Notes from the deep end

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

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28 articles

Skimming & Debris · Archive date: · 3 min read

What to Do When Debris Gets Trapped Behind the Skimmer Weir

A stuck skimmer weir door can trap leaves, reduce skimmer suction, and worsen surface debris. Try these safe checks before calling a pool pro.

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

Skimmer Equipment · Archive date: · 3 min read

What Is a Skimmer Extension and When Does It Help?

A skimmer extension can improve surface debris removal after a waterline, coping, or deck change, but it won’t fix leaks, suction issues, or damaged parts.

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

Water Chemistry · Archive date: · 3 min read

Why Pool Algae Keeps Coming Back Even When Chemistry Looks Fine

Recurring algae in a pool often points to circulation, filtration, brushing, or testing gaps—not just one chlorine reading that looks close.

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

Above-Ground Pools · Archive date: · 3 min read

Installing a Pool Skimmer: Above-Ground vs. Concrete Pool Differences

Pool skimmer installation depends on construction: above-ground pools may use hanging or through-wall units, while concrete pools usually need structural and plumbing work.

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

Seasonal Pool Care · Archive date: · 3 min read

How to Keep a Pool Cover from Sagging

Keep a pool cover from sagging by removing standing water and debris, checking tension and anchors, maintaining the right water level, and following the manual.

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

Seasonal Pool Care · Archive date: · 3 min read

What Is a Pool Cover Pump?

A pool cover pump removes standing water from a pool cover, helping prevent sagging, overflow, and heavy buildup after rain, snowmelt, or debris.

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

Water Chemistry · Archive date: · 3 min read

What Causes Alkalinity to Rise in a Pool?

Pool alkalinity usually rises from fill water, chemical additions, or repeated top-offs. Testing and good circulation help you spot the cause before pH becomes harder to control.

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 Is My Sand Filter Putting Sand in the Pool?

Sand in your pool usually means the filter’s internal parts are damaged, loose, or assembled wrong. Stop the pump first, then inspect safely and follow the manual.

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 Kind of Sand Goes in a Pool Filter?

Use only the pool filter sand your manufacturer specifies—usually clean, graded silica sand. Don’t use play sand or beach sand, and switch media only with the pump off.

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 Skim a Pool with a Lot of Dust on the Surface

Clear fine surface dust by improving circulation, skimming slowly in sections, and keeping baskets and filter paths clear without stirring debris back into the water.

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 to Choose a Skimmer Net for Leaves Versus Bugs

Match your pool skimmer net to the debris you remove most often: an open leaf rake for heavy leaves, fine mesh for bugs and pollen, plus a sturdy pole and frame.

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

Water Chemistry · Archive date: · 3 min read

How to Read Pool Test Results Without Chasing Small Swings

Learn to read pool test results by spotting real trends, not one-off changes, so you can maintain balanced water without overcorrecting.

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