EC

Pool Equipment

Should I run my pool equipment during a power outage from storms?

No, you should never run pool equipment on generators during power outages unless the generator is properly sized and professionally installed by a licensed electrician with appropriate transfer switches. Pool pumps, heaters, and electrical components draw significant amperage that portable generators often cannot safely handle, creating fire hazards and equipment damage risks. After power restoration […]

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How do I balance total alkalinity in my pool?

Maintain total alkalinity between 80-120 ppm using sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) to raise levels or muriatic acid to lower them. Proper alkalinity acts as a pH buffer, preventing dramatic swings that can damage equipment and irritate swimmers—especially important in New Jersey where frequent rain, heavy chemical use during humid summers, and seasonal weather changes constantly

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What’s the best way to clean my pool filter cartridge?

Rinse with a hose between pleats monthly, deep clean with filter cleaner quarterly, and replace every 2-3 years. During NJ’s high-pollen spring and leaf-heavy fall, more frequent cleaning maintains proper flow and protects your pool’s circulation system from the extra debris our region experiences. Why Filter Cartridge Maintenance Matters in New Jersey Your pool filter

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How do I winterize my spa if I want to keep using my pool heater?

If your spa shares plumbing and equipment with your pool, you’ll need isolation valves installed to winterize the spa independently while keeping the pool heater operational. These valves allow you to shut off and drain the spa lines completely while maintaining water flow through the pool system. Without proper isolation, you risk freeze damage to

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What chemicals do I need to open my pool in spring?

Stock chlorine shock, pH increaser/decreaser, alkalinity increaser, algaecide, and test strips or a test kit. After New Jersey winters, most pools need significant shocking and pH adjustment before swimming. Having these essential chemicals on hand when you remove your winter cover will help you get your pool swim-ready faster and safer. Why Spring Pool Opening

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How do I prevent algae growth while my pool is covered for winter?

Proper winterization chemicals (algaecide, shock) and a tight-fitting cover prevent most growth. Some algae development is normal over 6-7 months—address it during spring opening rather than mid-winter treatments. The key is balancing your water chemistry before closing and ensuring your winter cover doesn’t allow sunlight or debris penetration throughout New Jersey’s long, unpredictable winter months.

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Why won’t my automatic pool cleaner move or climb walls?

Check for clogged debris bags, worn wheels/tracks, improper water flow, or incorrect hose length. Adjust flow at the wall fitting and ensure proper suction—leaf debris from NJ’s deciduous trees often clogs cleaners. Most movement issues stem from insufficient water pressure, tangled hoses, or worn components that need replacement. Regular maintenance and proper adjustments will restore

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How do I prevent my pool pipes from freezing during unexpected cold snaps?

If winterized properly with blown-out lines and antifreeze in traps, pipes are protected from unexpected freezes. For heated pools running during winter, keep equipment operating continuously during cold snaps and insulate exposed plumbing—particularly critical during New Jersey’s unpredictable spring weather when temperatures can plummet overnight. The key is removing water from pipes through proper winterization

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What maintenance does my spa need between water changes?

Test and adjust chemistry 2-3 times weekly, clean filters monthly, shock weekly, and wipe down the waterline to keep your spa pristine between water changes. New Jersey’s hard water and fluctuating seasonal temperatures mean most spas need complete water changes every 3-4 months, but consistent maintenance between those changes prevents costly repairs and keeps your

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Should I adjust my water chemistry differently for a vinyl liner pool?

Yes, vinyl liner pools require more careful chemical management than gunite or fiberglass pools. Keep pH between 7.2-7.6, maintain chlorine at 1-3 ppm (never exceeding 3 ppm for extended periods), and avoid placing chlorine tablets directly on the liner surface. The softer vinyl material is more susceptible to bleaching, staining, and deterioration from improper chemical

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