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.
Monday, August 17, 2015
Wednesday, August 12, 2015
Top 5 Places to Swim in Austin
If you don’t have a backyard inground pool of your own, don’t worry – there is no shortage of places to swim here in Austin. Most, if not all of the community pools will be open for Memorial Day weekend. Here is a list of our top five family friendly Swimming Pools, in both Austin and the surrounding areas:
1) Barton Springs Pool – A popular tourist attraction since 1837, Barton Springs Pool is of course our number one pick. Located in Zilker Park and fed by water from Main Barton Spring, this pool maintains a cool 68° year-round. Admission fees range from $1 to $3 and is closed each Thursday for cleaning and maintenance.
Image courtesy of austintexas.gov
2) Lakeway Swim Center- This swim center located in Lakeway is the perfect pool for families of all ages. It features an adult swimming pool, as well as a wading pool, waterslides, frog slides, and life-size chess & checker boards. There is a concession area, volleyball and basketball courts, picnic tables, grills, and a rock climbing wall. It’s closed on Mondays and admission ranges from $4 to $6.
Image courtesy of cityoflakeway.com
3) Rock’N River Family Aquatic Center- Located Old Settlers Park in Round Rock, this 40,000 square-foot park has a water playground, a lazy river, and crazy water slides. The kids will also enjoy the water cannon, floor geysers, and zero beach entry play area for the little ones. Admission is $4.50 for adults, and $3.50 for the kiddos.
Image courtesy of roundrocktexas.gov
4) Veterans Memorial Pool- Located in Cedar Park, this pool offers 8,300 square feet of fun including a jumping platform, activity pool with drop slide, cargo net, water basketball, and playground. Umbrellas and poolside pavilions are also available for rent allowing the adults to get enjoy the shade, while still watching the kids have a ball. Admission ranges from $2 to $5.
Image courtesy of cedarparktx.us
5) Windy Point Park- While obviously not a swimming pool, Windy Point is one of our favorite destinations for swimming, camping, and SCUBA. Located on Lake Travis in Austin, they have a grass lawn, shade trees, sandy beach, camping areas with fire pits, and picnic tables. They also offer changing facilities, concession area, wireless internet, and protected swim areas. Windy Point Park faces the west for incredible sunset views. It’s open year round and costs $8 for adults, and children under 10 are free.
Image courtesy of austintexas.gov
2) Lakeway Swim Center- This swim center located in Lakeway is the perfect pool for families of all ages. It features an adult swimming pool, as well as a wading pool, waterslides, frog slides, and life-size chess & checker boards. There is a concession area, volleyball and basketball courts, picnic tables, grills, and a rock climbing wall. It’s closed on Mondays and admission ranges from $4 to $6.
Image courtesy of cityoflakeway.com
3) Rock’N River Family Aquatic Center- Located Old Settlers Park in Round Rock, this 40,000 square-foot park has a water playground, a lazy river, and crazy water slides. The kids will also enjoy the water cannon, floor geysers, and zero beach entry play area for the little ones. Admission is $4.50 for adults, and $3.50 for the kiddos.
Image courtesy of roundrocktexas.gov
4) Veterans Memorial Pool- Located in Cedar Park, this pool offers 8,300 square feet of fun including a jumping platform, activity pool with drop slide, cargo net, water basketball, and playground. Umbrellas and poolside pavilions are also available for rent allowing the adults to get enjoy the shade, while still watching the kids have a ball. Admission ranges from $2 to $5.
Image courtesy of cedarparktx.us
5) Windy Point Park- While obviously not a swimming pool, Windy Point is one of our favorite destinations for swimming, camping, and SCUBA. Located on Lake Travis in Austin, they have a grass lawn, shade trees, sandy beach, camping areas with fire pits, and picnic tables. They also offer changing facilities, concession area, wireless internet, and protected swim areas. Windy Point Park faces the west for incredible sunset views. It’s open year round and costs $8 for adults, and children under 10 are free.
Tuesday, August 4, 2015
Pool Problem Troubleshooting Guide
You love your swimming pool – and so do we. At Crystal Clear Pools and Spas, we specialize in troubleshooting and repairing your inground pool, but how do you know if your pool needs service or repair?
Here are a few of the most common Swimming Pool problems and suggestions on how to troubleshoot them:
THE FILTER PRESSURE IS LOW AND THERE IS NO WATER MOVEMENT
Do It Yourself:
- Check the baskets and empty them if needed.
- Check the water level and add water if it’s low.
Call Us For Service:
- Weir blade in skimmer could be stuck in the “up” position and needs to be replaced.
- There could be an air leak on suction side of the pump.
Here are a few of the most common Swimming Pool problems and suggestions on how to troubleshoot them:
THE FILTER PRESSURE IS LOW AND THERE IS NO WATER MOVEMENT
Do It Yourself:
- Check the baskets and empty them if needed.
- Check the water level and add water if it’s low.
Call Us For Service:
- Weir blade in skimmer could be stuck in the “up” position and needs to be replaced.
- There could be an air leak on suction side of the pump.
THE MOTOR ON THE PUMP IS LOUD
Do It Yourself:
- The pressure side of plumbing could be closed and you should check the valves for proper settings.
Call Us For Service:
- Bearings in the motor could be going out.
- The pump impeller could be clogged.
THE POOL LIGHT IS NOT COMING ON
Do It Yourself:
- Check your circuit breaker.
- Check your GFCI outlet and reset if needed.
Call Us For Service:
- If the light is tied into a computer system the power relay may need to be replaced.
THE PUMP HAS A LEAK
Do It Yourself:
- Remove, clean and reseat the O-ring.
