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Written by webtechs

22 June 2023

How to Convert Your Pool to Salt Water

Even though saltwater pools have been around since the 70’s, their popularity has increased rapidly in the last few years. In large part to their decreased cost to maintain. They’re also gentler on your skin, hair, and eyes, and you’ve most likely heard salt water is more healthy than chlorine, also.

Perhaps you’ve been mulling over a saltwater pool conversion for taking advantage of all those benefits. However, what a hassle that conversion would be, right? The conversion process is somewhat simple, so when you’re thinking of doing it yourself, don’t fret.

Why Do a Saltwater Pool Conversion?

Chlorinated pool water can be hard on people due to chemicals called chloramines. These composites are produced when the chlorine in your pool water comes into contact with things such as sweat and urine, and they can be detrimental in two ways.

First, they are not useful for sanitizing the water the way chlorine does, so water cleaning is constrained. Second, they can cause irritability of the eyes, skin, and lungs. Powerful chloramines can accumulate in the air surrounding a pool, particularly indoor pools. When the air is packed with these chloramines, it could even cause coughing or lead to an asthma attack.

Repeated exposure to chlorine might even cause some individuals to develop an allergy or sensitivity to it. And for those that already have a sensitivity to it, swimming in a chlorine pool could cause hives, rashes, and itchy skin outside the simple dryness you might experience from exposure to chlorine.

Should you have respiratory issues, like allergic rhinitis or asthma, you could find your symptoms compounded by regularly swimming in a chlorine pool. When your pool is causing you irritation, a saltwater pool conversion could be just the solution you’re looking for.

On the less extreme side, when you have blonde hair, you’ve most likely have had your hair turn green in a pool disinfected with chlorine. Colored hair can look awesome, however, this most likely isn’t the look you’re striving for. So, what’s the reason it happens? Science!

Similar to a lost penny at the beach turning green, copper in the pool’s water can make your hair green, and higher chlorine levels only worsen it. Chlorine and copper readily bond, coating your hair in green film. Converting to a saltwater pool can lower the probability of green-stained hair.

If you have this problem, make sure to test your pool water for heavy metals. One typical cause of copper in your pool water is using a copper-based algaecide.

Pool Service Gilbert

Pool Service Gilbert is a family-owned and operated business that has been serving the valley since 2004. We offer reliable and affordable pool services, including cleaning, replacement, repairs, equipment installations and more! Our service area includes Ahwatukee, Chandler, Gilbert, Mesa, Phoenix and Tempe, Arizona. Contact us right here for your upcoming pool service needs!

Common Pool Problems

There are approximately 10.4 million residential pools in the US. Whereas swimming pools are ideal for hot summer days and backyard parties, however, they also come with some undesirable headaches. It’s essential to realize common pool issues that every pool owner will face. By recognizing what to look for and how you can care for your pool correctly, you will have an immaculate swimming pool that can be appreciated all year. Here are some common pool issues you should know about, and what to do about them.

The Growing of Algae

A pool in good health should have a clear/bluish hue. But we have all seen pools that look murky, green, and totally un-swimmable. Pools that are green in color are most likely overrun with dangerous algae, which is the most typical pool issue that homeowners face. Algae usually infects pools that have chlorine levels that are too low. If your pool is starting to turn green, it’s wise to hire a professional pool maintenance company to eliminate the algae. After that, you should boost the amount of chlorine you put in your pool for the prevention of future algae infection.

Excessive Chlorine

Whereas chlorine is perfect for keeping algae from growing in your pool, excessive chlorine could be just as troublesome as algae. When you get intense eye irritation or find it hard to see underwater, you might have excessive chlorine levels in your pool. The best way to know how much chlorine your pool has is by measuring it with test kits, strips and readers making sure those levels stay unchanging.

Clogged Pool Filter

The pool circulates pool water, and that circulation could be interrupted if the pool filter gets clogged. Pool filters get clogged when the pool isn’t cleaned routinely. Debris such as dirt, tree leaves, insects, and can clog up your pool filter making it inefficient. When you notice the pool has a significant amount of debris than usual, check the filter. If the filter is clogged, just cleanout out the filter and clean the pool. For future prevention of filter clogs, try and clean your pool routinely and clear out any debris.

