Keeping pool maintained during the winter by cleaning debris out with a net.

How can a pool service lend a hand when you are on vacation for an extended period of time? It’s never fun to come home to a green pool with water bugs swarming under water. Hiring a pool service can be a life saver EXPECIALLY while you’re out of town! What would a pool service offer while you are away so you don’t come home to a green pond in your backyard oasis?

  1. Balance the water chemistry: Our pool technicians will ensure that your pool’s water chemistry is properly balanced each week. We test the water’s pH, alkalinity, and chlorine levels, and adjust them as necessary to maintain a healthy balance. Balanced water chemistry helps prevent algae growth and other water-related issues.
  2. Shock the pool: If this is needed our technicians may consider shocking your pool with a chlorine-based shock treatment if the algae growth is plentiful. This helps to eliminate any organic contaminants and bacteria in the water, keeping it clean during your absence.
  3. Clean the pool: Our technicians will thoroughly clean the pool each week by removing any debris, such as leaves, twigs, or insects. Skimming the surface of any pool is a weekly task, vacuuming regularly too, and possibly brushing the walls may also be required to keep the pool clean. A clean pool reduces the chances of algae growth and helps maintain water clarity.
  4. Maintain water level: Our technicians will ensure that the water level in your pool is at the appropriate level. If it’s too low, the pool equipment might not function properly, and if it’s too high, there’s a risk of flooding. Monitoring water level is also key to a healthy pool.

What can you do while your away to ensure your pool is secure?

  1. Secure the pool area: Make sure your pool area is properly secured to prevent any unauthorized access while you’re away. Lock gates and ensure that fences are in good condition. This helps to ensure the safety of your pool and prevents any potential accidents.
  2. Set pool equipment timers: If you have automated pool equipment, such as pumps, filters, or chlorinators, set them to run for the appropriate duration during your absence. This helps to circulate and filter the water, maintaining its quality.
  3. Enlist the help of a reliable neighbor or friend: In Florida we tend to have frequent summer thunder and lightning storms. These can cause some minor flooding or worse case and electrical fire if lightning strikes your home. Ask a trusted neighbor or friend to keep an eye on your pool while you’re away. Request them to check the pool area regularly, ensure the equipment is functioning, and report any issues to you. Leave your neighbor our phone number so if they notice any issues they can give us a call for service.
  4. Notify us: Give us a call and inform us about your absence so our technicians will be aware in case there are issues when they arrive for weekly maintenance.

Our team at Swim ‘N Fun regularly services pools for clients on vacation all summer long to make sure everything is functioning properly and in good condition so our customers can come home to a pool ready for swimming.

We offer a variety of services to help ensure that your pool is safe and well-maintained, including pool cleaning, equipment repair, and maintenance services.

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. Pumps, filters, lighting, heating systems, filtration, pressure in the lines, and valves are all components that can break at any given time. During their weekly visits our technicians will check these different areas to ensure everything is working as it should.

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. Contact us today, call at 407-699-5588.

Keeping your Florida inground pool free of pollen this spring is important for several reasons from aesthetics to maintenance.

Pollen can make your pool look dirty and uninviting by keeping it free of pollen you won’t have to think twice about enjoying your pool. Beyond just looks, for people with allergies, exposure to pollen can trigger symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose and itchy eyes by keeping the pollen from building up, you can mitigate these symptoms for you and your guests.

Pollen is hard on your pool’s filtration systems. Pollen can clog your pool’s filter and make your pump work harder to circulate the water. This can burn your pump out sooner and increase your maintenance and repair costs.

Beyond aesthetics and your filtration systems, pollen affects your overall water quality. Pollen can introduce contaminants into your pool, such as dirt and bacteria. Algae love dirt and bacteria and by keeping pollen in your pool you are encouraging algae growth.

By keeping your Florida inground pool free of pollen this spring, you can help ensure that it remains a clean, safe and enjoyable place to swim and relax. Plus, keeping it free from pollen is not as hard as you may think.

