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Swimming Pool & Spa Construction & Maintenance/Questions Answered by Expert roger

Subject	Date Asked
pool	1/13/2011
Q: 1. Which is better: In ground Pool or Above Ground pool. 2. How deep should the water be for both ... A: An inground pool is far more stable in construction. I have seen above ground pools let go and take ...
Coleman 400 Series Hot Tub	11/3/2010
Q: COLEMAN HORIZON 400 SERIES HOT TUB has hard failed now. A few days ago when it wento into the ... A: You need to find/fix the leak which can be loose unions or pump seals that is the most common cause ...
Fibreglass pool problem	10/22/2010
Q: We installed a fibreglass pool this summer. We are getting ready to winterize it and have run into ... A: Up here in Canada we do not plug main drain lines there is no need to we blown out and plug ...
Jandy Aqua Link Rs4 Spa Heater	10/16/2010
Q: My swimming pool is an inground, concrete pool with a DE filter. The Jandy Aqua Link RS4 has a read ... A: Since the controller tells you the sensor is shorted there is a temperature sensor inserted into ...
spa pump motor	10/13/2010
Q: I have an A. O. Smith 3hp 115v motor from a Waterway Niagara spa pump. When power is applied, the ... A: If you want to fix it paint marks on front and rear motor housing that cross into main housing for ...
Gunite Pool Construction - Winter	10/4/2010
Q: I am putting a gunite pool in my backyard and due to delays it now October and I only have plaster ... A: I am not an expert in these pools and finishes would like to be but I can say one thing for sure ...
Above ground Spa Water Low	9/28/2010
Q: Spa water level is low after the filter/pump shuts off. The pump system is shared between spa and ... A: I am assuming you have a spill over spa. I will explain how we plumb these spas. A spill over spa ...
Circulation	9/26/2010
Q: I am closing my pool for the season. I noticed I am not getting any draw through the pump from the ... A: A Y pipe with a seperate shutoff on each ? Make sure all connections are good especially where it ...
winterize pool lines	9/13/2010
Q: I live in New York. How much in line anti-freeze if any, do I need to put in the skimmer and return ... A: I would say the lines must always be blown out and if you use threaded plugs in the returns they ...
Master Spa Low Flow / Heater Dry	9/3/2010
Q: I have a Master Spa hot tub (with Balboa M7 control module) which has recently started giving me ... A: The M7 temperature sensors have several purposes they detect water flow eliminating pressure ...
saltwater pool	9/1/2010
Q: How do i change my 24' above the ground chlorine pool to a saltwater pool? What type of filter ... A: The above ground pool should be a salt water rated with plastic wall supports and bottom track as ...
Mutiport	8/27/2010
Q: When the pressure guage was replaced, the tech said he had to put stop leak around the guage for it ... A: If it was my pool I would go to a plumbing supply place or an industrial supplier and get a drill ...
algae in salt water pool	8/22/2010
Q: I Have a vinyl lined inground pool with salt water system -Aqua rite chlorine generator. My water ... A: Dump a 1 litre bottle of algae 60 into the pool and increase the output level on the generator. This ...
Low Speed Pump Function not Working	8/17/2010
Q: I have a model year 2001 Emerald Cygnus 2009 Spa with Balboa DS-4 controls. I am just starting this ... A: This can happen easily on the Balboa M7 boards as well so the best thing to do is refer to that ...
Low Speed Pump Function not Working	8/15/2010
Q: I have a model year 2001 Emerald Cygnus 2009 Spa with Balboa DS-4 controls. I am just starting this ... A: It sounds like the low speed winding could be burned out. When the low speed is on check for voltage ...
pool cleaner	8/14/2010
Q: I have a polaris 380 cleaner and it seems like it is working just fine. It zips all over and then ... A: We no longer install booster pump type cleaners due to the high pressure on the plumbing causing ...
what kind of stone around and above ground pool	8/1/2010
Q: can you please let me know what kind of stone to put around our new above ground pool and why? ... A: Most people use larger beach stone some use grass and others use flowers. Stone is not necessary it ...
Sand Filter Installation	7/21/2010
Q: Ok, we installed our above ground pool and are having a difficult time with the sand filter. It is ... A: Ok first off it nay be plumbed wrong so this is the instructions. The hose from the front of the ...
cleaning sand filter	7/15/2010
Q: I have a vinyl inground salt pool. sand filter. My question is I need to clean my sand I didn't ... A: This is the most important part of using a sand filter and should be done at least once a week. The ...
pool filter	7/11/2010
Q: I have a 15 x 4 ft above ground pool with Intex 637R filter. It was working fine until I accidently ... A: I would advise getting a real inground pool as Intex is a sort of throw away type when it breaks ...
green pool	7/8/2010
Q: ok Roger ive been following the advice of others .. my pool has been so green ive already shocked ... A: Green pool a piece of cake 20 litres of liquid chlorine and a litre of algae 40 the pool pump must ...
yellow pool staining	7/7/2010
Q: This is our first year with a pool we have an inground salt water white vinyl lined pool but it has ... A: This could be algae if the liner is white no pattern use a stain prevent or stain protect on a rag ...
Pool filter	7/5/2010
Q: Is this normal? Thanks A: Make sure that no water comes out the backwash hose when in filter mode. Have a sand change done and ...
inground pool, Lazy L shaped	7/5/2010
Q: I am trying to find out how to set the jets for this pool. It has a side filter and is ... A: ? how to set jets ?? Side filter ? skimmer Aim the returns such that it circulates the water away ...
Groundwater leak - affecting liner install	6/28/2010
Q: I have an inground pool. We have had to have the liner replaced but we are having problems with ... A: The water should slow down coming in as things dry. If its a slow leak put a subemisible pump in the ...
Groundwater leak - affecting liner install	6/24/2010
Q: I have an inground pool. We have had to have the liner replaced but we are having problems with ... A: What is the source of the ground water? Is there a large body of water nearby? Were they any ...
Liner leak	6/18/2010
Q: I have a half dollar size hole in the liner of my inground pool. It caused an ugly wrinkle in the ... A: It depends how old the wrinkle is. Some wrinkles are caused by water under the line as in your case ...
Multiport valve malfunction	6/17/2010
Q: I read every post I found on multiport valves and did not find one that fit my scenario exactly. I ... A: There are several problems I see or might see. Is the pump output going to the pump input on the ...
DE coming back into pool	6/15/2010
Q: What can cause DE to come back into the pool besides a faulty grid? What can cause a pressure spike ... A: Have you checked and cleaned the grids yearly or when pressure reaches max? Did you backwash or bump ...
Spa Blower	6/15/2010
Q: I have a Polaris QT spa blower that is 2 years old. the blower works but we hardly get any bubbles. ... A: The blower is not connected to the normal water jets they are separate dedicated jets in the bottom ...
Pool Leak	6/15/2010
Q: Good Morning. I have a question about our pool leak. I believe the leak is from the hose that goes ... A: If you can find it you can fix it but remember the closer you get to the pool the deeper the lines ...
ph alkalinity	6/15/2010
Q: Roger... My pool alkalinity in ppm tests at 300. Do I adjust this first with muratic acid and then ... A: My question is how did neutral fresh water gets such a high alkalinity level did you fill it from a ...
ph alkalinity	6/14/2010
Q: Roger... My pool alkalinity in ppm tests at 300. Do I adjust this first with muratic acid and then ... A: If in fact your alkalinity is 300 backwash 1/3 of the pool and add fresh water. PH up and down ...
low to no air when spa is running	6/13/2010
Q: I have a Bluehaven inground pool/spa combination the shares the pump and heater. Recently I have ... A: Most likely one or more of the jets are not in properly or maybe even broken I would need a picture ...
Removing the top of a Purex Triton DE filter	6/11/2010
Q: I bought a home with an in ground pool that came with a Purex Triton Nautilus DE filter. The 60 sq. ... A: Go to the following site pick pool owner and you cand find a manual on it as these filters must be ...
Pool Maintenance Checklist	6/10/2010
Q: We are seeking expertise for a presentation on pool maintenance for an upcoming national convention. ... A: I need to know what you and many others mean by a maintenance checklist. Ok we are an IPG member. ...
Concrete pool remodel	6/8/2010
Q: We are beginning a remodel of our 45yr 16x32 rectangle concrete marbelite pool. Currently there is ... A: What I suggest is a northeast skimmer and southwest skimmer on a 3 way valve if the main drain has ...
pentair minimax 250 heater	6/8/2010
Q: We recently purchased a home that has a foxxx pool and a octagon shape socialization hot tub in the ... A: My first solution for you is to get you to the manual. I am giving you a web site choose the pool ...
