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

Does Pool Shock Raise pH?

Pool shock can raise pH, but not every product does. The effect depends on the chemistry, so test before and after, then follow the label and manual.

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 Raises Cyanuric Acid in a Pool?

Cyanuric acid rises mainly from stabilized chlorine products. To raise a low CYA level safely, identify the product first, test often, and follow 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

List of Pool Chemicals and What They Do

Pool chemicals help sanitize water, balance pH, control algae, and protect surfaces and equipment. Test first, then follow your pool manual and product labels.

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 Lower Stabilizer in a Pool

The practical way to lower cyanuric acid (CYA) is to replace some pool water with fresh water, then retest. There is no simple additive fix.

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

Skimming & Debris · Archive date: · 3 min read

What to Do When Debris Gets Trapped Behind the Skimmer Weir

A stuck skimmer weir door can trap leaves, reduce skimmer suction, and worsen surface debris. Try these safe checks before calling a pool 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

What Is a Skimmer Extension and When Does It Help?

A skimmer extension can improve surface debris removal after a waterline, coping, or deck change, but it won’t fix leaks, suction issues, or damaged parts.

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 Algae Keeps Coming Back Even When Chemistry Looks Fine

Recurring algae in a pool often points to circulation, filtration, brushing, or testing gaps—not just one chlorine reading that looks close.

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

Above-Ground Pools · Archive date: · 3 min read

Installing a Pool Skimmer: Above-Ground vs. Concrete Pool Differences

Pool skimmer installation depends on construction: above-ground pools may use hanging or through-wall units, while concrete pools usually need structural and plumbing work.

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 Keep a Pool Cover from Sagging

Keep a pool cover from sagging by removing standing water and debris, checking tension and anchors, maintaining the right water level, and following the manual.

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

What Is a Pool Cover Pump?

A pool cover pump removes standing water from a pool cover, helping prevent sagging, overflow, and heavy buildup after rain, snowmelt, or debris.

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 Causes Alkalinity to Rise in a Pool?

Pool alkalinity usually rises from fill water, chemical additions, or repeated top-offs. Testing and good circulation help you spot the cause before pH becomes harder to control.

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

Filtration & Circulation · Archive date: · 3 min read

Why Is My Sand Filter Putting Sand in the Pool?

Sand in your pool usually means the filter’s internal parts are damaged, loose, or assembled wrong. Stop the pump first, then inspect safely and follow the manual.

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