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Preventing Pool Algae: Essential Tips

by Nice Pool
Jun 01, 2023
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Owning a pool can be a great source of joy, especially during the warm months of the year. However, it can become a source of frustration if it starts to develop algae. Not only can algae make your pool look unsightly, but it can also pose health risks. Fortunately, there are ways to keep your pool algae-free all season long. In this article, we’ll explore the basics of pool algae growth and provide essential tips for preventing it.

Understanding the Basics of Pool Algae Growth

Algae, which are single-celled organisms that grow in water, are a natural and common occurrence in bodies of water such as swimming pools. However, if not controlled, they can quickly grow and spread, causing a multitude of problems. Algae can make your pool water cloudy, slimy, and even cause a foul odor. Moreover, it can harbor harmful bacteria and pathogens that can cause skin infections, rashes, and other health problems.

The three most common types of algae that grow in swimming pools are green, yellow, and black. Green algae is the most prevalent and can easily be controlled with proper pool maintenance. Yellow algae is more resistant to chlorine and needs a specific treatment to eliminate it. Black algae, on the other hand, is the most difficult to eradicate as it grows roots that can penetrate the pool surface. Prevention is, therefore, key in ensuring your pool remains healthy and algae-free.

Top Tips for Keeping Your Pool Algae-Free All Season Long

Regularly test your pool water: Testing your pool water weekly is crucial in maintaining proper chemical balance. The pH level should be between 7.2 and 7.6, and the total alkalinity between 80 and 120 parts per million (ppm). Chlorine levels should be maintained between 1 and 3ppm, while cyanuric acid levels should not exceed 50ppm.
Keep your pool clean: Regular cleaning of your pool is important in preventing the buildup of debris and organic matter that can fuel algae growth. Scrubbing the pool walls and floor, skimming the surface of leaves and other debris, and vacuuming the pool regularly will go a long way in keeping it sparkling clean.
Shock your pool regularly: Shocking your pool entails adding a large dose of chlorine to the water to kill any bacteria or algae present. Shocking should be done once a week during normal use and after a heavy rainstorm or a pool party. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions when adding pool chemicals.

By following these tips, you can enjoy a clean and algae-free pool all season long, ensuring a safe and enjoyable swimming experience for you and your loved ones.

Keeping your pool algae-free requires consistent effort and proper maintenance. However, by understanding the basics of algae growth and following the tips provided, you can prevent it from becoming a problem and enjoy your pool throughout the summer.

Dive into Summer Savings: Weekly Pool Services in Boca Raton!

by Nice Pool
May 29, 2023
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Summer is here, and what better way to cool off than with a refreshing dip in your pool? However, maintaining a pool can be time-consuming and expensive, leaving you with less time to actually enjoy it. That’s where weekly pool services in Boca Raton come in handy. Let’s dive into the benefits of these services and how they can help you save money this summer!

Pool Party All Summer? Weekly Pool Services in Boca Raton!

Hosting pool parties is a summer staple, but it’s important to keep your pool in tip-top shape to avoid any mishaps. Weekly pool services in Boca Raton can ensure that your pool is always party-ready. These services include cleaning, chemical balancing, and equipment maintenance, all handled by a team of professionals who know how to keep your pool sparkling clean and safe for swimming.

By investing in weekly pool services, you can avoid costly repairs down the line. Neglecting your pool can lead to problems such as algae growth, clogged filters, and broken pumps. These issues not only put a damper on your summer fun but can also be expensive to fix. With weekly services, you can catch any potential problems early and prevent them from becoming major headaches.

Keep Your Pool Crystal Clear with Weekly Services in Boca Raton!

In addition to keeping your pool party-ready, weekly services can also ensure that your pool is crystal clear all summer long. These services include regular vacuuming, skimming, and brushing of the pool walls and tiles. They also include chemical treatments to maintain the proper balance of chlorine and pH levels, which can be tricky to manage on your own.

