Premier Pool Service https://premierpoolservice.com Pool Cleaning & Maintenance Thu, 30 Jan 2025 16:24:33 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.7.2 https://premierpoolservice.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/cropped-Favicon-150x150.png Premier Pool Service https://premierpoolservice.com 32 32 Cleaning Your Swimming Pool After a Storm https://premierpoolservice.com/cleaning-your-swimming-pool-after-a-storm/ https://premierpoolservice.com/cleaning-your-swimming-pool-after-a-storm/#respond Wed, 29 Jan 2025 18:25:26 +0000 https://premierpoolservice.com/?p=3432 If you live in an area where crazy weather can strike, you’ve already seen what it can do to your property. Cleaning your swimming pool after a storm can add yet another

task to your post-storm cleanup list.

Storms can be an extra bother when you’re a swimming pool owner. Not only will branches and leaves end up in your pool, but windy, rainy weather can sweep dirt and debris into the water. This debris can bring contaminants with it and impact pool water quality.

Additional water can also accumulate from heavy rainstorms, resulting in water runoff. Runoff can alter pH and Total Alkalinity levels, and cause chemicals to become diluted and imbalanced. The result may create costly stains on your swimming pool interior and less than healthy water for your family.

Pool covers can help to protect your swimming pool from many significant issues. But you should be prepared to take some extra post-storm steps in cleaning your swimming pool and ensuring your pool recovers from any damage. Here are some helpful tips to follow, to ensure your pool returns to its clean and safe state.

Remove Leaves and Debris

Your first step in cleaning your swimming pool after a storm is to remove any debris from the surface. Using your skimmer, remove leaves, sticks, and other storm remnants from the pool. Check the skimmer basket, and empty/clean it, so that it can function properly. Cleaning the skimmer and pump basket will help avoid undue stress on your pool pump.

Utilizing your pool vacuum, remove any debris that has fallen below the surface. You can use an automatic pool cleaner or manually vacuum the pool yourself.

Check Your Pool Water Levels

If flooding has occurred in your area, your pool may end up with excess water.

If your pool is equipped, you can keep your filter turned to “waste,” connect a backwash hose to the filter’s waste port and turn the pump on. Pump out water into an area with adequate drainage until the waterline reaches the desired level.

Or, you can remove some of the water with a sump pump or siphon.

Clean or Backwash Filter

After a storm, remaining dirt, dust, and small particles may require the pool filter to be cleaned. This might be the ideal time to replace your filter, cartridges, or filter media.

Make sure to reference the manufacturer’s operation guide to ensure you are cleaning your pool filter correctly.

Balance Chemistry

At this point, you should check your pH, Total Alkalinity, Chlorine, calcium, and Cyanuric Acid levels and adjust each. However, invisible contaminants may still be present. These microscopic organic remnants can bring bacteria or nitrates with them, which can lead to algae growth.

As a precaution, it may be necessary to shock the pool. Add enough shock to raise the chlorine level to around 10.0 ppm. (Roughly 1 pound of calcium hypochlorite for every ten thousand gallons of pool water.)

Once the pool has been shocked and the chlorine level has subsided to around 3.0 ppm, it is time to check your water chemistry again. Adjust the total alkalinity to normal levels, then adjust the pH, chlorine, and calcium hardness of your water.

Run Circulation and Filtration Systems Until Water is Clear

Running your circulation and filtration systems is the last step in cleaning your swimming pool after a storm. Once it’s been vacuumed and brushed, you will want to run your pool equipment until the water is clear. This may take a few days, but it is an important step to ensure your system is running correctly.

While this process may seem daunting, the steps are necessary to protect your investment and ensure swimming pool safety. If you don’t want to take on cleaning your swimming pool yourself, connect with a local Premier Pool Service and we would be happy to help keep your pool in tip-top condition.

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Pool Care Questions Answered https://premierpoolservice.com/pool-care-questions-answered/ https://premierpoolservice.com/pool-care-questions-answered/#respond Wed, 29 Jan 2025 18:10:59 +0000 https://premierpoolservice.com/?p=3430 Below, you will find answers to the most common pool care questions we’ve answered in the pool service business over our years. If you have pool care questions not answered below, let us know!

How long should I run my pool equipment?

We suggest your filter system runs 6 to 8 hours per day. When water temperatures climb above 80°, run the system 8 to 12 hours per day.

Do I need to drain my pool every year?

Keeping water in the pool during the winter can protect the bottom of the pool from cracking during freezing temperatures. However, we recommend a pool cover during the off-season to protect the pool from debris and cold temperatures.

