Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the Difference between Chlorine and Bromine?
- Why is it so important to shock my water weekly?
- What is the difference between shocking and the chlorine pucks I use every day in my pool? Why do I have to use BOTH?
- Do the bubbles on my solar blanket go up or down?
- What are the differences between D.E., Sand and Cartridge filters?
- Where can I get a building permit/ information on fencing requirements?
- How can I prevent algae growth in my pool?
- Can I swim right after adding chemicals to the pool?
- How often should I backwash my sand filter?
- How do I backwash my sand filter?
- What should I do if I have a leak?
- Can I use table salt instead of pool salt in a saltwater pool?
- How should I prepare for a tropical storm or hurricane?
- How do I vacuum the pool?
- The pressure of the water coming back into the pool through the returns is low, what should I do?
- What position should the 3-way valve be set to?
- Why is my salt generator not producing chlorine?
- Why can’t I get my pump to prime?
- Why should I use a winter cover?
- What speed should I have my variable speed pump set to?
- How do I remove stains from my pool?
- How do I keep unwanted animals and insects away from my pool?
- How do I deal with pollen?
- I have a saltwater pool, do I have to use all the same chemicals as a chlorine pool?
- When will I need a liner replacement?
- I want to use less chlorine, what are my options?
What is the Difference between Chlorine and Bromine?
Bromine produces less of a smell (odour) and is easier on the eyes and skin. This makes it especially attractive to those with sensitivities.
Combined bromine (Bromamines) are not irritating to the skin or eyes where as chloramines do.
Bromine breaks down faster and can’t be stabilized from the sun’s uv rays.
Bromine and spa shock make a great partnership. The sun burns off the oxygen only leaving bromine, when spa shock is added it restores the oxygen and regenerates the sanitizer power of the bromine.
When bromine is inactive in the water, it changes the chlorine into bromine. If you want to change your pool or spa from bromine to chlorine you must drain all the water or use an X-IT chemical.
Alkalinity and ph levels are lowered by chlorine and bromine tablets.
Bromine is effective at a wide ph range of 4.0-9.0. Where as chlorine has a shorter range of 5.0-7.5.
Chlorine is a better disinfectant than bromine because it has more oxidizing potential.
Chlorine is cheaper to make and therefore cheaper to buy then Bromine
Why is it so important to shock my water weekly?
Shocking rids the water of all contaminants which can be harmful or cause a potential water problem. It is important to have your PH level between 7.4-7.6ppm and to use the right amount of shock for your water condition. Improper shocking amounts or ph levels can lead to additional water problems such as cloudy water.
Pools should be shocked every 7-10 days and after a heavy rain or heavy bather load. **It is misconception that you only have to use either a stabilized chlorine puck or an unstabilized shock to keep the chlorine level up at all times. Unstabilized and stabilized chlorines are not the same and have different purposes.
What is the difference between shocking and the chlorine pucks I use every day in my pool? Why do I have to use BOTH?
Stabilized chlorine such as pucks, mini tabs or even the granular chlorine added daily is for every day disinfecting. Once the free stabilized chlorine has disinfected is stays in the water. We call this “used chlorine”. This used chlorine needs to be burnt out of the water otherwise it will start to irritate swimmers. Strong odours, red eyes and rashes occur because of high levels of “used chlorine” in the water. Eventually a high level of used chlorine in the water will stop the “free chlorine” from disinfecting all together in what’s called “chlorine lock” Shocking with unstabilized chlorine weekly burns out the used chlorine and also kills all organics and containments.
Shocking with the right amount will also clear many water problems.
Do the bubbles on my solar blanket go up or down?
The solar blanket bubbles should always be facing downward.
What are the differences between D.E., Sand and Cartridge filters?
- Sand– Filter Range 20 to 40 microns. High-rate sand filters use a special filter sand, normally .45 to .55 mm (also known as pool grade #20 silica sand), because it has sharp edges that separate particles, allowing filtration to take place. They operate on the basis of “depth” filtration where dirt is driven through the sand bed and trapped in the spaces between the sand particles. Initially, a clean sand bed removes larger particles, and then, as the bed starts to load up with dirt, the filter removes finer particles. The sand can be cleaned by backwashing which involves reversing water flow through the filter to the “waste” line. Cleaning of the media, or sand bed, is accomplished through reversing the flow through the filter, to the “waste” line. This is known as backwashing.
