Answers to Common Swimming Pool Maintenance Questions

Pool maintenance and troubleshooting is a job for professionals. Shoreline Pools has the largest service team in the Northeast. Call us, and we can have a technician at your pool within two hours. But if you simply want information about basic pool care or safety, here are answers to some of the more common questions our service department receives.

Q: How can I make my older pool a safer pool?
A: There are three “layers of protection” that should be inspected and updated in your pool/spa: safety grates, suctions, and protective safety pumps. We offer free safety inspections to all of our customers, and our expert service technicians can retrofit any swimming pool to meet current safety standards.

Q: Is there a temporary or removable fence product that can protect my children, family and friends?
A: Yes, a protective removable fence is available. It is manufactured in nylon and is child safe. It can be easily removed for larger events. Contact our Service Team to learn more.

Q: What are the advantages of installing modern pumps in my pool’s system?
A: Current swimming pool pump technology offers advanced safety measures to protect swimmers, and these new, more efficient products can reduce power bills by 50%.

Q: What are the advantages of an Automatic Safety Cover?
A: Having an automated pool cover simply means that it’s easy for you to cover your pool whenever it’s not being used. Without a doubt a covered pool is safer than an open pool. Also, by regularly covering your pool, you can better maintain the temperature; saving you up to 50% on fuel bills.

Q: Is it really necessary to have a Winter Mesh Cover for the closed seasons?
A: Winter covers are important for two reasons. First it’s a safety precaution. Covering your pool in the off-season saves lives. Second, winter pool covers also significantly limit the entrance of debris that can tarnish a pool finish.

Q: Does Shoreline provide safety products for my pool area?
A: Definitely. Ring buoys, Sheppard’s crooks, and pool alarms are just a few of the many options that we have readily available.

Q: How long will it take to heat my pool once I turn the heater on?
A: For an average sized pool, your pool will warm approximately ½ a degree per hour.

Q: Our eyes are stinging after we swim. Is this too much chlorine?
A: Mal-adjusted pH or other water chemistry issues can cause this. It’s best to arrange for a Shoreline Service visit so that we can make the proper adjustment.

Q: My pool/spa sometimes smells like Chlorine. Can this be corrected?
A: Yes, this is caused by Chloramines. Please arrange for a Shoreline Service visit so that we can make the proper adjustment.

Q: The surface of our pool has become rough over time. Is there a solution?
A: Your pool might need resurfacing, but sometimes sanding the surface can improve the feel. A Shoreline Service technician can work with you to determine the best course of action.

Q: My pool seems to lose/use water every day, what is normal and why?
A: With common evaporation, up to a ½ inch per day is normal. More? Call us!

Q: My pool is Winterized, but the Jandy is still lit in my kitchen?
A: Not to worry; even though the indoor control panel lights remain on, the pool equipment is shut off at local circuit breakers.

Q: My pool is suddenly losing water fast, what should I do?
A: Turn off all pool equipment at the local circuit breaker panel, NOT the indoor Jandy controller. Call the Shoreline Service team, and we will provide further instruction.

Q: My pool is running 24-hours per day, 7-days per week. Is this best?
A: Yes. In terms of filtering, running your pool 24/7 is actually more efficient and the best way to maintain sanitization. New pumps are available that can save you money with variable speed functionality. Call the Shoreline Service team to learn more.

Q: My pool/spa is not equipped with a computer system. Can one be installed?
A: Yes, Shoreline can install a Jandy system with the necessary valves and remote controls.

Q: My pool has beautiful natural slate tile, but their appearance has faded?
A: Available frost-proof ceramic tile is equally beautiful and longer lasting.

Q: I’ve heard about “three layers of protection” for my swimming pool/spa. What are they?
A: Safety grates, dual pool/spa suctions, and safety pumps. All three layers are mandatory components of new construction at Shoreline Pools. If you have an older pool/spa, Shoreline can retrofit any pool/spa with these and many more safety features.

Q: Can a pool be made deeper, shallower, longer, a different color or shape?
A: Yes – pretty much any change you want can be made. Existing pools and the surrounding deck and landscape can be modified and enhanced with great variety.

Q: The pool deck I have is uneven and unsightly. Can this be improved?
A: There are many solutions for improvement or replacement including newer styles and materials with deck foundations that require no maintenance.

Q: My pool/spa equipment is located outside and we don’t like to waste the yard space. Can equipment be relocated to another area or our house basement?
A: Absolutely. On inspection we can help you choose the best alternative.

Q: Can I install an automated cover on my existing swimming pool?
A: Yes, depending on the shape. Rectangle-shaped pools/spas are best suited for automated covers.