Pool Pressure	6/7/2010
Q: I would like to know why would my pool pressure be around 14 and now seems to be around 11, we just ... A: You need to add thr right amount of sand required first and the pressure should be between 10 to 15 ...
filter loses pressure while vacuuming	6/5/2010
Q: i have a hayward progrid series de filter that while im vacuuming keeps losing pressure 5 mns into ... A: When vacuuming a pool most systems lose pressure especially if its leaves. When any kind of ...
Caretaker 99 pop up heads	6/4/2010
Q: I have a older pool, Anthony inground, DE filter, with the old threaded caretaker 99 head. One head ... A: This sounds like the body for the nozzle is broken from the pipe. If you go to Jandy/ Zodiac web ...
To drain the inground pool.	6/1/2010
Q: Can I use my pool's pump to drain (empty) out water from a bottom of my pool or I have to rent other ... A: This is a funny question the answer is yes. One of the girls at the store was showing a customer how ...
arrrggg pool pump	5/31/2010
Q: I have a hayward super pump. I've recently developed a problem which seemed to arise after vacuuming ... A: If its a sand filter it needs backwashing till the water in the site glass clears up this should be ...
Loud proline filter pump	5/29/2010
Q: I'm sure my filter pump just needs some oiling to quiet it down. How do I oil a proline filter? Is ... A: Unfortunately there are no grease fittings or oil holes on a single phase induction motor. There are ...
pool filteration problem	5/24/2010
Q: .. I am really hoping you can help me with a problem I am having as I am baffled at this point. ... A: What happened to the original inground pump and filter system. You bought an above ground system ...
New pump and filtration for overloaded pool	5/21/2010
Q: Although my pool is probably too small to be described as a "swimming" anything, it is only 12 ... A: Get a sand filter and backwash weekly, get a 50 gallon tank of algaecide and a ten thousand liter ...
New pump and filtration for overloaded pool	5/20/2010
Q: Although my pool is probably too small to be described as a "swimming" anything, it is only 12 ... A: The main advantage of a sand filter is the ease of maintenance it filters the water and is cleaned ...
Air leaking into system	5/18/2010
Q: I am a new home owner with an inground vinyl liner pool. Pool is 16 old. Pool was closed and opened ... A: So I must educate you. Some pools have a separate main drain and a skimmer valve others use a 3 way ...
Airlock	5/9/2010
Q: Someone asked the following question on the site : "Please could you assist me with establishing ... A: If your cleaner is a Zodiac G4 or similar cleaner they have a diaphram that can get rocks stuck in ...
Diamond Bright separation	5/7/2010
Q: I was hired to run a brand new pool in Tulsa,OK: indoor, in-ground, warm water (90 degrees), salt ... A: No I am not familiar with the diamond brite heard of it many times but knowing salt water pools well ...
Jacuzzi Sand Filter - No operation Manual	5/1/2010
Q: Their are three valves, what positions should the be turn to for proper filtration of the water and ... A: The Jacuzzi sand filter has only one valve on the top with a handle to move to several positions one ...
hot tub repair	4/28/2010
Q: I have an old fiberglass hot tub, must be over 25 years old. My filter picks up this red ... A: I am not sure of brands as I don't do the process only know of it. Most spas have an acrylic vaccuum ...
air bubbles, high psi, problem with jets	4/21/2010
Q: I have Haywood sand filter, inground 75,000 liter pool, concrete, tiled. Lately had problem with ... A: Try running pump on bottom drain only no skimmer amd tell me what you get? Try running pool on ...
Spa Jet assembly and refit	4/13/2010
Q: Are there spec diagrams available of the assembly of a standard rotating spa jet and the guidelines ... A: The part on the upper left I hope you didn't remove with the two small holes. This is a Luxury Jet ...
DE powder going back into a pool	4/13/2010
Q: I had replaced the grids and also replace the spoke gasket but the DE powder is still going into the ... A: To replace the spoke gasket you had to remove the top part of the valve head and in newer filters ...
DE powder going back into a pool	4/12/2010
Q: I had replaced the grids and also replace the spoke gasket but the DE powder is still going into the ... A: You need to tear the filter apart and inspect the grids if you have them or fingers if it has them. ...
gfi	4/11/2010
Q: We have a 24 foot above ground pool (sand filter) and just put in a heater for it.We had a gfi ... A: Above ground pool pumps run on 110 volts with a cord, plug and switch and usually run around the 12 ...
How To Clean A pool neglected for years.	4/10/2010
Q: We have a pool which is an inground vinyl lined pool. Approx. 16 x 32 with an 8 ft. deep end. It has ... A: Well Carole we would gladly help you but I think the air fare may be exhaustive. Well contact that ...
How To Clean A pool neglected for years.	4/9/2010
Q: We have a pool which is an inground vinyl lined pool. Approx. 16 x 32 with an 8 ft. deep end. It has ... A: No don't use pure chlorine yes that is true, Drain the pool and use a wallbrush and power washer to ...
How To Clean A pool neglected for years.	4/8/2010
Q: We have a pool which is an inground vinyl lined pool. Approx. 16 x 32 with an 8 ft. deep end. It has ... A: To start with I assume your pool has a cement deck around it in which case it has a cement footing ...
Pool maintenance	4/7/2010
Q: I am trying to remove debris from the very bottom of my friends pool. She has an above ground pool ... A: Assuming you have the triangle vaccuum head on the end of the pole with hose attached stick the ...
Spa usage during the winter months	4/2/2010
Q: We're located in Long Island New York and are researching pools and spa options. Some installers ... A: A regular spa is more theraputical than a spill over spa and easier to control the temperature. The ...
plumbing the filter system	3/30/2010
Q: I have a Hayward self priming super pump 3/4h.p. with 11/2" inlet/outlet a ... A: Going from 2 inch to 1 1/2 pipe greatly reduces flow rate but from 1 1/2 to 1 1/4 won't be a problem ...
control panel	3/29/2010
Q: COULD YOU TELL ME IF THE CONTROL PANEL ON THE MSPA B-120 BLUE SEA ,IS THE SAME AS THE ONE ON CAMARO ... A: As long as both are red LED type they should be when in doubt send a pix. I would say yes as the ...
Hot Tub Controls	3/28/2010
Q: The controls on my hot tub are Balbao. The control instruments are Balboa WH-ICON15-CCAJ. The ... A: Go to this site and choose customer care and pick pre 96 and choose digital 1000 and see if it looks ...
inflatable ring cracking	3/28/2010
Q: We are on our third inflatable ring pool. We love the construction of the pool but every one we've ... A: Yes get an inground pool or at least a good above ground since you like pools. You could also get an ...
Pool water retainers	3/26/2010
Q: and thank you in advance. I'm purchacing a 14' pool - aprox. 2500 gal - and was wondering if there ... A: No there is no such other than putting the 14 ft pool inside and 18 ft empty pool. When pools leak ...
spillover spa	3/24/2010
Q: My pool and spa are three (3) years old. Suddenly this spring my spillover spa lifted out of the ... A: Is the spa empty of water? Is it floating? If the spa has water in it drain it and see if it floats ...
pool motor	3/15/2010
Q: We previously had a 3hp motor and it burned up. We got a new A.O Smith motor and they told us that ... A: Most pools need a 3/4 or 1 HP pump. There are two problems here it is either set for the wrong ...
no suction when vacuuming pool	2/14/2010
Q: I have hooked up vacuum hose and there is no suction coming out of the skimmer into the hose, what ... A: That depends whether you have a majin drain/skimmer valve that can choose full drain or skimmer or ...
Pressure gauge maxed out	1/24/2010
Q: We've had some freezing temps here in the mid-south so I normally keep our pump running. I would ... A: Keep the pool running on filter, the gauge may be defective and partially frozen. Running on ...
Turning pond into a spa.	1/20/2010
Q: We currently have a pond, which is mad from concrete. It is approx 3.0m X 1.2m and we would like to ... A: Well you would need a core drill to put holes in the concrete. Then you need to install concrete ...
Cost For Restoring an Old Pool with Dirt Floor	1/17/2010
Q: My husband and I are looking at buying an old house from the 1970s that has an old inground pool. It ... A: Does this pool have a track around the top of the wall. Why is the bottom dirt? If its a concrete ...
