Cannonball Pool Service

Pool Service Maintenance & Repair

Cracks In Your Pool

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Pool cracks can be quite alarming. But, let’s not panic just yet. Some pool cracks can be repaired with great success. Cracks in your pool can be serious or superficial. A reputable and licensed pool company will be able to determine the severity for you. There are a couple ways that pool companies can perform leak detection and a few different types of remedies.

Why Cracks Happen

Cracks in your pool shell or deck can happen for many reasons. Soil condition is a common offender. This is the same reason sidewalks crack. Large tree roots is another. There are also common areas in your pool that tend to leak.

  • Light Niche
  • Skimmer
  • Plumbing

Dye Test Method

This test determines if your swimming pool is losing water or not. The dye test is a fairly quick test. It involves using a dye to see where or if water is leaking out of your pool. You should be able to tell immediately if your swimming pool has a leak.

Bucket Test Method

The bucket test method is just that…you use a bucket to show if your pool has a leak. This method takes a little more time because water levels are observed over a certain period.

Pool Crack Repair & Structural Repairs

Don’t let a swimming pool crack go unchecked! Some cracks may just be superficial in the finish of the pool and don’t leak. However, many will go all the way through the concrete pool shell which can allow water to leak out. Overtime this will compact or wash away the soil supporting the shell. If you are losing water and suspect a structural crack is your problem it needs to be stabilized as soon as possible to prevent further damage.

Tech Toys And Your Pool

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Having a swimming pool isn’t just for the occasional bather or laying poolside anymore. Pool Tech Toys have taken pool ownership to a new level. Yes, you can get your gadgets wet! They days of sticking your wet phone in a jar of rice are over. Nothing has been left on the table when it comes to innovation and pool tech. Companies have made great advances ensuring your pool gadgets are waterproof. This opens Pandora’s Box when it comes to what you can do in the water. The gear below are able to handle some sort of splash and even some of the gadgets are designed to be submerged under water. Yay!

Waterproof Bluetooth Speakers

The JBL Flip 5 is both portable and waterproof. It is able to immersed under water (3.3 ft) for up to 30 minutes at a time. JBL makes it easy to pair multiple Flip 5’s together to create a wireless stereo system. At 7.1″ long and 12 hours of battery life you can tuck these little jewels all around your pool deck to enhance your next pool party.

Smart Watches

The watch has been re-imagined. Now, watches can tell you everything from your heart rate to if your music is too loud. The Apple Watch Series 5 is not holding back with its waterproof features. They embraced the rain with the design of this watch. It is water resistant up to 50 feet! Adding to it, the ability to track your swim.

Another good pool tech toy is the Fitbit Charge 4. The Charge 4 is also water resistant up to 50 feet. It can automatically start tracking when you have started your workout. The battery life on the Charge 4 can last up to 7 days. You can also compete with other Fitbit owners which makes getting your swim on that much better!

Phones And Video

Getting your smart phone wet isn’t what it used to be – Destroyed. Not anymore. The Google Pixel 4 is a great tech toy that can stay under 3.3 ft. of water for up to 30 minutes. Game changer right here. This means your phone will no longer get water logged if your pal happens to push you into the pool. You should consider this phone if you are in the market for a powerful smartphone that can withstand the occasional drop in the pool.

You can now video your favorite swimming moments. The Insta360 Go is water resistant and can handle the splashes of your little “learn to swim” swimmer. With that said, the Insta360 is not design to be submerged under water.

Get Ready For The Storm

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Are you ready for the storm? Hurricanes and strong storms are a common occurrence in Florida. Storm surge is historically the leading cause of hurricane-related deaths in the U.S. (according to ready.gov) It is a good idea to be prepared ahead of time and have an emergency hurricane/storm plan. There are many things you can do to prepare for strong storms and hurricanes.

Know Your Risk.

Start preparing now. Find out how heavy rain, water, and wind effect the area where you live. Remember, hurricanes effect more than just coastal areas.

Have An Emergency Plan.

Every person in your household should know exactly what to do. Keep in mind that everyone may not be in the same place (office, daycare, school, etc.). Remember to include your pets in your plan.

Gather Supplies.

After a strong storm or hurricane you may not have access to supplies for days or weeks.

