Our Favorite Pool Accessories

Summer is in full swing here in Austin, which means the temperatures are above 100º and the kids are bored. Thankfully, you have an in ground pool to keep everyone busy and cooled off. At Crystal Clear Pools and Spas, we specialize in pool renovations from the smallest job to a complete remodel. However, sometimes all you need are a few accessories to change the look and function of your pool, as well as a few toys to keep it fun and fresh.

Pool Lighting: Most pools are equipped with lights so you can swim in the dusk and early morning, or if you simply want to add ambiance to your backyard in the evening. If you are looking to add a splash of color or a fun conversation starter for your next pool party– try some floating lights. There are many choices of floating lights available for both above ground and in ground pools. Our favorite are these Jellyfish Floating Lights that illuminate vibrant colors on the pool’s surface as well as underwater.

Pool Toys: From basketball hoops to water guns to volleyball nets – there is no shortage of pool toys to choose from. Our favorite is the Floating Table Tennis set. Not only does the table float, but so does the paddle and ball. It’s a great way to keep your kids entertained or to add a some healthy competition to your next pool party.

Pool Alarm: Not all pool accessories are fun – sometimes they are just Functional. If you don’t have an alarm on your pool, we urge you to consider purchasing one. There are many types of pool alarms; ones that attach to the gate of your pool or exterior door, wristbands for kids and pets, or in ground pool alarms. In addition to a pool alarm, we certainly recommend taking other safety precautions such a lockable fence and a pool cover.

Pool Accessory Organizer: Now that you have a lot of pool accessories, it’s time to keep them organized. There are many pool organizers out there such as benches, boxes, and buckets. Our favorite, however, are hanging mesh organizers which saves floor space and allows the water to drain so the toys dry quickly.

Pool Fencing: We often hear that ‘Good Fences Make Good Neighbors’, but at Crystal Clear Pools and Spas, we believe that ‘Good Fences Make Safer Pools’. Our final favorite accessory is pool fencing. Fencing can be easily installed by a pool professional and can prevent children and pets from getting into the pool unsupervised. There are a variety of fences to choose from: Mesh, Wrought-Iron, Vinyl, and Glass. We love the modern look of glass which renders the fence almost invisible, however can be difficult to keep clean. Regardless what material you choose, fencing in your pool is the best investment you can make.

Swim Your Way to Good Health

There is certainly no shortage of outdoor activities to keep active and fit here in Austin, however, with the hottest month of the year approaching, it is getting difficult to enjoy many of those activities. There is one outdoor workout that will keep you physically fit and can be enjoyable in this heat – swimming!

Here are four reasons why swimming is the perfect workout:

NO WEIGHT LIMIT
Swimming is a perfect workout for people of all sizes as it is easy on the joints and an effective way to burn fat. A 300-pound person will burn about 470 calories in 30 minutes of moderate lap swimming. Doing this five days a week, even with no dietary changes, will burn about half a pound of fat.

INEXPENSIVE
Forget the expensive gym memberships. While not everyone has an inground pool in their backyard, finding one to use doesn’t have to break the bank. There are many public pools available with low entrance fee, as well as local organizations such as the YMCA for little to no cost.

NO AGE LIMIT
Swimming is a wonderful activity for both kids and adults. By making it a family affair, the kids can have a great time while you get in a workout. Additionally, you will set a great example of health and fitness for your children. Encourage them to swim laps, have races, dive for rings, or toss around a ball.

IT CAN SAVE LIVES
Regular exercise has been shown to prolong one’s life. Aerobic exercise promotes oxygen delivery to the muscles, which prevents inflammation, reduces the risk of heart disease, blood pressure, and diabetes. Additionally, knowing how to swim will reduce your own risk of drowning and allow you to maybe save someone else’s life one day.

If you are interested in having your own backyard in ground pool, let Crystal Clear Pools & Spas give you a free quote and you will be swimming your way to good health in no time!

Why You Should Own a Backyard Pool

People often ask us the benefits of owning an inground pool. There are of course plenty of things to consider when deciding to purchase a pool, for example, safety, cost of installation, and ongoing maintenance. Most people consider a swimming pool to be a luxury – much like a boat, ATV, or a motorhome. However, for those Pool owners who use their pools consistently, they will tell you that the non-financial benefits most certainly outweigh the overall cost. Here are some benefits you will enjoy when owning a backyard pool:

Convenience: Forget about packing three bags full of towels, snacks, sunscreen, and drinks, only to drive ten minutes to go swimming. Instead, conveniently walk out to your backyard and be swimming in a matter of minutes.