Increase pool flow	1/7/2010
Q: I purchased a home with a ingound diving pool about 6 months ago, the pool after chlorine is added ... A: Well you should have winterized the pool before winter. So if your pool is full of water I guess you ...
spa bubbles	11/15/2009
Q: i was wondering how my old spa had bubbles that came up from the floor but my new spa dosent?I ... A: OK thanks. Herein lies the problem, blower jets are a seperate plumbing system of jets dedicated ...
Making spa part of my pool	11/12/2009
Q: My heater recently broke and we never really used it much anyway. We are in the process of getting ... A: Is the spa physically part of the pool as in do they share a wall, there are pools out there that ...
tiger flex pipe	11/7/2009
Q: inground pool gunite. some tiger flex pipe is being used along the curving points and down under the ... A: All we use on new pools is tigerflex also known as flexible PVC pipe, not sure what insects have to ...
DE Filter Problem	11/7/2009
Q: I Have a Purex SMBW 4800 DE Filter powered by a 1 1/2 HP Whisperflo That also ties in to a Purex ... A: Is there a check valve somewhere in the plumbing like the heater outlet. Here is what you can try. ...
blowing fuse	11/5/2009
Q: My tub is blowing the 20 amp slow burn fuse only on one side, if you dont connect the motor all ... A: The flow switch does not control flow only measures it. How did that short occur ? lawnmower? Get ...
Closing a fibreglass pool	10/31/2009
Q: We had a company close our fibre glass pool but I still worry if there is enough water in the pool. ... A: As long as you have a main drain with a functional hydrostatic valve your ok. But being a fiberglass ...
vinly pool groundwater sump	10/31/2009
Q: Looks like I have to install some sort of groundwater removal system. After days of rain I observed ... A: If this is not a regular occurrence you could pump the water out between the liner and the wall as ...
chlorinator cells	10/25/2009
Q: the LED indicator on my control panel suggests the chlorinator cell may needs replacing. it does ... A: And Tony did not tell me what system he is using so how could I answer properly. A bad cell will ...
chlorinator cells	10/24/2009
Q: the LED indicator on my control panel suggests the chlorinator cell may needs replacing. it does ... A: The only two salt water chlorinating systems I will even deal with or comment on is the Hayward Aqua ...
pool filter	10/22/2009
Q: My pool filter is an older Pentair fns DE Filter. It still runs well and keeps my water clear, ... A: There are several O rings in the filter that may be bad. Have you cleaned and recharged. I would ...
POOL PUMP VACUUM LOSING SUCTION	10/21/2009
Q: I have a spec (porpoise)1.1kw pool pump.PROBLEM:When I operate the pump without the automatic pool ... A: This is normal but depending on the pool cleaner you have some come with an adjustable adapter to ...
Spa equipment	10/18/2009
Q: We have a gunite, in-ground spa and pool. We have a Raypak Heater which is approx 8 years old. ... A: Being an electronic technician now you want gas. On millivolt heaters we have a thermopile or ...
Inlet valve for pool	10/17/2009
Q: What does the inlet valve do on a pool? A: I am not sure what you mean by an inlet valve but to me an inlet valve is at the front of the pummp ...
Spa Motor	10/17/2009
Q: I have an in ground concrete spa. I have Pentair equipment. My spa is approx 6 years old. I have am ... A: Has there been any power surges or storms lately. I know this is a pain but go through all the ...
indoor and in ground pool losing water.	10/15/2009
Q: Had diver come in and check pool for leaks. No leaks found., not even in the main drain. However, we ... A: The fact that you have a DE filter does not stop water leaking out of the backwash when running. ...
Pool Liner - fix problem?	10/15/2009
Q: I have a 20x40 inground pool - old liner is shot and now some erosion has occurred underneath the ... A: The first step is to completely drain the pool then cut the old liner out in pieces starting with ...
indoor and in ground pool losing water.	10/14/2009
Q: Had diver come in and check pool for leaks. No leaks found., not even in the main drain. However, we ... A: First of all remove the pipe or site glass on the sand filter and run. Common loss of water is ...
cool heat pump	10/12/2009
Q: I live in the U A E and I need to choose a cool heat pump so please there must be an equation how to ... A: Visit Hayward or Jandy web sites for calculators and choices or a heating cooling contractor L am ...
Pool Maintenance	10/11/2009
Q: I have an inground concrete pool with a sand filter. We recently upgraded the filter and the pump, ... A: You should have started the filter on backwash to clean the new sand first as it contains a dust ...
changed filter now no suction	10/11/2009
Q: I have taken over doing my moms pool sence my father past away. We have a Sta-Rite TX100. I fallowed ... A: How do you close the outlet can you send me a picture of this leaking part? If the water is not ...
Swimming Pool Questions	10/9/2009
Q: We have a 15000 gallon chlorine pool (fiberglass) Everytime we swim in it it gets cloudy. I added ... A: If your PH is low you definitely don't need acid. There are 3 major test readings you need on a ...
Mold under Above ground vinyl liner	10/6/2009
Q: We have an above ground pool- it was installed five years ago. This summer we wanted to get the ... A: What above ground has a main drain non I have ever seen are you sure you don't mean an onground ...
pool electrics	10/6/2009
Q: I am based in the UK but have a house and pool in Tobago, Caribbean. Over the past couple of years I ... A: If you don't have a GFCI breaker on all pool power lines you should and it should have tripped if ...
Stemmed freeze plugs	10/3/2009
Q: i was just wondering if you could direct me somewhere to buy stemmed freeze plugs to blow out my ... A: I might if I knew what they were. Perhaps you are referring to check valve plugs and have just given ...
closing pool	9/29/2009
Q: I have to close my pool myself and have read several articles on doing this. This is all very new to ... A: Anyone wishing to close a pool themselves for whatever reason Must purchase or own a shop vacuum ...
pool leak	9/29/2009
Q: We have a leak in our newly built pool and the builder has left us high and dry, after having three ... A: Ok your turn to educate me a little is this a fiberglass or concrete and what is pebble tec? Is this ...
Concrete pool	9/28/2009
Q: I am having a pool built. The concrete was poured last Septmeber and the pool is just now being ... A: What can be done is there another company to consult. The plaster would be able to cover the valley ...
Pool leak	9/25/2009
Q: The leak is likely in the return line (from pump back to pool) as I lose more water when pump is ... A: The aqua genie can be tested if you remove the return plate and either make a solid rubber gasket ...
Loosing pool water	9/24/2009
Q: My service company felt that my skimmer needed to be re-cemented to stop a water leak This season I ... A: If the pump doesn't fully prime and has bubbles on one or both skimmer settings there is a skimmer ...
Swimming Pool Maintainance	9/24/2009
Q: What do you consider the normal maint. of a 30,000 gal. pool with low usage to be on a ... A: All pools period require at least a weekly water test and shock regarless how often it is used, lack ...
Spa Polaris Blower stopped working	9/24/2009
Q: Our inground gunite pool is 7 years old. The spa has a Polaris QT 1.5 HP blower, which we operate by ... A: The best test of any blower, pump or motor is a bench test requiring a 240 volt controlled supply ...
Cleaner Sweep Hoses	9/23/2009
Q: Roger. I have a Hayward Phantom cleaner, it works well but has blown several sweep hoses over the ... A: Go to a Hydraulic/ Pneumatic or a Hardware Super store you know who I mean and get the vinyl braided ...
liner replacement	9/23/2009
Q: In-ground pool installed 18 years ago. First liner, no problem, laster 14 years. New liner installed ... A: A nice warm fall day makes the liner softer and easier to form to the pool shape and then you ready ...
a problem pool	9/22/2009
Q: We have a brand new (6 mos old) inground, indoor 10,000 gal swimming pool. It has been our dream, ... A: I am glad you both have this interest, your stabilizer is way too high and not needed for an indoor ...
DE filter - high presure	9/22/2009
Q: I have Hayward DE filter system. the gauge reads 20 - 25 psi and blows the DE back into the pool. I ... A: Is this the pressure with new grids just installed and did you add the exact amount of DE powder? Is ...
Flooded Pool	9/22/2009
Q: We have a 12X24 inground pool (liner) that has flooded with all the rain here in Georgia over the ... A: Wait till it settles. If you have a DE filter with a multi port valve like a Hayward Progrid you ...
a problem pool	9/21/2009
Q: We have a brand new (6 mos old) inground, indoor 10,000 gal swimming pool. It has been our dream, ... A: First off how are you determining the chloramine level by the total chlorine and free chlorine level ...
