Question 1

How long should I run my filter system each day?

Accepted Answer

We suggest your filter system run 6 to 8 hours per day. When water temperatures start to climb above 80° run the system 8 to 12 hours per day.

Question 2

Do I need to drain my pool every year?

Accepted Answer

We recommend that you don’t drain your pool yourself, especially during the winter. Here's more info on the process in our blog. Keeping water in the pool during the winter can actually protect the bottom of the pool from cracking during freezing temperatures. We do, however, recommend a pool cover during the off-season to protect the pool from debris and cold temperatures.

To extend your swimming season, consider a pool heater. We may recommend draining your pool to rectify an issue. We recommend pool draining only be completed by a pool service professional like Pyramid Pool Service!

Question 3

What do I do to maintain my pool lighting?

Accepted Answer

The best way to maintain pool lighting is by cleaning light covers, replacing old bulbs and keeping leaves and other debris from touching the lights.

Question 4

How often do I need to clean my skimmer and pump baskets?

Accepted Answer

A dirty or clogged skimmer basket restricts water flow. Restricted water flow anywhere in your pool’s system can lead to problems. Clean skimmer baskets daily and inspect for cracks, replacing if needed.

Question 5

Does my saltwater pool require chlorine?

Accepted Answer

Saltwater pools are a great option for those who are sensitive to chlorine. Chlorine generated pools, or “saltwater pools” have softer water and can be gentler on eyes, skin and hair. Occasionally they require “shock” or extra chlorine added to bring the chemistry back into balance.

Question 6

How long should I wait to use my pool after a chemical shock treatment?

Accepted Answer

We recommend waiting 8 to 12 hours after administering a treatment. The best time to shock a pool is during the evening, and let the system run over night. If you use a non-chlorine shock you can swim within 30 minutes of the pool treatment.

Question 7

What is the proper pH and alkaline balance for my pool water?

Accepted Answer

The pH level should be between 7.4 and 7.6 and the total alkalinity should be between 100 -150 ppm. For gunite pools, the calcium hardness should be between 200-250 ppm.

Question 8

Why is it important for my pool chemical and water levels to be correct?

Accepted Answer

Keeping the right levels in your pool allows for a safe and healthy swimming environment. Not enough chlorine or chemicals can create a dangerous breeding environment for bacteria and  other nasties.
Too many chemicals can cause a harmful environment and dryness of skin, hair and eyes.

Question 9

Why is my pool cloudy?

Accepted Answer

A cloudy pool can have several causes, but the most common are inorganic contaminants, poor filtration, or imbalanced pH and/or Alkalinity. High pH and Alkalinity can lead to cloudy water.

Inorganic contaminants can be anything from sweat, shampoo and sunscreen to debris. 
Poor filtration is often caused by a dirty filter. If you have a sand or DE filter, you may need to backwash and replace the filter media. For cartridge filters, you may need to clean your cartridges. We recommend a filter clean at the beginning and end of the prime swim season.
When pool water becomes out of balance, Pyramid Pool Service can make the proper adjustments to your water chemistry to get it back to to sparkly clean.

Question 10

What kind of chemicals does my pool need?

Accepted Answer

A wide range of pool chemical products are on the market to keep your pool clean and balanced.
Here are common pool chemicals that every pool owner should know about:
Algaecides – Algaecides aid in the prevention of algae growth on your pool surfaces.
Alkalinity increasers – Sodium bicarbonate, aka bi-carb or  baking soda, will increase your pool’s alkalinity.
Calcium hardness increasers – These chemicals raise your pool’s calcium hardness level.
Chlorine neutralizers – Excessive chlorine irritates your skin, eyes, and lungs. It is also known to corrode pool equipment and lead to costly damage. Chlorine neutralizers prevent this by reducing the free chlorine level in the water.
Filter cleaners – Keep your pool filters clean and functional by using filter cleaners. These products break down oil and grime. 
pH adjusters – You can raise or lower your pool’s pH level by adding appropriate measurements of sodium carbonate, sodium bisulfate, or muriatic acid.
Phosphate removers – These chemicals destroy phosphates, which deprives algae of their food source.
Pool shock chemicals – Shock is high-dose chlorine that rapidly raises the chlorine level in your pool to rid it of dangerous bacteria.

Question 11

How often should my pool be cleaned?

Accepted Answer

Generally, we recommend professional weekly pool cleaning to maintain optimal water quality and hygiene. Frequency may vary depending on factors such as pool usage, weather conditions, and environmental factors.

Question 12

What  influences the frequency of pool cleaning?

Accepted Answer

Factors such as the size of your pool, surrounding vegetation, usage patterns, and weather conditions can influence the frequency of cleaning needed. For example; if your pool is surrounded by trees, or heavily used (or both) it may need more than once-a-week cleaning.

Question 13

Which heater is best for my pool here in Austin?

Accepted Answer

If you own a pool in Austin, you’re used to our unpredictable Fall and Spring weather that keeps things interesting — sunny and 95° one week, chilly and 50° the next. If you want to enjoy your pool year round, choosing the right pool heating system is a must to make the most of your swim time. Check out our comprehensive blog on choosing the right heating system for your pool.

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Austin Pool Water Chemistry 101: Unpacking Your Pool's Chemical Ecosystem

Frequently Asked Questions.