  • Grillable foods – A great idea if the power goes out
  • Propane/Charcoal – So you are able to cook
  • Can goods – These can last a while
  • Don’t forget pet food
  • Fuel your vehicles – Gas stations may not be available
  • Bottled Water – If city water shuts down
  • Get Cash – ATM’s will not work if your area does not have power

Ready Your House For The Storm.

  • Have important documents? Make sure they are in a (waterproof) zip lock bag in a safe. Store your safe in a high and dry location.
  • Trim the trees that are in close proximity to your house. Flying branches can go right through screens and windows.
  • Over chlorinate your swimming pool when a storm is coming.
  • Do not cover your pool.
  • Do not drain your pool.
  • Remove all patio and deck objects from outside. They can become projectile objects and cause more damage.
  • Secure windows and doors.
  • Declutter drains and gutters.
  • Consider hurricane shutters.

Pool Problems…In Florida

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Florida’s hot and humid weather brings on a range of common pool problems that go along with it. These problems aren’t Florida specific, but rather very common among pool owners in Florida. Below are some issues that Florida pool owners are likely to encounter and how to approach the situation.

Smelly/Cloudy Pool Water

You may have algae build up. One of the most common causes of smelly pool water is algae. Algae love warm, hot, humid weather (insert Florida here). Your pool needs to be on a strict maintenance schedule. Only this will keep your pool water crystal blue. If you don’t want the hassle & live in South West FL, Cannonball Pool Service can handle all of your pool service needs. We clean the pool, handle all your chemical balancing needs, identify problems, and perform pool repairs.

Pool Deck Cracks

Cracks in your pool deck can go deeper than the surface. These cracks can happen because of movement within the soil. Pool deck cracks can be dangerous and should be looked at by a professional as soon as they appear. The longer you wait, the more damage can happen (not to mention the more costly they become).

Pool Leaks

Water loss in your pool can seriously effect your pools’ performance. Chemicals become “off”, filtration doesn’t properly flow, and money gets wasted from having to constantly refill the pool when it has leaks. This is one of the most common problems in Florida. Remember, sometimes cracks aren’t big enough to see, but large enough to let water seep through.

After The Storm – How To Take Care Of Your Pool

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Everyone talks about how to prepare your pool for a hurricane or strong tropical storm, but after the storm needs to be examined as well. After a strong storm or hurricane your pool needs to be attended to. Because, after the storm pool care is just as important as before the storm. You should resume normal operation of your pool only after all of these tasks have been completed.

After Storm Pool Care :

  • Foreign Matter – Remove debris, branches, leaves, mulch to prevent clogging in the suction lines
  • Reset Circuit Breakers – If you have lost power during the storm, you need to reset your circuit breaker(s) and pump timer(s) when the power is restored.
  • Equipment Care – Remove coverings from the pump motor or other equipment. If your motor has been submerged in water, it needs to be cleaned by a professional before usage.
  • Check Water Levels – Pool water needs to be at the proper level. It cannot be too high or too low. Be sure to check your water levels and adjust them accordingly. Empty your pump and skimmer baskets and open the valves to allow the water to circulate efficiently and effectively.
  • Chlorination – Super-chlorinate that is. Then circulate continuously until your water clarity returns back to normal. Remember there will be a higher level of debris in your pool for a bit. Your filters will need more attention that normal for the next few days.
  • Repair – There may be damage to outside protection barriers like screens, doors, and security fences. These safety barriers need to be repaired or replaced immediately.
  • Enjoy – Only when your pool is clean, clear, and chemicals are at appropriate levels.

Knowing How To Care For Your Pool – Maintenance.

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Poolside parties, water exercises, and swimming family fun all come at a cost. Pool maintenance. If your swimming pool is not properly cared for, you will not be able to enjoy your pool. Pool maintenance not only balances chemicals, but takes care of all equipment and parts. Properly maintained pool equipment last longer, breaks less frequent, and utilizes less energy. Here are some tips that can help you maintain your swimming pool better.