Our top six tips are:

  1. Skim the pool regularly: Use a pool skimmer to remove any floating pollen from the water’s surface. It’s best to do this at least once a day, preferably in the morning before the wind picks up.
  2. Use a pool cover: If you don’t plan on using your pool for a few days, consider covering it with a pool cover. This will help prevent pollen from falling into the water.
  3. Brush the walls and floor: Pollen can cling to the sides and bottom of your pool, so use a pool brush to scrub them regularly.
  4. Use a pool filter: Your pool’s filter can be a great ally in keeping pollen out of the water. Make sure to clean or replace the filter regularly to keep it working effectively.
  5. Consider a robotic pool cleaner: If you have a lot of trees or plants around your pool, a robotic pool cleaner can be a great investment. It can help remove any pollen that settles on the pool’s surface or walls.
  6. Keep the area around the pool clean: Regularly sweep or blow away any pollen that collects on the deck or patio around your pool. This will help prevent it from being blown into the water.

We are also here to help! 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.

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 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.

When we install a pool or hot tub automated system we recommend our clients follow these steps to make sure the process is as easy as possible:

  • Selecting a system: Choose an automated system that meets your specific needs and preferences. Consider factors such as compatibility with your existing equipment, features, and cost. At Swim N Fun, we recommend and install the Pentair EasyTouch automated system, which simplifies the management of your pool and hot tub, allowing you to easily control the water temperature, lighting, jets, and other features.
  • Preparing the site: Make sure the area around the pool or hot tub is clear and accessible, and that there is a power source nearby. Before we arrive to install the Pentair EasyTouch automated system, spend some time picking up around your pool. Make sure you’ve removed anything blocking the power source, trip hazards and general pool items. Giving us a clear path will make the process much faster.
  • Installing the control panel: We will mount the control panel in a convenient location near your pool or hot tub and then connect the control panel to the power source. We will check any additional electrical and plumbing components. The user-friendly control panel enables you to control all of the functions of your pool or hot tub from a single location.
  • Connecting sensors and actuators: Once the control panel is installed, we will install sensors and actuators to control the various aspects of your pool or hot tub, such as water temperature and circulation. We will also test the connection to the control panel to make sure these components are properly working.
  • Programming the system: Once we’ve confirmed everything is correctly working, we will configure the automated system according to your preferences. One of the benefits of the Pentair EasyTouch automated system is you can set systems such as the filtration cycles, heater settings, and chemical balance to turn on and off at specific times or under specific conditions, so if you only want to turn the heater on when the outdoor temperature is below a certain point, you can program that into the system. If there’s forecasted rain and you want to run an extra filtration cycle, you can do that without having to remember to turn it on and off.
  • Testing the system: Before we leave, we will test the automated system to ensure that it is working properly and that all components are communicating with each other. This includes testing the remote access feature which allows you to control your pool or hot tub from anywhere. You can use your smartphone or tablet to adjust the settings of your pool or hot tub, even if you’re not at home.

Beyond the capabilities to make your pool or hot tub automatically set to your preferences, the Pentair EasyTouch system is designed to be energy-efficient, helping you to save on energy costs. It automatically adjusts the settings of your pool or hot tub to minimize energy usage and maximize efficiency.

The system is also expandable, meaning you can add additional features or components as needed. For example, if you add new lighting elements or a water feature, you can control them with the Pentair EasyTouch system.

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.

It’s important to note that while the process of installing a pool or hot tub automation system may seem straightforward, it can be quite complex and may require technical expertise.

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. Contact us today either online or give us a call at 407-699-5588.

hot tub automation

What is pool or hot tub automation?

Pool and hot tub automation is simply using technology to your advantage. Pool automation systems control and manage the various functions and features of swimming pools and hot tubs, such as temperature control, water filtration, lighting, spa jets, and more. Automated systems allow for convenient and efficient operations, often through the use of a control panel, smartphone app, or other remote-control devices. By automating these systems, you can save time, energy, and resources, while also enhancing the overall enjoyment of your pool or hot tub.

Why should I use an automated pool and hot tub system?

There are several reasons why you may want to use an automated pool and hot tub system, including:

• Convenience: Automated systems allow you to control and monitor your pool or hot tub from a single, central location, often using a smartphone or tablet. You can adjust water temperature, turn on lights or spa jets, and manage other functions without having to physically be near the pool or hot tub.

• Energy efficiency: Automated systems can help you conserve energy and reduce costs by controlling water circulation, heating, and filtration. Some systems also feature timers and schedules that allow you to optimize energy usage based on your specific needs.

