Notes from the deep end

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

479 articles

Skimming & Debris · Archive date: · 3 min read

Best Way to Skim a Pool After a Windy Day

After strong winds, skim large debris first, protect skimmer baskets, and let filtration finish the cleanup. Stop if equipment or water safety is uncertain.

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 a Skimmer Vacuum Plate Makes Pool Cleaning Easier

A skimmer vacuum plate can stabilize vacuuming, help protect the skimmer basket, and make routine debris removal simpler when it fits your pool equipment properly.

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

Water Chemistry · Archive date: · 4 min read

Why Pool Water Can Feel Harsh Even When Chlorine Is Normal

Normal chlorine does not always mean comfortable water. pH, alkalinity, calcium hardness, circulation, and combined chlorine can make a pool feel harsh.

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 Improve Pool Circulation in a Dead Spot

Find and fix the causes of stagnant water in a pool dead spot by clearing blockages, adjusting return jets, and balancing flow safely.

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

Pool Troubleshooting · Archive date: · 3 min read

How to Clear Green Pool Water Fast

To clear green pool water fast, remove debris, brush the pool, clean the filter and skimmer basket, then keep circulation running while you follow your test results and chemical labels.

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

Water Chemistry · Archive date: · 4 min read

Can You Shock a Saltwater Pool?

Yes. A saltwater pool can still need shock treatment when chlorine drops, algae appears, or debris overloads the water. Test first, follow the label, and keep swimmers out until safe.

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

Filtration & Circulation · Archive date: · 3 min read

How to Drain a Pool Using the Pool Pump Safely

You can drain a swimming pool with the pump only if your system has a waste or drain setting and you can keep the pump from running dry.

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 Green Pool Water?

Green pool water is usually a sign of algae, poor filtration, or low sanitizer. The safest choice is to stay out until the pool is clear and working normally.

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

Filtration & Circulation · Archive date: · 3 min read

How Does a Pool Sand Filter Work?

A pool sand filter cleans water by trapping debris in a sand bed as water passes through it. Regular checks and backwashing help keep flow normal.

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

Water Chemistry · Archive date: · 3 min read

Is a Saltwater Pool Better Than a Chlorine Pool?

Saltwater pools still sanitize with chlorine, but they make it on site. The better choice depends on maintenance habits, equipment, and comfort.

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 Stop Acorns and Seed Pods from Clogging Your Pool Skimmer

Keep acorns and seed pods from clogging your pool skimmer with smarter cleanup, basket protection, and seasonal maintenance that protects flow and equipment.

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 Vacuum Adapter and When Do You Need One?

A skimmer vacuum adapter connects a pool vacuum hose to the skimmer for stronger suction. Learn when it helps, how to use it safely, and when to call a pro.

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