Notes from the deep end

Practical articles for pool owners on skimming, water testing and choosing the right equipment.

Clear filters

12 articles

Filtration & Circulation · Archive date: · 3 min read

How Filter Media Aging Affects Pool Circulation

Aging filter media can restrict water flow, raise pressure, and reduce water clarity. Learn the signs, safe checks, and when to replace it or call a pro.

Written for PoolSkimmer on Oct 7, 2026; assigned an earlier archive date, not published on that date.

Filtration & Circulation · Archive date: · 3 min read

How to Open the Air Relief Valve on a Pool Filter

Shut off the pool pump first, then slowly open the air relief valve until air escapes and water flows steadily. If it sticks or sprays, stop and call a pro.

Written for PoolSkimmer on Oct 24, 2026; assigned an earlier archive date, not published on that date.

Filtration & Circulation · Archive date: · 3 min read

How to Connect a Pool Vacuum to the Pump Safely

To connect a pool vacuum to the pump, turn off the pump first, fill the hose with water, then attach it to the skimmer or suction port per your manual.

Written for PoolSkimmer on Oct 23, 2026; assigned an earlier archive date, not published on that date.

Filtration & Circulation · Archive date: · 4 min read

Why Some Pool Areas Stay Dirty After Vacuuming

If dirt keeps settling in the same spots after vacuuming, the usual cause is poor circulation, a clogged filter, brushless cleaning, or dead spots in the pool.

Written for PoolSkimmer on Oct 7, 2026; assigned an earlier archive date, not published on that date.

Filtration & Circulation · Archive date: · 3 min read

What Size Pool Filter Do I Need?

Choose a pool filter size by matching your pool volume, pump flow rate, and equipment manual. Bigger is not always better if the system cannot handle it.

Written for PoolSkimmer on Oct 23, 2026; assigned an earlier archive date, not published on that date.

Filtration & Circulation · Archive date: · 3 min read

How Many Bags of Sand Do You Need for a Pool Filter?

The number of bags depends on the filter’s required sand amount and the bag size you buy. Check the model label or manual before adding filter sand.

Written for PoolSkimmer on Oct 23, 2026; assigned an earlier archive date, not published on that date.

Filtration & Circulation · Archive date: · 3 min read

How to Clean a Pool Sand Filter Safely

Clean a pool sand filter by turning off the pump, backwashing when pressure rises, rinsing as directed, and checking the manual before any deeper service.

Written for PoolSkimmer on Oct 23, 2026; assigned an earlier archive date, not published on that date.

Filtration & Circulation · Archive date: · 3 min read

How to Prime a Pool Pump After Maintenance

Learn a safe, step-by-step way to prime a pool pump after maintenance, restore circulation, avoid common mistakes, and know when to call a pro.

Written for PoolSkimmer on Oct 7, 2026; assigned an earlier archive date, not published on that date.

Filtration & Circulation · Archive date: · 3 min read

How to Increase Pool Pump Pressure Safely

To increase pool pump pressure, focus on restoring normal water flow: clean baskets, service the pool filter, correct low water level, and check for blockages.

Written for PoolSkimmer on Oct 23, 2026; assigned an earlier archive date, not published on that date.

Filtration & Circulation · Archive date: · 3 min read

How to Clean a DE Pool Filter Safely

To clean a DE pool filter, shut off the pump, relieve pressure, open the tank, rinse the DE filter grids, inspect for damage, and reassemble it per the manual.

Written for PoolSkimmer on Oct 23, 2026; assigned an earlier archive date, not published on that date.

Filtration & Circulation · Archive date: · 3 min read

How to Install a Pool Pump Safely: Above-Ground Pool Setup Guide

A safe pool pump installation means turning off power, placing the pump on a stable level base, connecting plumbing per the manual, and checking for leaks before startup.

Written for PoolSkimmer on Oct 23, 2026; assigned an earlier archive date, not published on that date.

Filtration & Circulation · Archive date: · 3 min read

How to Clean a Hayward Pool Filter Safely

To clean a Hayward pool filter, shut off the pump first, then service the filter by type—cartridge, sand, or DE—using your manual and pressure gauge.

Written for PoolSkimmer on Oct 23, 2026; assigned an earlier archive date, not published on that date.