Pool chemicals	9/18/2009
Q: I don't have a pool myself so that's why I don't know this simple question. What is the chemical ... A: The yellow jugs contain liquid chlorine or sodium hypochlorite also known as bleach. If you feel ...
Blowing out pool lines	9/17/2009
Q: With closing my pool I have been unable to drain water from the skimmer. I have tried to blow the ... A: When the filter is on backwash or recirculate no lines are being blown out. Lines are blown out with ...
pool will not hold chlorine	9/17/2009
Q: I have a 22,000 gallon vinyl inground pool. since mid July the pool won't hold chlorine for more ... A: I would say with all those chemicals you added why not empty. Get a Hayward automatic chlorine ...
Pool shell leak	9/17/2009
Q: We are building a pool and a couple of months ago we had our pool shell sprayed with concrete. Prior ... A: Can you describe the construction process of how this pool was built like what was the concrete ...
salt sanitizer	9/17/2009
Q: I have an in ground pool with a care taker 99 system which came with the house. After investigating ... A: Well calcium hardness should be in the 300-500 range anyway. So if the hard water isn't killing ...
Pool shell leak	9/16/2009
Q: We are building a pool and a couple of months ago we had our pool shell sprayed with concrete. Prior ... A: As I am not a concrete expert I can only suggest. Is the water comming around the outer edge of the ...
swimming pool / how to blow out skimmer	9/15/2009
Q: I HAVE AN INGROUND GUNITE POOL WITH CERAMIC TILE AROUND THE PERIMETER. WHEN CLOSING I WAS TOLD TO ... A: First off the water must be below the returns to blow them out as well. Duct tape the shop vac hose ...
DE filter grig	9/14/2009
Q: My filter keeps flow the DE powder back to the pool. I clean the grids and some of them are broken ... A: The defective grids must be replaced. The grids only need replacing when they have holes letting DE ...
care taker leak	9/9/2009
Q: I have an in ground pool with a care taker 99 system which came with the house. After investigating ... A: There are rubber plugs for any size imagineable. Well its not too deep but it is under the pool. If ...
filter and pump pressure	9/8/2009
Q: I have a Proline D.E. filter system for my above ground pool. I took the filter apart to clean the ... A: http://www.haywardcanada.com/ If you go to the web site I give you it will show how a DE filter ...
Pentair Intellichlor Chlorine Generator	9/5/2009
Q: I have gone through 2 of these and again, on my latest one the cell light keeps blinking, never ... A: Gone through two what cells or units. To be honest we only use the Zodiac and Hayward salt ...
black film causing vinyl liner to lose its color	9/1/2009
Q: I have an indoor salt water pool with a triton fiberglass sand filter with an aqua rite electronic ... A: Was the pool built for salt or was this an upgrade from a bromine pool. What type of heater does it ...
20 year old pool	9/1/2009
Q: We were giving an above ground pool 24ft round, I was wondering how long would it last, if we were ... A: It's free why does it matter how long it lasts if you like it one year and you like it put in a nice ...
Noisy Hayward Super Pump	8/30/2009
Q: The pump was replaced about 2 years ago and the this year the pump has gotten louder. It has become ... A: Consider one season per pump with Hayward there is only a one year warranty and requires a yearly ...
inground vinyl pool losing water.	8/30/2009
Q: We have been losing water this summer. We have a sand filter. We noticed that on the left side of ... A: Visually inspect the liner around that area for a cut or hole. I could write a book on pool leaks ...
Pool pump suction	8/27/2009
Q: There is not enough suction from the pump to make my pool cleaner move. If I backwash the pool, the ... A: You need to backwash till the water is clear in the sight glass or coming out the backwash. Check ...
pool is losing 2" of water a day	8/26/2009
Q: I have an in-ground,13,000 gal.,vinyl lined pool with a sand filter. It has only been open for about ... A: Allow water to drop till it stops or note the level it was at when you opened it. If you have a ...
Pool Pump not working	8/25/2009
Q: I took out my cell to clean it and forgot to turn off the timer. The timer came on and ran the pump ... A: My question ? Was here any water in the pool, what happened to the water going to missing cell. If ...
Neighbor's Swimming Pool Leak	8/25/2009
Q: My mother is experiencing water collecting in her basement for the first time in the more than 20 ... A: Is the pool a new addition to the neighbourhood? Would think if they have a leak there would be ...
DE Backup in pool	8/25/2009
Q: In-ground pool...when the pump shuts off, DE backs-up into the pool ONLY when water has been going ... A: When a DE filter is freshly cleaned i has an initial coating with a pressure of say 10 PSI when the ...
quality spas	8/24/2009
Q: I build patios and outdoor kitchens featuring alot of masonry and concrete work. I am working on a ... A: You can use any spa jets you wish if building from scratch. As I am not familiar with this spa can ...
Pool Cleaning in the 1960's	8/24/2009
Q: I am writing a book set in the late 1960's, in which the lead character cleans a swimming pool in ... A: Are we making a movie too? Probably a pool boy from some other country trying to make an honest ...
DE Backup in pool	8/24/2009
Q: In-ground pool...when the pump shuts off, DE backs-up into the pool ONLY when water has been going ... A: You need a check valve pointing up to the heater and may as well add one pointing down from heater ...
Large spa installation	8/23/2009
Q: Roger, Some years ago I made the mistake of building an elevated deck to accomidate a fiberglass ... A: Do you need to use cement? There are other types of walls. Since you are in the USA why are the ...
Large spa installation	8/23/2009
Q: Roger, Some years ago I made the mistake of building an elevated deck to accomidate a fiberglass ... A: Why not just build a 4M x 8M x 1.6 M inground pool with 6 or 8 Swim jets on one end and an 11 foot ...
Clogged main drain	8/21/2009
Q: I have an inground gunite pool (22,500 gallons)which does not seem to circulate water very well at ... A: Some main drains are on dedicated seperate lines while others the line is connected to the front ...
sand and cloudy pool ONLY after a repair	8/20/2009
Q: My backwash valve was leaking so a pool company replaced it with a whole new gauge and some new ... A: ? What sand filter Hayward ?? What does the gauge have to do with leaking backwash? And why new ...
Salt Water Pool Stains	8/19/2009
Q: Thinking of putting in salt water pool, however heard that this type of pool can cause staining on ... A: I personally would never have a salt water pool. Having worked with salt water for many years and ...
Clogged main drain	8/18/2009
Q: I have an inground gunite pool (22,500 gallons)which does not seem to circulate water very well at ... A: If you have a navigator, barracuda or other type of automatic cleaner your main drain especiallly ...
Pumping sand into the pool	8/17/2009
Q: We have a 6 year old above ground pool. Very recently we have noticed that there are fine particles ... A: The fingers in the sand filter are probably broken and need replacing which requires removing all ...
Possible Pool Leak	8/17/2009
Q: We have a concrete inground swimming pool built in 2007 in QLD. We loose lots of water BUT only ... A: Yes that would be a great thing to do. If it wasn't for this valve the pool would literally lift out ...
Possible Pool Leak	8/17/2009
Q: We have a concrete inground swimming pool built in 2007 in QLD. We loose lots of water BUT only ... A: When you have lots of rain or excessive ground water it pops the hydrostatic valve open to prevent ...
seal plate oring	8/17/2009
Q: I have an inground pool with a Hayward Northstar 1 hp pump. The capasitor went bad. ( I came out and ... A: As I have never had one of these pumps apart they are similar to a Jacuzzi Mag pump , you really ...
Cleaning my pool surface	8/16/2009
Q: Summer is on its way and I would really like my pool to look great. At the moment it has stains on ... A: If it's a cement pool acid wash it and if its vinyl liner get in and scrub it. If you wantto pwer ...
why is my pool turning green??	8/15/2009
Q: Last year we bought a 18 ft above ground pool. We left for a week and it was totally overcome with ... A: You could have saved the pool. Why do you cover your pool. Swimming pools should only be covered at ...
pool leaking?	8/15/2009
Q: Our pool is 4yrs old.Last yr it started leaking a little at the end of summer so we waited till ... A: First run the pool on main drain and see if you get a full prime in the pump with no air bubbles in ...
pool leaking?	8/14/2009
Q: Our pool is 4yrs old.Last yr it started leaking a little at the end of summer so we waited till ... A: Does the pool pump have full prime no air bubbles? Is there a skimmer and main drain? Is there a ...
intex saltwater pump	8/14/2009
Q: bought it new last july has been working great the other day i have found there is no power to the ... A: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VzihvBxqmO0 Try this site as we don't work with any of those ...
