Cannonball Pool Service

Pool Service Maintenance & Repair

Cleaning Your Hot Tub?

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Whether you’re looking to purchase a hot tub or currently own one, there is built in maintenance that goes along with it. You should know that cleaning your hot tub is all part of the spa ownership experience. If you are new to hot tub ownership or don’t know how to clean your hot tub, it is time.

Why Clean Your Hot Tub?

Hot tubs need to be cleaned and drained on a regular basis. Yes, there are chemicals and filtration and additional provisions built in, but there is also “gunk”. Gunk is everything from body oils, lotions, cosmetics, sweat, hair products, the list goes on and can get worse. All of this “gunk” creates bacteria and biofilm. It can get really gross. So, when is it a good time to act?

How Often?

It is a good idea to drain and clean your hot tub quarterly. This is putting aside any emergency cleaning (or if you can’t keep your water clear). Remember, preventing bad spa water is always better than needing to correct it.

Before You Drain…

Your spa lines need to be flushed. Biofilm can happen even if your chemicals are on point. Bacteria love biofilm, it’s their food. You will need to add a cleaner to your hot tub to flush the water lines. This is a special type of cleaner formulated to break down biofilm. Make sure you follow the directions on the back of your spa cleaner (or spa purge). Your spa will need to circulate for a minimum of 20 minutes, but preferably overnight. Please note, spa cleaner may create gross foam. This is a good thing. It means your cleaner is working.

It Is Time.

Caution. Avoid electrical shock. Turn off your power breaker before you do anything else. It is a good idea to check your city’s ordinances to ensure you’re adhering to the law when emptying your hot tub. Now, hook up the hose and let your tub empty. During the emptying process, you can move your house around so water doesn’t build up in one place.

  • Clean or replace your spa filters. This depends on how old they are and what type of condition they are in.
  • Spray down your hot tub shell with diluted white vinegar, shell cleaner, or a bleach solution. Wipe it down thoroughly to remove any hidden algae or bacteria. Remember to rinse.
  • Check all jets. These need to be open to reduce the risk of water pressure issues.

It is now time to refill. Remove the drains. Do not leave your hot tub unattended while filling. It is also a good idea to use a hose filter when refilling your hot tub. Use this time to clean your spa cover as well. Once your hot tub is at desired level you can turn your breaker back on.

Your Type Of Pool Filter?

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All swimming pools are not created equal. You need to know your pool. Pool owner mistakes are caused by insufficient knowledge of pool equipment. This is one main reason why hiring a pool service is best to properly maintain your pool. With that said, there are three main types of pool filters (sand filter, cartridge filter, and diatomaceous earth filter or DE). Let’s explore each type.

  • Sand Filter – This type of filter uses special sand. Sand filters can remove particles up to 20 microns. They typically last between 5 – 10 years. This is the oldest form of filtration for swimming pools. Sand filters clean by letting water flow into the filter and pass through the sand. Debris then gets stuck in the sand and then allows the clean filtered water back into the pool. It is important to note that this type of pool filtration system requires regular maintenance.
  • Cartridge Filter – Instead of using sand, this type of filter uses a fibrous element which water passes through. The maintenance for cartridge filters is less than sand filters. They are very similar to the air filters used in your car. Cartridge filters can typically trap debris up to 10 microns. This type of pool filter usually lasts between 1-3 years before needing to be replaced. These are commonly used in above ground swimming pools.
  • Diatomaceous Earth Filter (DE) – This type of filter cleans by passing water through a thin layer of DE that is coated onto a grid. Like sand filters, DE filters require backwashing to remove debris from the filter itself. This is usually completed annually. Older DE filters may require more frequent backwashing.

Pool filter maintenance depends on your filter type. It is important to know what type of pool filtration you have. Swimming pool filters are often called the kidneys of pool equipment. They need to be maintained on a regular basis. Contact a reliable pool service company if pool maintenance seems challenging.

Gifting Pool Service

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I don’t know who needs to hear this, but dad wants more than socks this year. It’s that time of year where everyone is searching for the perfect gift. The Holiday Season is meant for giving something meaningful to loved ones. The gift of pool service is perfect for every pool owner. Families with children don’t want/can’t handle an extra item on their plate. Elderly people have the time but may not have the energy or strength to take care of their pool on their own. Gifting pool service is the gift that the recipient enjoys throughout the year. It’s not just another gift to fill a stocking or a trinket to place under the Christmas tree.

Gifting pool service is the gift that ALL swimming pool owners will enjoy. It makes pool ownership hassle free. The main reason pool owners get a pool is for enjoyment. Taking care of the pool, the maintenance, chemicals, cleaning, pool repairs, etc. is an unwanted “added perk” of swimming pool ownership. Anything that creates more time for added enjoyment is an added benefit.