Substandard Circulation

Substandard circulation could be brought on by clogged pool filters, but also from various other issues you should have knowledge about. When you discover that your pool is not circulating correctly but the filter is clear, you might have a blown fuse or other electrical issue. One other reason the circulation is substandard could be because of a hole in the airline. When your pool airline is leaking because of holes, your pool won’t circulate any longer. Hire a pool repair company right away for repairing any airline or electrical damage that’s hindering pool circulation.

Say Farewell to Swimming Pool Problems!

Do not let your swimming pool become un-swimmable during the hotter months. Take preventive measures and realize when to acknowledge common pool issues.

Pool Service Gilbert

How To Drain A Pool

You should drain your pool once every few years. This will guide you through the draining process in five simple steps.

How To Drain A Swimming Pool In 5 Steps

Here are five steps to follow when a draining a pool yourself:

Step 1: Install A Submersible Pump

A regular pool pump is not good enough for this task. Regular pumps are designed to suck in water, so as soon as the pool begins to drain, the pump will take in air instead. This could lead to permanent pump damages. Renting or purchasing a submersible pump is worth the investment here.

First, make sure your power cord is long enough to reach from the bottom of the pool all the way to the outlet. Then, place the submersible pump on the floor in the middle of the deep end. It is safer to avoid using an extension cord.

The pump will have a hose connected to it, so place the other end of the hose wherever you decide to drain the water. Again, make sure the hose is long enough to reach the desired area.

Step 2: Begin Draining Pool

Turn the pump on and begin the draining process. Stay in the area, constantly monitoring this process just in case any problems arise. You are there to protect against any potential house floods.

Step 3: Remove The Pump

At a certain point in the draining, the water level will be so low that the pump is no longer needed. This is completely normal, so turn off and remove the pump from the pool.

Step 4: Open Relief Valves

Ease the pressure of the underground water by opening the hydrostatic relief valves.

Step 5: Make Sure Pool Is Completely Drained

Make sure every drop of water is completely gone. Now is the time to proceed with any desired projects you may have planned, such as repairs or a full painting of the pool area.

Why Should I Drain My Pool?

A complete pool draining is only typically needed once every few years. However, there are certain situations that will call for a draining.

Resetting your water’s chemical balance is one reason why many homeowners choose to drain a pool. General pool maintenance could require a draining, as well. Tasks like cleaning metal stains, calcium deposits or even putting on a fresh layer of paint will make a draining necessary.

When Is The Best Time To Drain A Pool In Arizona?

The best times to drain your pool in Arizona are during the fall and winter months. These seasons will stretch from October 1st to February 28th.

It is not recommended to drain your pool during the hot Arizona summer months. Doing so during this season can create potential risks to your pool’s well being. So much heat without any moisture can make the pool floors crack.

Draining a pool during the summer can also hurt the desert environment. The drained water will evaporate quickly and not go to the lawn, plants or wildlife that desperately needs the nutrients.

Pool Service Phoenix

Pool Service Gilbert is a family-owned and operated business that has been serving the valley since 2004. We offer reliable and affordable pool services, including repairs, equipment installations and more! Our service area includes Ahwatukee, Chandler, Gilbert, Mesa, Phoenix and Tempe, Arizona. Contact us right here for your upcoming pool service needs.

Pool Maintenance For Beginners

Maintaining A Swimming Pool in Arizona Winters

Routine pool maintenance is crucial in keeping a pool healthy. This article will provide you with checklists and instructions for pool maintenance tasks.

Pool Cleaning

Even though you may already possess tools like pool brushes, vacuums and skimmer nets, you will still need to physically clean the pool. The pool water needs to be skimmed for any debris, plus the surface should be brushed to prevent algae growth. The bottom of the pool should be vacuumed to pick up any debris that may be present. Automated pool cleaning systems can ease the burden of pool owners, but regular skimming and brushing are still necessary.