By leaving the maintenance to the professionals, you can enjoy a stress-free summer by the pool. You’ll also save money on pool chemicals and equipment costs since the weekly services will reduce the wear and tear on your pool. Plus, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that your pool is safe to swim in and won’t cause any health issues for you or your guests.

Don’t let pool maintenance ruin your summer fun. Invest in weekly pool services in Boca Raton to keep your pool party-ready and crystal clear all season long. With these services, you’ll save money in the long run and have more time to relax and enjoy the summer sun. Contact your local pool service provider today to learn more!

How to keep the pool healthy for swimming?

by Nice Pool
May 29, 2023
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1. Regularly test the pool water to ensure the pH level, chlorine level, and alkalinity are balanced. The pH should be between 7.2-7.8, chlorine between 2-4 ppm, and alkalinity between 80-120 ppm.

2. Shock the pool with a large dose of chlorine after heavy use or if the water appears cloudy or has an algae build-up.

3. Clean the pool regularly, including skimming the surface for debris and regularly vacuuming the pool floor and walls.

4. Don’t let people swim with open cuts or sores since they can introduce bacteria into the pool.

5. Use a pool cover to prevent leaves, insects, and other debris from falling into the water when not in use.

6. Avoid overloading the pool with too many people at once.

7. Regularly check the filters and pump to ensure they are operating efficiently.

8. Don’t use the pool to dispose of any chemicals or other substances.

9. Rinse off before entering the pool to remove any lotions, oils, or other products that can contaminate the water.

10. Always supervise children when they are in the pool.

Green Pool? No Problem! Get Your Sparkle Back!

by Nice Pool
Mar 01, 2023
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Pool season is here and you’re ready to dive right in—until you realize your pool water has turned an unappealing green color. No need to panic! With a few simple steps, you can get your pool sparkling again and keep the summer fun going. Here’s how to get your green pool ready for swimming in no time.

Get Ready to Dive Into a Green Pool of Fun!

Green pools can be caused by a number of things, including a buildup of algae, dirt, and other contaminants. The good news is these are all things you can easily address with a little elbow grease. To start, you’ll need to work on the chemistry of your pool water. Check the pH, alkalinity, and calcium hardness of your pool, and adjust the levels as necessary.

Next, you’ll need to shock the pool. This is a process that involves adding chlorine or other water disinfectants to your pool to kill off the nasty bacteria that have been causing your pool to turn green. This step is important, as it will help keep your pool clean and free of any health concerns.

Finally, you’ll need to physically remove debris from the pool. This includes skimming the surface of the pool to remove leaves, dirt, and any other floating debris. You can also brush the sides of the pool to remove any algae that has built up.

Clean Up Easily & Make Your Pool Sparkle Again!

Once your pool is clean and the chemistry is balanced, you should be able to see a noticeable improvement in the clarity of the pool. But to really get your pool sparkling, you’ll need to vacuum and filter the pool. Vacuuming the pool will help remove any remaining dirt and debris, and filtering the pool will ensure any suspended particles are removed.

You can also take steps to prevent your pool from turning green in the future. Make sure you’re regularly cleaning your pool’s filter, testing the pH and other levels, and adding algaecide if necessary. With a few simple steps, you’ll be able to keep your pool clean and inviting all summer long.

A green pool doesn’t have to mean the end of your summer fun. With a few simple steps and some elbow grease, you’ll have your pool sparkling once again and ready for swimming. So don’t worry—get ready to dive right in and start making memories!

Pool Party Perfection: Expert Tips on Cleaning Your Pool

by Nice Pool
Mar 01, 2023
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Are you dreaming of a pool party perfection? For a heavenly dip and a shimmering pool, follow these expert tips on cleaning your pool.

A Splash of Clean: Pool Party Perfection

Still dreaming of a blue haven that glitters in the sun? With the right amount of care and attention, your pool can become the centrepiece of your summer party. Take the time to make sure your pool is spotless and ready to entertain.

To make sure your pool is ready for a party, you’ll want to give it a good cleaning. An essential prerequisite for a perfect pool is skimming and vacuuming the floors and walls, as well as scrubbing away any dirt or debris. You’ll also want to make sure the water is crystal clear and free from algae, and that all the pumps and filters are in working order.