So, don’t be predictable this year. Give the gift of pool service to someone who needs it, wants it, or could use it to make life a little easier. Call Cannonball Pool Service at 239.440.9888 or visit us at cannonballpoolservice.com to sign up today.

Pool Maintenance Mistakes

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Hiring a pool service company is always the best option when it comes to maintaining your pool. With that said, many people still take on the challenge themselves. Pool ownership can be challenging in itself, pool maintenance adds to it. There are a few common pool maintenance mistakes that can easily be avoided while trying to maintain your pool.

Pool Maintenance Mistakes:

  • Don’t Add shock directly to the into pool. This is not the proper way to add pool shock. The granules can sink to the bottom and bleach out your pool liner. The liner can become brittle and be susceptible to leaks over time. The best way to add shock to your pool is to dissolve it in a bucket of warm water first. This will help evenly distribute the chemical.
  • Don’t use an automatic vacuum with pool algae. Automatic pool vacuums can actually make your algae problem worse. It is best to break out the manual vacuum (sorry) with an algae bloom. You will have to switch your filter to waste as well.
  • Not being on schedule. Not having a maintenance schedule means your pool chemicals are more likely to be “off”. Your pool water is more susceptible to an algae breakout when chemicals are inconsistent.
  • Don’t Ignore pH & Alkalinity. Proper pH creates healthy pool water. If your pool water has low pH it’s very acidic. Low pH can cause extensive damage on your pool equipment. If your pool water has a high pH it’s very alkaline. Alkaline pool water is cloudy, can cause scale deposits, create problems with pool equipment, and much more.
  • Don’t backwash too often. While back washing is an important part of pool care, many pool owners have the tenancy to over backwash. Watch your pressure gauge as you backwash, it should read between 10-15 PSI.

With that said, Cannonball Pool Service is a certified, trained, licensed, and 5 STAR rated pool maintenance company. If you live in Southwest Florida give us a call at 239.440.9888.

Hot Tub For Better Health

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Hot tubs offer more than warmth and comfort. Warm water soothes muscles and calms nerves. Research shows that warm water immersion can help with muscle relaxation, promote better sleep, and reduce anxiety. The heat widens your blood vessels making it easier for your blood to travel throughout your body. Not to mention, water buoyancy reduces stress on your joints. It’s a win win! Below are some areas where hot tubs may help improve your life.

Hot Tub For Better Health:

  • Get better sleep – Many people report a better nights sleep when they use their spas on a regular basis.
  • Back pain relief – Lower back pain (acute or chronic) can impact your quality of life. The heat helps your muscles loosen and increases blood flow. Looser muscles help you move with more ease.
  • Decreased anxiety and stress – The warmth of the hot tub can make you forget about everything else going on. Enjoying a morning soak for 15 -20 minutes each morning will have you ready to start the day refreshed.
  • Improved range of motion – Spas can help restore lost flexibility when utilized on a regular basis.
  • Arthritis symptom relief – Many hot tub users find relief from arthritis in just 2 weeks of usage.

Please note that the use of hot tubs do pose some risks. Just like swimming pools, it is important for your hot tub to be properly cared for. This includes service, maintenance, and chemicals. Spas are breeding grounds for infections if not properly maintained. If you are pregnant or think you are pregnant, you should refrain from using a hot tub. Research shows that some birth defects are associated with hut tub usage when pregnant. Here are a few things to keep in mind when using a hot tub.

  • Check the cleanliness. Make sure the hot tub you are using is cleaned and chemicals are monitored on a regular basis.
  • Avoid crowded spas. More people equals more germs.
  • Turn down the heat. Especially if you have a medical condition, a temperature of 100 degrees should be for healthy adults.
  • Limit time in the spa. People who start to feel dizzy, heated, or unwell should get out right away.
  • Stay hydrated. It is a good idea to drink water to not over heat your body.
  • Wash off. Take a shower after hot tub usage.

What Causes Calcium Buildup In Your Pool?

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Spotting calcium build up in your pool is simple. Is there a white/grayish ring around the sides of your pool? Does your skin itch when you leave the pool? Or, do your eyes burn or itch while swimming? If you answered “Yes” to any of these you may have calcium build up.

Swimming pool calcium build up is caused by improper pH and calcium. Most water in the United States is hard water. Hard water tends to leave calcium deposits. Cleaning agents can also create water hardness. Keeping calcium buildup in your pool under control means keeping your chemicals balanced.

The 2 Types Of Calcium Buildup:

  • Calcium Carbonate – flaky, easier to remove
  • Calcium Silicate – Harder to remove (white/gray in color)

Both of these types are caused by a pH imbalance. Calcium build up should always be removed upon first sight. Your pool’s pH should range from 7.4 -7.6. Also, keep your chlorine levels between 2 -3 ppm (especially as the water heats up).

