Q1. How long should I run my filter?
Filters should run 8-12 hours in the spring and summer, and 6-10 in the fall and winter depending on filter type, filter size, pool flow rate, bather load, maintenance routine, and chemical balance. DE filters are the most efficient followed by cartridge and sand.
The pool should turn over 2 times a day in the hottest months, (all the water run through the filtrations equipment at least two times per day), so your pump capacity, the plumbing and any flow restrictions also effect run time decisions.
Our supervisors and field technicians set time clocks for those customers on service with us to the best time for your pool given the season and our experience.
Q2. Should I keep my automatic cleaner hooked up to the skimmer all the time?
A pool's circulation system is designed to utilize both a skimmer (drawing water from the surface) and a main drain (drawing water from the deepest part of the pool). When we utilize the skimmer for an automatic pool cleaner we eliminate the surface suction in most cases. This allows debris to hit the surface and stay there until it gets water logged and sinks, before the automatic pool cleaner can pick it up. If you feel comfortable removing and reinstalling the automatic pool cleaner,it should only be run as needed in a pool, allowing the pools skimmer to do it job the rest of the time. You might also enjoy the lack of noise!
Q3. Why do I need the Spring Special Filter maintenance and equipment checkup?
All DE filter manufacturers recommend disassembling and cleaning your filter at least one time per year. This is because the backwash and rinse cycle does not remove 100% of the DE powder from the filter, and over time the accumulation of the powder can crush the internal grids if the system is not taken apart and cleaned.
Cartridge filters last 12-18 months. Each spring is typically a good time to check on their condition and replace it if necessary. We offer discounts on replacement of these items during our "spring special" promotional months. If the element is twisted, heavy even after cleaning, has broken bands, or is crushed - it needs to be replaced.
Our Spring Special also has the mechanic check out your entire equipment pad and all your 0-rings to make sure there are no visible leaks at the equipment and everything is operating as we approach swim season. Excellent filtration means shorter run times and better chemical efficiency allowing you to swim in the best water possible.
Q4. I love to use my spa but I hate the hassle of adjusting the valves before and after I am done. Is there a solution to this annoyance?
This is tragic! We want you to enjoy your pool, it should not be work! We can install a pool automation system so your pool switches from pool mode to spa mode and back with the touch of one button. Today's technology allows systems sophisticated enough that you can call your spa and have it turn on! The systems can be simple and economical or can be elaborate enough to turn on the spas, the music and the blender with the touch of one button. The choice and the budget are yours. We can do either, and you will be very happy you did it.
You should not own a spa without automation, because no one wants to hunt around in the dark to switch valves after you have finished relaxing in the spa-stay in relax mode with automation!
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Q5. Do you do repairs and equipment replacement?
Yes we do! Our service is so popular that some new customers don't know that we started off as a repair and remodeling company in 1952. We are fully licensed and are able to fix, replace or upgrade all your in ground concrete pool's equipment as well as install new technology to allow you to enjoy your pool investment even more.
We do not work on solar, vinyl liners or fiberglass pools.
Q6. What is your stain prevention program?
Stains happen to pools the way they happen to sidewalks. Metals and minerals from our water supply and outside factors, such as iron, fertilizer, and organic material all combine in the water to leave friction deposits on the surface. These deposits are left over time to give the growing stain effect.
Our stain prevention program uses sequestering agents to pull those metals and minerals out of your water and keep the pool stain free. We recommend this service if you have just had your pool remarcited, acid washed, had a stain removal treatment or if you have a new pool.
If the pool is already stained, we will need to do a stain removal treatment or an acid wash if appropriate before you can go on this program. This program deals with cosmetic issues in the pool and comes with a guarantee. This is an added service as these issues are not part of the swim safe nature of the pool water. Please ask our customer service department about the program and the guarantee.
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Q7. Do you service pools with Salt chlorination systems?
We are exited to be able to offer all new customers, standard, premium or NATURESWIM chemical service. Standard service is for customers that already own their own salt chlorine generator but do not want the hassle of monthly maintenance. Our premium service is the same as our standard service but includes the lifetime use of a salt chlorine generator as long as you are on service. NATURESWIM combines the affordability and convenience of our premium chemical service with the water quality of a mineral purifier.
The premium chemical service and NATURESWIM chemical service will involve our service technicians installing our salt chlorine generator on your pool. This upgraded service will enhance your swimming experience through a soft water feel and the elimination of large doses of chlorine to your pool (shocking). This leads to better feeling skin, less eye irritation and an overall better swimming experience. We are very excited through our buying power to be able to give you this enhanced service at no additional charge.
Currently, these types of systems sell for $1200 - $1500 and typically come with a one year guarantee. Because this unit is part of our service it has a lifetime guarantee for as long as you are a Bay Area Pool Service client. This guarantee includes 100% of all parts and labor to keep this system operational. If for any reason you decide to cancel service, we will remove this system and re-plumb at no cost to you.
Please see the Services-Chemical section for more details
Q8. Do you service fiberglass or vinyl liner pools?
No we do not service in ground fiberglass or vinyl pools. Please contact the Florida Swimming Pool Association to find a quality service professional near you.
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