Congealed clear substance found in skimmer?	8/13/2009
Q: I've owned my pool for 10 years; 34' x 18' in ground/29,000 gallons. After the second year I began ... A: If your not Mr Wilson and the kid next door is not Dennis I wonder why the kids are a factor in this ...
Inground Pool Plumbing	8/13/2009
Q: I am looking to install an inground fibreglass pool 16x33 with 3 foot shallow end to 8 foot deep end ... A: I would go with the Desjoyaux plastic, concrete filled walls with a vinyl liner pool that you can ...
taking down an on ground pool	8/12/2009
Q: I have an opportunity to acquire a free 10X12 on ground pool (half above ground, half below ground) ... A: Are we talking sunk in above ground pool or an actual on ground pool with steel walls and concrete ...
Coleman 400 series heating warmer than display	8/11/2009
Q: The display reads 90' and the actual temperature is 105' (and rising). It seems to keep running. ... A: Check to make sure the temperature sensor is fully inserted in the well and that contacts on the ...
inground bottom drain hose	8/11/2009
Q: My inground pool has a suction leak in the bottom drain hose, the flex hose going to the bottom is 1 ... A: You will believe me have great difficulty pulling a smaller hose through flex pipe especially if its ...
Black algae on grout	8/7/2009
Q: Mine isnt a question but a solution. I noticed that someone in the forum had asked how to get rid of ... A: Most algae problems are caused by a pool sitting idle too long for whatever cause especially over ...
Pool Sweep	8/5/2009
Q: I have noticed lots rubbery dark gray color in the filter at the end of polaris pool sweep that ... A: Have you be using lots of algaecide or a floc chemical that are used to coagulate particles for ...
clogged main drain	8/4/2009
Q: I bought a foreclosure with a pool that has not been maintained in a long time and my main drain is ... A: Get a 3 foot section of vacuum hose like used on a navigator available at most Hayward pool stores ...
clogged main drain	8/3/2009
Q: I bought a foreclosure with a pool that has not been maintained in a long time and my main drain is ... A: Since your at the point of vacuuming the main drain I assume the pool is empty and personally I ...
How to turn off only the hot tub heater	8/1/2009
Q: HotSpring Portable Spa Model J4D1123 - 300 gallon. The lowest the temperature can be set is 80 ... A: You want the heat lower than 80 use ice cubes or remove the electrical wires to the heater otherwise ...
inground pool remodel	8/1/2009
Q: We have an ingroud pool that needs the liner replaced we were thinking that we would rather go with ... A: To convert to a cement pool would be a very expensive option and you would be stuck with the same ...
low water level in spa	7/30/2009
Q: i have a concrete in-ground pool with a hayward filter. when the pump turns off, the water level ... A: The pool pump should have a main drain valve, a skimmer valve and a spa drain valve on the suction ...
mud in inground pool	7/30/2009
Q: We recently had a bad rain storm and muddy ground water got into our inground pool. It was actually ... A: I would say stop vacuuming for a couple days and shut the pump off for a day or two and see if the ...
Hayward sand tank	7/28/2009
Q: It looks like there is water coming from the bottom of the sand filter tank...but there is no ... A: All these wonderful ladies ask me questions but none for dinner. If you are losing that much water ...
Pressure Switch	7/27/2009
Q: I have a used alps spa and just put a new pressure switch on it. Now it seems to want to run on low ... A: The reason the spa runs all the time on none digital models is the heater doesn't come on to heat ...
Low pressure on Pump	7/24/2009
Q: I have a cartridge filter and pump for an above ground pool, and recently i have been having ... A: Eliminate all hose clamp fittings and replace with glue in flex pipe with threaded quick connects on ...
High Free Chlorine	7/24/2009
Q: How do you decrease the chlorine level? I have a 16' x 32' ingro9und vinyl pool. Thank you! A: I am not sure what product name you have in your area but in Ontario we have a product called ...
LITTLE SUCTION FROM VACUUM	7/22/2009
Q: HAD TO PRIME 3 TIMES AND GETTING LOTS OF BUBBLES.I HAVE 3 DIFFERENT INTAKES AND NO JANDY VALVE,TO ... A: If you have two separate lines coming to the pump, one from the skimmer and one from the drain put ...
when to replace filter	7/21/2009
Q: We have a 40 year old pool with an (old) Hayward sand filter. It does not seem to be filtering. I ... A: If the filter is 40 years old its time to change it especially if it's an S200 and get a 24 inch or ...
pool pump	7/20/2009
Q: Should pool pumps and machinery be closed when the pool is not being used? I am scared because I ... A: First off could you please tell me where it is again where you are from as in part of the world. ...
Blower for pool's jets	7/19/2009
Q: I have a pool with a spa. The spa has 4 jets. There is not enough bubbles, if I add a 1hp blower ... A: For those wishing to add a blower motor to spas must realize that blower ready spas have their own ...
Harward DE filter & spa Jets	7/18/2009
Q: I just finished cleaning or DE filter & put it back together. It is operating at 15 # pressure. ... A: I am so surprised nobody but me hasn't thought of adding a metal box around the pool returns with an ...
Sand in pool	7/17/2009
Q: I have a large in-ground pool. The filter appears to be pushing sand into the pool from the jets (2) ... A: Use a skimmer sock to collect what you vacuum and compare to filter sand and throw away and also ...
swimming pool vinyl liner water leak	7/17/2009
Q: We are changing our vinyl liner due to many wrinkles. Once they drained and removed the old liner ... A: One solution is to dig a trench along that side of the pool and install a drainage pipe like they do ...
hose connector stuck in skimmer pipe	7/17/2009
Q: We're 1st time pool owners. We couldn't find an adaptor for our new vacuum hose to fit our skimmer ... A: Vacuum hoses usually have two white tapered ends one goes on the cleaner and the other end goes in ...
water fall spa	7/16/2009
Q: do i need a booster pump in system if jets not having enough pressure A: Waterfall also called spill over spas usually come with 4 drains and 4 to 6 jets. Two drains paired ...
Sand in pool	7/16/2009
Q: I have a large in-ground pool. The filter appears to be pushing sand into the pool from the jets (2) ... A: Since you removed old sand and replaced the parts I am sure you folded the fingers all the way down ...
problem with automatic pool cleaner	7/16/2009
Q: every morning I find the pool vacuum hose tangled up preventing the vacuum from reaching the entire ... A: The Navigator is designed to clean in a circular pattern so if the hose is too long it will curl up ...
Pool Pump Motor Wiring	7/15/2009
Q: I need to wire a plug to a 1 HP Hayward SuperPump. The wiring diagram in the motor is illegible. ... A: If its a newer pump you move the rectangle plug to 115 arrow and hook the line to the one screw or ...
pool leak	7/15/2009
Q: I have a vinyl pool liner that is losing about 1 1/2" per day. I called Leslie's pool and they said ... A: The only leach in the pool would be one that sucks blood. Is this an above or inground? Is there a ...
top rail caps	7/15/2009
Q: I recently had my liner replaced on a pool that is atleast 20 years + old. My problem is to remove ... A: I would get some acrylic 24 x 48 clear sheet and cut it to size and heat and bend to shape the ...
pool filter pressure	7/14/2009
Q: I used to be able to go 3-4 months in between cleanings of my filters before the pressure was up ... A: I am assuming these are cartridge filters that probably need replacing yearly. The best way to clean ...
used creek water to fill pool	7/14/2009
Q: We just bought a 27 foot round above ground pool. We live in a very rural area and our well was not ... A: Maybe swim in the creek. Since it is creek water you need to teat for phosphates and metals. Shock ...
top rail caps	7/13/2009
Q: I recently had my liner replaced on a pool that is atleast 20 years + old. My problem is to remove ... A: I am not sure what you mean by top rails, my thinking is the 8 inch wide coping covers with corner ...
moving pump	7/12/2009
Q: My pump is about 8 ft above the water level,I run my pump 24/ 7,because I had it on timer and it had ... A: The closer to water level the less it works as is the closer to the pool. Get it as close and level ...
