As we move into the winter months here in Florida and our temperatures drop sometimes to unseasonably record lows, we don’t use our pools quite as much as other times of the year so it’s a great time to review the most common inground pool issues.

Florida’s sunny climate makes inground pools a popular feature for homeowners. However, the state’s unique environmental conditions can contribute to specific challenges and issues for pool owners.

With our nearly four decades of experience in the Florida pool industry, we’ve seen it all. We’ve found the following are the five most common things that break in inground pools.

Challenges with Water Chemistry:
We’ve said it before, and it bears repeating: Florida’s warm and humid climate creates an environment conducive to algae and bacteria growth in pool water. Improperly balanced water chemistry can lead to issues such as algae blooms, scaling, and surface corrosion. Regular testing and maintenance of the pool’s water chemistry is critical to prevent these problems. Pool owners should monitor pH levels, chlorine, and alkalinity, and give us a call if they are having trouble maintaining the proper balance, even in the winter months.

Saltwater Pool System Corrosion:
Many Florida pool owners opt for saltwater systems for the overall lower maintenance and reduced use of traditional chlorine. However, the corrosive nature of saltwater can pose additional challenges, particularly in the longevity of pool equipment and fixtures. Pool owners must regularly inspect the salt chlorinator cells, metal components, and pool accessories to be able to identify the signs of corrosion early. Coating metal surfaces with protective substances and using corrosion-resistant materials can help mitigate these issues but nothing beats early detection. We check for signs of corrosion in every saltwater pool we service.

Pump and Motor Failures:
The high temperatures in Florida necessitate frequent operation of pool pumps and motors to maintain water circulation and filtration. Over time, the continuous use can lead to wear and tear, resulting in pump and motor failures. Adding in a below-freezing nighttime temperature can lead to freezing and expansion of these critical components. If you need help protecting your pool from temperature variations, be sure to let us know. Our regular maintenance inspections include lubricating of moving parts, checking for leaks, and cleaning debris from pump baskets. You also may want to consider upgrading to energy-efficient pump systems to contribute to your pump and motor longevity and reduce energy costs.

Tile and Grout Deterioration:
Florida’s humidity and frequent rain can contribute to the deterioration of tile and grout in pool areas. Cracked or damaged tiles not only compromise the aesthetic appeal but can also lead to more severe structural issues if left unaddressed. Routine inspections of pool tiles and grout, along with timely repairs or replacements, can prevent water infiltration and protect the pool’s structure. Just like road surfaces, a little bit of water can become a big problem, like potholes.

Pool Surface Cracks:
The intense Florida sun, combined with frequent temperature fluctuations, can lead to surface cracks in the finish of an inground pool. In addition to being an eyesore, over time, these cracks can compromise the structural integrity of the pool. To address this issue, it’s crucial to invest in high-quality pool finishes that are specifically designed to withstand the harsh Florida climate. We regularly inspect your surface whenever we service your pool. It is important to address minor cracks as soon as possible to keep them from turning into major structural problems down the road. While we don’t do crack repair or leak detection we can certainly refer you to other companies that offer those services.

Owning an inground pool in Florida comes with unique challenges due to the state’s climate and environmental conditions. By staying proactive and investing in regular maintenance, pool owners can address common issues quickly to keep their pools in the best shape all year. Regular professional inspections, prompt repairs, and the use of quality materials are key to preserving the integrity and longevity of inground pools in the Sunshine State.

Swim ‘N Fun is fully licensed and insured and has been serving Central Florida since 1986. Our pool company is ready to help you with any pool repairs that you may need such as repairing a broken pool pump, pool filter, pool vacuum, pool filtration system or pool lights. Our pool technicians will arrive at your home in our fully stocked service trucks. They will evaluate the problem and then make the repair. Many times, an extensive or expensive pool repair is not needed. No job is too big or too small!

We service all major brands. Let us help you with your pool repairs. Please give us a call at 407-699-5588.

A crystal-clear pool is the epitome of aquatic bliss, but what happens when your pool’s water resembles more of a foggy mystery than a refreshing oasis? Cloudy pool water is a common problem for Florida pool owners year-round and its causes can range from simple to complex. At Swim N Fun, we’ve seen it all. In our experience, we’ve highlight 10 of the top reasons your pool is still murky or cloudy.

1. Imbalanced Chemistry
   A delicate balance of chemicals is essential for maintaining clear pool water. Imbalances in pH, alkalinity, or sanitizer levels can wreak havoc on water clarity. Testing your pool water regularly and adjusting these chemical levels is a fundamental step in preventing cloudiness. If you’re still at a loss, we would be happy to assess your pool’s chemical balance.
   
