Swimming Pool FAQ’s
Below we have listed customer’s frequently asked questions, known as FAQ’s. They are broken down into 5 sections. Click on a link to access a section, or navigate to that section:
ADMINISTRATIVE AND BILLING QUESTIONS
Which type of pool services do you offer?
We have qualified maintenance technicians, repair technicians, as well as the ability to upgrade or rehab your pool.
We offer the following swimming pool services:
Are you insured?
Yes, we are insured. We will provide proof of insurance upon request. We are required to have Limited Liability Insurance as well as Workers Compensation Disability Insurance.
Are You Licensed?
Yes. We do business in Fairfield County, CT and Westchester County, NY. We are required by law to be licensed in the state of Connecticut and in Westchester County, New York. Listed below are the current licenses:
- State of CT Home Improvement Contractor License
HIC.0539633 - Westchester County, NY Home Improvement License
WC-22672-H10 - State of CT Plumbing and Piping Limited Contractor Licence
PLM.0280763-SP1 - State of CT Swimming Pool Builder In Ground License
SPB.0000208
Do you provide references?
References are available upon request.
Does Putnam Swimming Pool Service offer a warranty?
We offer a standard equipment warranty on parts and equipment.
Do you offer any estimates or quotes over the phone?
No, we do not offer quotes or estimates over the phone. Every pool is different and every pool is unique. All qualified professionals like Putnam Swimming Pool Service need to access a pool for service or repairs before they do any work.
I am considering buying a home with a pool, is there anything that I should know about buying a home with a pool or before purchasing one?
The most important question to ask when buying a house with a pool is, does the current homeowner have a certificate of occupancy (known as a CO) for the pool? If the current homeowner does not have a CO, it may be difficult to get one approved with local building and zoning.
Prior to purchasing a home with a pool or spa you should obtain a thorough inspection report of the pool, equipment, and systems. It is important that the swimming pool and / or spa is up to code in terms of safety and electrical compliance.
Cleaning and Maintenance Questions
Why do I need regular weekly pool service and cleaning when my pool stays fairly clean?
During warmer weather with higher swim loads, chlorine is reduced quickly. Regular servicing and maintenance including brushing and vacuuming is required to keep algae at bay. Always remember that when a pool looks clear it does not mean that it is necessarily clean and fit for swimming.
Is there a simple formula for adding chemicals to my pool?
No, there is no simple formula for adding chemicals to your pool. There are various factors including: physical, chemical, biological, and environmental. Each pool is unique and requires a different amount of chemicals.
Why am I using more chemicals than last month?
If pool usage increases or if the pool water temperature rises, this can effect chemical usage and could be one of many reasons why you are using more chemicals than last month. Other common factors include weather, and many other physical and environmental factors that effect chemical usage.
Why can't the service technician clear my pool in one visit?
Depending on why the pool is not clear it may take a few days. If you have metals and phosphates you have to treat each cause separately. Remember, just because a pool looks clear, that does not mean that it does not need ongoing maintenance and service.
Why is my pool green?
Your pool may be green from a number of factors. These may include algae growth from phosphates or metals in the water.
Can I provide my own pool chemicals?
Yes, but they would need to be the correct type of chemicals, stored properly in a secure area that our technicians have access to. It is important to note that the quality of pool chemicals varies. If you are using your own chemicals we cannot guarantee water clarity.
Why do we need to clean our cartridge filters periodically during the season?
Dirt, debris, and other contaminants like iron, phosphates, and calcium can inhibit the operation of your system. They cause an increase in pump pressure preventing optimal performance and leading to additional wear and tear on the equipment. Regular cleaning and servicing of your cartridge filter prevents this.
Customer Maintenance Questions
Why do I have to check pool and maintain the heater if your company maintains the pool?
We make sure pool water is balanced and all systems are running while we are there. When we are not present, it is the customers responsibility to check the pool physically for any issues, maintain the water level, check for obstructions that could block the flow of circulation to your swimming pool, and empty the skimmer baskets. Checking the pool on a regular basis (daily, after a storm) helps maintain optimal performance and assists in extending the life of your pool and preventing many maintenance and service issues.
Running the heater weekly for 1/2 hour or so, even if it is not needed, will dry out the heater and discourage mice and spiders from moving in.
I am a regular customer, what do I need to do to maintain my pool when the service technicians is not there?
Make sure that you keep the water level maintained, keep the skimmer baskets clean, and physically check the pool daily.
If you have an automatic cover, try to keep it clear of accumulated water and debris to avoid damaging it. Keeping the cover open during a heavy storm will also avoid damage. Remember that clearing the pool cover is usually cheaper than damaging your automatic cover.
Why do I have to empty the skimmer baskets?
Clogged skimmer baskets block the flow of water, which can burn out the pump motor and prevent the heater from working. Skimmer baskets must be cleaned regularly.
Why should I shower before entering the pool?
Organic substances like urine, perspiration, and feces can contaminate a pool. Everyone uses shampoo, soap, body lotions, and oils, and these inorganic substances also effect a pool. These substances make a pool work harder, and throw off the water balance. This means your pool requires more chemicals or treatment. Showering prevents many issues and helps ease the burden on your pool. A simple solution like showering with soap before you enter a pool yields big results
Why do I need to remove toys from the pool?