POOL CIRCULATION	7/11/2009
Q: MY FILTER AND PUMP SEEM TO BE WORKING PROPERLY, HOWEVER THERE IS NO SUNCTION IN THE SKIMMERS AND THE ... A: Assuming the returns in the pool are not shut off, I would say you have a broken impeller in the ...
pumping to solar panels	7/10/2009
Q: I had a company install a solar heater on my roof. The solar panels broke in a year....long story ... A: To answer question one use a 3/4 Hp pool pump then and output to a T then a check valve pointing ...
pumping to solar panels	7/9/2009
Q: I had a company install a solar heater on my roof. The solar panels broke in a year....long story ... A: A short lesson in hydraulics a column of water 30 feet high with the pump off has a pressure of 30 ...
liner wrinkles	7/9/2009
Q: Roger.. I have the liner installed and all four walls and the hopper are perfect! I have some major ... A: You should use two vinyl vacs. Get in the pool in sock feet with the vacs off and kick the bottom ...
Pool pump back flow	7/9/2009
Q: I have an inground pool with a sand filter. We changed the sand last week. Before we changed, and ... A: Change the gasket on that lid and use O ring lube and coat the ring completely before installing. ...
Pump problem on inground pool	7/8/2009
Q: I have a hayward super pump (2 Years Old) that works great. I just opened my pool this weekend and ... A: OK I see now what the problem is and here is what I think is happening as I have had it happen. The ...
Pool Vacuuming	7/8/2009
Q: We recently purchased a new home that came with a very dirty above ground pool. We have gotten the ... A: I would say new cartridges and no more clarifier which may be plugging the filter. Price the ...
new water 16x32	7/7/2009
Q: Roger, In what order do I add chemicals (and what chemicals) to new city water? Also what is ... A: I would have at least another persons help, four would be better but two can do much easier than one ...
Not generating chlorine	7/7/2009
Q: I have a salt water system. All chemicals in my water are at acceptable levels and there are no ... A: Assuming the salt level is not too high or too low and the cell has been properly cleaned with acid. ...
Pump problem on inground pool	7/6/2009
Q: I have a hayward super pump (2 Years Old) that works great. I just opened my pool this weekend and ... A: With the pump running on both watch the pump while you shut it off and look for water squirting out ...
new water 16x32	7/6/2009
Q: Roger, In what order do I add chemicals (and what chemicals) to new city water? Also what is ... A: Hold it sounds like stabilizer to prevent chlorine sun burn. Fill your chemical feeder with bromine ...
Pool Pump Thrusting	7/5/2009
Q: Ok, I have an in-ground pool and hot tub sharing the same pump. When we run the hot tub, the ... A: The path from your skimmer is sucking air as I can't see your plumbing make sure any thread in ...
pool main drain	7/5/2009
Q: When I hookup my kreepy krauly and close the main drain the pump loses it prime why? A: People end to use Kreepy wrong with a direct connection to the pump without its spring loaded ...
Our pool is always green	7/3/2009
Q: We have a pool that is 80 000 litres. Since being opened it has been green...we've had the water ... A: Without the pucks shocking will do nothing. Go to a site like Hayward and study water chemistry ...
pool filter	7/3/2009
Q: My pool filter hums when I turn it on. I just replaced the sand and it has been working perfectly ... A: People tend to confuse the terminology when they call with a pool problem so we shall start there. ...
hayward superpump installation wiring	7/3/2009
Q: roger, i just hAD MY HAYWARD SUPERPUMP FIXED IT WAS MAKING LOUD NOISES AND I HAD IT REBUILT. WHEN ... A: Before you burn the motor or yourself get a multimeter for testing voltage on AC. With the wires ...
Our pool is always green	7/3/2009
Q: We have a pool that is 80 000 litres. Since being opened it has been green...we've had the water ... A: Finally a metric pool. Ok you added shock and stabilizer but you didn't mention the algaecide or ...
sand from filter in pool	7/2/2009
Q: I do I know if a lateral is damaged ? To replace do I need to empty all the sand and do they fold ... A: You didn't mention what filter it is at any rate you need to remove all the sand but before you do ...
green pool	6/30/2009
Q: i have a hayward pro grid de filter system 48 sq ft. pool water turned green with alge filter system ... A: Take the DE apart again and clean the grids again but reassemble the filter without the grids and ...
swimmingpool with waterfall jacuzzi	6/30/2009
Q: the jacuzzi works fine when bypassing heater ,but when i have to pass pool pump when off the jacuzzi ... A: Your plumbing seems to have been done wrong. You have a skimmer, main and spa drain. The 3 way valve ...
Purex Triton II Sand Filter	6/29/2009
Q: Where can I find an instruction manual? Previous owner left nothing regarding pool. Never owned one ... A: Were they cable service guys. As long as the label is on the top of the filter head you need no ...
pool plumbing	6/29/2009
Q: Background: We are replacing an existing patio around our inground pool with Cambridge pavers on ... A: If the deck of the pool was removed exposing the deck support replace the black pipe with new glue ...
Pool Liner	6/27/2009
Q: I opened my above ground pool about a month ago and it looked good. Over the last week or so it ... A: No more algaecide run the pump 24/7 for a couple days and manually vac the pool do not stop the pump ...
Home spa scum/oil	6/27/2009
Q: I drained and refilled the spa (and cleaned the filter by soaking overnight and hosing off good) ... A: When your water is tested do they test for total dissolved solids. Try using a strong algaecide in ...
Commercial Pool Maintenance Fees	6/26/2009
Q: Roger, I own a Commercial Lawn Care company in South Dakota. One of my clients has a complex with ... A: Poolandspa.com has some info or Hayward site. Pool maintenance can become quite involved if he wants ...
Hot Tub	6/25/2009
Q: Is there a way to re-use(splice) flex hose on my spa that has a gentle coating of spray foam ... A: If the flex pipe has a hole in it you cut it at the hole and sand or scrape the insulation off with ...
pool inlets	6/25/2009
Q: I have two returns in my rectangular pool one in the shallower end one in the other end. Inground ... A: Point the one closest to the skimmer away from and down just enough to see a little ripple on top of ...
Polaris Caretaker 5 port Valve	6/25/2009
Q: I am having same problem with my 5 port caretaker. I also installed rebuild kit, caretaker seemed to ... A: Personally I would plumb a three valve on the water to the pool to send water to the cleaner or ...
Spa inoperative after prime	6/25/2009
Q: After the spa goes through the prime stage. The spa runs for a short time then shuts down with a ... A: When the pump is done priming the circ pump must start before the heater comes on or you will get a ...
small depris from return jets	6/24/2009
Q: I have a new 24" Sta-Rite Crystal Flow Sand Filter and 1HP Hayward Super Pump. The installer added ... A: No a broken return line would. You will never have full prime on vacuum especially manual. Why would ...
vacuum	6/24/2009
Q: my pool vacuum keeps losing suction after about 10 minutes. Any ideas what the problem might be? A: First off I need to know what vacuum you have or you talking manual vacuum? Any air leaks from pump ...
New easy snap pool purchase: maintenance	6/24/2009
Q: I just purchased a 10ft (circumference) by 30" high summer escapes easy set pool. The kind you blow ... A: I would start by getting a good quality floating chlorine dispenser that takes those tablets, one ...
2 problems: Hose collasping and White tissue mold.	6/23/2009
Q: 1: when we are vacuuming with our easy vac (kreapy krauly), the hoses between the skimmer and pump ... A: The fact you have a 3 way valve indicates a skimmer and main drain thus this may be what we call an ...
Pool Filter Hose Assembly	6/23/2009
Q: I am replacing worn/cracking hoses between my pump and sand filter, and have new hoses and ... A: I suggest replacing with glue in fittings but if you want the simple fix heat up the pipe with a ...
Patching	6/23/2009
Q: I was wandering how to patch a intex pool we have patches!! and i was wandering if the go on the ... A: The best way for you and others to patch a pool is with if at all possible a piece of your actual ...
Pool Leakage Detection and Double Liner Installation	6/23/2009
Q: We are considering installation of a pool in a home along the riverbank, where potential leakage ... A: IF you are considering installing a pool where you say, yes you need drainage tiles or Big O around ...
2 problems: Hose collasping and White tissue mold.	6/23/2009
Q: 1: when we are vacuuming with our easy vac (kreapy krauly), the hoses between the skimmer and pump ... A: Most hoses on above ground pools are not very good and usually are clamped on to fittings. My ...