• Improved safety: Automated systems can help you maintain a safe and healthy swimming environment by monitoring water chemistry, temperature, and circulation. Some systems also have safety features such as automatic shut-off in case of an emergency.

• Enhanced user experience: Automated systems can enhance your overall enjoyment of your pool or hot tub by providing customizable features such as lighting, spa jets, and temperature control. With the touch of a button, you can create the perfect swimming environment.

• Ease of maintenance: Automated systems can help simplify pool and hot tub maintenance by automating tasks such as water circulation, filtration, and cleaning. This can save you time and effort, while ensuring that your pool or hot tub is always in optimal condition.

When is the best time to install an automated pool or hot tub system?

The best time to install an automated pool or hot tub system depends on several factors, including your climate, personal schedule, and budget. However, there are two times when planning to implement an automation system is the easiest.

• During construction or renovation: If you are building a new pool or hot tub, or renovating an existing one, this is an ideal time to install an automated system. This allows you to integrate the system into the design and construction of your pool or hot tub, making it easier and more cost-effective to install. We would love to make recommendations if you’re in this situation to help you make the most of your time in the water.

• Before the spring season: Spring and summer are the busiest swimming season as the weather warms, and we recommend installing your automation system before the season starts to give you time to test and make any necessary adjustments.

Ultimately, the best time to install an automated pool or hot tub system depends on your individual needs and circumstances. Call us at 407-699-1952 for a personalized recommendation.

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.

person cleaning a pool

Unpredictable winter and spring temperatures should not keep you from enjoying your outdoor swimming pool year-round! We have several tips to make sure you are maintaining your Florida pool during the winter months so you can keep using it now and in the summer.

With proper planning and preparation, there’s no need to stop using your Florida pool just because the temperature dropped. With a few important tips and maintenance tricks, you can make sure your pool is ready to swim – even when it’s not extremely hot and humid!

Check and Adjust Your Chemical Levels Regularly.
We say it a lot because it is the most important to make sure you regularly test your chemical levels. This is particularly critical to do when the temperatures dip and then spike back up. The main levels to keep an eye on are chlorine, pH level, alkalinity, and calcium hardness. We suggest weekly testing year-round and if you plan to continue using your pool in the cooler months, our recommendation doesn’t change.

Keep Leaves and Debris Out of the Pool.
During fall and winter months, leaves can often be the biggest nuisance when it comes to pool maintenance in Florida. Taking the time to properly cover your swimming pool when not in use will go a long way toward keeping debris and leaves out of your pool. Additionally, it’s a good idea to check your pool’s skimmer basket regularly to make sure no extra debris accumulates in the filter system. Debris doesn’t just make a pool less inviting it can throw off your chemicals and promote algae growth.

Regularly Monitor for Algae Growth and Stains.
Even during the cooler months, algae growth and pool staining can occur if your pool is not properly maintained. This is another area where weekly maintenance can prevent this from occurring. If you have already noticed signs of algae in your pool, taking steps such as adding extra sanitizer or reducing your water’s alkalinity can help keep your swimming pool stay clean and crystal clear all winter long.

Clean or Replace the Filter Regularly.
Replacing or cleaning your pool filters regularly is an important part of effective pool maintenance. A dirty filter allows debris and algae to remain in the water, causing congestion, cloudy water, and staining. Every few weeks during winter months, it’s important to make sure you are changing out the cartridge or Diatomaceous earth (an effective, natural way to kill algae in swimming pools) filter for your pool output pipes and preventing any dirt or grime from entering your swimming pool. We offer D.E. filter cleaning, which includes carefully removing the filters and cleaning them, as well as cleaning out the bottom of the filter and removing the used D.E. and cleaning the backwash the filter, which means using the extra hose line to push the dirt out.

Check for and Treat Pipes, Lines, Plumbing Leaks and Cracks.
There’s nothing like a freeze-thaw cycle or quick temperature decrease to put extra pressure on pool lines and pipes. Your pool’s pipes, lines, and plumbing should be checked each season to make sure they are free from cracks and leaks which can cause a significant amount of damage if left untreated. Be sure to inspect the inside of your walls for any loose or broken pipes before adding any more water. Once you’ve identified the areas of your pool where repairs are needed, it’s important to address them quickly in order to prevent further damage. Sealants and epoxies can be a good option for repairing small cracks and holes as well as keeping larger ones from becoming major problems.

