Practical articles for pool owners on skimming, water testing and choosing the right equipment.
14 articles
Water Chemistry · Archive date: · 3 min read
If pool pH is low, test the water first, check total alkalinity, then use a pH increaser per the label. Keep circulation running and retest.
Written for PoolSkimmer on Oct 23, 2026; assigned an earlier archive date, not published on that date.
Water Chemistry · Archive date: · 3 min read
Low pH in a pool usually comes from rainwater, debris breakdown, heavy swimmer use, or circulation issues. It can irritate swimmers and may not be the main cause of cloudy water.
Written for PoolSkimmer on Oct 23, 2026; assigned an earlier archive date, not published on that date.
Water Chemistry · Archive date: · 4 min read
Recurring calcium scale usually means the same water-balance or circulation issues are still present. Learn how to prevent buildup and when to call a pro.
Written for PoolSkimmer on Oct 7, 2026; assigned an earlier archive date, not published on that date.
Water Chemistry · Archive date: · 3 min read
If free chlorine is too high, stop adding sanitizer, keep the water circulating, and retest until the chlorine level returns to a safe range.
Written for PoolSkimmer on Oct 24, 2026; assigned an earlier archive date, not published on that date.
Water Chemistry · Archive date: · 3 min read
To lower pool alkalinity, retest the water, confirm pH, keep circulation and filtration working, and follow the chemical label and manual before changing anything.
Written for PoolSkimmer on Oct 23, 2026; assigned an earlier archive date, not published on that date.
Water Chemistry · Archive date: · 3 min read
The most reliable way to reduce calcium hardness is usually a partial drain and refill with lower-hardness water, then retest and rebalance the pool.
Written for PoolSkimmer on Oct 23, 2026; assigned an earlier archive date, not published on that date.
Water Chemistry · Archive date: · 3 min read
There is no universal pool shock dose. The right amount depends on the product, pool volume, and water test results, so follow the label exactly.
Written for PoolSkimmer on Oct 23, 2026; assigned an earlier archive date, not published on that date.
Water Chemistry · Archive date: · 3 min read
Yes—pool chemicals can lose potency over time, especially with heat, moisture, or damaged packaging. Chlorine tablets may still look normal while working less effectively.
Written for PoolSkimmer on Oct 23, 2026; assigned an earlier archive date, not published on that date.
Water Chemistry · Archive date: · 3 min read
A strong pool smell usually points to chloramines, not extra sanitation. Check circulation, debris, and water balance first, and call a pro if odor persists.
Written for PoolSkimmer on Oct 7, 2026; assigned an earlier archive date, not published on that date.
Water Chemistry · Archive date: · 3 min read
Total alkalinity is the pool water’s buffer against pH swings. It helps pH stay steadier, which makes everyday pool care easier and more predictable.
Written for PoolSkimmer on Oct 23, 2026; assigned an earlier archive date, not published on that date.
Water Chemistry · Archive date: · 3 min read
Remove calcium from pool tile by starting with gentle brushing, checking tile type, and using label-directed cleaners only when the buildup is light or moderate.
Written for PoolSkimmer on Oct 23, 2026; assigned an earlier archive date, not published on that date.
Water Chemistry · Archive date: · 3 min read
There is no one-size-fits-all amount of pool shock. Test the water, clean debris first, and follow the product label for your pool size and condition.
Written for PoolSkimmer on Oct 23, 2026; assigned an earlier archive date, not published on that date.