To extend your swimming season, consider a pool heater.

How often should I test my pool water?

Test your pool water weekly to ensure chemicals are balanced.

How often do I need to clean my pool?

To protect your pool from algae and bacteria growth, you should clean your pool at least once a week. The walls and floor should be brushed and vacuumed to remove debris that the filter misses. Brushing is a must, even if you use an automatic pool cleaner or retain a weekly service.

How often do I need to clean my skimmer and pump baskets?

A dirty or clogged skimmer basket restricts water flow. If water can’t flow through your skimmer, your pool can’t circulate properly. The same is true of your pump basket. If water is restricted, the pump can overheat. Clean skimmer baskets daily and inspect for cracks, replacing if needed.

How often should I brush my pool?

You should brush the walls, ladders, steps, and corners of your pool at least once a week. Brush from the shallow end toward the deep end in overlapping strokes.

Why are pool chemicals necessary?

Pools tend to get dirty from the chemicals and skin cells of each swimmer who enters your pool. Plus, debris and other natural contaminants can also cloud the water and create a bacteria-infested environment.

Does my saltwater pool require any chlorine?

The nature of a saltwater system is that it converts ordinary salt into chlorine. There may be an occasion that you might need to super chlorinate the pool or “shock” the water.

How long should I wait to use my pool after a chemical shock treatment?

To stay on the safe side with chemical water treatments, we recommend waiting 8-12 hours after administering treatment. The best time to shock a pool is during the evening, to let the system run overnight. If you use a non-chlorine shock, you can swim within 30 minutes of the pool treatment.

What are the proper pH and alkaline balance for my pool water?

The pH level should be between 7.4 and 7.6, and the total alkalinity should be between 100 -150 ppm. For gunite pools, the calcium hardness should be between 200-250 ppm.

Why is it important for my pool chemical and water levels to be correct?

Keeping the proper levels in your pool allows for a safe and healthy swimming environment. If there aren’t enough chemicals in the water, it can create a haven for bacteria, creating unsanitary conditions. Too many chemicals can cause a harmful environment and dryness of skin, hair, and eyes.

Does a swimming pool need to be serviced year-round?

Yes, correctly maintaining your pool throughout the year will reduce the amount of staining. Pumps and other equipment should also be properly maintained to prolong their life. Regular maintenance will save you money in the long run.

What causes green pool water?

Imbalanced chemistry and filtration or circulation issues can lead to green pool water. Read more about green pool water and how to correct it.

What is pool automation?

An automated control system schedules and operates your filtration cycles, heating, lighting, sanitization, water features, and more with one-touch control. Premier Pool Services can install and service your automatic pool system.

Read more about pool automation here.

Can dogs swim in pools?

With proper care and safety measures in place, YES! Read more about allowing your dog in your pool here.

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Will Chlorine Turn My Hair Green? https://premierpoolservice.com/will-chlorine-turn-my-hair-green/ https://premierpoolservice.com/will-chlorine-turn-my-hair-green/#respond Wed, 29 Jan 2025 16:57:25 +0000 https://premierpoolservice.com/?p=3428 Will chlorine turn my hair green?

Short answer: It is possible.

It’s summertime, which means it’s time to head to the pool! But before you take the plunge, you may be wondering if chlorine will turn your hair green.

Chlorine is a chemical that is used to disinfect water, and it can also be found in swimming pools. When your hair is submerged in chlorinated water, the chlorine can strip away the natural oils that protect your hair. This can lead to dryness, damage, and sometimes even green hair.

But don’t worry, there are some easy ways to prevent chlorine from turning your hair green. First, try wetting your hair with clean water before you get into the pool. This will help create a barrier between your hair and the pool water. You can also use a swim cap or wear a bandanna over your head. And be sure to rinse your hair with clean water after you get out of the pool.

If you do end up with green hair, don’t despair! There are some simple home remedies that can help remove the green tint. One popular remedy is to mix equal parts baking soda and shampoo, and then massage it into your wet hair. Leave it on for 5-10 minutes before rinsing it out. Another option is to mix equal parts vinegar and water, and then pour it over your head after shampooing. Let it sit for a few minutes before rinsing it out thoroughly.

With a little bit of care, you can enjoy chlorinated waters all summer long without worrying about green hair!

Why does my hair turn green in the pool?

If you’ve ever noticed your hair turning green after a dip in the pool, you’re not alone. This phenomenon is actually quite common and has to do with the chemistry of both chlorinated water and your hair. Here’s a closer look at why this happens and how you can prevent it.

