Cannonball Pool Service

Pool Service Maintenance & Repair

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.

How To Limit Phosphates In Your Pool

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Limit phosphates? What are Phosphates and what do they have to do with pools? Phosphates are types of Phosphorous commonly found in water. Your pool can have many different types of phosphates in it. Most test kits only check for one type. Phosphates are generally misunderstood when it comes to pools. They are difficult to test for and cannot be killed by chlorine alone. In order to control a phosphate attack and remove them you will have to treat your pool with a phosphate remover. So why should you care about phosphates?

Phosphates are essentially food for algae. The more phosphates you introduce into your pool water the more algae will grow. The key is to limit phosphates in your pool water. First, we need to take a look at where phosphates come from. Second, we need to see how we can minimize them (since eliminating phosphates is impossible & they aren’t going anywhere). They are found in many different types of things.

  • Leaves, Grass Clippings, & Other Natural Debris – Leaves & Grass clippings from foot traffic make their way into pools continuously. Place a shallow bucket on the pool deck and have friends & family members rinse their feet before entering your pool.
  • Pool Chemicals – Scale inhibitors tend to be Phosphate-based. Make sure you know what type of chemicals you are using in your pool.
  • Soaps & Shampoos – Yes, that is correct. Body soaps and hair shampoos contribute greatly to Phosphate problems in pools. Have swimmers rinse off before entering your pool. Leave-in dry shampoos are especially bad for pool water.
  • Lawn Fertilizers & Insecticides – Wind and rain runoff introduces these into your pool water. Use hardscape around your pool deck whenever possible. Try to create natural landscape barriers, such as wall pavers & boulders, around your pool deck.
  • Synthetic Laundry Detergents – Laundry detergents contain builders, and other ingredients like brighteners & perfumes. Wash your swimsuits in a gentle detergent (i.e. unscented baby detergents).
  • Animals – Use a pool cover to deter ducks and other wild animals from entering your swimming pool. Give Fido a quick rinse before letting him take a plunge.
  • Acid Rain – Pool covers are great for protecting your pool from acid rainwater.

Emergency phosphate control can become a costly hassle. If you are continuously fighting algae in your swimming pool try minimizing phosphates from entering your pool. Minimizing phosphates will help prevent an algae takeover.

Pool Maintenance Tips & Tricks

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Having a swimming pool in your back yard brings a ton of enjoyment, relaxation, and quality family time. Unfortunately, the fun comes at a price. One crucial element of pool ownership is maintenance. You cannot have fun without pool maintenance. Besides being unsightly, A dirty pool can be a breeding ground for harmful bacteria. Below are 7 swimming pool maintenance tips to keep you happily swimming all year long.

POOL MAINTENANCE TIPS & TRICKS

  1. Check Pool Chemistry

    You should check your pool chemicals 2x a week. Testing your pool water is simple. Testing kits are readily available from your local pool store or online. Improperly balanced water looks murky, irritates skin & eyes, and can cause your pool to become a breeding ground for bacteria.
    pH should be between 7.2 – 7.6
    Alkalinity 100 -120 ppm
    Total Hardness 200 – 400 ppm
    Cyanuric Acid 30 – 50 ppm
    Free Chlorine 1.0 -1.5 ppm

  2. Skimming & Scrubbing

    Skim the top of the pool surface as well as rinse out the skimmer basket(s). Skimming should be done daily in order to keep unwanted debris out of the pool (leaves, grass, mulch, etc.). Along with skimming, you need to scrub. Scrub your pool tiles to prevent algae buildup.

  3. Clean Pool Filters

    Pool filters are the “kidneys” of your swimming pool. Clean your pool filters regularly or as needed. They should also be cleaned after a heavy storm.

  4. Keep An Eye On Your Water Level

    Your pool water level should not be too high or too low. Water levels will naturally fluctuate after a heavy rainstorm or an afternoon of kids doing cannonballs. Your pool water should be right at the center level of your pool skimmer for best results. If the water is too low it can run the pump dry and burn it up. If the water is too high your skimmer door will not work properly.

  5. Tennis Balls Are Great For Your Pool

    Use a tennis ball to absorb oils, sunscreens, hair product etc. Just simply toss a tennis ball into your pool and let it do the work. Tennis ball fibers help reduce that slick sheen on top of your pool water.