2 problems: Hose collasping and White tissue mold.	6/22/2009
Q: 1: when we are vacuuming with our easy vac (kreapy krauly), the hoses between the skimmer and pump ... A: Is this an inground pool? Is it the Kreepy hose collapsing? Is this black poly pipe with a section ...
SAND FILTER MEDIA.	6/21/2009
Q: Are there any silica sand alternatives that can be purchased through DIY stores, or building ... A: You have to use the sand specified for pools as the size of the granules of silicon must be a ...
How do I add the DE to my filter?	6/21/2009
Q: Total newbie here to a DE filter. I have an 18'x4' Easy set pool, and was given a Hayward Perflex ... A: the skimmer is on the pool wall and has a basket to collect debris before it gets to the pump and ...
How do I add the DE to my filter?	6/20/2009
Q: Total newbie here to a DE filter. I have an 18'x4' Easy set pool, and was given a Hayward Perflex ... A: Okay now that you have your uncharged filter running you need to look on the filter for the number ...
Dirt returning to pool when vacuuming	6/20/2009
Q: I have a lot of dirt, etc. in the bottom of my pool. When vacuuming--to waste--I notice the jets ... A: Your filter head needs repair cause if your getting any water back in the returns on waste then the ...
intel easy set pool mainenance	6/20/2009
Q: I have a 16' x 42' Intel easy set pool. I follow directions for chemicals but still have to fight ... A: Don't cover your pool during the day this makes it worse and keep the pump running. Not sure what ...
Pool drawing water thru skimmer	6/20/2009
Q: I have an in-ground pool. The pumps are working fine but they are not drawing water thru the ... A: When I plumb a pool with two skimmers and a main drain, I use one 3 way valve to choose skimmer 1 or ...
instructions and maitenance semi inground pool	6/19/2009
Q: Forgive me if I can find the instructions by expert tab maybe you answer that question already...We ... A: What you have is what we call an onground pool. That is a pool with inground walls but no cement ...
High Chlorine level	6/19/2009
Q: How do I bring chlorine level down. Both test strips and liquid show very high. Weather now is hot ... A: We have a product here think its called terminator that reduces chlorine levels quickly but the sun ...
pool panels rusting	6/18/2009
Q: We had an inground salt water pool installed 2 years ago. Last year noticed that the concrete on ... A: I fully stand behind any pool company that works with the customer and is there year after year so ...
Leaky Pool Filter	6/18/2009
Q: My Hayward cartridge filter is leaking along one of the seams of the case. Is it repairable (I have ... A: If the leak is along a seam and not along the clamp it can't be repaired. I would suggest if you ...
de filter pressure	6/17/2009
Q: my de filter pressure stays at 30psi. have cleaned and recharged, backwashed replaced entire filter ... A: Somewhere in the return line there may be a restriction like a check valve that is stuck closed or ...
Low Vacuum Pressure	6/17/2009
Q: Pump, pressure and circulation work fine. When vacuum is attached to skimmer, pressure is good for ... A: All vacuum leaks are caused by the following bad union leak, bad 3 way, bad front fitting leak, bad ...
pool motor	6/16/2009
Q: My pool company closes the pool and opens it. This year, when the pool was opened, the pump was ... A: won't ask again. A noisy motor requires new bearings as most motors have a one year guarantee thus ...
adding a spill in spa	6/16/2009
Q: How would i add a spill over hot tub to an in-ground pool so that the hot tub would gain priority on ... A: I would have to cad a drawing so lets start with the intake skimmer, main drain and spa drain the ...
Black Algae Removal	6/16/2009
Q: All the questions/answers I have found include the pool being filled...ours is empty so what's the ... A: I myself would use the wall brush and a bucket wide enough to dip it in and use some diluted pool ...
Pool to deep	6/16/2009
Q: My friend purchased a home that has a pool that is 11ft deep in one end. This leaves a very small ... A: None that i know as each pool is a little different it would have to be custom made and a costly ...
Hard water in my pool	6/15/2009
Q: I have hard water that runs through our hose to fill the pool. My pool water is a rusty color ... A: Have your water tested for calcium hardness, alkalinity, copper, iron, PH and chlorine levels. If ...
pump problems?	6/15/2009
Q: A couple of years ago I purchased a home with a 16x32 in-ground pool. Last year I figured the pool, ... A: First off make sure the drain plugs and o rings are good and the lid O ring is tight. Make sure ...
Drain cover	6/15/2009
Q: I've got a very old inground concrete pool that I've done a lot of cosmetic work to. The pool was in ... A: Do not try to drill the screws out but rather note the model or the brand like Jacuzzi and find a ...
pool panels rusting	6/15/2009
Q: We had an inground salt water pool installed 2 years ago. Last year noticed that the concrete on ... A: You still owe 30 big ones don't pay it take them to court make them replace the walls concrete and ...
Sand bottom problem	6/14/2009
Q: I recently purchased a new liner for my inground pool. The installers came by yesterday to install ... A: My advice is get all the pool companies in your area to quote and guarantee their work in writing. ...
lable missing on filter	6/14/2009
Q: we bought a used aquatools filter AT 3120 1.5 hp and label is missing from top that handle points to ... A: There are two positions you need the filter position water flows out the pool returns and the ...
pool panels rusting	6/14/2009
Q: We had an inground salt water pool installed 2 years ago. Last year noticed that the concrete on ... A: I think that salt water pools and nuclear physics will eventually destroy us. Being in an area of ...
CLOUDY GREENISH HAZE IN POOL	6/13/2009
Q: In-ground pool. We've never had this issue before. No matter how we treat it (Shock, etc.), the ... A: Sorry for your loss. You may have missed the algaecide chemical. I would advise you to visit the ...
Sand bottom problem	6/13/2009
Q: I recently purchased a new liner for my inground pool. The installers came by yesterday to install ... A: Is there water trickling in thats visible? I will simply educate you here on pool construction they ...
Noisy hot pump	6/13/2009
Q: new pump installed last year is very noisy-located in my house, the water swirls under the strainer ... A: Well can i get a make and model of pump, above or inground. Pool and spa pumps consist of two parts, ...
Sand/Losing Water with new Filter	6/13/2009
Q: Just put in a new Sand Dollar Filter.... Now sand is coming back into the pool and the pool has no ... A: Here is what I think has happened whoever installed the new filter has plumbed it backwards, they ...
pool	6/12/2009
Q: Can my cover be on while pump is running? A: I assume you mean your solar blanket which by the way shouldn't be left on during the day as the ...
multiport valve for sand filter	6/12/2009
Q: Is there a difference between the multiport valves for sand filters and DE filters? I ask because ... A: Since you have a new valve for a DE filter I recommend you make a deal with your supplier for a DE ...
de filter	6/12/2009
Q: My de filter pressure gauge goes from 10 to 20 in like half an hour, therefore I cannot run my ... A: 20 PSI if you leave it run what happens. Take the fingers out again and go to a do it yourself car ...
multiport valve for sand filter	6/11/2009
Q: Is there a difference between the multiport valves for sand filters and DE filters? I ask because ... A: Did you do a sand change. Sounds like old dirty sand. Compare the numbers on the top of the filter ...
cleaning pool	6/10/2009
Q: why would my inground pool be filthy 5 days after cleaning A: Most pools need cleaning weekly depending on trees or landscape and frequent use. It could be algae ...
High Pressure/Vacuum Issues	6/10/2009
Q: We purchased our home last year and it had an above ground pool. We've never had a pool so we hired ... A: When you backwash do so until the glass bottle is clear water, vacuum the pool then backwash again ...
Repair crack in DE filter housing	6/10/2009
Q: I have a FNS 48 DE filter (9 yrs old) that i have notice a small crack around "output" pipe coming ... A: If the crackis in the plumbing replace broken fitting, if its around threads teflon and silicone ...
Help! The cap just blew off !	6/9/2009
Q: Help! The cap just blew off my Hayward 240 sand filter! What could the problem be, it seems we have ... A: Which cap, the drain one. Have you backwashed lately, are the returns open, is there water flow, ...
Air suction	6/9/2009
Q: I have a cartridge filter system. When I use a fully open equalizer float in the skimmer, the tank ... A: What is an open equalizer float and what is its purpose. Pine needles may have plugged your skimmer ...
Air Leak	6/8/2009
Q: I have an inground 20X40 pool and have air bubbles in pump basket when the Kreepy Krauly is ... A: If the pool runs full prime without it and the kreep works everything is ok. This vac comes with a ...
