply of chlorine tabs (big duh, right?!), pH add and/or decrease, alkalinity plus, some filter aid (sand or DE, again depending on what kind of filter you have) and some bags of shock, just for extra measure. I don't do this myself, but I know some pool owners also keep algaecide handy, even though you only need to use that for an algae outbreak in your water. But that should only happen if you don't take care of it! And I tell you all of this because if you have to buy all that stuff at once, it will get VERY expensive. We specifically looked for a pool that already had all the equipment there; we just had to buy the chemicals and even then, the water was already in pretty good shape so we didn't have to buy every single chemical all at once.

I hope I didn't ramble on too much. But I enjoy my swimming pool immensely and enjoy entertaining my friends and family with it. It's a wonderful investment, as long as you don't consider taking care of it a problem. Happy swimming!

Which swimming pool is lower maintenance?

s_amisson

Is a vinyl or a gunite swimming pool lower in maintenance cost over time?

Answer
In terms of water balancing and sanitizing, the costs are comparable. Though you may need to purchase chemicals and an automatic pool cleaner that are safe for vinyl-lined pools if you choose that option, the cost differences are minimal.

You may run into higher maintenance costs if you select a gunite pool, simply because pool buyers often select this option because gunite is more customizable. If your swimming pool is of an out-of-the ordinary shape, you may spend more time and money on maintaining it. For example, a pool service provider might charge extra to clean it, or you might spend extra money on an automatic pool cleaner that can be customized to clean pools of unusual shapes. However, if you buy a cheap pool liner and/or you don't take care of it, a vinyl-lined pool can also be expensive because you'll need to replace the liner more often.

Most pool buyers make the decision of whether to invest in a gunite or vinyl-lined pool based on the desire for customization, durability needs, and budget considerations. Vinyl liners don't easily lend themselves to unusual pool shapes, though you can purchase custom pool liners. Gunite pools are more durable over the long term than vinyl-lined pools. However, gunite pools are considerably more expensive to install - especially if you opt for more customization - than vinyl pools.

Orb pool chemical system - how does it work?

Profran

The sales person was telling me that it releases copper into the water & keeps the pool cleaner than just adding regular chlorine. We already have metals in our water (city water) & I am concerned about the liner turning orange. The guy said if you have a gunite pool it will turn it blue. What are ingredients of the chemical used in the orb. Does the Orb release copper or does it just hold the chemical &the chemical releases copper? Is the Orb system on cleaning your pool, better than just adding regular chlorine to a floaty thing? Are there any complaints about the Orb system?
What product do you suggest to use, so as not to fade or color the liner?
Thank you so much in advance for taking the time out to read & answer my questions.

Answer
I am not familiar with the Orb pool chemical system in particular but, If you know your source water has metals in it stay away form any chemicals that contain copper. You will eventually have staining of the pool liner and discolored water. Copper usually shows up as a blue/green stain. It is recommended not to use a floater in a vinyl liner pool. There is a chance that it could sink and bleach the liner. It is a small chance admittedly, but a chance not worth taking and needing to replace your liner. I highly suggest installing an automatic chlorinator like one of these http://www.everything4pools.com/products/42/default.html .
and use regular chlorine tablets in the chlorinator. This is safe for your liner, will reduce the frequency to refill the chlorinator and can be adjusted to maintain a steady level of chlorine by turning a control knob on the chlorinator. Have your pool water tested for metals, you may need to add a stain preventative to help remove the copper already in the fill water. Be diligent in keeping you water chemistry in the proper ranges and you will have no adverse effects from the copper in your fill water.

Are you a pool cleaner? Please help me pick a Kreepy Krauly...?

MagPookie

Should I get the Kreepy Krauly Classic or Kruiser model? The classic seems more popular although the kruiser supposedly works better. There's good and bad reviews for both and I just can't decide.

I have an irregular shaped fiberglass coated in-ground pool. My current one just died and it never could get in the corners or the stairs. Any info you can provide is appreciated. Thanks.

Answer
Both Kreepy Krauly models are very good automatic pool cleaners. I think that the classic is a better option, but either will work great.

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

Why does the "Barracuda G4" pool cleaner say its ONLY for in-ground pools?

jmhuff2002

I have an above ground pool and have tried a few different automatic pool cleaners with no luck. My father has an inground pool and uses a Barracuda G3 which does a great job.

