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 Add Alkalinity to a Pool Safely

To raise total alkalinity, test the water first, then use a pool product labeled for alkalinity adjustment and follow the label and equipment manual closely.

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 Heat an Above Ground Pool Safely and Effectively

The best way to heat an above ground pool is to cut heat loss first, then choose a compatible pool heater or solar option and follow the manual carefully.

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 Open an Above Ground Pool Safely and Smoothly

Open an above ground pool by inspecting the cover and equipment, clearing debris, restoring circulation, and testing the water before anyone swims.

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 Often Should You Empty Your Skimmer Basket During Heavy Debris?

During heavy debris, empty the skimmer basket whenever flow drops or the basket looks crowded. Frequent checks protect circulation and reduce pump strain.

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

Skimmer Equipment · Archive date: · 3 min read

Why a Skimmer Weir Door Stops Floating Properly

A skimmer weir door that sinks, sticks, or stays closed usually points to low water level, debris buildup, wear, or flow issues. Here’s what to check safely.

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 Spot Early Signs of Pool Water Imbalance

Learn the early warning signs of pool water imbalance, what they usually mean, and the safe next steps to restore clear, comfortable water before bigger problems start.

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

Filtration & Circulation · Archive date: · 3 min read

Why a Pool Pump Loses Prime Overnight

A pool pump that loses prime overnight usually has low water, an air leak, a blocked basket, or a faulty check valve that lets water drain back.

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

Pool Care · Archive date: · 3 min read

How to Maintain an Above Ground Pool

Simple above ground pool maintenance comes down to skimming, brushing, vacuuming, filter care, and regular water testing so small problems do not become cloudy water or algae.

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 Make Pool Water Clear

To clear pool water, start with cleaning, circulation, and filtration before adding any chemicals. Safe testing and label directions matter more than guesswork.

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 Green Pool Water

Green pool water usually means algae and weak filtration. Clear it by removing debris, brushing, cleaning the filter, restoring circulation, and testing water safely.

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 Yellow Algae in a Pool

Yellow algae, often called mustard algae, can hide in shaded areas and return if you only brush it off. Clean, brush, vacuum, and maintain circulation.

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

Pool Troubleshooting · Archive date: · 3 min read

Is It Safe to Swim in a Pool With Algae?

Visible algae is a warning sign, not a green light. Keep swimmers out, test the water, fix circulation and sanitation, and reopen only when conditions are verified safe.

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