Family Time: You can’t put a price on spending quality time with family. A backyard swimming pool allows conversations, laughs, and making memories. It will force your kids to put down their electronic devices and hang out with Mom and Dad for a while.

Relaxation: While the kids are at school, take some time to relax poolside. Read a book, listen to music, or meditate. Lounge in the pool with a floating bed and take in some Vitamin D (just don’t forget the sunscreen).

Health: As we mentioned in a previous post, swimming is a perfect way to get exercise outdoors. Swimming is low-impact and works many different muscle groups at the same time. Why spend time driving to a gym or money on a membership, when you can get a full-body workout in your own backyard?

Entertaining: Neighborhood BBQ’s, birthday parties, Dive In Movies – the options are as endless as your imagination. With a backyard pool, your house will most definitely be the fun place to hang out.

Yard Work: With less grass to trim and weeds to pull, you can spend a lot less time doing yard work and more time playing in your pool!

Preparing Your Pool For a Storm

Austin is nothing short of unpredictable. One minute we are complaining of the record heat, and the next minute we are in the middle of an unexpected flash-flood. Did you know that Texas ranks near the top of the nation in weather-related property damage each year? At Crystal Clear Pools & Spas, we want to make sure your pool and spa is prepared for the next big storm.

Should I Drain My Pool Before a Big Storm?

It’s understandable to be concerned of overflow and potential flooding of your pool when expecting a huge rainstorm. However, a properly installed pool will come equipped with an overflow system that will drain excess water. If you want to slightly empty the water level, be certain to lower it no more than two feet, otherwise, the hydrostatic pressure can be too strong, possibly causing the pool to ‘pop’ out of the ground.

Should I Turn off the Power to the Pool Equipment?

In short – Yes. More specifically, storms most often damage pool pumps and motors, so it’s important to turn off the circuit breaker to the pump, motor, lights, etc. In fact, it’s often best to completely remove the motor and ensure it’s securely placed away from the storm.

Should I Bring In My Pool Equipment?

Not only will severe weather damage your pool equipment, but more importantly, your pool equipment can damage your property. Objects that can get swept up in the wind, such as toys, gardening equipment, and pool equipment and cause damage to your windows or even your neighbors home.

The Storm Has Passed – Now What?

After the storm it is important to do some cleanup before getting back into your pool. Check out our blog post When it Rains Cats & Dogs for a complete comprehensive list of storm clean up procedures. Most importantly, call Crystal Clean Pools & Spas and we will come out and clean your pool, balance the chemicals, and assess the electrical system.

Winterizing Your Texas Pool

The kids are back in school, the mornings are darker, and the evenings are cooler – it must be Fall. We are lucky enough to live in the great state of Texas, where we don’t have to worry about cooler temperatures for quite a while. However, even though we don’t technically have “winter”, it is important to begin the process of Pool Winterization. During the cooler months, most Austinites rarely use their pool, but want the pool ready for that one January day when the temperature reaches 70 degrees.

At Crystal Clear Pools & Spas, we are often asked, “If I’m going to use my pool year-round, why should I winterize it?” The reason is because the temperature will most certainly fall below freezing during the winter months, which could cause your pipes to freeze. Additionally, partially winterizing your in ground pool will save money on utility expenses, as well as pool supplies and maintenance.

Here are some tips for winterizing your Texas pool:

•  Remove all dirt, leaves, and other debris from skimmer baskets  Clean the filter
•  Check your pump to ensure it is in working order and consider adding a freeze sensor that will start up your equipment when the temperature falls below freezing
• Check your pH, Alkalinity and Calcium Hardness levels and adjust to correct levels. After balancing, shock the pool with either chlorine or non-chlorine pool shock. During the winter months, your pool will get much less sun due to the shorter days, which means less algae, and therefore less chemicals (saving you money on your supply and maintenance costs).

