Backyard Blogging.

Pool season is here, and we’ve put together a list of the most frequently asked questions we get from our customers. Take a look as you start taking care of your pool this year! Let’s dive into our pool care FAQs.

Q: I keep adding chlorine, but when I test my water, there’s no chlorine reading. Why is this happening?

A: The reason for the absence of a chlorine reading is that your chlorine is tied up. It is combined with chloramine groups, causing your chlorine to be inactive.

You need to shock or super-chlorinate your pool. Shocking your pool will cause the chlorine to free up. Check your chlorine level 12 hours after super-chlorinating your pool. If there is no chlorine present, super-chlorinate your pool again and re-check.

Q: How many hours a day should I run my filter?

A: This is really dependent on how many gallons of water your pool holds and also the size of your pump. On average, you want to run your filter eigh to 12 hours a day to maintain proper filtration.

Q: I have blonde hair, and every time I swim, my hair turns green. Why does this happen?

A: Blonde hair turns green because of copper algaecide. Since the main ingredient is copper, too much of this product can stain your hair. Follow the directions on the back of the bottle for proper dosages. Try to use other algaecides that do not contain copper elements (unless necessary). If there are high levels of copper, Proteam’s Metal Magic can remove the copper.

Hair Remedy — To clear up green hair hassles, pour lemon juice or tomato juice on your hair and let it sit for five to 10 minutes. Follow with a normal shampooing. Repeat if necessary. You can also find shampoo products targeted for green hair in drug stores or salons.

Q: How long do I have to wait to swim after adding chemicals to my water?

A: Every product has a different time frame. For any chlorine-based products, wait until the chlorine residual is below three ppm. For any pH-neutral products, wait at least one hour before swimming unless the product indicates otherwise. Always check the precautions on each product label for further instructions and precautions. Generally, if you shock treat your pool at night, you can swim the next morning.

Q: Can I leave my solar cover on when filtering my pool water?

A: Yes! There is no harm in leaving your solar cover on when your filter is operating.

Q: Which way do I put my solar cover on—bubbles up or bubbles down?

A: Always face the bubbles down into the water when putting your solar cover on. Those bubbles heat up from the sun and transfer the heat into your pool water.

This process is similar to how your car heats up when sitting in the sun. The heat is allowed through but can not escape.

Q: My water is cloudy. How do I clear it up?

A: Water cloudiness is usually due to a high pH. Test your water. If the pH is high, use a pH decreaser to lower it. If your pH is high, your total alkalinity is most likely high, too. Make sure to follow the correct steps for balancing your water. BioGuard Polysheen Blue or Natural Clarifier will also speed the process.

Q: My pool turned green while I was on vacation. How do I clear it up?

A: First, check the pH and take alkalinity levels, then adjust where needed. Next, brush the walls and bottom of your pool to get all of the algae suspended in your water.

Shock your pool water with the recommended dosage. Run your filter for at least 24 hours. Check baskets regularly and backwash when needed until the pool clears up.

As you chlorinate, the algae will drop to the bottom of your pool. Vacuum this to waste so you do not clog your filter. Follow up with a routine dose of chlorine.

BioGuard Power Floc speeds up the process. If you are going on vacation, here is how to help prevent a green pool:

Make sure that your water level is at least halfway through the skimmer opening. Add a double dose of Algae Complete per label directions. Super-chlorinate your pool the night before you leave. Chlorinating your pool at night versus during the day is more effective because you do not have sunlight effecting your chlorine level. Also, use chlorine with cyanuric acid, otherwise add UV Shield or Chlorine Stabilizer to your pool water. Use the a chlorine feeder to help maintain your chlorine level.

Keep your filter running the whole time you are away. If you have a two-speed motor, you can continuously run your filter on low speed. If you only have a one (one) speed motor, you can purchase an indoor/outdoor timer to have your motor turn on and off at different times of the day to save electricity. Make sure the timer is not set so your filter can run all at once. Separate the run times so that our water does not sit still for a long period of time.

If you have a neighbor or a friend who knows something about pools, it would be beneficial to have them look after the pool while you’re gone. Even though these tips can help, a lot can happen in a week. Having them check on the pool can help prevent a disaster. Invite them to a pool party when you return!

Have a question that’s not on the list? Contact us – we’d love to help!

NOTE: Always follow label directions and manufacturer’s instructions for each product used. Conditions may vary from pool to pool. Ultra Modern Pool & Patio does not assume any responsibility or liability for the results that may be obtained through the utilization of this or any other program, procedure, or product.