  6. Shock Your Pool

    Don’t be afraid to shock your pool if it looks like it needs it. Did you just have a pool party or did your dogs swim in your pool? Is your pool murky and clouded? That is bacteria that you will want to get rid of as soon as possible. Shocking drastically raises the chlorine levels for a short period of time to kill bacteria.

  7. Power Wash Your Pool Deck

    Pressure washing will help get rid of any rust or weather stains that occur over time. The area that surrounds your pool is as important as your pool itself. A dirty pool deck means a dirty pool. Dirty pool decks track dirt, algae spores, & bacteria right into the pool.

The Salt Pool Advantage. Or Disadvantage?

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Contemplating salt water (saline) pool ownership? There are a few things that you need to know before diving right in. Salt pools aren’t anywhere close to being as salty as seawater. In fact, they have only about one-tenth the salinity. They aren’t completely chlorine-free either. With a saltwater system, pool maintenance is much simpler. The chlorine required is minimal. Which eliminates the need to store and handle hazardous chemicals.

Balancing salt pool chemicals can be a little bit more complex. In a chlorinated pool, when sanitation issues arise, the usual response is add more chlorine. In a salt water pool it takes a bit more than that. Any problems that occur are likely to require the assistance of a swimming pool technician. With that said, there are some great advantages with a saline pool.

Advantages

  • More gentle on the skin – lower chlorine levels means less skin irritation
  • No more itchy or stinging eyes
  • Softer water – smooth and silky water
  • More cost effective – in the long run
  • Simpler maintenance – salt cells will produce any chlorine as needed

Disadvantages

  • Salt pools require a large initial investment – $1,000 – $5,000
  • Complex sanitation – when issues arise a technician is more than likely needed
  • Damaging to metals – avoid using specific types of heaters, fixtures, underwater lighting, liners
  • The cell needs to be cleaned periodically which is a bit of a messy job
  • High phosphate levels can cause the generator to malfunction

When considering upgrading your current pool or building a new swimming pool it is important to keep both advantages and disadvantages in mind.

 

Should Your Dog Swim In Your Pool?

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Dogs swimming in pools are fun. They are fun to watch. They are great to play with in the pool. It makes us (and them) happy. But, is it OK for your dog to swim in your pool? There is not a direct yes or no answer to this question. There are both pros and cons to letting your dog swim in your pool (as well as some safety concerns). Many people will ask if chlorine is bad for dogs? What we are asking is, are dogs bad for your swimming pool? Dogs ALWAYS have small particles of fecal matter stuck in their fur. They can also bring along insects, body oils, & dirt.

Things that need to be known about dogs in pools:

  • Increased transmission of Recreational Water Illnesses (RWI)
  • 1 Dog in a pool is equal to 3-30 people in a pool (depending on size/breed)
  • A dog in a pool will deplete your chlorine & raise pH
  • Be prepared for scratches or tears in your vinyl pool liner
  • Added stress on pool equipment – Dog hair
  • Extra pool cleaning – Filters need to be cleaned more
  • Can add Phosphates and Nitrates to the pool

Swimming with your companion is entertaining, fun, & great bonding time, as long as you follow the precautions! Dogs add an extra layer of care to your pool. Pool owners need to monitor chemicals more frequent, maintain equipment more often, & inspect their pool structure regularly. Cannonball Pool Service offers complete pool care. Call 239.440.9888 for more information on our custom service plans.

 

Water Safety Month

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Did you know that May is National water safety month? Hot Summer Sun means more outdoor fun. Below are 5 tips to keep you and your family swimming safely all season long.

  1. Never leave a child unattended in the water. – Always swim with a buddy.
  2. Teach children how to swim – The American Red Cross has a swim app that can help with teaching children how to swim.
  3. Make sure all children know to stay away from pool drains. – Children love to play around pool drains. Inform all children in and around your pool about the hazards of swimming pool drains.
  4. Install proper barriers, covers and alarms on and around your pool and spa. – Pools need to be enclosed properly by fences or safety pool covers.
  5. Know how to perform CPR on children and adults. – This is a valuable lifesaving skill.
  6. Keep your pool chemicals balanced & maintained. – A well balanced pool keeps harmful bacteria at bay.

Always remember that we need to keep safe swimming all year long not just during water safety month. Contact Cannonball Pool Service at 239.440.9888 for all of your pool service needs.

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