Toys can often block the water flow and circulation in your pool. This can cause damage to pumps and heaters.
What is the importance of maintaining the correct water level?
Water level has to be 1/2 up the skimmer mouth (or 1/2 way up through the tile line) for proper skimming action, filtration, and for the heater to properly work. If the water level gets low enough for the pump to draw air, the resulting heat created in this condition can damage the pump and piping.
Why is the water level going down in the pool?
You can have 1/4″ or more of evaporation at certain times of the year. This depends on water temperature and pool usage. Significant loss of water may signify a pool leak.
If you are a current customer and losing a significant amount of water in your swimming pool please call us: (203) 348-0512
Why isn't my pool heater working?
A few things people can check before calling for service for your heater:
- Is the heater on?
- Do you have fuel (propane or natural gas)?
- * Did you recently get a fuel delivery?
- Where is the water level in relation to the skimmer?
- Is the skimmer weir (flapper) closed or stuck open?
- Does the heater show a code?
- If you have a spa, was the system left in ‘spa mode’?
* Failure to properly vent the line after filling will not allow the pool heater to fire.
Opening and Closing Pool Questions
How much do you charge to open, close, and service a pool?
We will send a pool service technician to evaluate a pool, the equipment, and the access. After this is completed, we will contact you with a quote.
Why is there so much debris in my pool at opening, when I closed my pool I had a cover on it and it was cleaned and serviced before closing?
You will get a fair amount of sediment from a mesh cover over the winter from loose debris and storms. Your landscapers should be aware that when using a leaf blower they should not blow grass, leaves and other debris underneath or on top of the pool cover. Fertilizer is also a contributing factor in algae growth from the phosphates in the fertilizer. It is important to keep any and all fertilizer away from your pool or spa.
All of these can seep through a mesh pool cover or underneath it and contribute to sediment, dirt, and debris on a mesh cover or in your pool before opening.
How soon after I open my pool can i swim in it?
You can swim in your pool when it is clean, the water is balanced, and it is warm enough to swim in.
Why do I need a Porta-Vac ?
To clean the heavy debris from the pool that comes in the winter we use the Porta-Vac system. This portable vacuum pump and filter keeps the larger debris out of the swimming pool and filter system.
I am not opening my pool this year, is there anything I need to do?
Pools must be cleaned and free of debris before closing. They must also be winterized properly, treated with chemicals, and have a secure safety cover. The pool should be serviced once a month to check the water level and water balance. If chemicals are added your pool needs to be circulated by a portable pump supplied by the service technician.
How does well water effect my chemical balance?
If you get a drought situation, water levels can get low in the well and churn up a lot of debris and metals like iron, manganese, and copper. This can effect your swimming pool chemistry and water balance.
Why do I need to drain my Spa so often?
Spas are a smaller body of water than a pool and are more likely to get contaminated with body oils, lotions, and bacteria. Spas are heated to a higher temperature which can incubate bacteria faster and can cause skin irritations and rashes. Another common reason is the presence of a high TDS level. This is the level of total dissolved solids in the water and is a sign that your water is saturated with chemicals that make it tough to clean, sanitize, and maintain water clarity. All of these are reasons a spa should be drained and cleaned on a regular basis.
Why do I need to change my safety grates on the pool drain?
Pool drain grates or covers deteriorate over time and should be replaced.
When do I need to drain and clean the pool?
If the pool appears scaly, sharp, or dirty, or if the level of total dissolved solids (TDS) in the pool water is above 1500 ppm, your pool should be drained and cleaned. The best time for a drain and clean is in early spring.
I have a newly plastered pool. Why does my pool use so much acid?
New plaster has a very high ph (alkalinity) and can require a season to stabilize. Acid helps stabilize the pool and decreases the alkalinity.
Salt Chlorine Pool Questions
I have a salt chlorine generator installed in my pool. Why does it use acid?
Salt chlorine generated pools use sodium hypochloride, which is very high on the Ph scale. Usually 12.5 – 13.5 on a scale of 14. Since pool water needs to be between 7.2 and 7.6 Ph, adding acid o your pool helps maintain the proper Ph levels.
If the pool water is higher than 7.6 the pool becomes alkaline, which causes scaling (very rough and sharp surfaces) and calcification of salt cells. If the pool is below 7. 2, the water can become corrosive and eat metals and the equipment. The proper balance is necessary to maintain the health and fitness of your pool, and the safety of you the swimmer!
Why do I need to clean salt cells in my salt chlorine generator if the Ph is balanced every week?
The salt cell should be cleaned every 2-3 months of usage to ensure there are no contaminants present or calcium build up and phosphate fallout. Even though iron flows through the cell it can build up as well.
Without proper cleaning and maintenance these contaminants build up and inhibit the performance of your swimming pool.
My pool is making a gurgling noise, what should I do?
Check the water level. If the pool is making a gurgling noise identify where the sound is coming from? Then call us and we can send a pool technician.