Notes from the deep end

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

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30 articles

Skimmer Equipment · Archive date: · 2 min read

How to Identify Compatible Parts for an Older Skimmer Model

Match older skimmer parts by checking the housing markings, measuring the basket and weir, and confirming fit before you buy.

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 Water Can Look Crystal Clear but Still Test Out of Balance

Pool water can look crystal clear and still be unsafe if sanitizer, pH, alkalinity, or calcium hardness drift out of range. Here’s what to check first.

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

Pool Care Routines · Archive date: · 3 min read

How to Connect a Pool Vacuum to the Skimmer

Turn the pump off, prime the vacuum hose, and use the correct skimmer adapter or vacuum plate. Follow the manual to connect safely and keep suction working.

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 Lower pH in a Swimming Pool Safely

To lower pH in a swimming pool, confirm the reading first, then use a pH reducer only as the label directs. In salt water pools, check circulation and equipment if pH keeps rising.

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 Fix Alkalinity in a Pool

To fix alkalinity in a pool, first verify the reading, then determine whether total alkalinity is too low or too high before making any water-care changes.

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 Add Calcium to a Pool Safely

To raise pool calcium hardness, use a calcium chloride product only after testing, then follow the label and your pool manual while the pump circulates water.

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 Chemicals Do You Need for an Above Ground Pool?

Most above ground pools need chlorine or another sanitizer, pH and alkalinity balancers, and an occasional shock treatment. Test first and follow the label.

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 Chemicals Do I Need to Open My Pool?

Most pool openings start with a test kit, then only the chemicals your water actually needs: sanitizer, pH adjuster, and sometimes algaecide or shock.

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 Bring Up Alkalinity in a Pool

Low alkalinity can make pool water unstable, letting pH swing and increasing corrosion risk. Learn the safe way to raise alkalinity and when to call a pro.

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

Skimming & Debris · Archive date: · 3 min read

Best Way to Remove Floating Algae Clumps From the Pool Surface

The safest, most effective way to remove floating algae clumps is to skim them gently, keep the pump off during basket checks, and address circulation causes.

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 Tools Do You Need to Swap Out Common Skimmer Hardware?

Most skimmer hardware swaps are simple if you have the right hand tools, work with the pump off, and know when a cracked part needs professional help.

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

Water Chemistry · Archive date: · 4 min read

How to Reduce Chlorine Loss from Sunlight and Heat

Sunlight and high temperatures can burn off chlorine quickly. Learn how to protect free chlorine, improve circulation, and know when to call a pool professional.

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