Water Circulation

Good water circulation can make life very difficult for algae and other contaminants. Pool pumps and filter systems can keep the pool water from becoming stagnant and promoting algae growth. Pool pumps should always run from 10-12 hours per day. The more the water circulates, the cleaner the water will be, overall. Backwashing your filter when the pressure is high will help improve circulation, as well.

Water Chemistry

Maintaining the proper water chemical balance is just as important as any physical cleaning tasks. The word balance is especially important, since dumping lots of chemicals into the pool will not be effective. The pH of any pool water should be between 7.4-7.6. The alkalinity, meanwhile, should be between 80-120 ppm. Sanitizer levels will differ based on applicable codes and pool types. Shocking the pool at night will certainly aid the circulation process.

Weekly Maintenance Checklist

Check the water for clarity/color change.
Remove any debris from the pool area.
Empty skimmer and pump strainer baskets.
Vacuum pool or run pool cleaner.
Check filter pressure and backwash.
Check water level.
Test the salt concentration level.
Test the free chlorine level.
Test the pH level, adjust if necessary.

Monthly Maintenance Checklist

Test the Total Alkalinity (TA).
Test the Stabilizer or Cyanuric Acid level.
Test the Total Dissolved Solids level.
Test the Calcium Hardness level.
Test to see if hard materials are present, such as copper or iron.

Yearly Maintenance Checklist

Perform proper closing or winterizing steps, if needed.
Clean the salt cell and store inside.
Perform proper opening steps in the spring.

Pool Maintenance In Gilbert, AZ

How To Level Ground For Pool Without Digging

Is it possible to level the ground for your future pool without digging? It certainly is! Find out how below.

Leveling The Ground For A Pool Steps

If you happen to live on land that is uneven, you may find yourself with a pool that is unnaturally deep on one end. This can be a very dangerous situation, especially for young children. You’ll want to make sure your pool area is level.

Follow these 9 steps to level the ground yourself:

Step 1

Make sure the ground is level within 2 inches from the shallow to the deep end.
To check this, screw two 2-by-4 boards together.
Have the boards alongside one another so they are 1-2 feet longer than the diameter of the pool.

Step 2

Lay the boards on the ground where the pool will eventually be.
Put a level on top of the boards.
Carefully lift and lower one side of the boards until it shows level.
Measure the distance from the bottom of the board to the ground.

Step 3

Drill a hole in the middle of the 2-by-4.
The hole should be about 3/8 of an inch.
Put a metal rod through the hole, which will secure the boards to the ground.
Pour some sand over the area with the majority of the sand covering the low range of your pool.
Add as much sand as necessary.
Rotate the boards until the sand is completely level.

Step 4

Next, wet the sand using a tamper until the sand is compact and hard.
Try to leave no impressions at all in the ground during this step.

Step 5

Drive a metal stake into the center where the future pool will be.
Always check local codes before attempting this process.
Some municipalities may require pools to be a certain distance from property lines or buildings.

Step 6

Take a piece of string at least 6-inches longer than the pool’s radius and tie it to the aforementioned stake.
Tie a can of spray paint to the loose end of that string.
Then pull the string out to the grass.
Mark the grass at the 6-inch mark, where it needs to be leveled.
Remove all loose grass or debris from the area at this time.

Step 7

Clean the area and assemble your wooden plank level.
Get a 1-by-6 inch plank of wood at least 6 inches longer the pool’s radius.
Duct tape a 4-foot level to the plank, which will be centered on one of the 1-inch sides.
Hammer a 4-inch nail into the 1-inch side of the plank, which is opposite the carpenter’s level.
Remove the metal stake.
Hammer a 2-inch steak, flush in the ground, into its place.
Drive the plank’s 4-inch nail into the middle of the 2-inch stake.
This is done to make it possible to pivot around the pool area.

Step 8

Now find the lowest point of the pool.
You must bring the rest of the pool down to this level.
Pivot the plank surrounding the pool area and level it continually.
Do this until you are pivoting 360 degrees without stopping.

Step 9

Spread a layer of crushed limestone over the future pool area.
You should wet, tamper and level the limestone into your base.
Add soil and limestone until it is completely flush.