For starters, it’s important to understand that chlorine is added to pools as a disinfectant. It’s very effective at killing bacteria and other harmful organisms that can cause illness. Unfortunately, chlorine is also harsh on your hair. When your hair is exposed to chlorinated water, it can strip away natural oils and proteins, leaving it dry and brittle.

At the same time, the chlorine in the water reacts with minerals like copper and iron that may be present in the water or on your skin. This creates a greenish tint that can transfer to your hair. If you have blonde or light-colored hair, you may be especially susceptible to this problem since chlorinated water can make blonde hair appear green.

There are a few things you can do to prevent your hair from turning green in the pool. First, try wetting your hair with plain water before getting into the pool. This will help create a barrier between your hair and the chlorinated water. You can also apply a leave-in conditioner or an oil treatment before swimming. These products will help protect your hair from damage caused by chlorine exposure. Finally, be sure to rinse your hair thoroughly with clean water after swimming to remove any residual chlorine

While there’s no need to avoid swimming altogether, understanding why chlorine turns your hair green can help you take steps to protect your locks from damage next time you hit the pool

Can salt water pools turn hair green?

Yes, salt water pools can turn hair green. This is because chlorine reacts with copper to form copper chloride, which can then deposit on hair and skin. Copper is found in many pool algaecides and some pool sanitizers, so it’s not surprising that it can build up in salt water pools. Green hair is more common in people with blond or light brown hair, but it can happen to anyone. If you have green hair after swimming in a salt water pool, don’t worry – it’s not permanent and there are ways to get rid of it.

To remove copper from your hair, you can use a clarifying shampoo or a chelating agent. A clarifying shampoo will work by stripping away the build-up of copper from your hair. A chelating agent will bind to the copper molecules and remove them from your hair. You can find these products at most drugstores or beauty supply stores.

If you want to avoid getting green hair in the first place, there are a few things you can do. First, make sure that the pool you’re swimming in has adequate filtration and circulation. This will help to reduce the amount of copper that builds up in the water. Second, wash your hair with clean water before swimming. This will help to remove any oils or other products that could trap copper molecules in your hair. Finally, use a swim cap or wear your hair up in a bun while swimming. This will protect your hair from coming into contact with the pool water and prevent the build-up of copper chloride.

In need of pool cleaning or pool services? See our locations HERE or fill out the form below for a quote.

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What is soda ash for pools? https://premierpoolservice.com/what-is-soda-ash-for-pools/ https://premierpoolservice.com/what-is-soda-ash-for-pools/#respond Wed, 29 Jan 2025 16:42:02 +0000 https://premierpoolservice.com/?p=3427 Soda ash, also known as sodium carbonate, is one of the most important chemicals used in the swimming pool industry.

It is a pH adjuster and increases the alkalinity of pool water, which is essential for maintaining proper water balance. Soda ash is used to raise the pH of pool water which is too acidic.

Acidic water can cause eye irritation, skin problems, and damage to pool surfaces and equipment.

The ideal pH for swimming pools is between 7.2 and 7.6. Soda ash also increases the alkalinity of pool water, which helps to stabilize the pH and prevent it from fluctuating.

High alkalinity can cause scale buildup on pool surfaces and equipment, so it is important to maintain proper levels.

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How Long Should I Run My Pool? https://premierpoolservice.com/how-long-should-i-run-my-pool/ https://premierpoolservice.com/how-long-should-i-run-my-pool/#respond Wed, 29 Jan 2025 16:40:21 +0000 https://premierpoolservice.com/?p=3426

How long should I run my pool each day?

This video will help you figure out how long you want to run your pool each day. There are a couple of factors. The size of the pool, different pool features, is it a pool and spa or pool only. And obviously, what time of year is it? In the summer you are going to run it more and in the wintertime, you are going to run it less.

The general rule is for every ten degrees of water temp is how many hours you want to run your pool for.

For example, if your pool water temp is 80 degrees. You want to run that pool for 8 hours. Now, that is just a guide.

Again, if you do a lot of swimming, if your dogs jump in there, you get a lot of vegetation that falls into that pool, you’re going to probably want to run it a little bit longer.

The other thing is, if you have a variable speed pump, which is great for energy saving, you usually are going to run it at a lower RPM.

A main single pool pump will run for 3450 RPMs. So if you have a variable speed pump that is running only 2000 RPMs, that ten or eight-hour window needs to be more meaningful.

