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

Skimmer Equipment · Archive date: · 3 min read

Which Skimmer Net Features Matter Most for Daily Debris Pickup?

Choose a skimmer net with the right mesh, a reinforced frame, and a secure pole fit so daily cleanup stays fast, safe, and gentle on the pool finish.

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 Calcium Hardness Affects Pool Surfaces and Scale

High calcium hardness can make pool water scale-forming, leaving rough deposits on plaster, tile, and equipment. Learn the warning signs and safe next steps.

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 Cloudy Pool Water Says About Filter Performance

Cloudy water can mean your pool filter is struggling, but it may also point to poor circulation, clogged baskets, or a system that needs service.

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

Pool Care · Archive date: · 3 min read

Can Pool Water Make You Sick?

Yes—pool water can make you sick if it becomes contaminated or poorly maintained. The main risks come from swallowed water, germs, and unsafe equipment.

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 Does a Saltwater Pool Work?

A saltwater pool still sanitizes with chlorine. A salt chlorine generator uses dissolved salt and circulating water to produce chlorine on site, while the pump and filter keep the system working.

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

Filtration & Circulation · Archive date: · 3 min read

How a Pool Pump Works: The Pool Pump and Filter Cycle

A pool pump moves water through the skimmer, pump, and filter system, then returns it to the pool. That circulation supports cleaner, clearer water.

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

Filtration & Circulation · Archive date: · 3 min read

How to Clean a Pentair Pool Filter Safely

Clean a Pentair pool filter by identifying the filter type, shutting off the pump, removing trapped debris, and following the owner’s manual for reassembly and restart.

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

Filtration & Circulation · Archive date: · 3 min read

How Much Electricity Does a Pool Pump Use per Month?

A pool pump’s monthly electricity use depends on wattage, run time, and pump speed. Estimate it from the nameplate and your daily hours of operation.

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

Seasonal Pool Care · Archive date: · 3 min read

How to Get Water Off a Pool Cover Safely

Use a cover pump or siphon to remove standing water from a pool cover. Turn off the pump first, follow the manual, and stop if the cover is damaged or overloaded.

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

Skimming & Debris · Archive date: · 3 min read

Why Debris Blows Away Before You Can Skim It

Debris can drift faster than you can skim when wind, surface movement, or strong returns keep the water active. A few simple adjustments help.

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 Telescopic Skimmer Poles Improve Reach and Control Around the Pool

Telescopic skimmer poles help you clean farther with less strain and better precision, as long as you match the pole, attachment, and task safely.

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 Causes Metal Stains in Pool Water and How Can You Identify Them?

Metal stains in a pool often come from iron, copper, or manganese. Learn the visual clues, likely sources, and when a pool professional should help.

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