Notes from the deep end

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

479 articles

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.

Seasonal Pool Care · Archive date: · 3 min read

How to Drain a Pool Below the Skimmer—and When Not To

There’s no universal safe water level below the skimmer. Learn when a partial drain makes sense, when it can damage the pool, and when to call a pro.

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 Much Liquid Shock to Add to a Pool?

The right dose depends on the exact liquid shock product, your pool volume, and test results. Follow the label, keep circulation on, and stop if equipment is faulty.

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 long does pool shock last?

Pool shock works right away, but its useful effect fades as chlorine is used up by sunlight, swimmer load, and debris. Test before swimming.

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

Water Chemistry · Archive date: · 3 min read

Can I Shock My Pool 2 Days in a Row?

Yes, sometimes—but only if the water still needs it and the shock label allows it. Retest first, clean circulation, and avoid guessing.

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

Filtration & Circulation · Archive date: · 3 min read

How to Prime a Pool Pump with a Sand Filter

To prime a pool pump with a sand filter, turn off the pump, clear the baskets, fill the pump housing with water, set the valve correctly, and watch for steady flow.

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 Type of Sand Should You Use in a Pool Filter?

Use the exact pool filter sand your manual calls for—usually clean, graded silica sand. Avoid play sand and beach sand, and always shut off the pump first.

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

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.