Frequently Asked Pool Maintenance Questions

By Clark Rubber | 17th October, 2019

Pool Maintenance Questions & Answers

As Australia's One Stop Pool Shop, we answer a lot of questions around pool maintenance. Here are the answers to some of the most common questions we are asked about taking care of a pool.

1. Can I put a salt water chlorinator on my pool?

This depends on the type of pool you have. Some metal walled pools are not salt water compatible, however, almost any in-ground pool can easily be converted to use with a salt chlorinator. Talk to the experts at Clark Rubber if you aren't sure if it is suitable option for your pool maintenance.

2. Do I need a pool fence for my pool?

Almost all pools require a safety fence that conforms to Australian Standards.

Almost all pools require a safety fence that conforms to Australian Standards. Clark Rubber strongly advocates safe, responsible swimming at all times. The best advice is to check with your local council, as requirements differ depending on where you live.

3. Why does blonde hair sometimes turn green in swimming pools?

This is usually because there is copper present in the water. It could come from a copper-based algaecide, or the metal might already be present in the water supply.

One way to help prevent hair turning green is to thoroughly wet the hair with tap water before swimming, and then rinse it well as soon as you are out of the pool. If your hair has turned green already, your local pharmacy can advise you which shampoo contains a chelating agent that will restore hair to its natural colour.

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4. How do I test for water balance?

Most home use test kits can check for the basics of water balance, but the preferred method is to regularly bring a test sample into your local Clark Rubber. Our free 60 second water test will give you a detailed analysis and comprehensive report.

5. How do I test for chlorine?

Whenever you test your water, take the sample from arm's length depth in your pool. Most home use test kits can check the chlorine level. It is best to do this test in the morning, before anyone uses the pool.

6. When should I add chlorine to my pool?

Chlorine is best added at night when the sunlight is not directly on the pool, but chlorine can also be added during the day if the chlorine level is below two parts per million. After adding, wait half an hour before swimmers use the pool.

7. How often should I clean my cartridge?

This depends on the size of the cartridge and pump, the size of the pool, bather load and how much debris enters your pool. On average, a cartridge should be cleaned once a month, but for smaller pools, it can be more frequently for ideal pool maintenance.

8. How often should I backwash my sand filter?

Once a month is sufficient to backwash a sand filter. However, the best guide is to note the pressure on your gauge immediately after a backwash. Once the gauge reads 50 Kpa above that, it is time to backwash again.

If you have any more questions, get in touch with our expert team or visit your local Clark Rubber Store. If you would like to take a break from your pool maintenance, we can do the work for you with our Onsite Pool Care.