Notes from the deep end

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

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77 articles

Filtration & Circulation · Archive date: · 3 min read

Why a Pool Pump Hums but Doesn’t Move Water

A humming pool pump often has power but can’t start. The cause is usually lost prime, a blockage, a suction-side leak, or a motor fault.

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 Stop a Pool Pump From Running Too Loud

A loud pool pump usually means low water, cavitation, clogs, vibration, or worn bearings. Start with safe checks and call a pro if the noise persists.

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 to Check When Pool Flow Is Low After Cleaning

If pool flow drops after cleaning, check water level, baskets, valves, seals, the filter, and pump performance in order before assuming a major repair.

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 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.