Notes from the deep end

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

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29 articles

Water Chemistry · Archive date: · 3 min read

How to Lower the Risk of Corrosion in Pool Water

Stable pH, alkalinity, and calcium hardness help protect metal parts. Learn practical steps to prevent corrosion, spot warning signs, and know 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

Can You Put Pool Shock in the Skimmer?

Usually no: pool shock should not go in the skimmer unless the product label specifically allows it. Use the label, PPE, and safe circulation practices.

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

Filtration & Circulation · Archive date: · 3 min read

Why Is My Pool Pump Making Loud Noise When Running?

A loud pool pump usually points to restricted water flow, air in the system, loose parts, or worn bearings. Start with safe checks before calling for repair.

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

Filtration & Circulation · Archive date: · 3 min read

What Size Sand Filter for My Pool?

Choose a sand filter by matching it to your pool volume, pump flow rate, and system rating. A slightly larger filter is often easier to maintain than an undersized one.

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

Filtration & Circulation · Archive date: · 3 min read

What to Do with Old Pool Filter Sand

Old pool filter sand is usually removed, dried, and disposed of according to local rules. In limited cases, clean used sand can be reused outside the pool.

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

Filtration & Circulation · Archive date: · 3 min read

Why am I getting sand in my pool from my filter?

Sand returning to a pool usually means a sand filter is letting media escape through a broken internal part, a valve issue, or a backwashing mistake.

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 Clean Pool Tile with a Pressure Washer Safely

A pressure washer can clean pool tile, but only if the tile and grout are sound. Use the gentlest setting, avoid seams, and stop if calcium or damage needs professional help.

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

Skimming & Debris · Archive date: · 3 min read

How to Keep a Pool Skimmer from Getting Overwhelmed by Heavy Debris

Heavy leaf drops and windy weather can clog a pool skimmer fast. Use simple prevention, frequent checks, and safe cleaning to keep water moving.

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

Skimmer Equipment · Archive date: · 3 min read

How Do You Replace a Skimmer Faceplate Without Guesswork?

Match the skimmer face plate to the exact model, inspect the seal and screws, and tighten evenly. Stop if cracks, leaks, or air problems persist.

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

Water Chemistry · Archive date: · 3 min read

What Chemistry Checks Matter Most Before Opening a Pool?

Before opening a pool, focus on the chemistry checks that protect swimmers and equipment: sanitizer, pH, alkalinity, calcium hardness, and stabilizer.

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

Skimmer Equipment · Archive date: · 2 min read

What Are the Two Holes in a Pool Skimmer?

A pool skimmer with two holes may serve different plumbing functions, but the exact setup varies by model. Identify it safely with the manual before touching anything.

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 Hook Up a Pool Pump and Sand Filter: A Safe Homeowner’s Overview

The basic hookup is usually pool suction to pump, pump to sand filter, then filter return to the pool. Match your manual, confirm valve positions, and check for leaks.

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