Category Archives: Pool and Spa Maintenance

Innovative Solutions, Pool and Spa Maintenance

Updating Your Sand Filter

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Zeobest Sand Filter Media

Is it time to change the sand in your filter? If its has been longer than 5 years since your sand was installed, it definitely is. While replacing the media, why not consider switching to a powerful sand alternative? There are several products out there that offer filtering capabilities that are far superior to regular sand. Zeobest Sand Filter Media is one great option. Zeobest has nearly 9800 times more square footage than sand which it enables it to small particles down to three microns for exceptional water clarity. Sand usually filters down to only 30 microns. You also use only 1 lb of Zeobest for every 2 lbs of sand required. Half the product equals half the work! It offer longer cycles and is completely safe for you and your loved ones. It will be a great change for your pool!

Pool and Spa Chemicals, Pool and Spa Maintenance

How to Clean Your Pool’s Filter Cartridge

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The following directions will help ensure that your swimming pool’s filter cartridge gets a proper cleaning.

1.  Remove the cartridge filter from the filter’s housing following the manufacturer’s instructions.

2.  Use a garden hose to with a straight flow nozzle to wash down the filter cartridge.    Work from the top down, cleaning both the inside and outside.  Hold the spray at a 45 degree angle for best results.   Clean between all the pleats.

3.  Rinse and repeat until dirt and debris are completely gone.

4.  If the filter cartridge is still dirty or has been used in a spa or swimming pool where sun tanning lotions or oils are frequently used, then soak the filter cartridge for at least one hour (overnight is more effective) using one of the following options:

— A commercial filter cleaner,
— A solution of one cup of Trisodium Phosphate (TSP) to five gallons of water, or
— A solution of one cup of dishwashing liquid to five gallons of water.

5.  Rinse the filter cartridge again, and repeat steps 2-4 if needed.

6.  If the filter cartridge has a coating of algae, calcium carbonate (residue from calcium hypochlorite), iron, or any other minerals, soak the filter cartridge in a solution of one part muriatic acid to twenty parts water until the bubbling stops.

WARNING:  Failure to remove all oils and cleaning solutions from steps 2-5 above could result in the permanent restriction of water flow through your cartridge filter resulting in a partial or complete failure of the filter.

7.  Rinse the cartridge filter completely and replace it within the filter’s housing according to manufacturer’s instructions.

NOTE:  It is not recommended to use Diatomaceous Earth (DE) powder with any filter cartridge.   The powder particles will become trapped in the body and will shorten its life expectancy greatly.

Pool and Spa Chemicals, Pool and Spa Maintenance

Get the Skinny on Pool Algae

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Algae makes swimming pool water green

Green Algae in Pool Water

Did you know that there are 21,000 known species of algae?  Luckily, pool owners usually have to contend with only a tiny fraction of these.  Algae are microscopic aquatic plant life that are introduced by rain or wind and grow in colonies that produce nuisance masses.  While algae do not cause disease, they can harbor bacteria, create a high chlorine demand, and pose a dangerous slipping hazard.

The most common types of algae that can grow in swimming pools are black algae, blue-green algae, green algae, and mustard algae (which can be yellow or brown).  Prevention is the key to controlling algae.  Preventing algae growth in swimming pools is as easy as maintaining proper sanitizer levels and proper filtration, brushing pool surfaces,  and using super-chlorination.

To rid a pool of algae once it has become established, the use of a high-quality algaecide is recommended.  The best choice is an algaecide that will not only kill existing algae, but prevent them from forming again.

Hot Tubs and Saunas, Pool and Spa Equipment, Pool and Spa Maintenance

Expert Help for Choosing the Perfect Filter Cartridge

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Filter Cartridge Diagram

Do you need to replace the filter cartridge in your pool or spa? Knowing which replacement model to choose can be confusing. Use the easy step by step guide below to make sure that you choose the correct option!

  1. Measure the outside diameter of the end cap. Be sure to use exact measurement (+ or – 1/32″).
  2. Measure the existing cartridge length. The length is calculated from end cap to end cap and should be exact (+ or – 1/16″). Be sure to exclude any handles or extensions from this measurement.
  3. Measure the top inside diameter. Again, be sure to use exact measurements (+ or – 1/32″).
  4. Do the same with the bottom inside diameter.
  5. Note the name and model of the filter that the cartridge came out of.
  6. Next, you will have to identify the correct top and bottom type. These are the types that you will see. Note the one that most closely matches your filter cartridge.

Open Top/Bottom
Open Top/Bottom w/Gasket
Closed Top

Closed Top
w/ String Handle
Castle Top
Molded Cone
Handle

Semi-Circular
Handle
Open Bottom
w/ Male Slip Fitting
Open Bottom
w/ ThreadedFitting

With all of the information that you have now gathered, you are ready to call or visit your pool supply source with the knowledge needed to make an informed purchase!

Innovative Solutions, Pool Accessories, Pool and Spa Maintenance, Pool Opening

Liquid Solar Blankets: The Maintence Free Heating Method

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Liquid Solar Pool Cover
Ready to swim, but your pool still isn’t warm enough? Try a creative solution. Liquid solar blankets are a fun and functional alternative to traditional heating methods. They work by slowly admitting a liquid that traps heat and reduces evaporation. The best part? The liquid is non-toxic and invisible. It does not affect skin, clothes, or pool chemical balance. You won’t even notice that its there. Unlike a traditional solar blanket, it is in use WHILE you are using your pool. 100% safe and works 100% of the time? Can’t beat that!