Pump Trouble...	6/8/2009
Q: This is the 2nd season with a new pump and filter. It seems like we are having nothing but trouble ... A: I think the Century uses a Magnetek motor and may not have a capacitor but it does have a start ...
concrete pool leak	6/7/2009
Q: I have a concrete pool and have almost drained it so that we could repaint it. After draing the pool ... A: Concrete pool main drains have the suction outlet and a hydro static valve beside it to relieve ...
Pump Trouble...	6/7/2009
Q: This is the 2nd season with a new pump and filter. It seems like we are having nothing but trouble ... A: You didn't specify what pump you have but it sounds like a start switch problem and the fact it ...
leak in hotsprings tub	6/6/2009
Q: We have recently repaired all the insides of our tub after not using it for a year. After filling ... A: Before you go dissecting your spa make sure it isn't a pump seal leak. Look for water dripping down ...
inground swimming pools	6/6/2009
Q: i just had a new liner put in our pool is still leaking but i see water coming out of the back wash ... A: For starters hope you like your new liner. If this filter is old replace it otherwise send me a ...
stuck filter cap on above ground spa	6/6/2009
Q: We bought a house recently with an above-ground spa in the sunroom. We wanted to replace the filter ... A: Don't know who you called but I wouldn't even let those people ring my door bell. they are either ...
dirty pool	6/5/2009
Q: My pool cover came off in the winter and now my pool is filled with black water, leaves and ... A: If you have a main drain run the pump with filter on waste or get a submersible from one of those ...
Pea Green Water	6/5/2009
Q: We have an 18x24 inground pool. The water was clear when we took the cover off at the beginning of ... A: First get a bottle of high concentration algaecide and pour it in the pool. Keep the pump always ...
chlorine will not stay in my pool	6/5/2009
Q: I have an above ground pool, 18ft round x 52 inches high. I have finally gotten my water balanced ... A: Floater is ok open it up more and use stabilized pucks. The auto chlorinator is more accurate and ...
chlorine will not stay in my pool	6/4/2009
Q: I have an above ground pool, 18ft round x 52 inches high. I have finally gotten my water balanced ... A: Liquid chlorine and powdered shock are just oxidizers they are not free chlorine to kill bacteria as ...
pool filter	6/4/2009
Q: is there any way that you can fix the band that goes around the cartridge of a swimpro filter? How ... A: Filters and me for starters a little history. Most filters I worked on were sand filters and the ...
waterfall issue	6/4/2009
Q: waterfall slows down after working for couple hours,after backwash works fine for week or two and ... A: Well a waterfall pool that collects dirt from rocks or pools in period that loose pressure require ...
skimmer air leak	6/3/2009
Q: filter has no pressure with single valve for 2 skimmers on but is regained with drain on and ... A: On a normal pool with a skimmer and main drain we use a 3 way valve that selects skimmer only, main ...
earth filter	6/3/2009
Q: I have a two year old earth filter. The water in the pool is crystal clear but there are granules on ... A: Is your alkalinity where it should be first? Bromine, Chlorine, Salt, Chemical Feeder and what is ...
White Vinegar to Flush Lines	6/2/2009
Q: Roger...Two questions here: We have a 300-gallon Coleman spa and use Bauqa in our water. My ... A: I would recommend using a spa flush but as vinegar can't hurt try it. Rinse filter out once a week ...
too high filter pressure pop-up zones not working	6/2/2009
Q: I have a caretaker 5-port zone system and a sand filter. It has been working fine until last week ... A: Ok I have researched the 5 stage caretaker is a mechanical type valve that rotates gradually ...
too high filter pressure pop-up zones not working	6/1/2009
Q: I have a caretaker 5-port zone system and a sand filter. It has been working fine until last week ... A: What filter have you soaked. Is the pressure normal without the cleaner. One would think the pop ups ...
pump pulling air.	6/1/2009
Q: when my pump is running you can see a swirling motion of the water under the pump lid. indicating ... A: As the pump is running turn off the power while watching the pump and look for water squirting out ...
Low pressure, no suction.	6/1/2009
Q: I get very little pressure when filtering, backwashing etc. I have 3 skimmers but all controlled by ... A: Try running on each skimmer one at a time you may find one skimmer causing the problem. The pump ...
High Pressure	5/31/2009
Q: I replaced a cartridge filter with a 30" diameter sand filter and ever since my filter pressure is ... A: Well if you can enlighten me as to what pop ups are and how they work to clean a pool in return I ...
pool drain	5/31/2009
Q: we are in the process of repainting our in ground pool. We have drained the water out but water ... A: Since you mention paint this must be a concrete pool in which case with a high water table be quick ...
green after chemicals	5/31/2009
Q: I am opening my 16x36 inground pool and trying to get my chlorine level up to where it should be. I ... A: First get your filter running do a backwash and let the pump run a couple days add a bottle of ...
putting sand filter together	5/30/2009
Q: I am trying to open my pool by myself for the 1st time... When the pool company closed it last ... A: If its a Hayward pump there is one plug at the front of the pump near the ground under the intake ...
pump loses prime with vacuum	5/30/2009
Q: Inground concrete pool in Michigan. Pump works fine when skimming, when vacuum hose is attached (in ... A: Make sure the fittings going into the front of the pump are well sealed. With the pump running good ...
Low pressure, no suction.	5/30/2009
Q: I get very little pressure when filtering, backwashing etc. I have 3 skimmers but all controlled by ... A: When you backwash you free up the sand. If the sand is old change it or have it changed. If the pump ...
jet problems	5/30/2009
Q: If I run the jets in the shallow end and deep end of the pool I lose alot of water. The only jet I ... A: To know for sure a pressure test would have to be done. If you have three seperate return lines you ...
Pool Pump loses prime	5/29/2009
Q: Runs for 2 mins, then sucks air. Replaced all gaskets internally and externally on the inlet. I ... A: Here is how you check for air leaks on pool pumps. When the pump is running fully primed shut the ...
pool pump	5/29/2009
Q: my pump quit working, so I replaced it with an extra pump that I had. the pump I replaced was a 1.5 ... A: If the pump itself never fills up completely first do a backwash till the sight glass is clear about ...
Sand	5/28/2009
Q: I have two questions about pool sand. 1) I have a sand filter can I use any type sand or do I need ... A: To answer question one get the pool sand for filters only the sand particles are a certain size as ...
pool filter pressure	5/28/2009
Q: I was esperiencing high pressure on the filter (25-30). Assuming the filter needed cleaning, I broke ... A: Have you tried a different gauge. From what I gather this is a cartridge filter. If the pool was ...
Anthony DE Filter	5/28/2009
Q: Roger, I have the most wonderful filter in the world!!! OLD and have replaced many parts. I now ... A: DE filters were always a mystery to me until we recently worked on a new hayward that you can ...
cant vacuum pool	5/28/2009
Q: i have a hayward sand filter that keeps sucking the lateral assembly up to about three inches from ... A: I am trying to understand this, the lateral as in fingers make there way to the top. Where is the ...
pool filter piping	5/27/2009
Q: Roger, I am not sure you can help but heres my problem. I have a salt chlorination system in my ... A: I assume your talking about the nut you tighten which is around 3 inches in diameter like used on ...
Starting up a neglected pool	5/27/2009
Q: We recently purchased a home with an in-ground pool that had been neglected for at least 2-3 years. ... A: Well I would take the DE filter apart and clean all the parts first and reassemble. If you want you ...
water color	5/26/2009
Q: We have inground pool. have shocked & adjusted pH al kaline cya levels. the water is blue but not ... A: Okay I need to know is this a year round climate pool or an open and close climate pool. If its a ...

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Any questions regarding pool,spa pumps and motors. Any pool and spa operations, problems, chemistry and maintenance. Filters, Heaters, Cleaners,Salt Water Systems. Also consider solar power to heat your home, spa and pool using the power of the sun. Sand changes, liner replacement, pump repair, leak detection, openings, closings, control systems and motorized valves. General pool operation questions for new to pool owners.

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Over 8 years as a field service technician in pools over 40 years as an electronic field service technician in process control and metrology (precision measurement). Having worked in depth with pool and spa leaks and solutions we are the experts. Years of rebuilding motors. Insulation testing and Solar power.Replaced many liners, pumps, filters and heaters, sand changes. Pumps not priming, pumps humming or leaking. Pool construction and new plumbing as well as leak repairs.

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