I’m going to bump that up. Maybe that’s 12 hours. Maybe that’s 14 hours. If you run your RPMs low enough, you can run your pool for 24 hours and still save on energy with that variable speed pump.

So that is just a guide on how to help you decide how many hours you want to run your pool.

Now, the other thing is, in the winter, if your water temp is 60 degrees, you’re going to run it for 6 hours. But some things to keep in mind if you’re, say, in the Sun Belt area where you run your pool year-round, but in the winter time, you do see freezing or where you see a lot of your freeze guards that kick in around 38 degrees.

Those freeze guards are kicking in to protect your equipment. What a lot of people like to do is they’ll switch their equipment running from daytime to running at night, because those are also likely the time that your freeze guard’s going to kick in when temperatures are colder. That way, your pool is not running all day during its regular schedule and then kicking on all night because of those temperatures.

So those few months in the winter, if you want, you can run it at night and help save on energy. If you’d like to get more information reach out to us and talk to one of our pool professionals that would love to help you out.

Fill out the form below and we will be in touch shortly.

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What Does My Pool Freeze Guard Do? https://premierpoolservice.com/what-does-my-pool-freeze-guard-do/ https://premierpoolservice.com/what-does-my-pool-freeze-guard-do/#respond Wed, 29 Jan 2025 16:37:31 +0000 https://premierpoolservice.com/?p=3425

This video will help you understand a little bit about freeze guards for your pools. Now, if you have a basic timer for your pool and it does not have a freeze guard on there, there’s nothing that’s going to trigger your freeze guard to come on. You’re probably going to need to manually turn that on yourself to help protect your plumbing and your pipes.

If you have a timer with a freeze guard, you will have a dial that you can adjust up and down to help you set that temperature. The ideal range is roughly 38 degrees and you will have a temp sensor that sticks out of that box, so that will read the temperatures in that area. Realize if that is inside the box, it’s going to be warmer in there.

You may want to actually take that 38 and bring it up to maybe 40 degrees. Just again, depending on where you’re at if you have a newer style of equipment that is automated and is digital, what you will do is you can actually go into that system and adjust the freeze guard temperatures to where you want it to be at.

I do not recommend taking it all the way to down to 32 degrees. I still recommend the 38 degrees and just realize they come factory usually at 38 depending on your manufacturer and what you have.

So you need to check on that or get your pool professional to help you. But what it’s going to do is when the automation kicks in and realizes that you’re at least 38 or lower it’s going to turn on your equipment that you have set up to come on when the freeze guard kicks in.

That is going to flow water through your pipes to help prevent freezing. Now if you have actual orders, meaning you have valves that are going to move mechanically, especially if you have a pull and stall every few minutes, they are going to rotate so that all your plumbing gets water flowing through them.

So you need to keep that in mind for if you have water features, waterfalls shared a sense that you don’t want running deer in the wintertime because they will come on and start creating sheets of ice on those walls.

The one thing you can do is you can shut those sections off during the winter, blow out those lines and protect them. If you’d like to get more information and or reach out to us and talk to one of our professionals that would love to help you out. Just click on the link below and somebody will get back to you.

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Adjusting Pool Cleaner Pressure https://premierpoolservice.com/adjusting-pool-cleaner-pressure/ https://premierpoolservice.com/adjusting-pool-cleaner-pressure/#respond Wed, 29 Jan 2025 16:31:12 +0000 https://premierpoolservice.com/?p=3423 As a pool owner, you’ve researched different types of pool cleaners to keep your pool healthy and vibrant.

If you chose a pool cleaner that utilizes water pressure, such as the ever-popular Polaris Quattro, there may be times when you will have to adjust the pool cleaner pressure to ensure your device is functioning at its optimum.

Pool pressure side cleaners that work from your main circulation require a lot of water to be pushed to them to keep them functioning. This means that you may have to adjust the water pressure to get the best result.

 

Adjusting Pool Cleaner Pressure

When adjusting pool cleaner pressure, you will first have to identify the flow of your water. Pinpoint which valve manages the flow of water to the pool cleaner, and which valves control other elements of the pool’s equipment, such as water features.

Once you have identified what your valves control, you can send more water to the cleaner by turning the cleaner pressure valve up, and the other valves down or off.

Watch professional pool service technician, Cole, adjust pool cleaner pressure:

 

We do want to add a word of caution. Make sure you adjust the valves with the pump on and keep a watchful eye on the pressure gauge as you are making your adjustments to the valves.