Pool Maintenance In Gilbert, AZ

How To Clean Pool Tile With Vinegar

If you are searching “how to clean pool tile with vinegar” for your backyard pool, then Pool Service Gilbert is here to help!

Pool Tile Cleaning

Dirty pool tiles covered in calcium will make your pool unsightly. Here are a few of the best cleaning methods to use for your pool tiles:

Pressure Washer
Vinegar
Baking Soda
Pumice Stone
Tile Grout

How To Clean Pool Tile Using Vinegar

Using vinegar is a great way to remove any calcium deposits from your tiles. However, the one drawback to using vinegar is this process can take longer than other cleaning methods.

Begin the process by heating a towel/rag in the microwave before applying vinegar. Molecules in the vinegar will react with calcium, which slowly separates the deposition of calcium from the pool tiles.

Types Of Pool Tiles

These are the main types of pool tiles used by homeowners currently:

Mosaic
Glass
Ceramic
Stone
Porcelain
Handmade
Mural
Custom
Glazed

Common Pool Tile Problems

Algae usually infects pools that have chlorine levels that are too low. If your pool is starting to turn green, it’s wise to hire a professional pool maintenance company to eliminate the algae. After that, you should boost the amount of chlorine you put in your pool for the prevention of future algae infection.

Pool Service Gilbert In Arizona

How To Lower pH In Pool

Every pool owner should want pH levels to remain in the range of 7.4-7.8. What can you do to lower the pH level if it becomes too high? Use our DIY guide below!

Effects Of High pH Levels

So why is a high water pH level or pH above 7.8 bad for a swimming pool? Here are a few issues that you may have to deal with if your pH is too high:

The water can sting your eyes and cause dry skin.
Pool water can become hazy or cloudy.
Chlorine will become less effective at higher pH levels, with low chlorine promoting bacteria growth.
Alkalinity makes the water hard, which can cause formation from calcium deposits.

How To Lower pH Levels

Test your water before performing any DIY pool care tasks. Start by using a pool kit to determine the pH, acid demand, plus total alkalinity. Once you have determined that the pH level is too high, you can begin working to restore balance. There are two products designed specifically to lower pH: sodium bisulfate and muriatic acid. Follow our guide below.

1. Use Sodium Bisulfate

Read the manufacturer’s instructions, then measure the correct amount based upon your initial testing of the water.
Some experts suggest adding 3/4 of what is recommended, allowing for easier correction.
Since sodium bisulfate typically comes in powder form, avoid using this on a windy day.
Add the chemical by getting down to the water as close as you possibly can.
Apply it over the water return jet site to facilitate spreading the chemical throughout the pool.
This powder should dissolve within 10-15 minutes.
Wait at least 6 hours before retesting, yet make sure to do the test within 24 hours.

2. Apply Muriatic Acid

Applying this powerful corrosive means you should wear protective gear, including gloves and goggles.
Read the instructions first and apply the recommended amount.
There are two different ways to apply the acid to your pool.
One way involves turning the pump off, then slowly pouring the acid into the deep end.
Next, allow the acid to settle at the bottom, then turn the pump back on for circulation.
The other way involves pouring the acid over the return jets, allowing the pump to do its work.
Retest the water after 6 hours, but again, do not wait more than 24 hours to test.

Restoring The Water Balance

Knowing when and how to lower pH levels is a crucial skill for every pool owner to have. Don’t be afraid to contact a professional pool service to lower the pH level in your water.

Pool Service Gilbert In Arizona

How Much Does It Cost to Replace a Sump Pump?

Sump pump replacement cost
Costs, on average, to replace your sump pump is $300 to $750, although it can range anyplace from $110 to $1,000. The cost basically is subject to the cost of the unit and the company you hire to replace it.

How Much Does Replacing a Sump Pump Cost?

A sump pump replacement is going to cost less than a new installation, at around $300 to $750. On the average, you are going to pay $500. Since the process to replace it isn’t as time-consuming or labor-intensive as a new installation. There’s no digging needed; you just have to take the old pump out and then install the new one.