2. Insufficient Filtration
   We’ve said it before (link) and your pool’s filtration system plays a crucial role in removing impurities. If the filtration system is undersized or not running for an adequate duration, it may struggle to clear the water effectively. Even if your filtration system is the right size and running for the correct amount of time, a dirty filter could undo all that hard work. If you’ve checked these three items and are still running into trouble, you may have an undetected leak.
   
3. Poor Circulation
   Proper water circulation is vital for distributing chemicals evenly and preventing stagnation. If your pool lacks adequate circulation, certain areas may become prone to cloudiness. Adjusting the return jets, using a pool brush, and checking to make sure all areas receive proper water flow can address this issue.
   
4. Algae Invasion
   Algae are notorious for turning pool water from clear to murky green. Algae growth is often fueled by inadequate sanitation or poor water circulation. Regularly shocking your pool and ensuring proper filtration can help keep these green invaders at bay.
   
5. Organic Debris
   Leaves, grass, and other organic debris introduce contaminants that cloud your pool water. Skimming the surface and using a pool cover when the pool is not in use can prevent organic debris from making your pool cloudy. We have a whole list of trees to avoid planting near your pool and we also recommend preventing any grass cutting from being blown into your pool.
   
6. High Calcium Hardness
   Excessive calcium levels in your pool water can lead to cloudy conditions. This is particularly common in areas with hard water. Regularly testing and balancing calcium hardness levels can prevent the formation of cloudy water due to calcium scaling. Unchecked calcium can also lead to a sandpapery feel on the bottom or the sides of the pool, which can damage your pool lining.
   
7. Contaminated Pool Equipment
   Pool equipment, if not properly maintained, can become a breeding ground for contaminants. Dirty skimmer baskets, clogged pump baskets, or malfunctioning filters can compromise the water’s clarity. Regularly inspecting and cleaning pool equipment is essential to prevent cloudy water caused by internal contaminants.
   
8. Weather Woes
   Inclement weather can introduce various elements that affect your pool’s clarity. Heavy rainfall, for instance, can dilute chemical concentrations, while strong winds may carry debris into the pool. Monitoring weather patterns and adjusting your pool maintenance accordingly can help mitigate the impact of nature’s whims.
   
9. Bather Load
   The more people using the pool, the greater the introduction of contaminants. Sunscreen, sweat, and other personal care products carried into the pool by swimmers can contribute to cloudy water. Encouraging showering before swimming and maintaining proper sanitizer levels can help manage the effects of bather load.
   
10. Excessive TDS
    Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) represent the cumulative concentration of minerals, chemicals, and other impurities in your pool water. As TDS levels rise, water clarity can be compromised. Regularly draining and refilling a portion of your pool water helps control TDS and prevents cloudiness.

In the quest for a clear and inviting pool, understanding the reasons behind cloudiness is the first step toward a solution. Regular maintenance, water testing, and a proactive approach to pool care are the keys to ensuring that your pool remains sparklingly clear. If you have gone through our top 10 reasons and can’t identify the issue, let our experts help.

More about Swim ‘N Fun
While you can do a lot on your own to keep your pool looking good and ready for you whenever you want, sometimes you might need professional help. In fact, we recommend you have your pool serviced at least once a year just to make sure everything is as it should be. Plus, we are really good at checking your equipment such as filters, pumps, and heating systems for major and minor issues.

Swim ‘N Fun offers weekly pool maintenance. Our trained pool technicians service the pool by testing the pool water, balancing the water chemistry, skimming the pool, brushing the pool walls, emptying the baskets, vacuuming the pool as needed, cleaning or backwashing the pool filter as needed, and checking the equipment to ensure that it is running properly. Routine pool maintenance helps a pool owner to save money and time. A properly balanced pool will also help keep swimmers safe and healthy.

Swim ‘N Fun is fully licensed and insured and has been serving Central Florida since 1986. Our pool company is ready to help you with any pool repairs that you may need such as repairing a broken pool pump, pool filter, pool vacuum, pool filtration system or pool lights. Our pool technicians will arrive at your home in our fully stocked service trucks. They will evaluate the problem and then make the repair. Many times, an extensive or expensive pool repair is not needed. No job is too big or too small!

We service all major brands. Let us help you with your pool repairs. Please give us a call at 407-699-5588.

