Notes from the deep end

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

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19 articles

Pool Care · Archive date: · 3 min read

How Much Does an Inground Pool Liner Cost?

An inground pool liner replacement cost depends on pool size, shape, liner type, labor, and any shell repairs needed before installation.

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

Pool Care · Archive date: · 3 min read

What Is ORP in Pool Water Testing?

ORP, or oxidation-reduction potential, is a quick indicator of how strongly pool water can support disinfection. It works best alongside chlorine and pH testing, not instead of them.

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

Pool Care · Archive date: · 3 min read

What Is TDS in Pool Water Testing?

TDS means total dissolved solids in pool water: the dissolved minerals, salts, and other substances a test can detect, but not the exact cause of a problem.

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

Pool Care · Archive date: · 3 min read

Where Is the Air Relief Valve on a Pool Pump?

The air relief valve is usually on the pool filter, not the pump itself. Look near the top of the filter tank and turn off the pump before touching equipment.

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

Pool Care · Archive date: · 3 min read

How to Prime a Pool Pump Without Removing the Lid

You usually can’t truly prime a pool pump without opening the lid, but you can fix common causes of lost prime first: low water, blocked baskets, valve issues, or air leaks.

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

Pool Care · Archive date: · 3 min read

How to Install an Inground Pool Liner Safely and Correctly

A safe inground pool liner installation starts with prep: empty and inspect the pool, fix defects, clean the shell, then set and smooth the new liner before refilling.

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

Pool Care · Archive date: · 3 min read

How Much Does It Cost to Resurface a Pool Deck?

Pool deck resurfacing cost depends on size, surface damage, prep work, and finish choice. A site visit gives the most accurate estimate and repair plan.

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

Pool Care · Archive date: · 3 min read

What to Clean a Pool Liner With

Use a soft brush or microfiber cloth, plus a mild, liner-safe cleaner and water. Skip abrasive pads, harsh chemicals, and rough scrubbing to protect vinyl.

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

Pool Care · Archive date: · 3 min read

How Much Does It Cost to Replace a Pool Liner?

Pool liner replacement cost depends on pool size, liner type, labor, and prep work. Hidden repairs, draining, and refilling can raise the final bill.

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

Pool Care · Archive date: · 3 min read

How to Clean a Concrete Pool Deck Safely and Effectively

Start with dry debris removal, then wash the concrete pool deck section by section, scrub stains gently, rinse well, and address slippery growth or damage carefully.

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

Pool Care · Archive date: · 3 min read

How to Paint a Pool Deck in Florida

To paint a pool deck in Florida, use a coating made for exterior concrete, fix damage first, clean and dry the surface fully, and follow the label for prep, primer, and cure time.

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

Pool Care · Archive date: · 3 min read

How Thick Is a Pool Liner?

Pool liner thickness is usually measured in mils, not inches. Many vinyl pool liners are around 20 to 30 mil, but the right choice depends on fit and use.

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