I went to the Barracuda website and want either a G3 or G4 but they say its ONLY for inground pools. Does anyone know why I cannot use a Barracuda G3 or G4 for an above ground pool? Does anyone use an above ground auto-cleaner they just love?

I have a 15x33 oval above ground pool.

http://www.baracuda.com/g4.htm <-- Barracuda G4 Product info

Answer
It's similar in concept to the Kreepy Krawly. It's designed to climb the walls in an in-ground pool. The main difference is that there is either a gradual slope (sometime two 45 degree angles) between the walls and the floor of an in-ground pool. It's designed to hit this and keep going (to climb all the way to the waterline.)

In an above-ground pool, generally the wall-to-floor is a 90 degree angle.

You probably already know that, but the problem is the cleaner will get stuck and wear abnormally if it hit the wall and couldn't keep going. (Like it would in an above-ground pool) That would void it's warranty.
(The rings on the similar-looking above-ground cleaners on that page prevent them from getting stuck against the walls.)

As far as what cleaner might work for you, a lot depends on what kind of debris you get in the pool and how powerful your filter system is, etc. I use a Hayward Aquacritter in mine (21 round), and it works great for me (with the optional leaf canister since I get a lot of leaves in my pool.)

Addl:

As far as my statement about voiding the warranty being "rubbish", tell that to the manufacturer and see what they think. (Never mind that it says so right on the link you provided.) I've had experience in this area... manufacturers look to get out of spending any unnecessary money (as in paying warranty claims they feel they shouldn't) as well as anyone. If you use their product for other than its intended use, no mfg. is going to cover that under warranty. (At least that's the way it is here in the States.) They will be able to tell by the wear on the unit that it was not used as intended.

(They might give in after an extended fight, but it's not worth the hassle.)

And can you use an inground cleaner in an above-ground pool? Try it with a Hayward Pool Vac, for example, and watch what happens... (The inground version of my Aquacritter, which like the Barracudas, are basically identical inside.) The difference being the ring on the aquacritter that allows it to turn when it hits a pool wall. Oh... and the price of the Pool Vac usually being around twice that of the Aquacritter. Seems like another good reason to me not to use an inground cleaner in an above-ground pool. (Unless someone likes spending a lot more for things.... Or likes to sell more expensive things.) As important as any obstructions on the floor are the angles between the walls and floor of the pool. Some cleaners may be able to work correctly in both, but most won't.

Rabu, 11 Juni 2014

How do you open an inground pool????

Q. We bought a house in January. We have never owned a pool. The water is black. Is that normal?? How do we treat it successfully?? PLease help I dont want to have to pay the pool company 500 to open it. Thanx a bunch
Ok apparently I p.issed someone off cuz I put this in the marriage divorce category But I thought that since alot of married ppl have pools this would be the best place to ask.