- Cartridges– High quality Brands only – Filter Range 10 to 20 microns. Cartridge filtration has been available for a relatively long time, but has only recently begun to enjoy rapid growth and acceptance. When water passes through a cartridge filter, dirt is screened out at the surface of the cartridge element. When clean, the element will trap larger particles, with finer particles being filtered out as the pores of the element become clogged by the larger debris. The cartridge element can be removed and cleaned by pressure washing inside and out with a garden hose.
- D.E. (Diatomaceous Earth) – Filtration Range 1 to 3 microns. Diatomaceous earth is a porous powder with microscopic openings, that, when magnified, look like tiny sponges. Clear water can pass through these openings, but particles, as small as one to three microns, are trapped during the first pass through the media. D.E. filters have internal elements that become coated with D.E. It is this ‘filter cake’ that strains dirt, dust, algae, and some forms of bacteria from the water. Similar to sand filters, when D.E. filters become dirty, they are cleaned either by backwashing, or regenerating and draining the clogged D.E. to the ‘waste’ line. To restore filtration, a fresh ‘charge’ of D.E. is added to the filter. For sparkling, clean pools step up to Hayward D.E. filters.
Where can I get a building permit / information on fencing requirements?
View the By-Law that governs pools in HRM
View HRM’s FAQ Permit Document
Call the HRM Processing Office for information on acquiring a building permit at 902-490-5650.
How can I prevent algae growth in my pool?
Regularly shock the pool with chlorine, maintain proper water circulation, and use a algaecide weekly. Keeping the pool clean and well-balanced also helps prevent algae growth.
Can I swim right after adding chemicals to the pool?
Follow the product instructions for specific guidance. Some products have as little as a 15-minute wait, whereas some require you stay out of the pool for 8 hours.
How often should I backwash my sand filter?
Backwash your pool filter when the pressure gauge reads 8-10 psi above the normal operating pressure. This typically occurs every 2-4 weeks, but it depends on the filter type and usage.
How do I backwash my sand filter?
Check both the skimmer and pump baskets, removing debris if necessary.
Backwashing Steps:
- Turn the pump off
- Move the lever/handle to backwash
- Turn pump on and run for 3 minutes
- Turn pump off
- Move lever/handle to rinse
- Turn pump on and run for 30 seconds
- Turn pump off
- Mover lever/handle to filter
- Turn pump ON
By following the recommended time for backwashing you won’t need to backwash as frequently, thus allowing the sand to clean more efficiently and saving you water. A plus to those who rely on water from a well.
Remember to rinse! Rinsing for the 30 seconds after backwashing pushes the sand back in place clearing the filter of loose dirty water. If you don’t rinse you will have a dirty puff of water coming through the jet back into your clean pool.
What should I do if I think I have a leak?
Check over all your visible plumbing and equipment for obvious leaks. If nothing is found, we recommend that you perform the bucket test to determine if the leak is in the pool liner or the plumbing (underground). The bucket test will also help rule out if you simply have water loss from evaporation. You can find the instructions here:
If you determine the leak is in the liner you should check out our blog on dye testing and how to patch a liner. https://www.rrpools.ca/blog/how-to-patch-a-swimming-pool-liner/ or request a service call for assistance.
If you have ruled out the liner (because the pool only leaks when it is running), we recommend you contact us to book a pressure testing service.
Can I use table salt instead of pool salt in a saltwater pool?
No, it’s recommended to use pool-grade salt specifically designed for saltwater pools. Table salt may contain additives that can affect water chemistry and potentially damage pool equipment.
How should I prepare for a tropical storm or hurricane?
Preparing your pool and backyard for tropical storm / hurricane season is essential to keeping your pool safe and prevent damage. Your swimming pool was an investment and preparing it for any possible storms can save you a lot of time and money in the future. Check out our blog with what to do before and after the storm: https://www.rrpools.ca/blog/why-prepare-for-a-tropical-storm-hurricane/
How do I vacuum the pool?
Check out our guide on how to use your manual vacuum equipment here: https://www.rrpools.ca/blog/how-to-use-your-manual-vacuum/
The pressure of the water coming back into the pool through the returns is low, what should I do?
If you are having issues with low flow it could be several things. Check out our blog for what to look for: https://www.rrpools.ca/blog/the-water-flow-back-into-the-pool-is-low/
What position should the 3-way valve be set to?
50/50 is the quick answer, however, there are reasons for having it be different than a 50/50 split between them. Every pool is different. Check out our blog with more advice: https://www.rrpools.ca/blog/what-position-should-the-3-way-valve-to-the-skimmer-and-main-drain-be-on/
Why is my salt generator not producing chlorine?
