Question 1

Can I turn my aboveground pool into a saltwater pool?

Accepted Answer

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You can turn your aboveground chlorinated pool into a saltwater pool. The cost of a saltwater pool conversion is between $750 and $2,000, depending on your pool’s size. A saltwater pool offers benefits like less maintenance and water that is gentler on your skin. You’ll need to replace the salt every five years, but you won’t need to clean your pool as frequently.

Question 2

Will baking soda clear a green pool?

Accepted Answer

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Figuring out how to clear a green pool can seem tricky at first, but it’s all about knowing which pool cleaning chemicals to use. You may think of using baking soda to help you with your algae problem, but unfortunately, it won’t help. This is because baking soda only raises your pH and alkalinity levels.

Instead, you need to use pool shock to clear up a green pool—the shock raises the free chlorine levels and will kill the algae.

Question 3

Is it okay to run a pool pump 24 hours a day?

Accepted Answer

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While some commercial pools are required to run their pump 24 hours a day, homeowners should not. Running a pool pump for 24 hours a day isn’t necessary to clean the pool water—eight hours is enough. Doing so unnecessarily increases your electric bill and puts more wear and tear on the pump and filter, shortening their lifespan.

Question 4

Are pool chillers worth it?

Accepted Answer

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Installing a pool chiller can give you more control over the temperature of your pool, especially if you live in a climate with hot summers. Just a few degrees of cooling can make your swim feel more refreshing and allow you to use fewer pool chemicals by slowing down the growth of algae. You might not need a pool chiller if you live in a climate in which temperatures tend to dip at night.

Question 5

How much does it cost to repair a swimming pool?

Accepted Answer

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The cost to repair a swimming pool varies widely, with an average cost around $700. The total expense can range from as little as $10 for simple DIY fixes to over $20,000 for extensive overhauls. Key factors influencing the cost include the type of pool (in-ground vs. above-ground), its size, and the specific repairs needed. For above-ground pools, repairs typically cost between $100 and $700. For in-ground pools, costs are higher, generally ranging from $350 to $2,700. Common repairs include patching liners, fixing plumbing or electrical lines, and repairing equipment like pumps and filters. More complex issues, such as fixing a cracked beam, can cost $6,000 or more, while major projects like resurfacing a concrete pool can cost between $10,000 and $20,000.