Frequently Asked Questions

We recommend testing your water at least once a week during swimming season and every two weeks during the off-season. You can bring a water sample into our Granada Hills store anytime and we will test it for free. We check pH, chlorine, alkalinity, calcium hardness, and cyanuric acid levels to make sure everything is balanced.

A green pool means algae has taken over, usually because chlorine levels dropped too low. Bring a water sample into our store and we will test it and give you a step-by-step plan to get it clear again. Typically it involves shocking the pool, running the pump continuously, brushing the walls and floor, and cleaning or backwashing the filter. Most green pools can be cleared up in 3 to 5 days with the right approach.

A variable speed pump lets you control how fast the motor runs instead of running at full speed all the time. Your pool pump uses more energy than all your household appliances combined (except the A/C), so running it at a lower speed for longer saves a huge amount of electricity. Most customers save $1,000 to $1,500 a year on their electric bill. Plus, you can get a $1,000 rebate from LADWP just for making the switch.

Absolutely. Solar covers capture the sun's heat to warm your pool water naturally, which means you can start swimming earlier in spring and keep going later into fall without running a gas heater. They also reduce water evaporation significantly, which is especially important during California's drought conditions. Most customers find the cover pays for itself within a couple of months in water and gas savings.

Salt systems generate their own chlorine from dissolved salt, so you do not need to buy, store, or handle chlorine products. The water feels softer on your skin and eyes. The upfront cost is higher than a traditional chlorine setup, but many pool owners prefer the lower maintenance and the feel of the water. Come into the store and we can walk you through the pros and cons for your specific pool.

There are three main types: sand, cartridge, and DE (diatomaceous earth). Cartridge filters are the most popular for residential pools because they are easy to maintain and provide good filtration. DE filters give you the finest filtration but need more upkeep. Sand filters are low maintenance but do not filter as finely. Our staff can look at your pool setup and recommend the best option for your situation.

When you purchase and install a qualifying variable speed pump through us, we handle the entire rebate process. We take the required photographs, prepare all the documentation including paid invoices and proof of CAEI certification, and submit the application forms to the DWP on your behalf. LADWP offers $1,000 and Southern California Edison offers $200 for qualifying upgrades.

With a traditional single-speed pump, most pools need 8 to 12 hours of circulation per day during summer and 4 to 6 hours in winter. With a variable speed pump, you can run it longer at a much lower speed, which actually filters better and uses far less electricity. We can calculate the ideal run time based on your pool size and equipment.

We do not really get harsh winters out here, so you do not need to fully winterize like they do in cold climates. But you should reduce pump run times, lower chemical usage slightly, and consider a solar cover to retain heat and prevent evaporation. Keep testing your water regularly through winter. A neglected pool in winter leads to a much bigger cleanup job come spring.

That is exactly what we are here for. Pool maintenance is not complicated when you have the right information and direction. Our staff has over 50 years of combined experience and we teach you exactly what you need to know. We test your water for free, recommend the right products, and show you how to use them. And if you ever decide you would rather hand it off to a pro, our sister company Pat's Pool Service is here to help.