While it may seem like a good idea to winterize your inground pool yourself to save some money, if done improperly, damages to your pump or heater can cost anywhere from $400 to $1000. It is always a good idea to err on the side of caution and hire a licensed pool professional. Contact Crystal Clear Pools & Spa and ask about our winterization packages. We will take care of everything, so all you have to do is swim!

How a Spa Benefits Your Health

Are you considering installing a spa with your in-ground pool? Many people are unaware of the many benefits a spa pool can provide. For centuries, people have used heat and water as a healing remedy, however, even after years of study, physicians and therapists are only beginning to understand the mental and physical benefits that warm water hydrotherapy can provide. Here are just some of the benefits of owning a backyard spa:

Pain Relief: Warm water stimulates the release of endorphins in the brain, which can reduce tension and alleviate pain. It also increases blood flow, which helps to heal damaged cells.

Stress Relief: After a stressful day, there is no better remedy than escaping into your own backyard spa. The buoyancy reduces body weight relieving pressure on joints, which will allow the body to enjoy a full state of relaxation.

Better Sleep: Studies have shown that spending ten minutes in a spa pool before bed will help your body and mind to transition into sleep. In addition to the stress and pain relief previously mentioned, the shift in temperature can signal to your body that it’s time to sleep. This will not only help to fall asleep more quickly, but to also stay asleep.

Lowers Blood Pressure: In addition to simply feeling more relaxed, there is a more scientific reason why spending time in a spa can reduce your blood pressure. The heart is constantly working to keep your body’s temperature warm. Once the hot water raises the core temperature, the heart doesn’t have to work as hard, therefore lowering the blood pressure.

Year Round Use: A spa can be used year-round, and in fact is most commonly used in the winter. Often times colder weather can exacerbate joint pain making the heat therapy even more necessary. Additionally, some people experience a higher rate of depression in the winter months, and the endorphins released with hydrotherapy can help to improve those symptoms.

If you are ready to take advantage of the many health benefits of owning a backyard spa, contact Crystal Clear Pools & Spas in Austin, TX to see our spa gallery, and ask how we can customize a spa just for you.

Top 5 Smartphone Swimming and Pool Apps

At Crystal Clear Pools & Spas in Austin, we believe there is no substitution for trained and licensed pool cleaning professionals. However, we found five smartphone apps that provide interesting information for both swimmers and pool owners, as well as helpful tips to utilize between our cleaning services:

1) FitVideo Swimming: This App offers video tutorials of swimming strokes, drills, and workouts. FitVideo also allows you to chat within the application and share thoughts, techniques, and other tips with other users.

2) Swim University: This app provides content and tutorials on subjects such as pool & spa, filter & cleaning, as well maintenance. Here you will find the following categories:

- Swimming Pools
- Hot Tubs & Spas
- How-to-Videos
- Buying Guide

3) Pool Calculator: While there is no replacement for a certified pool professional – the “Pool Calculator” app will help you to balance the chemistry of your pool water between services.

4) Pool Genius: This intuitive app will help you weigh the pros and cons of a salt vs. chlorine pool system. Additionally, it has a pool volume calculator and tips for maintenance and renovation projects.

5) Pool Doctor: This app will assist you with your chlorine, bromine, salt, pH, total alkalinity, and calcium hardness. It will also display readings that apply to your pool type and will save treatment records.

While these apps can be fun and informative, it’s important to call an Austin in ground pool professional. At Crystal Clear Pools and Spas, we do more than maintenance and repair – for over 15 years, we have specialized in:

-Plaster and aggregate surface renovation
-Modifying design and layout
-Deck removal and replacement
-Adding lighting, diving boards, and slides.
-Plumbing and equipment installation
-Tile renovation

Take all of the guess-work out of maintaining your pool and contact us today!

Dive In Movie

We are always looking for an excuse to start using our Crystal Clear Pool, and now that the nights here in Austin are getting warmer, we are ready to take our fun outdoors. First, we made sure our pool was running smoothly, and once the rain subsided, we were ready to turn our pool into a Dive-In Movie.

Grab a projector, a projection screen, and some floaties – and suddenly you have the coolest backyard on the block. Not only can you enjoy your favorite flick under the stars, but you can also set up a slide-show for the grandparents, or play music videos for your teenager’s party – the options are as endless as your infinity pool.

Is your pool ready to ‘Dive In’? Let the experts at Crystal Clear Pool get it in top form with a full maintenance service. The summer nights are calling you– call us now!