How Do I Know When It’s Time for a Replacement?

When the motor is failing and/or your pump is over ten years old, it’s time to replace it. If you’ve noticed that your pump is constantly running or cycling on and off, these could also be an indication that your sump pump is going bad.

Sump Pump Replacement Cost Explanation

If your sump pump is failing, it’s time to purchase a new one—but going over budget clearly is not what you want. It can be beneficial to acquaint yourself with the various aspects that impact replacement costs, so you’ll know what you’re going to expect.

Costs for Labor

Professionals typically bill $45 to $200 each hour for the installation of a sump pump. Replacements only take about an hour or so (conversely, new installs can take up to 2 to 4 hours).

Type of Pump

Pedestal pumps are around $60 – $170. Submersible pumps are around $100 – $400. Submersible pumps are more costly but have more powerful. You can assume to pay more for submersible pumps repairs.

How to Save Money on Your Sump Pump Replacement

The best thing you could do to save you money on a replacement is to thoroughly examine and maintain your sump pump during the year. That way, your pump is going to last as long as it can. It’s particularly important to guarantee your pump is in good working order throughout storm seasons, prior to predicted heavy rainfall, and prior to the snow melting. Here are some routine maintenance tips for taking care of your sump pump:

Verify the pump’s position. Fluctuations can cause a sump pump to shift positions, so you should routinely check to make sure that your pump is sitting in the correct position.
Test the pump. Pour water into the pit to verify that your pump is running correctly. Do this multiple times over a year.
Clean the pump. Remove any debris and verify to be sure the inlet screen (located near the pump’s bottom) isn’t blocked. Do this every 3 to 4 months.
Acquire a filter. The filter is going to help keep things out of the pump, increasing its lifespan. Utilizing a piece of screen is a simple solution for keeping debris from getting inside the pit.
Hire a professional. Think about hiring a pump professional in your area to perform a yearly maintenance checkup. The contractor is going to check to be sure that the pump empties properly and that the float is working correctly.

Pool Light Replacement In Gilbert, AZ

Pool Service Gilbert is a family-owned and operated business that has been serving the valley since 2004. We offer reliable and affordable pool services, including repairs, replacement, equipment installations and more! Our service area includes Ahwatukee, Chandler, Gilbert, Mesa, Phoenix and Tempe, Arizona. Contact us right here for your upcoming pool service needs! Call us at 480-748-3022 for more information.

Pool Care, Sump Pump Failure, Sump Pump Replacement

Regular Post

Written by webtechs

2 June 2022

How Long To Run Pool Pump In Summer

Typically, pool owners should run their pool pumps 6-8 hours per day during the winter and 10-12 hours per day during the summer.

How Long To Run Pool Pump On Average

A pool pump is one of the most essential parts of a pool’s circulation system. The pump will help filter dirt, debris and produce chlorine, at the same time. It’s crucial to know how to best utilize your pump and filter during the different seasons. Changes in weather can ultimately affect how you maintain these tools.

For example, it’s best to run your pool pump between 10-12 hours during the summertime. You must run the pump for a longer amount of time during the summer because more algae will grow in warm temperatures. Longer run time for the pump will help filter out algae, which can lead to build up of debris and bacteria in your pool.

How To Calculate Pool Pump Run Time

Every swimming pool is unique, whether it’s inground or above ground. To calculate how long to run the pump, you need to factor in the type of pool, size, how often the pool is used and how much debris the pool typically collects.

Calculate the exact run time by knowing your pool’s volume (length x width x depth). Most swimming pools are between 40,000-100,000 liters in volume. Once the volume capacity has been figured out, compare it to the pump output and calculate the minimum number of hours the pump needs to be run. For instance, a 60,000 liter pool with a pump running at 200 liters per minute needs to run for at least 5 hours time.

Professionals recommend running your pump for at least one turnover every 24 hours. It is not a bad idea to have two turnovers during summertime to preserve the pool’s water quality.

When To Run Your Pool Pump

The best time to run your swimming pool pump is during the hottest hour of each day. Be mindful that this will also mean you’ll have higher energy consumption, leading to an increased electric bill.