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.

pool pump

Your pool pump is one of the most important pieces of equipment in your backyard. It helps keep your pool clean and safe. But sometimes, your pool pump loses pressure.

Pool pumps lose pressure when running too long without being turned on. This causes water to back up into the filter system, which can cause damage to the pump itself.

Why does it lose pressure?
If you notice that your pool pump has lost pressure, turn off the power to the unit and wait at least 30 minutes before turning it back on. Then, check the filter to make sure there isn’t any debris blocking the flow of water through the filter. If there is, remove the blockage by hand and try turning on the pump again.

The filter is full
Once you’ve checked the filter, you’ll need to replace the filter media. You should replace the filter media at least every three months, even if the filter looks clean. This will help ensure that your pool pump runs smoothly.

You are using the wrong amount of water
If you notice that your pool pump isn’t producing enough water, there are several things you can try to fix the problem. Then check the filter for any clogs. If you find a clog, you’ll need to remove the filter and replace it with new media. After you’ve cleared the clog or confirmed that one was not present, make sure that the motor is running properly. After that, check the electrical connections. Are they loose? Fourth, check the wiring. Does it appear damaged? Fifth, check the power source. Is it plugged into an outlet that has adequate voltage? Sixth, check the water level. If it’s too low, you might need to add more water to the tank. Finally, check the float switch. If it’s not working correctly, you’ll need to adjust it.

There Are Problems with the Motor or Pump
If you find that your pool pump isn’t producing enough water, there could be several reasons why. A faulty pump motor could cause the issue. In addition, a bad connection between the pump and the electrical system could also cause a problem. Another possible reason is that the pump is losing pressure. This could happen because the pump is worn out or because the filter needs cleaning.

The Electrical System Is Faulty
To determine whether your electrical system is causing the loss of pressure, check the following areas:

  1. Check the wiring connections.
  2. Make sure the power source is connected properly.
  3. Test the circuit breaker.

By actively monitoring your pool pump on a regular basis you can avoid the last minute break downs and potentially expensive repair costs. Maintenance is key to a solid running pool pump! If you have repairs please give us a call at 407-699-5588. Read more about all the repairs we can make on your backyard swimming pool.

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.

person cleaning a pool

When looking for a pool service contractor, here are some things to keep in mind.

Pool owners should always hire a reputable pool service contractor with experience working on your type of pool. They should also ask for references and read reviews online before choosing to hire a company and be prepared to evaluate after the first few services.

Ask about their experience.
A good pool service contractor will have extensive experience working with your type of pool. Some pool companies focus only on inground pools, some focus solely on leak detection and maintenance, others like Swim N Fun provide comprehensive pool maintenance. Figure out what you are looking for in a pool service company and then match your needs with a reputable company.

Look at their credentials.
Once you’ve narrowed down your search to a few companies, the very next item on your list, even before checking reviews, should be to make sure they have the proper certification and licenses. A good pool service company has extensive training for their technicians and has the proper coverage to handle the chemicals. In Florida, this is a Certified Pool/Spa Contractor license from the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation. A licensed person or company has completed the required education, experience, insurance and qualifications to obtain a license and has passed a two-part competency test. Before hiring any pool service contractor, check the status of their licensure at MyFloridaLicense.com.

Review their insurance coverage.
Pool service contractors and pool service companies should have insurance that cover people, property and operations. You can learn more about what kind of insurance they carry by asking them and you can also request a copy of their insurance coverage if they don’t offer it at your initial meeting or have it available online. It’s important to make sure they have enough coverage to protect themselves against any accidents that might occur while they are working on your property. If you hire a pool service contractor who does not offer liability insurance, you will need to purchase additional coverage through your insurance company, which may mean you could pay more money out of pocket when there is an accident.

Check out their reviews online.
Once you have verified the pool service contractor or pool service company has the required experience, licensures, and insurance coverage, now is the time to start learning more about what their customers think about their work. You can look for reviews on their social media pages, testimonials on their website, Google reviews and other locations. The best place to start is by going to your favorite search engine and typing in the name of the company and reviews. This will help you determine whether they are reputable and trustworthy. You should also ask for references, particularly if the online reviews are limited.