Resident pool service expert, Christian Donovan, has agreed to share some of what he has learned over the years as route manager for Crystal Clear Pools and Spas in Austin, Texas.

1. How can I check to see if my swimming pool is leaking?

A simple bucket test can tell you if you have a leak. Place a bucket on the top step, filled to the same level as the pool. They should maintain the same water level; if the pool drops noticeably faster, it probably has a leak, and you should pursue leak detection.

2. Why is the water in my swimming pool cloudy / smoky / hazy?

This is usually caused by either by a chemical balance problem, poor pool filtration, or a combination of the two. This time of year, with the water warming up here in Austin, fertilizers from yards running off into pools, and pollen or leaves falling, sometimes water clarity problems can be caused by a combination of problems.

3. Why is my swimming pool water green?

This time of year in Texas, it can be because of oak, pecan, or other tree pollen, or it can be because of an algae problem (sometimes the first problem can lead to the second). Both can be corrected using basic Pool Cleaning techniques such as restoring normal system flow, balancing the water, and adding chlorine and/or algaecide treatments as needed.

4. What are the black spots on the floor and walls of my swimming pool?

This could be an algae problem, or a stain problem. If the spots feel slimy, they might be blue-green algae, and can be very tough to clean using basic pool cleaning methods. If they are smooth, or feel like the surrounding surface, they could be stains, which may be treatable. If the entire surface feels rough and pitted or porous, it might be time to re-surface your pool.

5. My pool water burns my eyes / is sudsy / salty. How can I fix this?

In many cases, this is simply due to a problem with water chemistry; the water is either out of balance according to accepted industry standards, or is in need of a “shock” treatment, to free up the chlorine in the water to do its job sanitizing the pool. In other cases, this can be the result of a high level of total dissolved solids, and it might be time to replace most, if not all of the pool water. If you aren’t sure, give us a call or bring by a water sample, and we’ll point you in the right direction.

Swimming Pool Pump Maintenance

When it comes to maintenance and repair of your swimming pool pumps, chances are you leave it up to the pros. Not a bad idea considering the many delicate intricate parts that make up a swimming pool pump. That said, we here at Crystal Clear Pools and Spas of Austin, Texas have compiled a few handy tips you can use to keep your swimming pool cleaning, service and repair needs at a minimum.


Know Your Swimming Pool Pumps

In the world of swimming pool service and repair, we like to think of swimming pool pumps as the heart of your pool, circulating crystal clear pool water all year round.

Most swimming pools today use self-priming centrifugal pumps. That means (in a nutshell) that the pump uses a vacuum to circulate water throughout your swimming pool, and is able to prime itself by keeping full or partially full of water whether the pump is active or not. The mechanical details are less important that being able to identify and effectively troubleshoot problems that may arise in your swimming pool pump.

Common Swimming Pool Pump Issues

Swimming Pool Pump Running Hot
If you notice your swimming pool pump running a bit hotter than usual, it’s not just the scorching Austin, Texas weather (albeit somewhat likely). The problem could be due to a lack of sufficient power being supplied to the pump. Just as the human heart requires a healthy balanced diet to run at optimal levels, your swimming pool’s pump needs enough energy to run cool. Check your pump’s wires and make sure they match up with the manufacturer’s size requirements. In cases of city-wide power shortages, due to a heat-wave for example, shut down your pool pump until the weather cools down and energy demands are lower.

Bubbles in your Swimming Pool

Look around you — are you in 3-5 feet of warm water, holding a bottle of champagne and feeding strawberries to your loved one? If yes then you are relaxing in a spa and the bubbles are just part of the show. However, if you notice bubbles shooting from your swimming pool’s jets, you may want to check the gasket or strainer cover on your swimming pool pump as they may be loose or damaged and will require quick service or repair.

“Low Pressure” or Priming Issues

Low pressure issues in swimming pool pumps are commonly caused by clogged return lines, filters or damaged impellers. How do I check the imepller you ask? Easy — shut down your pump, remove the basket and feel around in the suction hole for any cracks or breaks.









When In Doubt — Call an Expert

If the root of your swimming pool pump’s problem isn’t immediately obvious, contact your local swimming pool pro, or our experts at Crystal Clear Pools and Spas. We’ll make sure your swimming pool pump is in good shape so you can focus on more important things, like perfecting your backstroke.