As we know all too well, Florida is a state that frequently faces the wrath of hurricanes, and the aftermath can be daunting. When hurricanes strike, the focus is primarily on ensuring the safety of people, securing property, and managing power outages.

For pool owners, one common misconception is that draining your pool is the best course of action before or even after a hurricane. However, this notion couldn’t be further from the truth. In fact, draining your pool after a hurricane can lead to various problems and should be avoided. Here’s why:

1. Water Table Levels: Florida has a high-water table, which is the level at which the ground becomes saturated with water. In most areas, this is typically just a few feet below the surface. When you drain your pool, you risk the water in the ground pushing up against an empty pool, which can result in it popping out of the ground – a costly and avoidable problem.
   
2. Structural Damage: Draining your pool can also lead to structural damage. An empty pool is vulnerable to the immense pressure from the wet ground, which can cause cracks and other forms of structural damage. These repairs can be expensive and time-consuming, and they are usually unnecessary if you leave your pool full.
   
3. Liner Damage: In addition to structural damage, an empty pool can damage the liner. Liners are designed to be supported by the pressure of the water against them. When the water is removed, the liner can wrinkle, shrink, or even tear. Replacing a pool liner is a costly repair that you can easily avoid by keeping your pool full of the right amount of water.
   
4. Costly Refilling: Draining your pool may seem like a quick fix, but refilling it is neither quick nor cost-effective. Depending on the size of your pool, it can take a significant amount of time and water to refill it. Even during hurricane season, the water loss from evaporation can be substantial, leading to increased water bills and potentially water restrictions. This cost and hassle are entirely avoidable by retaining the water during and after a hurricane.
   
5. Environmental Impact: Florida’s ecosystem is highly sensitive, and draining your pool after a hurricane can have an adverse impact on the environment. The water you remove may end up in local waterways, affecting the delicate balance of local ecosystems. Florida’s wildlife, including aquatic animals, relies on the stability of these ecosystems. Keeping your pool full is a small but responsible contribution to protecting the local environment. Improperly draining your pool could also lead to state or local fines.
   
6. Safety Concerns: Drained pools can be safety hazards. An empty pool is an enticing danger for children and pets, presenting the risk of accidents. If your pool is typically secured, leaving it full makes it a safer environment during hurricane recovery.
   
7. Pool Equipment: Draining your pool can have consequences for your pool equipment. Many pool systems are not designed to function correctly without water in the pool. Running equipment without water can damage pumps and filters, potentially leading to costly repairs or replacements.
   So, what should you do to safeguard your pool during and after a hurricane in Florida? We recommend the following:
   
   Keep the Water Level Consistent: While it could be essential to reduce water levels to allow for rain runoff, you should never completely drain your pool. Typically, lowering the water level by 12 to 18 inches is sufficient. If you aren’t sure how much to lower your pool water level, give us a call.
   
   Secure Pool Furniture and Equipment: Remove or secure any loose items, such as pool furniture or equipment, that could become projectiles during a hurricane. If you have a place to store these items inside, that’s the safest place.
   
   Turn Off Electrical Equipment: Power down your pool equipment to prevent damage during power surges or fluctuations. This also ensures the equipment is not running when the pool water level is low.
   
   Post-Hurricane Inspection: After the hurricane has passed and it’s safe to do so, inspect your pool for any debris or damage. Ensure that your pool equipment is functioning correctly. We would also be happy to conduct a post-storm assessment.
   
   Consult a Professional: If you’re unsure about how to prepare your pool for a hurricane or how to assess potential damage afterward, it’s a good idea to give us a call. We can provide guidance and assistance in safeguarding and maintaining your pool.

Draining your Florida pool after a hurricane is a costly mistake that can lead to structural damage, liner issues, environmental harm, safety hazards, and unnecessary expenses. By keeping your pool full and following recommended precautions, you can protect your pool and the surrounding environment, while also ensuring a safer and more cost-effective recovery process.

More about Swim ‘N Fun
While you can do a lot on your own to keep your pool looking good and ready for you whenever you want, sometimes you might need professional help. In fact, we recommend you have your pool serviced at least once a year just to make sure everything is as it should be. Plus, we are really good at checking your equipment such as filters, pumps, and heating systems for major and minor issues.

Swim ‘N Fun offers weekly pool maintenance. Our trained pool technicians service the pool by testing the pool water, balancing the water chemistry, skimming the pool, brushing the pool walls, emptying the baskets, vacuuming the pool as needed, cleaning or backwashing the pool filter as needed, and checking the equipment to ensure that it is running properly. Routine pool maintenance helps a pool owner to save money and time. A properly balanced pool will also help keep swimmers safe and healthy.