- Secure the pump lid
Call Us For Service:
- It could be a leak at the plumbing that needs to be repaired.
THERE IS A LEAK AT THE FILTER
Do It Yourself:
- Tighten or replace Air Relief Valve.
Call Us For Service:
- The O-ring may be damaged and needs to be replaced.
- The plumbing has a leak and needs to be repaired.
Call us for repair service today and see why Crystal Clear Pools and Spas provides the Best Swimming Pool Service in Austin.
Do It Yourself:
- The pressure side of plumbing could be closed and you should check the valves for proper settings.
Call Us For Service:
- Bearings in the motor could be going out.
- The pump impeller could be clogged.
THE POOL LIGHT IS NOT COMING ON
Do It Yourself:
- Check your circuit breaker.
- Check your GFCI outlet and reset if needed.
Call Us For Service:
- If the light is tied into a computer system the power relay may need to be replaced.
THE PUMP HAS A LEAK
Do It Yourself:
- Remove, clean and reseat the O-ring.
- Secure the pump lid
Call Us For Service:
- It could be a leak at the plumbing that needs to be repaired.
THERE IS A LEAK AT THE FILTER
Do It Yourself:
- Tighten or replace Air Relief Valve.
Call Us For Service:
- The O-ring may be damaged and needs to be replaced.
- The plumbing has a leak and needs to be repaired.
Call us for repair service today and see why Crystal Clear Pools and Spas provides the Best Swimming Pool Service in Austin.
Tuesday, July 28, 2015
Top 5 DIY Swimming Pool Maintenance and Repair Questions Answered
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.
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.
Monday, June 22, 2015
Swimming Pool Picture Gallery – Our Work!
Swimming Pool Pictures - Austin, TX
See how we’ve had a positive impact on our clients’ lives with our stunning Swimming Pool Repair and Renovations. Our portfolio showcases some of our most recent and memorable swimming pool renovation and repair projects here in the Austin, Texas area. Our projects can provide a lasting impression for your friends and family to enjoy for years to come.
If you would like an estimate, please feel free to contact us at your earliest convenience. We are ready and able to provide you with the utmost in quality pool repair, pool cleaning, renovation and maintenance for your water feature!
See how we’ve had a positive impact on our clients’ lives with our stunning Swimming Pool Repair and Renovations. Our portfolio showcases some of our most recent and memorable swimming pool renovation and repair projects here in the Austin, Texas area. Our projects can provide a lasting impression for your friends and family to enjoy for years to come.
If you would like an estimate, please feel free to contact us at your earliest convenience. We are ready and able to provide you with the utmost in quality pool repair, pool cleaning, renovation and maintenance for your water feature!
Monday, June 15, 2015
Austin Pool Renovations
We renovate commercial and residential swimming pools, spas, fountains and various other water features. Our pool renovation services can bring your old spa, swimming pool or fountain back to life again! There are various different types of renovations that we perform: Plaster and Aggregate Surface Renovation, Deck Renovation, Coping Renovation and Pool Tile Renovation.
Over 15 Years of Austin, TX Pool Renovation Experience!
We have been doing pool renovations in the Austin area for over 15 years. In our years of providing only the best pool service to the Austin community, we've gotten pretty good at what we do. Part of our mission is to keep ourselves up-to-date on all the pool technology and requirements for making sure that our work meets and exceeds the safety and code requirements of the latest TDH code and 2007 Federal Pool/Spa Safety Act.
Your Backyard Swimming Pool Paradise
Let Crystal Clear Pools & Spas bring new life to your backyard and provide a face-lift for outdated swimming pools and spas! Call now to inquire about how we can help you re-invent your backyard paradise with a newly renovated swimming pool. We will bring your old swimming pool back to life with our creative pool renovation solutions. Just ask about our various backyard environment design and renovation services for ideas!
We have been doing pool renovations in the Austin area for over 15 years. In our years of providing only the best pool service to the Austin community, we've gotten pretty good at what we do. Part of our mission is to keep ourselves up-to-date on all the pool technology and requirements for making sure that our work meets and exceeds the safety and code requirements of the latest TDH code and 2007 Federal Pool/Spa Safety Act.
Your Backyard Swimming Pool Paradise
Let Crystal Clear Pools & Spas bring new life to your backyard and provide a face-lift for outdated swimming pools and spas! Call now to inquire about how we can help you re-invent your backyard paradise with a newly renovated swimming pool. We will bring your old swimming pool back to life with our creative pool renovation solutions. Just ask about our various backyard environment design and renovation services for ideas!
Tuesday, June 9, 2015
Greater Austin Pool Repair You Can Trust
At Crystal Clear Pools and Spas, we service all in-ground pools, spas, fountains, water parks and all brands! We can repair or replace your pool pump, motors, filters, chlorinators, feeders, salt chlorine generators, heaters, heat pumps, blowers, skimmers and plumbing, pool lights, controls, time clocks, freeze guards, automatic pool cleaners -- no matter what system needs service or repair, we’ve got you covered.
Complete Pool Service & Repair
We’re serious about giving the best pool repair service in Austin. We can come out to perform a one-time clean, chemical check and balance, drain and clean, solve algae problems, leak detection, pre-purchase pool inspections for prospective home buyers, underwater repairs, 2007 Federal Pool/Spa Safety and Act VGB-complaint main-drain retrofit.
Complete Pool Service & Repair
We’re serious about giving the best pool repair service in Austin. We can come out to perform a one-time clean, chemical check and balance, drain and clean, solve algae problems, leak detection, pre-purchase pool inspections for prospective home buyers, underwater repairs, 2007 Federal Pool/Spa Safety and Act VGB-complaint main-drain retrofit.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)