Pool Health Check
Does your pool water or swimsuit smell like chlorine?
That “chlorine” smell isn’t chlorine—it’s chloramines, formed when chlorine binds to contaminants like sweat or oils, meaning your pool isn’t properly sanitized. This requires immediate action: we’ll shock your pool with a high chlorine dose and rebalance the chemistry to eliminate the odor and restore clean water.
Do you have calcium deposits or staining, especially around your water features or waterline?
Excessive calcium deposits especially near water features or the waterline, often signal unbalanced water chemistry—typically high calcium hardness, pH, or alkalinity. Proper water balancing can minimize buildup, while excessive deposits suggest mismanagement. We will regularly test and adjust your water to prevent excessive scaling and keep your pool looking pristine.
Is your pool equipment programmed to run correctly?
Your pump should turn over pool water twice daily (four times for spas), based on pool volume, pump flow rate, RPMs, and whether it’s single or variable speed. Tampa Pool & Spa will assess and optimize your equipment’s runtime to keep your water clean.
What disinfectant is used to sanitize your pool?
We select from options like sodium hypochlorite (liquid chlorine), calcium hypochlorite (granular), trichlor (tablets), or dichlor (granules), based on your pool’s needs. Each interacts uniquely with pH, alkalinity, and cyanuric acid levels. We will choose the best fit and maintain your water chemistry for effective sanitation.
Is your water cloudy, or can you see your toes when you stand in your pool?
Cloudy water means your pool’s filtration, circulation, or chemistry is off—could be low sanitizer, poor turnover, or debris overload. You should see your toes clearly in the deep end. Managing this takes expertise beyond basic skimming; we’ll clarify your water and maintain it so it sparkles.
When was your pool filter last cleaned, and how often should it be replaced?
For proper filtration, clean your cartridge filter when pressure rises 10 psi and replace it after about 2,000 hours—roughly annually in Tampa’s year-round pool season, or possibly sooner based on your setup. Tampa Pool & Spa handles it all, with photo-verified cleanings and reminders for filter replacements, so you’re worry-free.
Are your pool’s pH and alkalinity levels balanced, or are you guessing?
Unbalanced pH (ideal: 7.2-7.6) and alkalinity (80-120 ppm) can corrode equipment, irritate skin, or cloud water. Testing and adjusting these isn’t a one-time DIY fix—chemicals interact daily. We monitor and fine-tune your water to prevent costly issues and keep it swimmer-ready.
When was your salt cell last inspected or cleaned, and it is producing sufficient chlorine?
Your salt cell needs regular inspection and cleaning to convert salt into chlorine effectively. Scale buildup or wear can reduce output, leaving your pool under-sanitized. Without consistent checks, you might not notice until algae or bacteria take over. Tampa Pool & Spa will test, clean, and ensure your system’s running at peak performance.
Is your D.E. filter working properly, or does it need re-charged or cleaned?
A diatomaceous earth (D.E.) filter traps fine debris, but it clogs over time, raising pressure or letting particles slip through. It needs backwashing and a fresh D.E. recharge (when pressure rises 10 psi), plus annual cleanings to avoid water channeling which leads to poor filtration. Let us keep it dialed in.