Get matched with top pool table assembly pros in Gulf Park Estates, MS

The best way to kill off an algae bloom in an aboveground pool is to shock it with a large dose of chlorine. Shock typically kills off algae in about one to three days, although it can take longer if the pool water is in poor condition. After the shock treatment, add algaecide to prevent algae from growing back, and test the water every few days with test strips to ensure the pool’s pH doesn’t get out of whack.

Unless you have an alternative to chlorine in your pool to prevent bacteria and viruses from taking up residence in your water, it’s not safe to swim in a pool without enough chlorine. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), swimming in a pool with insufficient chlorine could lead to skin and eye irritation, ear issues, respiratory distress, such as coughing and congestion, and various other health issues. Always make sure your chlorine levels are healthy and stable before swimming for proper pool safety.

You don’t need to dilute the baking soda before adding it to your pool. While you can if you want, adding too much water into your pool can throw off your math and chemicals. Your pool’s circulation system will do most of the dissolving work for you, so it’s OK to skip the dilution.

Yes, pool pumps use a significant amount of electricity, making them one of the biggest energy consumers in a home. A pool pump can use up to three times as much electricity as a refrigerator. Typically, a residential pool pump consumes about 1 kilowatt-hour (kWh) for every hour it runs. Because pumps often need to run for about eight hours a day to properly filter the water, this can add up to an annual consumption of 3,000 to 5,000 kWh, which can cost between $480 and $800 per year based on average electricity rates.

The amount of electricity your pump uses depends on its size, energy efficiency, and daily run time. To lower your energy consumption, you can choose an energy-efficient or variable-speed pump, ensure it is correctly sized for your pool, and run it only for the minimum time required to keep the water clean.