5 Tips to Get Your Pool Ready For Spring

You’ve been dreaming of warm weather, BBQ’s, and drinks with tiny umbrellas. Although you’ve been ready for months – how ready is your Pool?

Now that Spring is here, it’s time to prepare your pool for some fun in the hot Austin sun. While most pool maintenance and repairs are better left to the professionals – here are five things you can do yourself today:

Look and Listen

When the temperatures drop over the winter months (even in Texas), the colder temperatures can expand the ground, causing your pool to shift. Take a look around the pool for cracks – paying special attention to the drains, lights, and concrete pad under the pump. Look for bubbles or darker areas that may indicate a leak. Additionally, turn on your pump and make sure it’s still running quietly and efficiently.

Safety First

Check out your fencing, gate latches, and all other surrounding enclosures that will keep the kids (and pets) from taking an unexpected swim. Make sure your handrails, ladders, slides, and diving boards are secure and undamaged.

Be Prepared

Make sure to have a first-aid kit nearby, including a pair of scissors in the case that a swimmer’s hair or clothing causes them to become entrapped. Also consider keeping a flotation device readily accessible.

Clean

Give your surrounding deck a good power-wash – not only will it look better, but it will limit the amount of debris that will make its way into the pool. Remember to also give your pool toys a good scrubbing to ensure they are free from mold or anything else that’s no fun to play with. You can easily disinfect them by soaking them in 2-gallons of water with 1-cup of bleach.

Call a Professional

It’s easier and more affordable than ever to have a professional such as Crystal Clear in Austin to come to prepare your pool for the spring. Leave the complexities of the chemicals, filters, and pumps to us, and go enjoy a swim.

Repair and Prepare: How Texas Droughts May Damage Your Swimming Pool

Owning a swimming pool in Texas means outsmarting the record high, three-digit summer temperatures which normally render you powerless against your couch, the golf channel and a heaping bowl of ice cream. Easing yourself into that ‘Cowboy-Cool” water means another dog day beaten, another heatstroke avoided. However, the intense summer weather here in Texas brings a little more than a sweat-soaked t-shit before dawn. I’m talking drought folks and it can have damaging effects on your pool’s structural integrity, your water bill and your summer fun.

“But — is there anything we can do to prepare?”

Of course. It’s is not our job at Crystal Clear Pools and Spas to pump you full of fear then jet. Here are a few useful tips on how to get the best of Mr. Mean-Old Drought and help prevent damage to your pool — and your bottom line.

Invest in a Swimming Pool Cover

Not only will a pool cover minimize time spent outside cleaning debris under the sun, swimming pool covers cut down on evaporation and help maintain healthy water levels in your swimming pool. Many swimming pools in Texas have optimal standards pertaining to water levels in order to maintain the integrity of pool walls, tiles and mechanical systems.

If that isn’t enough motivation, Texas drought water restrictions require 25% of any non-public pool to be covered when not in use. Restrictions are also put on the amount of water, and method, you may use to fill your pool during the higher stages of drought. Best to keep what water you have in the pool now lest ye find yourself ankle deep without a hose.

Snap on pool covers may run you around $3,000 or so. Automatics go up from there. If you need help finding the right pool cover, give us a call — we can help you out.

Install Water Saving Filters and Pumps

Texas isn’t getting any cooler and the demand for water during the summer months will rise along with the red stuff in your thermometer. There are a number of energy-efficient, eco-friendly water saving swimming pool pumps available to help get the best out of the water you have, and minimize waste.

Check pool walls, tiles and pumps for leaks

It’s best to get the jump on Swimming Pool Maintenance and repair before the sun takes his summer share. Call a professional to locate and repair any water (money) draining leaks that you may not be aware of. Enough of your pool water is already floating in the air, no reason to lose more to the ground.

Stay Wet

Hang in there. Summer will be here and gone before you know it. Enjoy it. If you need any help at all, or have any pool repair, pool maintenance or cleaning questions — don’t hesitate to give us a call. We’ll come out and make sure you have everything you need to survive another round of wild Texas heat.

