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

Pool Troubleshooting · Archive date: · 3 min read

What Does Black Algae Look Like in a Pool?

Black algae usually shows up as stubborn black or dark blue-green spots on pool walls, steps, and corners that look stained, rough, and hard to brush away.

Written for PoolSkimmer on Oct 23, 2026; assigned an earlier archive date, not published on that date.

Pool Care · Archive date: · 3 min read

Why Is My Pool Losing Water?

A pool can lose water from evaporation, splash-out, backwashing, or a leak. Check the water level, equipment, and surroundings in a safe sequence first.

Written for PoolSkimmer on Oct 23, 2026; assigned an earlier archive date, not published on that date.

Skimming & Debris · Archive date: · 3 min read

What to Do When a Pool Skimmer Weir Door Is Stuck

A stuck skimmer weir door can reduce surface cleaning and strain circulation. Use safe checks, simple fixes, and know when to replace the flap or call a 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

How Do You Install a Skimmer Sock Without Blocking Waterflow?

A skimmer sock can catch fine debris in your pool skimmer if it’s fitted loosely, checked often, and kept clear of the basket opening.

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 Turn Green Even When Chlorine Is Still Present

Green pool water with a chlorine reading usually means the sanitizer is present but not effective enough. Check pH, circulation, algae, and metals first.

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

Filtration & Circulation · Archive date: · 3 min read

Pool Filter vs Sand: How to Choose Between Sand, Cartridge, and DE

Choose the right pool filter by weighing clarity, upkeep, water use, and debris load. Compare sand filter, cartridge, and DE options safely.

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

Filtration & Circulation · Archive date: · 3 min read

What Does “Recirculate” Mean on a Pool Pump?

Recirculate means the pump moves pool water back to the pool without filtering it. It keeps water moving, but it will not remove debris or cloudiness.

Written for PoolSkimmer on Oct 23, 2026; assigned an earlier archive date, not published on that date.

Filtration & Circulation · Archive date: · 3 min read

Why Is My Pool Pump So Loud?

A loud pool pump usually means restricted water flow, trapped air, vibration, or worn parts. Start with safe checks first, then call a pro if the noise persists.

Written for PoolSkimmer on Oct 23, 2026; assigned an earlier archive date, not published on that date.

Water Chemistry · Archive date: · 3 min read

How to Take Care of a Salt Water Pool

Salt water pool maintenance still means regular brushing, skimming, testing, and equipment checks. Keep circulation strong and follow your manual.

Written for PoolSkimmer on Oct 23, 2026; assigned an earlier archive date, not published on that date.

Pool Care · Archive date: · 3 min read

Why Is Pool Water Blue?

Pool water usually appears blue because water absorbs some light and the pool’s depth, surface reflection, and clarity shape what your eyes see.

Written for PoolSkimmer on Oct 23, 2026; assigned an earlier archive date, not published on that date.

Pool Care · Archive date: · 3 min read

How to Keep Pool Water Clean: a Safe Pool Maintenance Routine

Keep your pool water clean with regular skimming, brushing, vacuuming, filter care, and water testing. Good circulation and safe manual guidance help prevent cloudy water.

Written for PoolSkimmer on Oct 23, 2026; assigned an earlier archive date, not published on that date.

Skimming & Debris · Archive date: · 3 min read

How to Tell If Your Pool Skimmer Basket Is the Wrong Size

A basket that is too small, too tall, or shaped for the wrong skimmer can bypass debris and strain circulation. Learn the fit checks that matter.

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