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 to Do with Old Pool Filter Sand

Old pool filter sand is usually removed, dried, and disposed of according to local rules. In limited cases, clean used sand can be reused outside the pool.

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 am I getting sand in my pool from my filter?

Sand returning to a pool usually means a sand filter is letting media escape through a broken internal part, a valve issue, or a backwashing mistake.

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 Clean Pool Tile with a Pressure Washer Safely

A pressure washer can clean pool tile, but only if the tile and grout are sound. Use the gentlest setting, avoid seams, and stop if calcium or damage needs professional help.

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

Skimming & Debris · Archive date: · 3 min read

How to Keep a Pool Skimmer from Getting Overwhelmed by Heavy Debris

Heavy leaf drops and windy weather can clog a pool skimmer fast. Use simple prevention, frequent checks, and safe cleaning to keep water moving.

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 Replace a Skimmer Faceplate Without Guesswork?

Match the skimmer face plate to the exact model, inspect the seal and screws, and tighten evenly. Stop if cracks, leaks, or air problems persist.

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 Chemistry Checks Matter Most Before Opening a Pool?

Before opening a pool, focus on the chemistry checks that protect swimmers and equipment: sanitizer, pH, alkalinity, calcium hardness, and stabilizer.

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

Skimmer Equipment · Archive date: · 2 min read

What Are the Two Holes in a Pool Skimmer?

A pool skimmer with two holes may serve different plumbing functions, but the exact setup varies by model. Identify it safely with the manual before touching anything.

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 Hook Up a Pool Pump and Sand Filter: A Safe Homeowner’s Overview

The basic hookup is usually pool suction to pump, pump to sand filter, then filter return to the pool. Match your manual, confirm valve positions, and check for leaks.

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 Use Pool Clarifier with a Sand Filter

Pool clarifier can help a sand filter trap tiny particles in cloudy pool water, but it works best only after the basics are checked and the filter is clean.

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 Use Flocculant in a Pool with a Sand Filter

Flocculant can help clear cloudy swimming pool water when you follow the label, let particles settle, vacuum carefully, and clean the sand filter afterward.

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 Pool Filter Blowing Out Sand?

If sand is coming back through the returns, the sand filter likely has an internal failure or the valve is misdirecting flow. Shut the pump off and inspect safely.

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 Clean a Polaris Pool Cleaner Tailsweep

Turn off the pump, remove the Polaris tailsweep per the manual, and rinse away grit and debris. If it still drags or sprays poorly, inspect related wear or clogging.

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