Swim ‘N Fun is fully licensed and insured and has been serving Central Florida since 1986. Our pool company is ready to help you with any pool repairs that you may need such as repairing a broken pool pump, pool filter, pool vacuum, pool filtration system or pool lights. Our pool technicians will arrive at your home in our fully stocked service trucks. They will evaluate the problem and then make the repair. Many times, an extensive or expensive pool repair is not needed. No job is too big or too small!

We service all major brands. Let us help you with your pool repairs. Please give us a call at 407-699-5588.

YES! It very well could!

Some dogs love the water and keeping them out is difficult, other dogs avoid it completely. If you’re a pool owner with a water loving dog as part of your family, you may still want to keep your dog out of the pool to avoid possible extensive pool problems.

Dogs affect pool chemical balance
Pool chemicals can irritate both people and canine skin. Beyond irritated skin, even well-balanced pool chemicals can irritate your dog’s nose and eyes. You pool water is also likely to look dirty, possibly be contaminated with E. coli from the fecal matter on their skin and fur. The phosphates, nitrates, and bacteria naturally on dog skin can significantly disrupt the pH and the chemical balance of your pool water. You will have to test it and shock it more often to keep the chemicals in balance. Quick reminder of what the levels should be:

• pH should always stay between 7.2 and 7.8 ideally, 7.4 and 7.6. An off-balance pH may lead to calcium buildup which puts undue stress on your liner and can be uncomfortable to swim next to.
• Chlorine should be between 1.0 and 4.0 parts per million (ppm), too much makes your pool look green. Too little means your pool is a good home for bacteria and algae.

Dogs of any size can cause your water level to drop
There’s a saying one dog is equal to several additional people in the pool at the same time so all that splashing could cause your water level to drop, which in turn could create problems in the pool pump and can cause the pump to run dry or burn up. Just like you would check the pool water level after a party, check the pool water level after a dog, even a small dog, has been in your pool.

If you have a pool liner, a dog’s toenails put your pool liner at risk for punctures
Most in ground pools in Florida do not have a liner, however, there is a coating on your in ground pool that can be damaged by a dog’s toe nails scratching the surface of it. If you do have a liner, it is at risk of a puncture or tear when a dog is in the pool. Even if the dog’s feet don’t touch the bottom of the pool, when a dog climbs in and out of the pool, they will look for traction. Also, water increases a dog’s weight increases with the water and an accidental sharp toenail could easily puncture the liner as they climb out and scratch at the sides.

Filters are more easily clogged when a dog enters the pool
Dog hair, debris can also clog your filter. Some pool owners find the dog hair manageable with more skimming and vacuuming but you risk clogging equipment. If a dog has been in your pool, even just for a few moments, be sure to check and empty both the pool skimmer basket (by the pool) and the pump basket (inside the pump) as soon as possible.

If you’ve had a dog in your pool, get checked out by the pros
While you can do a lot on your own to mitigate the impact of a dog swimming in your pool on your own, you might need professional help. In fact, we recommend you have your pool serviced more often if you have dogs swimming with you. You may be good at checking your pool equipment such as filters, pumps, and heating systems but we can assess all of those for major and minor issues.

Swim ‘N Fun offers weekly pool maintenance. Our trained pool technicians service the pool by testing the pool water, balancing the water chemistry, skimming the pool, brushing the pool walls, emptying the baskets, vacuuming the pool as needed, cleaning or backwashing the pool filter as needed, and checking the equipment to ensure that it is running properly. Routine pool maintenance helps a pool owner to save money and time. A properly balanced pool will also help keep swimmers safe and healthy.

Swim ‘N Fun is fully licensed and insured and has been serving Central Florida since 1986. Our pool company is ready to help you with any pool repairs that you may need such as repairing a broken pool pump, pool filter, pool vacuum, pool filtration system or pool lights. Our pool technicians will arrive at your home in our fully stocked service trucks. They will evaluate the problem and then make the repair. Many times, an extensive or expensive pool repair is not needed. No job is too big or too small!

We service all major brands. Let us help you with your pool repairs. Please give us a call at 407-699-5588.

We serve all of Central Florida including Casselberry, Altamonte Springs, Winter Springs, Oviedo, Longwood, Maitland, Sanford, and the surrounding areas. Rely on us for all of your pool maintenance and pool repair needs. Please give us a call at 407-699-5588 to see how we can assist you. Call today!