Notes from the deep end

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

479 articles

Filtration & Circulation · Archive date: · 3 min read

What Causes Weak Return Flow From Pool Jets?

Weak pool jet flow often points to a clogged skimmer, dirty filter, air leak, or pump issue. Use a safe troubleshooting order and call a pro when needed.

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 Winterize an Inground Pool Safely

Winterizing an inground pool means cleaning, checking water balance, lowering the water level as directed, protecting plumbing and equipment, and installing a winter cover.

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

Pool Troubleshooting · Archive date: · 3 min read

How to Get Rid of Mustard Algae in a Pool

Mustard algae is stubborn, so get rid of it by brushing, vacuuming, cleaning the filter, and following label directions. Good circulation and routine care help prevent it from returning.

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

Water Chemistry · Archive date: · 3 min read

What Lowers pH in a Pool?

Acidic pool chemicals lower pH in a swimming pool, but the right fix depends on a current test reading, the label directions, and safe handling.

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

Water Chemistry · Archive date: · 3 min read

What Causes High pH in a Pool?

High pool pH usually comes from aeration, certain sanitizers, new surfaces, or fill water. Test first, inspect circulation safely, and follow label directions.

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 Close an Above Ground Pool Safely for Winter

Close an above ground pool by cleaning it, checking water chemistry, lowering the water only as your manual allows, and winterizing the pump and filter.

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 Get Rid of Water Bugs in a Pool

Remove water bugs by skimming, brushing, and cleaning the filter, then fix weak circulation and sanitation so backswimmers are less likely to return.

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 Remove Fine Dirt That Floats Past the Skimmer

Fine dirt often slips past the skimmer when circulation is weak or the filter is overloaded. A careful cleanup sequence usually restores clear water.

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

Skimmer Equipment · Archive date: · 3 min read

Standard Skimmer Lid vs. Heavy-Duty: Which Pool Skimmer Cover Fits Your Pool?

A standard skimmer lid suits light residential use, while a heavy-duty pool skimmer lid handles more foot traffic, impact, and weather exposure.

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 Raise Calcium Hardness Without Overcorrecting in a Pool

Raise calcium hardness in small steps, test the whole water balance, and retest after circulation so you avoid scale, cloudy water, and overshooting your target.

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

Filtration & Circulation · Archive date: · 3 min read

How to Tell if Your Pool Pump Basket Is Clogged

Weak water flow, noisy operation, air bubbles, and a basket full of debris are common signs your pool pump basket needs attention.

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

Filtration & Circulation · Archive date: · 3 min read

How Long to Run a Pool Pump: A Practical Homeowner Guide

Run your pool pump long enough to keep water filtered and circulating. The right run time depends on pool use, weather, debris load, and equipment condition.

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