Cannonball Pool Service

Pool Service Maintenance & Repair

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.

Swimming Pool & Your Home’s Value

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Owning a swimming pool is a luxury to some and a liability to others. Many people dream to have the convenience of a pool on those hot summer days. pool owners reap the benefits of pool parties, late night swims, water exercise etc. (need I go on). The question is, at what cost? It’s not a secret that owning a pool is a liability. How does this effect the value of your home?

Trying To Sell? Is your swimming pool a drawback or a feature? There is not one answer fits all in this situation.

  • What part of the U.S. do you live in? Areas such as Florida, Texas, Arizona, Nevada, and Southern California would be able to enjoy a pool year round. This would be an asset to your home. On the other hand, places such as Indiana, Ohio, and Nebraska having a backyard pool may be a drawback.
  • Is your pool the only thing in your yard? Many people put in pools and forget about the green space. Having a backyard to kick the ball around is arguably more important to homeowners than having a pool.
  • Do other homes in the neighborhood have pools? You might benefit from having a pool in your back yard if surrounding homes have them. This may indicate a demand for backyard pools in the neighborhood.

In the end, don’t look at adding a swimming pool to your back yard as an investment. Be sure to take all factors into account before spending thousands of dollars.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

The Ultimate Pool Chemical Guide

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Whether it’s a salt pool or a chlorinated pool, your pool chemicals need to be in balance. Balancing pool chemicals mean keeping pool chemicals at the proper levels. Properly balanced pool water creates and optimal environment for the sanitizing processes. It also protects your pool and its components against corrosion and extends the life of expectancy of the pool equipment. Some of the factors that contribute to pool water balance are pH, alkalinity, calcium hardness, temperature, and total dissolved solids.

Chlorine is popular because it handles the 3 main jobs in keeping a swimming pool clean: It sanitizes (kills bacteria and germs), oxidizes (controls organic debris from perspiration and body oils), and deters algae. The total free chlorine in your pool should range between 1.0 -1.5 ppm (parts per million). The chlorine in your pool needs to be continuously monitored and replenished.

The pH in your pool is just as important. It controls the acidity of the pool which helps minimize irritation and assists in protecting your pool equipment as well. The Alkalinity in your pool helps control your pH (which should be between 7.2 – 7.6).

Obtaining a quality and reliable pool service company is important to you and your pool’s over all health. A poorly managed pool can deteriorate your pool and its equipment as well as become a breeding ground for harmful bacteria and algae.

Cannonball Pool Service custom service and maintenance programs keep your pool running at an optimal level all year round. Get your free pool service estimate today.

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