There are several reasons why this could be happening. Check out our blog to help you troubleshoot: https://www.rrpools.ca/blog/my-salt-generator-is-not-generating-chlorine/
Why can’t I get my pump to prime?
If you’re finding that your pump won’t prime, here are some possible issues you can check at home before placing a request for a service call:
- Make sure the water level in the pool is high enough so water can flow into the skimmer (about ½ – ¾ up the skimmer opening).
- Check the lid and the lid o-ring to ensure you have a tight seal. If the o-ring looks worn it may need to be replaced. If it appears dry, try adding a little lube to it. If the lid has a crack, it should be replaced. Any issues with the lid or the o-ring may allow air to enter the pump and cause priming issues.
- Check to make sure the skimmer weir (the little flappy door) is not stuck in the up position. If this is the issue, try filing the edges to prevent it from happening in the future, or purchase a new door.
- Is the pump installed a distance from the pool or is it elevated above the water level? The time needed to prime the pump could be longer.
- Check to make sure the basket is free of debris.
If there is water in the pump you can allow it to try to prime for up to 5 minutes without damaging the pump.
If you are still unable to get the pump to prime, request a service call.
Why should I use a winter cover?
The use of a winter cover has been debated for years. Should you cover your swimming pool during the winter months or not? We recommend you invest in a winter cover for your swimming pool as it is important for a variety of reasons:
- It protects the pool from any debris; leaves, twigs, and dirt from entering. This not only keeps the pool cleaner, but it also prevents any tears in a vinyl lined pool from happening during a winter storm.
- Decreases algae growth. Algae thrive in stagnant water, but a winter cover can reduce the amount of algae growth as it prevents the buildup of organic material that can lead to a bloom. It also keeps the sunlight out which will delay the growth of algae, providing you closed the pool clean and clear.
- Increases safety. When you invest in a safety cover for your pool you have peace of mind that children and pets are being protected from accidentally entering the water.
What speed should I have my variable speed pump set to?
There are many variables that can dictate the correct speed for your pool. It would be best to speak to your pool professional for guidance as they know your pool set up. They will consider the plumbing size, the placement of the equipment, as well as what equipment is hooked up to your system. All of these are factors in the best speeds for your swimming pool circulation and filtration.
Tip: When you are starting out, if your heat pump or salt chlorinator is stating “low flow” you will need to turn the rpms up until they no longer show the error message.
When to use different speeds:
- Low – Use the low speed for your everyday circulation of the pool water. When the pool is perfectly balanced, and the water is clean and clear.
- Medium – Switch to medium speed if you are backwashing or vacuuming the pool.
- High – Use high speed if you are having clarity issues, such as hazy or cloudy water.
How do I remove stains from my pool?
The removal method depends on what type of staining it is. Check out our blog on how to identify stains and remove them: https://www.rrpools.ca/blog/problem-of-the-month-staining/
How do I keep unwanted animals and insects away from my pool?
Check out our blog on how to address uninvited guests in and round the pool. https://www.rrpools.ca/blog/top-ways-to-keep-bees-wasps-and-other-unwanted-animals-away-from-your-pool/
How do I deal with pollen?
We recommend a combination of Skim Mor Socks and Pool First Aid. The Socks will collect up the pollen before it enters the circulation system and the Pool First Aid will help to remove the pollen from the water. To learn more check out our blog: https://www.rrpools.ca/blog/problem-of-the-month-pollen/
I have a saltwater pool, do I have to use all the same chemicals as a chlorine pool?
Yes! The difference is that you add salt to the pool which your generator converts into liquid chlorine instead of adding your traditional chlorine pucks or sticks to your chemical feeder or skimmer basket. You will still need to add shock, algaecide and balancers just as you would we a traditional chlorine pool.
For the truth about saltwater pools check out our blog: https://www.rrpools.ca/blog/salt-water-truths-part-1-for-salt-chlorine-generators/
When will I need a liner replacement?
Inground pool liners have a typical life expectancy of 15 years, although circumstances can reduce or increase the life span of the liner. We recommend starting to think about the replacement around the 12 year mark.
Look for signs that your liner will soon need replacing: staining, fading, leaking, cracking, tearing, wrinkles and stretching.
I want to use less chlorine, what are my options?
Canadian regulations require the use of either chlorine or bromine to sanitize a pool, however there are ways to reduce the amount of chlorine needed. You can choose to add on an ionizer, UV, Ozone or UV and Ozone as a supplemental system. You can learn more about these supplemental system here:
