Notes from the deep end

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

Clear filters

30 articles

Pool Care · Archive date: · 3 min read

How to Prepare Ground for an Above Ground Pool

A safe above-ground pool starts with a level, well-drained base. Clear the site, remove sod and debris, compact the soil, and follow the manual.

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

Skimming & Debris · Archive date: · 4 min read

How to Keep Pool Water Clear When Debris Keeps Returning

Find the source, improve skimming and circulation, keep the filter working, and reduce what enters the pool so debris does not keep coming back.

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 Prevent a Skimmer Door From Squeaking or Sticking

A squeaking or sticking skimmer door usually comes down to debris, wear, misalignment, or water level. Clean, inspect, and adjust only when it’s safe.

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 Water Chemistry Problems Can Cause Itchy Skin After Swimming?

Itchy skin after swimming can come from poor pool chemistry, low sanitizer, chloramines, or pH imbalance. Check the pool water in a safe order.

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

Pool Care · Archive date: · 3 min read

How to turn on a pool heater safely

To turn on a pool heater, make sure the pump is running, water is circulating, and the filter is clean, then set the controls to heat and monitor startup.

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

Water Chemistry · Archive date: · 3 min read

How much pH increaser should you add to a pool?

There’s no universal dose. The right amount depends on your pool volume, current pH, and the product label, so test first and retest after circulation.

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

Water Chemistry · Archive date: · 3 min read

How Much Shock to Add to a Pool When Opening?

There’s no one-size-fits-all shock amount for pool opening. The right choice depends on your pool volume, test results, and the product label directions.

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

Water Chemistry · Archive date: · 3 min read

How to Clean Calcium Buildup on Pool Tile

The safest approach is to stop the pump, brush first, then use a tile-safe scale remover or professional descaling for stubborn calcium on pool tile.

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

How to Cover Pool Equipment Safely for the Off-Season

Cover pool equipment with breathable, weather-resistant protection that blocks debris and sun while still allowing ventilation, access, and routine inspection.

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

Water Chemistry · Archive date: · 3 min read

Is Low Alkalinity in a Pool Dangerous?

Low alkalinity usually is not an immediate emergency, but it can make pool pH unstable, irritate swimmers, and harm surfaces or equipment over time.

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

Skimming & Debris · Archive date: · 3 min read

Why a Pool Skimmer Rattles When There Is a Lot of Debris

A rattling skimmer lid often points to restricted water flow, low water level, or a loose lid. Here’s how a pool owner can check it safely.

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