Cannonball Pool Service

Pool Service Maintenance & Repair

Pool Insurance: Under-covered, Over-covered, Or Just Right?

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Do you know what your pool policy covers? Swimming pool policies are all different. There are many factors that take place when it comes to swimming pool coverage. Above ground, in ground, flood zone, concrete, fiberglass, depth of pool, etc. the list goes on when determining type of coverage and how much. Cheaper isn’t always better when it comes to pool insurance. In that regard, expensive coverage isn’t always better either. Why have coverage for a Ferrari when you drive a Chevy pick up? With that said, pools are a liability and homeowners are liable for any children who use their pools, whether they have permission or not. So how do you know what’s the right amount? Below are some questions to ask when deciding on pool insurance coverage.

Pool Insurance FAQ

  • Does My Homeowners Policy Cover damage to the pool?
    The type of coverage varies weather your pool is in ground or above ground. An in ground pool will most-likely have an additional fee to your premium where an above ground pool may be covered under “personal property” (like a watercraft).
  • What Are Insurance Requirements?
    Insurance companies require you to comply with the laws of the local municipality. You will need to have an approved fence/pool cover to enclose the pool, correct permits, and proper pool maintenance just to name a few.
  • Why Do Some Claims Get Denied?
    Policy holders are required to keep proper pool maintenance. Any damage to the pool, it’s surroundings, or even equipment due to negligence most-likely wont be covered. The same goes for unapproved structures like water slides and diving boards.
  • What is the average Cost Of Pool Insurance?
    The cost of insurance varies depending on your pool size, type, value etc. Premiums can be effected by your coverage limits as well. On average, homeowners pay an additional $25 -$75 a month for coverage.
  • Umbrella Policy?
    Talk to your insurer about an umbrella policy. It is an extra layer of protection. Protect yourself from claims & ensure your pool has coverage if /when needed.

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.

Swimming Pool Money Saving Tips

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Owning a swimming pool is enjoyable and great family fun. The downside is the cost of ownership. Many pool owners will tell you that the benefits outweigh the costs. These costs are not set in stone. There are some things that you can do to save money. Therefore, effectively reducing your cost of ownership. Check out some of our pool money saving tips below.

5 Pool Money Saving tips

  • Don’t backwash your pool too long or too frequent. The first step is to learn how to properly backwash your pool. Never backwash longer than necessary. Stop your backwash the moment the sight glass goes from clouded to clear.
  • Repair leaks. It is very important to find, fix, and repair pool leaks immediately. Having a leak means your pool is losing water. Continuously having to replace water means more unnecessary money out of pocket.
  • Run your pool pump at night. Most electric companies peak hours are from 7:00am – 7:00pm. Run your pool pump at night during off-peak hours.
  • Upgrade your pool pump to a variable speed pump. 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 of your utility bill annually because of the lower energy usage (amount varies depending on your utility and pool size).
  • Don’t let your pool water turn green. Keep pool chemicals in check. Don’t let the chlorine in your pool drop to zero. Plan ahead. Having a pool party? Shock your pool afterwards. Heavy storms passing through? Add extra chlorine. Extremely hot and sunny? Stay on top of chlorine levels and fight evaporation.

Looking for more information and additional pool tips/tricks? Check out our blog.

What’s The Difference…Pool Pumps & Motors?

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Let’s start off by saying your pool pump and pool motor are NOT the same thing. In fact, they are 2 very different and equally important components of your pool’s functionality. Wait, aren’t they connected? Yes, your pool pump and pool motor are connected, but that doesn’t mean that they are one. Pool Pumps and motors work together and rely on each other. They are both part of your pool’s circulation system. Here is what makes them different.

The Pool Pump

The pool pump is the heart of a swimming pool’s filter system. The pump’s main function is to circulate the water throughout so it can be effectively sanitized. The pool pump pulls water from the drain and the skimmer. It then pushes the water through the filter, heater, and chlorinator back into the pool. The pump “guts” are made up of gaskets, impellers, diffusers, and strainer baskets. This is also called the wet end of the pump. These parts are mainly stationary pieces of plastic without the motor. Let’s now take a look at the motor.

The Pool Motor

The pool motor is a steel cylinder attached to the “wet end”. The motor brings the pump to life. It is the electrical driving force for your pool’s filtration. Without the motor, your pool would not have any filtration and your water would be stagnant. Pool motors can be black, gold, or almond in color. They are available in 3 different speeds; single, dual, and variable. Variable speed motors are newer and more energy efficient. They allow the pool owner to program scheduled run times.

The pool pump and pool motor together maintain your pool’s circulation. Hopefully, you now have a better understanding of your pool’s filtration system. For all your pool service needs in Southwest Florida call Cannonball Pool Service 239.440.9888.

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.

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