As the leading experts in Milwaukee pools, the professionals at Great Lakes Pool & Spa have provided answers to some of your most frequently asked questions. Please don’t hesitate to contact us at 262-242-7793 if you do not see your question listed below.
How often should I be backwashing my filter?
After backwashing and returning the valve back to the filter position, take note of the pressure reading. Once the pressure reaches 10-12 psi over your normal operating pressure, it is time to backwash your filter again. Backwashing too frequently can cause your pool to become cloudy, as well as decrease the effectiveness of your filter so it is important to pay attention to your pressure reading to tell you when it is necessary.
How often should my filter be chemically cleaned?
We recommend chemically cleaning the filter at least twice a season. If you did not clean the filter when closing the pool, clean it at the beginning of the season. If the filter was cleaned at closing, the first cleaning should be done around the beginning of July.
How often should the sand in my filter be changed?
We suggest that you replace the sand every 3-4 years.
How often should I run my pump and filter?
We recommend that you run your pump and filter 24 hours a day or at least 8-12 continuous daylight hours every day for optimal operation.
My Polaris is not moving. What is wrong with it?
Check the screen in the universal wall fitting. A dirty screen can restrict water flow that pushes the Polaris. Bad bearings can also be the cause of a slow moving Polaris.
If I am losing ½” of water a day in my pool should I be concerned about a leak?
No. Normal evaporation during the hot summer is about ½” or less per day. A loss of more than ½” a day may indicate a leak.
What is the difference between an overlap and a beaded liner?
Overlap liners fold over the top of the pool wall and are held in place by coping and metal rods. A beaded liner fits into a groove on the inside of the pool wall.
If I have an automatic pool cleaner do I still have to brush my pool?
Yes! Automatic pool cleaners do not provide as much scrubbing action as brushes do. Brushing can help prevent algae and other unforeseen problems.
When should I open my pool?
Early spring is the best time to open your pool. Opening this early allows you adequate time to replace any faulty equipment and correct water chemistry before swimming weather arrives.
Why won’t my pool hold chlorine?
You most likely have a chlorine demand. Double shock every 3 hours until you can hold a free chlorine reading of 1.0ppm or higher for at least 24 hours.
I am having trouble keeping my pool clear. What should I do?
Water clarity is 50% water balance and 50% filtration. If the filter is not being run as often as necessary or if it is malfunctioning, then proper water balance will not solve your problem. Filter aids can be added to help improve filtration. Clarifiers can be used in conjunction with filter aids to increase the size of the particles so they can be filtered more easily. Additionally, proper water circulation is vital to filtration. Your returns should be pointed downward at a 45-dgree angle and away from the skimmer to create a circular motion.
When I shock my chlorine pool it turns a clear green. Why?
Clear green water usually indicates a presence of copper in the water. A chelating agent can be added to remove the metals.
Why does my pool have a very strong chlorine odor? Did I add too much chlorine?
Chloramines are the cause of the strong odor of chlorine. Chloramines are created by swimmer waste, perspiration, oils, and other contaminants in the pool. Super-chlorinating your pool will alleviate this problem.
How do I calculate my pool volume?
There are two formulas you can use to determine the volume of your pool.
The first is for a round pool:
Diameter x Diameter x Average Depth x 5.9
Example: a 24’ round pool that was 4 ft deep would look like this:
24 x 24 x 4 x 5.9 = 13,600 gallons (rounded up)
The second formula is for a rectangular pool:
Length x Width x Average Depth x 7.5
Example: a 20’ x 40’ pool that went from 3’ to 8’ in depth would look like this:
20 x 40 x 5.5 x 7.5 = 33,000 gallons
Why is water coming out of my backwash hose when my multi-port valve is in the filter position?
This problem usually indicates that the spider gasket inside the valve has gone bad.
How often should my reagents and test strips be replaced?
We recommend that you replace your reagents and test strips at the beginning of each season.
When using a salt system, how much salt will be in my pool?
Optimum chlorine production occurs between 3,200 and 4,000 parts per million of salt. We recommend a salt level of 4,000 ppm so that the addition of salt is not as frequently needed. Allowing the salt level to fall below 2,800 ppm may reduce the life of the cell. If you’re worried about taste, 4,000 ppm is barely detectable as the taste threshold is 3,500 ppm for the average person. By comparison, a teardrop is about 7,200 ppm and ocean water is about 36,000 ppm.
What type of salt should I use?
You need to be using high purity salt. It is important that the salt does not contain additives. Common salt, like table salt, usually has an additive that may have straining properties. If you are unsure, consult your pool professional. They will direct you as to what type of salt is suitable.
Will I need to add salt again after the initial dose?
Salt is lost only through splash-out and backwashing, so you’ll only have to add a small amount each year.
What if my salt levels are too high or too low?
Your salt system will continue to operate. However, if the salt dips below 2,800 ppm, it can be damaging to the cell, possibly reducing its life.