5 DIY Pool Cleaning Tips – Removing Algae and Debris

We’ve all been there — distracted by the demands of life and daily grind, we sometimes let our Swimming Pool Maintenance needs fall to the wayside. One day we look up, towel in hand, bathed in sunscreen, ready to take a dip in our crystal clear, refreshing swimming pool and let the stress roll off our back in beads of cool, clean water when suddenly — we notice our beautiful clean swimming pool has been taken over by dirt and algae looking for a place to party.

It happens.

Now, we aren’t going to scold you for ignoring your pool cleaning needs and preventative pool maintenance routine. We’re a pool cleaning and repair company — not your mom.


Instead, we would like to impart some DIY pool cleaning wisdom from years of experience as Austin’s premier pool cleaning service company, and help you get rid of that algae and debris in your pool so you can get back to swimming and relaxing.


DIY Cleaning Tip 1 – Scrub your swimming pool tile and walls

If you don’t have a brush handy (which you should), head down to your local pool cleaning supply and service company *ahem* and see what they have to offer. Once you get the brush in your hands, give your pool wall and that algae and debris what it deserves — a good, hard scrubbing. The water might be cloudy, so go inside, take a nap and let it all settle to the bottom.

DIY Cleaning Tip 2 - Vacuum to waste using your pool’s pump

Remember that little cylindrical workhorse making all that noise down the hill? Yes — that’s your pool’s pump. Turn the main valve to waste and let it run. Your pools filter will be bypassed during this period, allowing debris and algae to spray out onto the ground. It is a good idea to keep a water hose in the pool to keep the water level at recommended levels.

DIY Cleaning Tip 3 – Check your pool’s chemical balance

Get an accurate reading of your pool’s chemical balance from your local Texas pool company if you are unsure how to perform this on your own. Without an accurate reading of your pool’s chemical balance, you could end up using too much or too little chemical treatment to kill unwanted algae.

DIY Cleaning Tip 4 – Add shock and algaecide

This is the most satisfying step — killing that nasty, slimy algae. Sprinkle shock evenly across your pool based on the reading from your chemical tests. Do not do this without the recommendation of a pool cleaning service professional as using too much pool chemical can be hazardous. Let the shock do it’s thing for about 24 hours, then come back with round two — algaecide.

DIY Cleaning Tip 5 – Maintain your pool’s health

Put down the brush and go get an automatic pool vacuum from your local swimming pool service supply store. Let it run when you are not swimming in the pool. Using this little gadget, in conjunction with a weekly pool care routine and ideal chemical balance will keep your pool crystal clear year round.

Of course you could save the hassle of doing this yourself by hiring an affordable Austin Texas pool cleaning service professional to visit your swimming pool perodically and do the hard stuff for you. We might know a guy — give us a shout.

Do you have any pool cleaning tips to share? We would love to talk about it. Leave us a comment below, email us or like Crystal Clear Pools and Spas on Facebook for pro pool cleaning tips, awesome before and after photos of pool repair and renovation, or just to ask about pricing and services.

The Perfect Pool Party

With any needed pool maintenance and repairs out of the way, it’s time to focus on planning pool parties for the kids. Swimming pools provide the ideal setting for Summer Birthday Parties. All you have to do is pick a theme that the little ones will love and get creative!


Luau Pool Party

No Luau would be complete without grass skirts and leis. You can find these simple props at any party supply store. Paper Palm Trees are easy to make and help create that beach feel around your swimming pool. You can also fill buckets with sand, placing seashells in them. Then on the handle of the bucket, tie dolphin or sun-shaped balloons. For the food, stick with the crowd-favorites of burgers and hot dogs, but consider adding pineapple to both to give it a tropical flavor.


Pirate Pool Party

All aboard the pirate ship! Maximize their time in the pool by providing water guns and noodles as they pretend to have skirmishes on the seas. When they’re not in the water, hats and eye-patches will keep them in characterize. Instead of goody bags, consider organizing a treasure hunt with a prize-filled treasure chest waiting for them at the end. For an easy decoration tip, use brightly colored towels as table clothes and scatter “gold” coins around them.


Under the Sea Pool Party

Mermaids, fish, and all other sea creatures should definitely make an appearance to this party. Use Construction Paper to decorate your swimming pool area with schools of fish. (Don’t forget about Nemo!) Hang fishing nets and place starfish and sea shells in them. For an easy pool snack, fill fish bowls with gold fish crackers. When they’re not busy splashing, have them pin the tail on the mermaid to see who wins a special treasure!