Answer
Well black water is not normal unless the pool plaster is black. Most pools have white plaster. Just FYI the sparkling blue water you see in your pool is actually the blue sky reflecting on the white plaster. Okay steps to open a pool.
1. If it has a cover on it take it off.
2. Locate your cleaning equipment ie: hoses, leaf rake, skimmer net, pool vacuum, pole(s).
3. Locate the skimmers (in pool deck) and make sure they are free of leaves and debris. They should have removable baskets in them.
4. If you have a lot of leaves in the bottom of the pool you will need to take your leaf rake (which is actually a net) and start getting the leaves out of the pool. Get out as many as you can.
5. Now you will need to see if the pool pump is working. Turn it on and see if water is coming into the pump and back into the pool at the "jets" located on the side of the pool.
6. I would try to get as much of the cleaning done with the sand that you have in your filter now. If the water flow is poor you will need to backflush the filter to get all of the large debris out of the sand. This is done by turning or pulling a large valve that will reroute the water to an outlet usually connected to a hose that you will run out to the yard or street. There should be a small clear PVC area that you can look at as the water comes out. It will be very dirty at first then it will clear up somewhat. After backflushing turn or move valve back. This should improve water flow going back to the pool.
7. Now you can hook up your manual vacuum to one of the skimmers. Make sure that the basket stays in the skimmer and place a vacuum plate over the skimmer basket so that the leaves you vacuum up don't actually go into the return lines to the filter. If you have 2 skimmers I would recommend plugging off the second skimmer so you have all of your suction going to the vacuum skimmer. If you can also shut off the main drain at the bottom of the pool. There usually is a valve that you can turn that will allow water to return to the filter by the skimmers or the main drain or both. Just turn that valve off to the main drain.
8. Now you can turn on the pump and you should be able to start vacuuming the pool. It will vacuum strong for a short while but then the suction will start to lessen. This is notifying you that you need to backflush to filter again and check the skimmer basket. Backflush and continue on.
9. Just be aware that as you start to vacuum the pool and if there is a lot of dirt in the pool it will become very cloudy and you will be unable to see the bottom where you have vacuumed. At this point you can keep going on the best you can or you can stop, disconnect and unplug the skimmers and let the water circulate for awhile (few hrs) and let the cloudiness settle. Then you can start up vacuuming again.
10. This will get the pool clean eventually and it will take some time. It will not happen overnight.
11. After or when you are pretty close to having the pool cleaned you will need to go to your local pool supplier and get a water test kit and the chemicals to help get your pool within the proper pH. You will probably have to shock it several times. Your local pool supplier will be able to help you on this part.
12. If you have the pool clean and you are still seeing a lot of black or green stuff on the plaster you probably have algea. Green is okay, black is bad. Again your local supplier will be able to help you with that.
13. Change the sand in the filter. This should be done every other season.
14. Invest in an automatic pool cleaner. I highly recommend Polaris. They have 2 types that will work in any pool.
15. If you have a pool company do your chemical treatments DO NOT USE GAS CHLORINE!! That stuff is highly acidic and will eventually destroy your plaster finish on the pool. Not to mention you really shouldn't swim in the pool for at least 3 days after treatment.

Well I'm sure this is long enough for you to read. If you have any questions feel free to email me or contact me on 360. I have had a pool now for 11 yrs including 2 major leaks, 3 pool pumps, many automatic cleaners etc. If I can help you let me know.

Question for Inground pool owners?

Dani

how does an above ground automatic pool cleaner work??

Hugeez

Answer
Not well enough that you won't need to still remove leaves and other big items. I thought installing one would work. I even got one of those bottom cleaners, and still I have to have the pool guy come once every month!!! There is no real cure for the pool cleaner!!!!
Sorry, I thought you were talking about built in pools......

what is best automatic pool cleaner vaccuum for in ground pool?

john p

i know some have their own filter and some use the pools filter, but im looking for a low maintenance, inexpensive and good cleaning unit without alot of parts that break. anyone like the polaris 165?

Answer
Depends on wether you get mostly leaves or dirt.
If you get lots of leaves,a pressure side cleaner like polaris or hayward viper is best
If you get mostly dirt,then I would say a suction cleaner like a kreepy krauly or hayward navigator

Selasa, 10 Juni 2014

My pool vacuum wont work?

sarah

i have an above ground pool and i recently bought an automatic pool cleaner from craigslist, so it didnt come with a manual. i dont think that it is working properly because i left it in for about 2hrs and it picked up a little bit but not everything. whenever it goes over an area with bugs around it, it doesnt pick it up it just makes the debris float around the pool. this is the model i have:http://www.epinions.com/reviews/Robo_Kleen_Robotic_Pool_Cleaner_RK01_A
somebody pleasee help!! thanks=]

Answer
Robo Kleen pool cleaners are designed for above ground pools so that is not going to be the problem. Go to the website below, find your model, and when you click on it, you should see an online version of the owners manual. That should help you out.

Hayward Diver Dave Reviews?

Sarah(:

my husband and i are looking into purchasing an automatic pool cleaner for his parents pool since we are frequent visitors and we usually clean it for them. the one i found and like very much is the Diver Dave by Hayward. the only problem is, i don't buy anything without other customer reviews and there was none on the site i was on. if you use or own this please tell me what you think of it and if you would reccomend it!

Answer
The Diver Dave is just an Aqua Bug with different graphics on it. They've been around forever. They do an ok job on above ground pools for the price.

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.

Senin, 09 Juni 2014

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.

What can i do about an above ground pool that has yellow water?