Finally, check the chemical balance. Maintaining the pH of your pool is key to keeping the water clean, so be sure to test it with a pH kit and adjust it accordingly.

Expert Tips for Making Your Pool Sparkle

When it comes to pool care, here are a few essential tips and tricks from the experts:

A thorough cleaning is essential for a party-ready pool. Skim the surface, vacuum the floors and walls, and scrub away any dirt and debris.
Make sure your chemicals are balanced – test the pH and add chlorine and other chemicals as necessary.
Keep the pool area tidy. Debris and dirt will eventually find its way into the water, so make sure to keep it clean.
Take the time to paint or stain the pool deck and surrounding structure to give the area a polished finish.
Finally, add some lights and outdoor décor to make your pool the star of the show.

With the right care and a little extra effort, your pool can be the best-looking one in town. Follow these expert tips for a sparkling pool and a party that’s sure to leave your guests awestruck.

Is my pool heater leaking?

by Nice Pool
Jul 12, 2021
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Your heat pump may not be leaking; it may just be condensation draining from the unit. When heating, heat pumps can produce upwards of 9 gallons of water an hour depending on the temperature and humidity conditions. This is a natural by-product of the heating process. It is a lot of water too, almost two 5 gallon buckets of water an hour!

So, do you have a leak or condensation draining from your heat pump? The methods below are simple, effective tools to help you figure that out!

METHOD 1
1. Grab your pool chemical test strips or kit.
2. Test for the following items in your pool water: chlorine, salt, and stabilizer levels (be sure to note the levels).
3. Now test the water coming from the heat pump. It shouldn’t have chlorine, salt, or stabilizer in it. If it does, you may have a leak. We suggest trying the method below before calling a pool professional to check for a leak. Sometimes leaks can be hard to find and deceiving as to the origin.

METHOD 2 (Note: This method will help source leaks from all of your pool equipment.)

Turn off the heat pump and all the other pool equipment.
Let the area dry out so everything is completely dry.
Once dry, keep the heater off, and turn all of your other pool equipment back on.
Monitor the equipment area for the appearance of water continuously for 15 minutes, then once or twice every 15 minutes for two hours afterward.
1. If water appears around the equipment: you have a leak somewhere, and it shouldn’t be hard to trace its origin. It could be from the pump, filter, or piping. We recommend calling your pool service company to verify its source.
2. If everything is dry: turn on the heater. If water appears around the heater after running it for 10 – 30 minutes, you are seeing condensation draining from the heater. This is normal and to be expected. To double check, turn the heater off leaving the rest of the equipment running and everything should dry out again. Heat pumps will only produce condensation when running (heating).

If you determine that the leak is coming from your heat pump, give us a call to schedule an appointment so we can further troubleshoot and repair the unit.

How long does it take to heat a pool?

by Nice Pool
Jul 07, 2020
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How many hours does it take to heat a swimming pool?

It can take up to two days to heat a swimming pool. It depends on the dimensions of the pool and how large it is. The bigger the swimming pool and the bigger the body of water, the longer it will take to warm the water.

The required temperature rise. The more heated water there is, the longer it will take to heat a pool. If you need to heat more water, it will take a long time.

If you have a heater that produces high output, the heater will heat your pool faster. A strong heater can quickly heat the water in the swimming pool, saving you time.

How to calculate pool heat time?

First, determine the size of the pool.
For this example, the pool has 13,500 gallons of water (15ft x 30ft and 4ft depth).
Next, determine the temperature rise that needs to be achieved.
For this problem, we would like to raise the temperature 10 degrees F from where it is now.
Next, determine the power output of the heater.
The power output for this heater is estimated to be 136,000 BTUs per hour.
Finally, calculate the time to heat the pool.
Using the formula above, the pool heat time is calculated to be:
Temperature = Size * 8.33 * DesiredTemperature / BTU
T = 13,500 * 8.33 * 10 / 136,000
Temperature = 8.27 hours

Pool Start-Up Procedures (Fire-Up Service)

by Nice Pool
Aug 25, 2018
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As a pool builder or owner planning to apply a new finish, it is crucial to understand the startup procedure for the finish.