These pool party ideas are sure to make a splash. And if you still need to get your pool ready for these wildly fun times, Crystal Clear Pools and Spas is always available to perform routine pool maintenance and pool cleaning. From fixing broken pool pumps to scrubbing pool tiles, we’re experts on keeping your pool looking and feeling fresh so that all you have to do is swim!

Seasonal Pool Care and Maintenance Tips

For much of the country, temperatures are dropping rapidly as the approaching winter months force us to trade our swimsuits for leggings, and put a halt on our outdoor water activities. However, just because we aren’t enjoying lemonade and sunshine by the Pool, doesn’t mean we can neglect the important maintenance and upkeep of our valuable swimming pools.

In order to avoid damage to your pool during the off season, here are a few basic seasonal pool maintenance and winterization tips that will keep your pool running smoothly and ready for summer fun!

Winterization

Winterization is essential in caring for your pool. Not only will you avoid potential damage caused by debris and freezing temperatures, you can actually increase the life-span of your pool, and rest assured that your pool will be running smoothly and ready for next summer!

Basic Winterization and Seasonal Pool Care Tips

Clear Debris – Debris build-up in your skimmers and filters can cause stress on the pool’s pump, drive up energy costs and cause damage to your pool’s cleaning systems

Keep Normal Water Levels – Low water levels, even when unused, can cause stress on the Pool’s Cleaning Systems, especially when freezing.

Minimize Operation – A good rule of thumb for pool maintenance during fall / winter is “minimal use = minimal operation”. Turn off all water features as soon as temperatures drop below your comfort zone to avoid damage during freezing temperatures.

Backwash and Clean Filters – This should be done before temperatures drop too low to avoid freezing of internal components. Make sure non-petroleum based lubricants are used where necessary.

Test, Chlorinate, Shock – Treat your pool’s chemical needs as if you are swimming every week. Getting behind on your pool’s chemical schedule can lead to cosmetic damage, unwanted organic growth and staining during the winter months.

Move the Water – Circulating your pool’s water during the coldest times of the day can help cut down on potential freezing hazards.


Many of the steps outlined above can be performed by you, the pool owner. However, there is no replacement for the advice and maintenance supervision of a professional. Don’t let your pool maintenance duties slip just because you aren’t using it. Contact the experts at Crystal Clear Pools and Spas if you have any winterization questions or wish to set up scheduled seasonal maintenance visits to ensure that the health of your pool is maintained this winter.

How a Spa Benefits Your Health

Are you considering installing a spa with your in-ground pool? Many people are unaware of the many benefits a spa pool can provide. For centuries, people have used heat and water as a healing remedy, however, even after years of study, physicians and therapists are only beginning to understand the mental and physical benefits that warm water hydrotherapy can provide. Here are just some of the benefits of owning a backyard spa:

Pain Relief: Warm water stimulates the release of endorphins in the brain, which can reduce tension and alleviate pain. It also increases blood flow, which helps to heal damaged cells.

Stress Relief: After a stressful day, there is no better remedy than escaping into your own backyard spa. The buoyancy reduces body weight relieving pressure on joints, which will allow the body to enjoy a full state of relaxation.

Better Sleep: Studies have shown that spending ten minutes in a spa pool before bed will help your body and mind to transition into sleep. In addition to the stress and pain relief previously mentioned, the shift in temperature can signal to your body that it’s time to sleep. This will not only help to fall asleep more quickly, but to also stay asleep.

Lowers Blood Pressure: In addition to simply feeling more relaxed, there is a more scientific reason why spending time in a spa can reduce your blood pressure. The heart is constantly working to keep your body’s temperature warm. Once the hot water raises the core temperature, the heart doesn’t have to work as hard, therefore lowering the blood pressure.

Year Round Use: A spa can be used year-round, and in fact is most commonly used in the winter. Often times colder weather can exacerbate joint pain making the heat therapy even more necessary. Additionally, some people experience a higher rate of depression in the winter months, and the endorphins released with hydrotherapy can help to improve those symptoms.
If you are ready to take advantage of the many health benefits of owning a backyard spa, contact Crystal Clear Pools & Spas in Austin, TX to see our spa gallery, and ask how we can customize a spa just for you.