Pool Tips & Tricks

  • Shock Your Pool Correctly – Shocking doesn’t mean surprising your pool. Surprise! It means raising chlorine levels for a while to kill bacteria. This is normally done 2x a season or after a pool party.
  • Have Basic Equipment On Hand – A net, a pool brush, and a manual pool vacuum. Automatic cleaners don’t always catch everything.
  • Brush, Brush, And…Brush Again – Brushing should be done daily. Just as you brush your teeth in the morning, brush your pool to keep things clean. Brushing tiles and steps removes unwanted algae.
  • Skim – Skimming the top of the pool surface should be done daily. This removes large debris before it reaches the pool filters and clogs them.
  • Clean Filter Baskets – Clean filter baskets weekly. Your pool pump works harder when filter baskets are dirty shortening its life span. Remember to backwash your filter monthly. This removes built-up dirt and debris in the pipes.
  • Pool Chemistry – Don’t be intimidated. Proper pool chemistry is very important. Harmful bacteria thrive in pools that aren’t balanced properly. Pool equipment & surfaces can begin to deteriorate with too high or too low of levels.
  • Call Professionals – If maintaining your pool seems daunting, call in the professionals. Having a pool service company can greatly extend the life of your pool. Pool service and maintenance companies can take care of everything from chemicals to leak detection.

Pool maintenance is a necessity. Whether you hire a professional or do it yourself, it is something that needs to be done to have a safe swimming experience. It is important to establish a good routine to care for your pool properly. In the Southwest Florida area? Call Cannonball Pool Service 239.440.9888.

Your pH Guide

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The pH in your pool is significant. It plays a very important factor in maintaining the proper chemical balance. pH is the scale between acid and base. The scale goes from 0 -14, where a pH of 7 is neutral. When pH is above 7 the water is basic and pH below 7 the water is more acidic. The optimal pH of pool water is right around 7.4. Both too low of pH and too high of pH have implications. Therefore the pH in your pool needs to be monitored.

Too High pH

  • Improper chlorine disinfection – Leads to bacteria build up
  • Can cause skin rash and irritation
  • Lime precipitation
  • Cloudiness – Always check your pH if your water is cloudy

If the pH in your pool water exceeds 7.8 your pH is too high. A high pH means poor chlorine disinfection. Everything that enters your pool water effects your pH. You will need to decrease your pH with a quality product that will lower your chemical levels efficiently and effectively.

Too Low pH

  • Damages the mechanical equipment of the pool – Corrodes surfaces
  • Irritates eyes & mucous membranes
  • Can cause damage to the vinyl pool liner – may become brittle & crack easily

A low pH means your water is too acidic. It is bad for swimmers and your pool. Have you ever been swimming and have your eyes sting? That is because the pool water was too acidic. A low pH also corrodes metal surfaces (like pool ladders, lights, and pumps). Keep an eye out for concrete, plaster, & stone deterioration with too low of levels. Low pH levels are equal to bacteria and algae build up. This is because when your pool is too acidic, the amount of working chlorine is decreased.

It is important to maintain proper chemicals in your swimming pool and spa. Water that is not balanced can be harmful to swimmers, pool equipment, and surfaces. Cannonball Pool Service takes the hassle out of pool ownership with reliable pool maintenance, service, and repair.

Pool Pump Efficiency

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Let’s talk about pool pump efficiency. According to the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) there are more than 4.5 million in-ground residential pools in the United States, and they consume between $1.1 and $1.6 billion in energy costs per year. Energy usage will differ depending on swimming season length, energy rates, and if your pool is heated. A pool pump can be the 2nd largest energy consumer in a home with a pool. Most often, the largest. Pool pumps are huge energy hogs, but they serve a great purpose.

Why Pool Pumps Are Needed

Pool pumps provide an important function for water circulation through filtration. Pool pumps are necessary for your water filtration. The filtration system keeps your pool water clean and clear. In short, there is no getting around not having a pool pump.

Single Speed Pool Pump

A single speed pump runs 5 – 6 hours a day (some even 24 hours) consuming energy. These pool pumps are typically oversized & overused. A single-speed pool pump by design can’t change its’ flow rate. The pump ends up running when it is not needed. This means that 90% of the time these pool pumps will provide greater circulation than what is needed. Single-speed pumps only have 30% – 70% efficiency ratings.

Variable Speed Pool Pump

Now, let’s talk about variable speed pool pumps. Variable speed pumps are designed with a 90% efficiency rating. These pumps are designed to reduce flow rate when it is not needed (i.e. tasks that require minimum flow). This means less energy usage. You can save $600 – $1100 off your utility bill annually because of the lower energy usage. The amount does vary depending on your utility and the size of your pool.

The Additional Advantage

The advantage of variable speed pumps go above and beyond energy savings. Variable speed pumps tend to last longer, require less maintenance, and are quieter. The slower circulation rates also put less strain on the filters, plumbing, & other parts of your pool equipment. All of this reduces the chance of leaks, repairs, or premature plumbing problems. This means less maintenance costs as well!