Following these guidelines is essential in safeguarding the pool and prolonging the lifespan of the finish. In this article, we will outline the essential steps for filling the pool with water for the first time and the subsequent 28-day startup procedure.

Typically, it falls under the responsibility of the remodeling company or builder to adhere to these guidelines to maintain the pool finish quality. However, it is advisable for pool owners to comprehend the process they are investing in.

What is a pool finish startup procedure?

After the pool is filled with water, the 28-day startup procedure for a new pool plaster finish involves several essential steps. These include regularly testing the water, maintaining the chemical balance, brushing the pool to eliminate plaster dust, and avoiding the use of automated equipment.

Approximately 86% of the finish will cure in the first month. As a result, prompt filling and rigorous startup maintenance are vital for any new pool.

What you will need

Equipment: Good quality Pole, Brush and Net.
Test Kit: A good Test Kit that will test for pH, Total Alkalinity, Calcium Hardness, Cyanuric Acid, and Chlorine.
Chemicals: Water, Muriatic Acid, Sodium Bicarbonate, Calcium Hardness Increaser, Sequestering Agents, Chlorine Products, and Stabilizer.
LSI Adjustment Charts: These charts help you follow the Langelier Saturation Index (LSI) method. See the attached PDF for LSI info. Using the LSI method is a more precise way to test and balance water and it is critical to a startup procedure. It uses single targets for water balance rather than “old school” ideal ranges, which are falling out of favor in the pool industry.

Before You Get Started

It’s VITAL to perform each step in this guide. Do not skip around. Download the PDF for a printable startup card.
NEVER mix water into chemicals. Always mix chemicals with water.
Don’t shock the pool for the first 30 days.
Don’t swim until the water is balanced.
Do NOT use a pool heater until all plaster dust has been removed from the pool. This can typically be accomplished between day 10 and day 20.
Do NOT use these devices until AFTER the 28 days startup is complete. They may damage the new finish or get clogged due to plaster dust:
- Wheeled Devices
- Automated cleaning systems—built-in or robotic
- Chemical Feeders OTHER than Oxidation Reduction Potential (ORP) and pH Controllers
- Salt-water generators (Waiting up to 6 weeks to add salt may be beneficial)

Fill Day Preparation

The Fill day comes before the 28-day startup procedure and typically takes between 18 to 36 hours to fill the pool. It’s crucial to avoid stopping the filling process once it starts to prevent creating a visible line where the filling stopped. In case of concerns about the pool overflowing during the night, it’s advisable to reduce the water supply to fill the pool more slowly.

Keep these things in mind before you begin:

Make sure the filtration equipment is operational.
Remove all floor return heads and directional eyeballs. (If appropriate for your geographical area)
Test your fill water first. Record your results!
When filling the pool with a garden hose, wrap a clean rag around the end so it doesn’t come in direct contact with the pool finish. You can also attach a water bottle to the end of the hose, so it floats. (see details below)
Do not let your pool finish dry out before it is submerged. Fill the pool up to the tile line/skimmer. Stopping early can leave a ring at the stopping point.
If you have a spa, do not let it flow into the pool.
Do not allow people or pets in the pool.

Fill Day

Fill the pool to the middle of the skimmer or specified water level without interruption as rapidly as possible with clean, drinkable water to help prevent a bowl ring. Soften the impact of the water with these techniques:
- Place a clean cloth on the end of the hose and then position the hose in the deepest area of the pool to prevent damage to the surface material. You can also attach a water bottle so it floats.
- If a water truck is required, 24 inches (60 cm) of water should be placed at the deepest area for a water cushion.
At no time should any person or pets be allowed in the pool during the fill. A newly plastered pool finish is highly susceptible to footprints or pawprints.
- It is recommended that you do not swim in the pool until the water is properly balanced and sanitized, according to LSI.
- Do not allow any external sources of water to enter the pool. Any water left on the surface prior to being filled can leave stains.
Test fill water for pH, alkalinity, calcium hardness and metals.
Start the filtration system immediately when the pool is full to the middle of the skimmer or specified water level.