If you wish to save on energy costs, the best idea would be to run the pump during night hours. It is okay to run your pool pump overnight while the pool is not being used.

Conclusion

Running the pool pump is necessary, but it isn’t the only way to keep up with maintenance of the water. Using other equipment, such as a pool cover or vacuum, will also help keep out debris and dirt. The pool filter should be cleaned once or twice per week.

Pool Care In Gilbert, AZ

Pool Care

best time to run pool pump in summer

Regular Post

Written by webtechs

17 May 2022

Cost To Retile Pool

An in-ground pool tile replacement typically costs between $2,500-$5,000.

Pool Tile Replacement Cost

A pool tile replacement involves replacing the individuals tiles as well as any coping stones in a pool. A homeowner should expect to pay an average of $3,750 for a full pool tile replacement.

The exact pool tile replacement cost will very much depend on type of tile desired and size of the pool. The standard cost to retile a pool is $25 per square foot. Generally, the overall cost will come with an additional $150 per skimmer.

When Is It Time To Replace Pool Tiles?

Here are the main reasons why homeowners choose to replace their pool tiles:

When tiles begin falling off pool walls.
Pool tiles are noticeably chipped or cracked.
The pool tiles are discolored.
The pool tiles feature white deposits that cannot be acid washed.

Pool Tile Replacement Options

In addition to standard blue tiles, there are many different pool tile replacement options. Some pool tile options include:

Stone pool tile.
Ceramic pool tile.
Glass pool tile.
Porcelain pool tile.
Handmade pool tile.
Glazed pool tile.
Mural pool tile.
Custom pool tile.

Pool Care In Gilbert, AZ

Pool Care

cost to replaster and retile pool, how much does it cost to retile a pool, how much does it cost to retile a swimming pool

1 2 3 4 5

Why Do a Saltwater Pool Conversion?

Pool Service Gilbert

More Articles About Pool Care

The Growing of Algae

Excessive Chlorine

Clogged Pool Filter

Substandard Circulation

Say Farewell to Swimming Pool Problems!

Pool Service Gilbert

More Articles About Pool Care

How To Drain A Swimming Pool In 5 Steps

Step 1: Install A Submersible Pump

Step 2: Begin Draining Pool

Step 3: Remove The Pump

Step 4: Open Relief Valves

Step 5: Make Sure Pool Is Completely Drained

Why Should I Drain My Pool?

When Is The Best Time To Drain A Pool In Arizona?

Pool Service Phoenix

More Articles About Pool Care

Pool Cleaning

Water Circulation

Water Chemistry

Weekly Maintenance Checklist

Monthly Maintenance Checklist

Yearly Maintenance Checklist

Pool Maintenance In Gilbert, AZ

More Articles About Pool Care

Leveling The Ground For A Pool Steps

Step 1

Step 2

Step 3

Step 4

Step 5

Step 6

Step 7

Step 8

Step 9

Pool Maintenance In Gilbert, AZ

More Articles About Pool Care

Pool Tile Cleaning

How To Clean Pool Tile Using Vinegar

Types Of Pool Tiles

Common Pool Tile Problems

Pool Service Gilbert In Arizona

More Articles About Pool Care

Effects Of High pH Levels

How To Lower pH Levels

1. Use Sodium Bisulfate

2. Apply Muriatic Acid

Restoring The Water Balance

Pool Service Gilbert In Arizona

More Articles About Pool Care

How Much Does Replacing a Sump Pump Cost?

How Do I Know When It’s Time for a Replacement?

Sump Pump Replacement Cost Explanation

Costs for Labor

Type of Pump

How to Save Money on Your Sump Pump Replacement

Pool Light Replacement In Gilbert, AZ

How Long To Run Pool Pump On Average

How To Calculate Pool Pump Run Time

When To Run Your Pool Pump

Conclusion

Pool Care In Gilbert, AZ

Pool Tile Replacement Cost

When Is It Time To Replace Pool Tiles?

Pool Tile Replacement Options

Pool Care In Gilbert, AZ