The Downside

Variable speed pumps are more costly. The average cost with installation ranges from $1,500 – $2,000. In comparison, replacing a single-speed
pump will range from $400 to $700. Some utilities provide rebates for upgrading your single speed pool pumps. DSIRE is a great resource to see if your local utility provides a rebate.

The Conclusion

Variable speed pump are a great option for pool pump efficiency. They cost more up front but have a huge payback in the end. Upgrading not only saves money but can also extend the life of your pool equipment. In the end, it is worth it to upgrade your pool pump to a more energy efficient variable speed pump.

Make Your Pool Energy Efficient

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It’s no secret that swimming pools are huge energy consumers. The average swimming pool costs $80 to $150 per month or about $960 to $1,800 per year just for electricity (depending on the size of the pool, location, etc.). Most homeowners see a 30% to 50% increase in their electric bills every season. Believe it or not, you are not stuck with higher utility bills when you own a pool. There are ways to cut back on energy, thus saving money on your utility bills. Here is how to make your pool energy efficient.

Upgrade Your Pool:

  • Change Out Pool Lighting – Replace inefficient pool lights with LED lights. An LED light can save you roughly 87% on your energy usage compared to a comparable incandescent light. Although LED pool lights do cost more than an incandescent light, your cost savings will not start till you recoup the additional money that you spent on the LED lights. LED pool lights are the preferred technology due to their durability, reliable performance & efficiency.
  • Upgrade Your Pool Pump – Upgrade to a variable speed pool pump. Variable Speed Pool Pumps reduce electricity costs and create power to keep your pool equipment running strong. They are the most energy efficient pool pump, saving pool owners hundreds of dollars per year compared to single speed pumps. According to the EPA’s ENERGY STAR website, traditional single-speed pool pumps could be the home’s second largest energy user for homes with in-ground swimming pools. Variable-speed pool pumps can save on energy usage and reduce the carbon footprint of outdoor living spaces.
  • Automated Pool Controls – Pool automation can save you frustration and money every day, help you get even more return on your pool investment, & allow you to spend more time swimming and less time maintaining. By automating essential pool and spa functions, you can save up to 70% on your pool’s energy costs. They make your pool more efficient and make the most difference when you have complex or spread-out pool equipment.
  • Energy Efficient Pool Heaters – Improve your swimming pool’s heating and energy efficiency. Install an energy efficient pool heater to reduce heating costs. New gas swimming pool heaters have a standard test they go through to determine their energy efficiency based on their Btu output. Today, you’ll find some gas pool heaters with 89%–95% efficiency. Proper installation and maintenance of your gas pool heater can optimize its efficiency. It’s best to have a qualified pool professional install & maintain pool equipment.

Swimming Pool Safety

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Swimming pools are great for family fun. With all that fun, comes a downside. Big responsibilities come with being a swimming pool owner. Pool safety is a must when it comes to friends and family swimming in your pool. There is much more to it than pool covers, alarms, and gates. Adults should always be home when children are swimming in the pool. Owners should follow a set of safety rules to in order to swim safely.

  1. Teach your kids how to swim. Immediately. – Start swim lessons as an infant. Mommy and me classes are a great asset that many Red Cross programs include.
  2. Never leave a child unattended in or near water. – Always watch them when they are in the water without distraction. Even if they know how to swim. Kids get tired quickly when swimming.
  3. Watch out for pool drains. – Teach kids to stay away from swimming pool drains. Children’s hair, limbs, clothing, etc. can get stuck in drains. Make sure your drain covers are not broken or damaged.
  4. Have proper barriers. – Install alarms, fences, gates, safety pool covers in and around your pool. Teach children to never climb a gate or a fence.
  5. Have every adult be CPR certified. – Get certified on CPR for all age groups not just infants and children. Bystanders are the first to aid a drowning victim. CPR classes are available through many hospitals, community centers, or by contacting the American Red Cross.

Pool safety facts to swim safely:

  • Drowning is usually silent. – It can be light splashing, waving, or screaming.
  • It’s Your Responsibility. – Watching a child in the pool is your responsibility if you are the homeowner.
  • Drowning is quick. – Once active drowning begins, you have less than 1 minute to react.
  • Swim lessons are essential. – Skill levels do vary. Make sure everyone in your household finishes a Red Cross swim program.
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