1st Day

**NEVER add water to chemicals! Always add chemicals to water prior to adding them to the pool. A 5-gallon bucket is great for pre-diluting chemicals.**

Test fill water for pH, alkalinity, calcium hardness, and metals. Record your results.
High Alkalinity should be adjusted to 80 ppm using pre-diluted Muriatic Acid (31% – 33% Hydrochloric Acid). Always pre-dulite the acid by adding it to a five gallon (19 L) bucket of pool water.
Low alkalinity should be adjusted to 80 ppm using sodium bicarbonate (baking soda).
pH should be reduced to between 7.2 and 7.6 by adding pre-diluted Muriatic Acid if the alkalinity is already 80-100 ppm.
Brush the entire pool surface, from the top of the walls down, starting at the shallow-end and ending at the deep-end. Brush thoroughly twice per day to remove all plaster dust. Brushing your pool finish at least twice a day is one of the best things you can do to maintain the gorgeous appearance of a pool finish. Remember, wheeled devices should not be used in the pool until after 28 days.
Although optional, it is highly recommended to pre-dilute and add a quality sequestering agent using the recommended initial start-up dosage and then the recommended maintenance dosage per the sequestering agent’s manufacturer. This is cheap insurance against metal staining.
Operate filtration system continuously for a minimum of 72 hours.
DO NOT add chlorine for 48 hours. DO NOT turn on pool heater until there is no plaster dust in the pool.

2nd Day

Test pH, Alkalinity and Calcium Hardness and repeat steps of 1st day except for step 6.
Once the alkalinity is adjusted to 70 ppm and the pH is adjusted to 7.2 to 7.6, then adjust calcium hardness levels to a minimum of 150 ppm. (CAUTION: Adjustments requiring more than 20 lb. of CaCl^2 should be pre-diluted and added in 10lb increments – morning and afternoon.)
Brush the entire pool surface thoroughly at least twice daily to remove all plaster dust. Again, routine brushing is critical to a long-lasting, beautiful pool finish.

3rd Day

Test pH, Alkalinity and Calcium Hardness and repeat 1st day, Steps 1 through 5.
Pre-diluted chlorine may now be added to achieve 1.5 to 3 ppm. No Salt should be added for 28 days.
Brush the entire pool surface thoroughly at least twice daily to remove all plaster dust.

4th through 28th Day

Test pH, Carbonate Alkalinity and Calcium Hardness and repeat 1st day, Steps 1 through 5, for the first 14 days. Carbonate or Corrected Alkalinity is Total Alkalinity – 1/3 Cyanuric Acid Reading.
After the 4th Day, calcium levels should be adjusted slowly over the 28-day period not to exceed 200 ppm.
After the 4th day, adjust cyanuric acid levels to 30 to 50 ppm based on the primary sanitizer of the pool (pre-dissolve and add through the skimmer).
On the 7th day, if there is any plaster dust remaining – remove it using a brush pool vacuum.

After 28 Days – Daily Water Chemistry

After the first 28 days, you continue to maintain your water balance through testing and adjustments. The Langelier Saturation Index (LSI) must be maintained between 0.0 and +0.3 for day-to-day maintenance after the initial start-up procedure has been completed. Please see the attached PDF for charts and ranges and download an LSI app. Another great tool is a floating water monitor, such as the ¬pHin, which will measure your pool’s temperature, sanitizer, and pH levels.

This will help to reduce the likelihood of problems with the pool surface. Disregarding these LSI parameters promotes leaching, etching and discoloration on the negative (-) side and scaling and discoloration on the positive (+) side.

Disclaimer:

These procedures are sound technical practices in the industry and are advisory and non-binding. We does not regulate, control, or monitor the acts of its members or others in terms of conformance to any of the guidelines, recommendations, or other information contained in these technical procedures.

Category: Uncategorized