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 also 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.

leaves in netting

Pool maintenance is a tedious task, especially in the fall when the leaves drop, and it seems as soon as you’ve cleaned the last leaf from your pool a gust of wind comes along and blows more into the water.

While there are ways to expedite leaf removal, it does take time either in the actual removal or in the setup. It is critical that you don’t let leaves stay in the pool too long because the leaves can clog up the filter and make cleaning even more difficult.

If the leaves are mostly floating on the surface, one of the best ways to remove leaves is by using a leaf net. The leaf net is an easy-to-use tool that can be used to remove leaves from the pool without getting into the water.

Leaf nets look like butterfly nets and are used to skim over the top of the water to collect the leaves. Leaf nets are good for both small and large pools and come in various sizes. As long as the leaves are floating on the water, a leaf net will catch all of the leaves in one go, so you don’t have to spend time picking them out individually.

You can also use a leaf rake, which is a skimmer with a leaf net attached. Because a leaf rake doesn’t involve you manually removing the leaves, it takes a bit longer but less of your time.

If you have leaves sitting on the bottom of the pool, the best way to remove them is with a pool vacuum or a leaf gulper. The leaf gulper removes all of the debris from the pool floor such as leaves, pine needles, and other debris. The leaf gulper is a mesh bag that attaches to your garden hose and vacuum to create suction and bags leaves sitting on your pool floor. Many of these have bristles on the bottom to help scrub more stubborn leaves and debris.

If you have an automatic pool cleaner, you can attach a pool vacuum leaf canister to filter out the leaves automatically. By fitting this device between your cleaner and the pump system attachment you can prevent the leaves from reaching the pump and causing damage. Once you put it all together, you will just need to run the pup and regularly empty the leaf trap.

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.

pool pump

Diatomaceous earth is a safe, non-toxic, environmentally friendly alternative to chlorine and bromine-based chemicals.

What Is Diatomaceous Earth?
Diatomaceous Earth (D.E.) is a naturally occurring mineral composed of fossilized remains of marine planktonic algae called diatoms. Diatoms live in oceans and lakes and are responsible for making up more than half of the world’s total biomass. D.E. has been used as an insecticide since ancient times. In fact, diatomaceous earth was one of the first natural pesticides ever discovered. If you looked at D.E. under a microscope, it would look like a super tiny sponge.

How is D.E. Used in pools?
Diatomaceous earth is an effective, natural way to kill algae in swimming pools. It works by absorbing water and releasing tiny particles that clog the pores in microscopic organisms such as algae, bacteria, viruses, protozoa, and other pathogens, killing them. D.E. pools provide excellent water quality while saving energy and ultimately reducing maintenance costs. D.E. works by coating the filter and as water passes over the grids, the DE particles capture even the smallest suspended dirt particles and pathogens but lets the water through.

Do I just pour some D.E. into my pool?
No. The best way is to use a diatomaceous earth pool filter. The D.E. filter works by using diatomaceous earth as a filter medium. This material absorbs water and releases small particles that block the pores in the skin, killing algae. D.E. filters are safer than other methods of pool filtration and have been shown to be more effective at filtering out debris and bacteria compared to sand filters and cartridge filter systems.

What else should I know about the D.E. filters?
D.E. filters come in sheets, called grids. Each grid has a fine material to catch the dirt and algae as it goes through the filter. Sunscreen, body oils and more also get trapped in the filters along with the algae and dirt.

Ick! How do I clean my D.E. filter?
Cleaning these filters requires a professional to prevent accidental tearing. For the month of September, Swim ‘N Fun is offering customers a special on D.E. filter cleaning. The 2022 Fall D.E. Filter cleaning includes carefully removing the filters and cleaning them, as well as cleaning out the bottom of the filter and removing the used D.E. and following the cleaning Swim ‘N Fun will backwash the filter, which means we will use the extra hose line to push the dirt out. We do all of this and inspect each piece at every step prior to putting it all back together. Our sale price is $250 for the D.E. filter cleaning.

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.

dog in pool

On a hot day people and animals alike often seek out water to cool off. For many pool owners, this could include a quick swim with your favorite canine. However, even that quick swim with your dog could cause extensive problems for your pool.

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’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.

Dog toenails put your pool liner at risk for punctures:

If you have an above ground pool your pool liner 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.

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!