Frequently Asked QuestionsThis section of our web site was created so pool owners can find the answers to some of the most common questions they may have about their pool. If you do not find information you need here, please submit your question to us by filling out the form on our contact page or call us at (908) 236-POOL. A Sahara Pools representative will respond to your request with the information you need. These FAQ’s are provided as a general guide line, not as specific advice for your particular pool and/or spa. Every pool and/or spa, its uses, location and types, need to be considered when determining what is best for your pool and/or spa. We strongly recommend that you contact a processional for advice and guidance for your particular pool and/or spa. When should I open and close my pool?Pool owners can open their pool from the end of March throughout the month of June. Pool closings should be made between the months of August and November. Please schedule an appointment 1 to 1½ months in advance so that we can accommodate you request. How do I calculate the number of gallons of water my pool can hold?First, determine the average depth of your pool by taking the depth of the deepest end of your pool and adding the depth of the shallowest end (in feet). Divide this number by 2. This number is the average depth. Continue below based on the shape of your pool.
What is pH?pH controls water balance in your pool. Cloudy water will result if the pH is too high (above 7.8 ppm). Corrosion of metallic pipes, etched plaster and rapid loss of chlorine residual and irritation to swimmers may result if pH is too low (below 7.2 ppm). What changes the pH level in my pool?Alkalinity, sun, rain and bather load all affect pH levels. Maintaining proper pH levels will prevent loss of chlorine and irritation to swimmers. pH levels are one of the most important levels to maintain, especially if you have a heater. What is algae?Algae is microscopic aquatic plants which are introduced to the pool water from the Why should I “shock” my pool?“Shocking” your pool burns off chloramines or bromamines, which are sanitized or “dead” particles. This helps to prevent your pool water from becoming cloudy by killing bacteria and algae. You should shock your pool once per week. Shock more often during heavy use or when combined chlorine is .7 ppm. How often should I vacuum my pool?The pool walls and bottom should be brushed and vacuumed weekly to remove dirt and other sediments that have not been filtered out. What kind of filter should I use?There are three basic types of filter systems to choose from. Choose your filter based upon the characteristics you desire.
How often should I run my filter?A filter should run at all times for maximum circulation and debris removal. A minimum of 8 hours How often should I clean my filter?Backwash sand filters when pressure builds up. This usually occurs approximately every 10 to 14 days. D. E. filters need to be backwashed approximately once per month, or whenever the pressure is 10-15 PSI over the normal running pressure. Hose off cartridges in cartridge filters about once per week. How can I heat my pool?You can heat your pool using a conventional heater, a solar heater, or a combination of both.
Radiant heat from the sun can be used to heat your pool. A solar blanket can be placed on the surface of your pool to retain heat. Solar panel systems can be installed to pump water from your pool into sun heated panels. The surface area of the panels should equal at least half the surface area of your pool in order to be effective. Do I care for my spa the same way I care for my pool?Maintaining your spa is very similar to maintaining your pool. The most important thing to do is maintain pH and sanitizer levels. The sanitizer used in spas is bromine, but remember to keep the level higher than your pool due to the higher water temperature. Maintain pH, alkalinity and calcium levels as recommended. Remove metals on a regular basis. What is that brown stain on the bottom of my pool?Most of the time stains come from one of two causes. The first being organic or stains from leaves, worms, pollen, etc; and the second being from metals like copper, iron, magnesium. The best way to determine the cause of the stain is to bring in a sample of the pool water and we can analyze it and make a determination through a series of tests. What is a saltwater pool system and why should I switch?A saltwater pool system works automatically to convert salt to hypochlorous ion to produce crystal clear, purified water free of viruses, bacteria and algae—without using any packaged chlorine, harsh chemicals or shock treatments. Plus, it doesn't consume the salt, but simply recycles it. Why is calcium hardness important to my pool?Calcium hardness is very important especially in a concrete or plaster pool. The water in your pool needs to maintain a certain level of calcium, and if it falls below the water will try to find it from places like your pool wall, thus causing leaching or etching of the pool wall surface. Over time, the pool walls begin to break down and the surface gets very rough to the touch. Proper calcium hardness levels are: Concrete Pool — 300-350ppm |
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Sahara Pools & Spas | 1160 Route 22 West, Lebanon, NJ 08833 | Tel: 908-236-POOL (7665)