Britney

My younger sister got an above ground intex pool for her 7th birthday. It's been set up for a month now, and the water is starting to turn yellow. We bought a PH testing kit which also gives results for free chlorine, total alkalinity and stabilizer. The PH level results were 7.8, which is supposed to be pretty normal. There was absolutely no free chlorine, and the total alkalinity too high (200). The stabilizer was also far too low.
I really don't know what to do about it. We live in a city of 40,000 but there are no places here that give advice for pool care (probably because it doesn't get overly warm here in summer)
The paper that came with the testing kit suggested that we put sodium bisulfate into the pool to lower the alkalinity, but i have no idea what that is.
Does anyone know what to do about this? Any help would be greatly appreciated!!

Answer
Your PH of 7.8 sounds to be a little on the high side. I think the nominal is supposed to be around 7.2. As far as maintenance, what kind of filtration system do you have? This can make a huge difference in how clean your pool water stays. I've never used sodium bi-sulfate and couldn't even tell you what this is product does. Maybe a google search will reveal more about how it works, how to use it, and where to purchase it if you want to go that route. In my pool I've never had to add anything but chlorine, stabilizer, and occasionally a touch of algaecide. You might want to consider using an automatic chlorinator with chlorine tablets which will administer chlorine to the pool regularly. I also use granulated stabilizer administered through a nylon stocking tied off on the side of the pool to help extend the life of your chlorine in the water. This works for me, but from what you describe, I imagine your must live in a climate far different than mine. Where I live, it is now almost full-blown winter time, and outdoor swimming is an impossibility. It also gets plenty hot in the summer, with temperatures occasionally climbing up to 100, so there is always a lot of interest in swimming pools. I hope you find success in getting your pool straightened out. Good luck and God Bless!

Steve

I am having lots of problems with my pool that I havent had before?

Emma

Skimmer does not hold water so is not circulating properly. The flapper door to the skimmer is laying flat while the water is being sucked out. The pump looses pressure and when I start the pump there are LOTS of air bubbles that are blocking the water. The skimmer sucks for about 2-5 minutes. We have replaced all pvc piping that goes to the pump in our garage. Could there be a hole in the pipes underground? Please help! We are having a pool party next week and we would like to have it prepared by then!!
It is an in ground pool. The water level is fine. It has a deep end. As soon as we unplug the pump the water level goes back up half way. We are pretty much positive that there are no holes in the pool. The pool is 16x32. The filter is an earth filter. Also we have an automatic pool cleaner that has not been working but when we use the manual cleaner it works. The jets have been shooting water out strongly but it seems too strong so we are thinking that is the reason the pool is being drained throught the skimmer. There are also lots of air bubbles in the water that is coming out of jets. Why is it that when we un plug the pool pump the skimmer re-fills to the right water level. Also we just bled the top of the pump and water is coming out not air. And the valve is in the middle now sucking water from the top and the bottom of the pool.

Answer
There are a couple of possibilities.

1) YOu have a cracked or broken pipe underground (since you say you replaced all the above ground). This would CONTINUALLY suck in air and you would see the bubbles all the time that the pump ran.. (not big ones like at the start but a steady stream at the outfall).

2) The pump gaskets are worn. Check the gasket around the internal strainer built into the pump. Pour water on the outside and see if it is sucked into the system or, if you can not tell, put some food dye on it and see if shows up in the discharge water. Easy fix.. replace the gasket.

3) You could have a broken filter housing. Water is bypassing the skimmer float. Because you are getting water in, the leake might be behind the tile. Try a bypass of the entire skimmer assembly if your system has the fittings. Remove the interior filter and put the vacume hose in the bottom outlet (that goes to the pump).. then place the hose into the pool. Start and stop the pump a few times .. do the bubbles go away? If so the problem lies in the filter and housing somewhere.(assuming that your hose does not leak, but if you keep it completely under water that eliminates that possibility).

good luck.. hope this helps..

.

what is the single greatest use for salt?

Haley

Answer
there are actually many great uses of salt which benefits us in many ways like:

ALUMINIUM PURIFICATION Salt is used as a flux. The salt sits on top of the molten aluminium in molten salt form, this removes iron and other metals from aluminium leaving pure metal.

BREAD AND PASTRY Salt is used to give added flavour to bread and pastry. The main requirement here is that the product, either flossy or superfine, is clean and free from any extraneous matter. Salt also performs a function in controlling the rate at which the yeast works in the dough, giving a better texture to the bread.

CANNING OF MEAT AND VEGETABLES Salt is added to the products during processing and it is essential in these cases that the salt be free of grit, and particularly free of any specks or iron particles as these show up in the finished product.

CAUSTIC/CHLORINE MANUFACTURE The conversion of salt to form caustic soda and chlorine requires a crude salt with very high chemical purity. Salt is dissolved to form brine and the impurities are removed chemically before the brine passes into the electrolytic cells.

CHEESE MANUFACTURE Most cheese today is made on automatic machines and salting must be carried out in a continuous process. The salt used must be extremely dry at all times and contain virtually no fines beyond 60 mesh.

DRILLING Salt is used to mix with boring mud which is pumped down bore holes to form a wall when drilling through gravel or sandy material which will not stand up on its own.

FISH & MEAT CURING This is usually carried out by dissolving salt to form a strong brine to act as a pickle. The products may be placed in the pickle, or in many cases the pickle is pumped into the actual meat (such as in the case of bacon and ham). Salt for these purposes should be refined grades, clean and of high quality.

GENERAL COOKING Fine salt is used for all sorts of cooking and is similar to table salt, without the addition of Sodium Silico Aluminate.

HIDE CURING Hides and sheep skins are normally salted with a reasonably low quality salt. Hide salts are usually only washed grades but contain certain additives such as boric acid, to keep the hide as light a colour as possible. Other additives are naphthalene and sodium fluoride.

POTTERY PRODUCTION Salt is used to form the very smooth glaze on clay tiles or pottery ware. After a kiln of tiles reaches a yellow to white heat, salt is then fed on to the fire. The salt vaporises and passes on to the surface of the tile, actually forming a glass surface.

SOAP & GLYCERINE MANUFACTURE Fats and oils are saponified by heating with caustic soda to produce soap and glycerine. The soap is "grained" or "salted out" from solution by adding salt or strong brine.

SWIMMING POOLS Swimming pool salt is designed specifically for use with salt pool chlorinators

SYNTHETIC RUBBER MANUFACTURE Synthetic rubber is produced in the form of white latex to which salt is added as an emulsifier. Salt for this purpose is in crude form, of medium quality.

TABLE SALT This is a specially prepared salt for domestic purposes, with small, even crystals. Sodium Silico Aluminate is added as a free flowing agent. Table salt also comes in iodised form.

TEXTILE DYEING Salt is added to the dye baths during the process mainly to make the dyes fast. Flossy salt is the grade most commonly used in this process.

WATER SOFTENING Salt is used in both industrial and home water softening units. The purpose being to regenerate the resins which pick up the objectionable salts in the normal water supply. Salt for this purpose is usually a washed or refined grade. A similar type of salt is used for making a brine for brine cooling systems.

OTHER USES Other uses of salt include butter manufacture, soil stabilisation, tempering of steel, fertilisers and weed killers, and pine board manufacture.

I just bought an above ground pool and I am trying to decide between 2 automatic pool cleaners?

pink

Which do you think is better the Kontiki 2 automatic cleaner or the Whale automatic cleaner? Any thoughts???

Answer
I couldn't really find any information on either of those.
Try this forum:
http://www.poolforum.com/pf2/archive/index.php/f-146.html

Or, here are some other cleaners to consider:
http://www.epinions.com/hmgd-Pool_and_Patio-Pool_Equipment-Cleaning_Supplies-All

Mazda Rx8 Maintainence, Help.?

C4NT2T0PTH

Well im 99.5% sure im going to purchase a(used) 2006 six speed automatic Rx8. I've heard about the "maintainence problem" a lot esp from my brother who tells me not to get it and I'll regret it but i think these ppl who say it's a problem just don't understand how to maintain becuhz it's a special rotary engine. I understand the frequent oil changed and the high revs keeps the mechanic away and you have to rev it high a lot. So can someone please break down the specific things i have to do? Like for ex. Every let's say 3 k miles change the oil, so how frequent, also heard no synthetic, so type of oil, the high rev things? Do i have to drive it? Or just rev and hit high rpm's? Anything specific i need to know? Help please so i can have a high life with this thing =D thanks.

Answer
1) Change oil every 3000 miles. This keeps the oil clean which is important as some of it is injected into the combustion chambers to lubricate the apex and side seals of the rotors via the Oil Metering Pump (OMP).

2) Watch your oil levels. You should check your oil level every couple gas fill ups. You will go through more oil than a piston engine due to the oil injection.

3) Many rotary owners supplement the oil injection by mixing 4 - 6 ounces of 2-cycle motor oil in with their gasoline. This adds a little bit of extra internal lubrication and insurance for motor life should the OMP not supply enough. You can use full synthetic 2 cycle for this. Stick with oils meant for motorcycles or snowmobiles, but not marine oils.

4) Synthetic motor oil is not recommended for the motor (except for a couple difficult-to-find brands). Synthetic oils are designed to be more stable and NOT burn off easily. But this is what you want in a rotary engine as clean burn-off means less deposits in the combustion chambers.

5) Mazda recommends 5W20, which is fine but a little thin, especially if you have hot summers and spend a lot of time stuck in traffic. 5W30 is better for those situations. Or you can just rev the motor as in 6 (below). Higher revs inject more oil.

6) Rev the engine "under load". This is what produces the heat required to cook off varnish & carbon deposits. You don't need to race the car, just let the engine rev to redline when you get the chance during normal driving. This is easier than you think. The engine revs so smoothly you'll often forget to shift because you can't really feel it at 7000 rpm.

7) Do not stop the engine cold. If you start it you should let it warm up to near operating temperatures. If you don't you'll risk flooding the motor. This is because all engines run "rich" (more gas" when cold. In a rotary this excess gas can pool at the bottom of the rotor housings, thinning the motor oil, and losing compression on the rotors. Read the manual on how to prevent or fix this should you run into it.

8) Sign up on the web forums at:
http://www.rx8club.com
to learn more about your car.

Minggu, 08 Juni 2014

Public pool water question?

jenner

I'm 15 and i have a vomiting phobia, today i went to a pool party at the flying W

It was fun, but the water was very warm (it was 100 degrees outside so i can see why)
But they're were a lot of kids in the pool also, Im worried i could catch a stomach bug or some other vomiting illness from being in the pool. I've never been to the flying W so idk how well they clean or how sufficient their chlorine levels are, if i didnt swallow any water would i be okay either way?

Thanks so much, im pretty worried over this

Answer
Public pool superchlorinate them daily and maybe hourly. Some public pools have an automatic system. For my above ground pool, I pour in a gallon of chlorine when I have a few guests after they leave. I also do it once a week.

Such activity kills all bacteria and algae.

How do I take good care of my swimming pool?

Teresa Z

It's been revamped with Pebble Tec this year, and contains about 24,000 gallons of water. I live in Phoenix, Arizona. With this information, what can I do to get my pool in the best condition, and to keep it that way?

pH ... ~8.0
Chlorine ... ~1.0
Average water temp ... ~78Â°f

I have been keeping the pool chlorinated and leaf-free, but a very busy week has ruined my previous efforts. The floor is dusty and green and brown (maybe brown is dead?) algae is in small patches here and there.

Answer
You should get an automatic pool sweep, They run off your current pool pump and will clean the pool every day. They cost $150-$ 250 but are well worth the price

Which is CHEAPER to install, a fiberglass pool or concrete pool.?

moonstar

Also, which is easier to maintain and keep clean. I've been doing research but have found mixed messages. Some people say concrete is cheaper and some say fiberglass is cheaper. Please help!Confused...

Answer
To be honest, neither is cheaper - it depends on what company you go to and what extras you want with your pool (eg: pool lights, fencing, landscaping, automatic cleaners, chlorinator etc...)

In the long run a fibreglass pool is easier to maintain. If heating the pool the fibreglass will retain the heat longer whereas a concrete pool will suck alot of the heat into the ground.

Fibreglass also use next to nothing with chemicals. You treat them maybe once a month depending on the season but with concrete you need to use alot more chemicals such as hardener and calcium remover etc. Fibreglass pools dont grow calcium as quick as a concrete. You will normally have calcium in a concrete pool within the first year and fibreglass is normally 7 years.

Another thing to note is installation times. Fibreglass will normally be installed within two weeks and concrete can take up to 6 months or more depending on the weather. So site costs can add up if the site is open longer.

Personally i prefer fibreglass. It is much nicer towards you swim wear and after 8 hours of continuous swimming it wont hurt your feet (Pebblecrete rips up your feet!)

Its personal preference really. The bad thing about fibreglass is that its pretty much what you see is what you get, in terms of sizes and shapes.

Good luck!

Are you a pool cleaner? Please help me pick a Kreepy Krauly...?

MagPookie

Answer
Both Kreepy Krauly models are very good automatic pool cleaners. I think that the classic is a better option, but either will work great.

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