Approaching Calcium Buildup In Your Pool:

  1. Identify the type of calcium buildup. You will need to identify if your pool has calcium carbonate or calcium silicate. Calcium carbonate is easier to remove. If you have a calcium buildup this would be the one to have. Calcium silicate is a tad harder to eliminate.
  2. Lower the calcium in the water. The optimal calcium level is 200 – 400 ppm. A high ppm causes deposits on the water’s surface and cloudy pool water. You may have to drain some of the water from your pool and refill.
  3. Correct your pH levels. Higher pH means your water is basic. You will need to add acid to balance it. On average you should add 1 gallon of acid per 10,000 gallons of water. Be sure to retest your chemicals afterwords.
  4. Remove the calcium deposits. You can use a pumice stone to scrub off. Please note, always keep the stone wet and test it on your pool surface first. Some surfaces, like fiberglass, will scratch and you will need to use a different scrubbing medium.
  5. Practice prevention. Maintain a proper chemical balance in your pool. Keep your pH from going basic. This will prevent calcium deposits from increasing.

If you are having problems with calcium build up in your pool contact Cannonball Pool Service today 239.440.9888.

Poop In The Pool. What To Do?

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It’s all fun and games until an accident happens. A swim diaper leaks. Eek! There is now pool in the pool. The good news is that your pool most likely does not need to be drained. Proper pool care is necessary since there are many types of bacteria released in the water when this happens. There are steps put out by the CDC that will get your water clean & clear and you swimming again.

Follow These Steps To Take Care Of Poop In The Pool:

  • Get everyone out of the pool
  • Put on disposable gloves
  • Remove the poop in the pool- use a net or bucket. Do not vacuum it up.
  • Wash your hands & disinfect the items used for removal
  • Raise the free chlorine concentration to, or maintain it at, 2 (ppm) & maintain the pH at 7.5 for 30 minutes.
  • Be sure to check that your filtration system is functioning properly
  • After the disinfection is complete, backwash the filter well. – Discharge directly to waste (follow local regulations).
  • Replace the filter media (if needed).
  • Once disinfection is complete & levels are back to normal you can let everyone back into the pool.

Try to prevent this from happening. Have swimmers use the bathroom before entering your pool. Check baby diapers, they are the most common cause of accidents. Make sure all kids who need diapers are wearing swim diapers.

Heat Your Pool To A Warm Winter

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Summer has passed and fall is upon us. The days become cooler as pool season continues on in Florida. This means Florida pool owners are looking for ways to heat their pool through the winter. There are a couple of options such as gas heaters or a solar cover. If you would like to be toasty while swimming this winter, we recommend getting a heat pump. This is the best way to heat your pool.

Heat pumps are a great option for Florida pool owners. Heat pumps are more energy efficient than other types of heating options. Air-source heat pumps are popular because they are energy-efficient and cost-effective. A heat pumps fuel source is the air. This means that your electric bill won’t take a big hit. The milder the winter climate (insert Florida here), the better the heat pump will serve your needs. Low operating costs and low environmental impact.

Advantages Of Pool Heat Pumps

  • Long life span – Has great payback
  • Eco-friendly – Does not pollute the environment
  • Low running costs
  • Energy efficient – Minimal increase to your electric bill

In the Southwest Florida area? Call Cannonball Pool Service and get your pool nice and toasty for the season 239.440.9888.

Should You Have A Pool Cleaning Service?

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In short, yes. You should have a pool cleaning service to maintain your swimming pool. Many homeowners opt to maintain and service their pool themselves. In the long run, this can be less cost effective and more of a hassle. Let’s find out why.

  • Consistent Inspection – Pool service isn’t simply cleaning a pool. Having a good pool service means your pool is under inspection every time your pool is cleaned and maintained. A professional pool service will automatically inspect your pool and its equipment on a regular basis. This minimizes or even eliminates costly emergency pool service calls.
  • Proper Chemical Balance -A regular pool service maintains chemicals and ensures that your pool is crystal clean. Backwashing, filter & skimmer basket clean out, tile scrubbing, vacuuming are all serviced to maintain a healthy pool. This eliminates the need for extra chemicals because there isn’t a huge rise or fall in chemicals.
  • Peace Of Mind – Hassle free pool ownership is the best type of pool ownership. Having a pool service saves time. Time to enjoy your pool more. It eliminates the worry and the endless research needed to know how to correctly maintain your pool. Pool service takes the guessing out of maintenance. You no longer have to worry if your “doing it right”.
  • Avoid Costly Damage – Saving money by “doing it yourself”? Think again. Mistakes on pool maintenance can be very expensive. Did you know too high of chemicals can deteriorate your pool lining? Or incorrect backwashing can break your pool equipment? It’s better to have the experts take care of your pool. Eliminate the chance for mistakes by using a professional pool service.

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.

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