Get matched with top above ground pool installation pros in Shell Rock, IA

A well-built and well-maintained concrete pool should last anywhere from 50 to 75 years. Concrete is prone to cracking, so winterization and regular pool repairs are particularly important. Water can seep into existing cracks, freeze, and make them worse. Most homeowners should resurface their concrete every few years to maintain their pool’s lifespan. 

Generally, you do not need to drain your pool to convert it to a saltwater system. The main exception is if you have used an antibacterial agent containing polyhexamethylene biguanide to sanitize your pool, as these sanitation products do not mix well with saltwater systems. If this is the case, you will need to start fresh. You can either drain the pool or treat the existing water with a high dose of chlorine to remove the antibacterial agent. If you choose the chlorine treatment, wait several days to allow the chlorine to work before proceeding with the conversion. If you are unsure whether this applies to your pool, consult a pool technician.

You can find a leak in an in-ground pool by doing a visual check, the bucket test, and a dye test. Keep in mind that skimmers are usually the culprit for in-ground pool leaks. However, if you cannot detect the leak location after running the tests, it’s a good idea to call in a professional pool repair service.

It’s okay to leave a pool pump on 24-7. In fact, running it continuously has big upsides, including consistently distributing chemicals, keeping a steady pool temperature, preventing algae growth, and keeping pool water clean. However, there is a tradeoff—operating a pool pump around the clock increases energy costs and can take a toll on the pump’s longevity. If you want to run your pool pump all the time, invest in energy-saving equipment like a variable-speed pump.