If the pressure begins to increase, rapidly return the valve to its original position. Serious injury may occur if pressure exceeds the manufacturer’s recommendations.

If you are unsure of how to correctly manage pool cleaner pressure, contact the experts at Premier Pool Service. We not only offer superior maintenance and pool repairs, we can also install your new pool pressure cleaner, or help you choose the best cleaning options for your backyard swimming retreat.

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The Effects Of A Dog In Your Pool https://premierpoolservice.com/the-effects-of-a-dog-in-your-pool/ https://premierpoolservice.com/the-effects-of-a-dog-in-your-pool/#respond Wed, 29 Jan 2025 15:53:44 +0000 https://premierpoolservice.com/?p=3414 What are the effects of having your dog in the pool?

Having a family pet brings joy and companionship to our lives. Many of us love having our dogs join us in the pool, as it can be a fun and refreshing experience for both humans and canines alike.

However, it’s important to be aware of the effects that having our pets in the pool can have on the water quality. In this post & video, we will discuss some key considerations and measures to ensure a safe and enjoyable swimming experience for both your dog and your family.

Chemical Maintenance for Your Pet’s Safety

While it is generally recommended to keep dogs out of pools, we understand that it may be difficult to prevent them from taking a dip. One crucial aspect to keep in mind is that dogs tend to drink water while swimming.

Therefore, it becomes essential to maintain appropriate chemical levels in the pool to ensure the safety of your furry friend. Regularly check and adjust the pool chemicals to keep the water balanced and safe for your pet.

The Impact of Dog Hair and Oils on Pool Maintenance

One significant effect of having dogs in the pool is the introduction of hair and oils into the water. Dogs naturally have oils on their skin, and their hair can shed while they swim. These substances can accumulate in the pool, leading to clogged skimmer and pump baskets and potentially affecting the pool’s filtration system.

To address this, it may be necessary to clean the filter more frequently and be diligent about removing dog hair from the pool to maintain optimal water flow and prevent damage to the equipment.

Fecal Contamination and Water Quality

Another aspect to consider is the potential for fecal contamination. While it is best to avoid this situation altogether, accidents can happen, and it’s important to address them promptly.

Feces can introduce bacteria and other contaminants into the pool, affecting water quality and potentially causing health issues for both humans and animals. Regularly sanitize and shock the pool water, especially after any incidents, to ensure a safe swimming environment for everyone.

Balancing Pet Enjoyment and Pool Maintenance

While it can be challenging to keep our dogs out of the pool, striking a balance between their enjoyment and pool maintenance is crucial. Remember that our pets are beloved members of the family, and their safety should be a priority.

If you allow your dog in the pool, be prepared to put in the extra effort to keep the water clean and balanced. Regularly monitor and adjust chemical levels, clean the filter, and remove any accumulated hair to maintain a healthy swimming environment.

Can I have my dog in the pool?

Having our family pets in the pool can be a delightful experience, but it’s important to be aware of the effects they can have on water quality. Dog hair, oils, and potential fecal contamination can impact the cleanliness and maintenance of the pool.

By taking necessary precautions such as maintaining chemical levels, cleaning filters regularly, and promptly addressing any accidents, we can ensure a safe and enjoyable swimming environment for both our pets and ourselves. Remember to prioritize your pet’s well-being and strive for a well-balanced pool when allowing them to join in on the fun.

So, next time you let your dog go swimming, keep these considerations in mind and have a great time bonding with your furry friend in the pool.

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What is a chlorine neutralizer? https://premierpoolservice.com/what-is-a-chlorine-neutralizer/ https://premierpoolservice.com/what-is-a-chlorine-neutralizer/#respond Tue, 28 Jan 2025 21:50:43 +0000 https://premierpoolservice.com/?p=3405 What is a pool chlorine neutralizer?

pool with chlorine neutralizer
A chlorine neutralizer is a type of water treatment device that is used to remove chlorine from water. Chlorine is a chemical that is added to water to kill bacteria and other microorganisms. However, chlorine can also be harmful to human health.

Therefore, it is important to remove chlorine from water before drinking it.

There are a variety of different types of chlorine neutralizers on the market. Some use chemical means to remove chlorine from water, while others use physical means. The most effective type of chlorine neutralizer is one that uses a combination of both chemical and physical means.

One popular type of chlorine neutralizer is the carbon filter. Carbon filters work by passing water through a bed of activated carbon. The carbon absorbs the chlorine molecules from the water, leaving behind clean, fresh-tasting water.

Another type of chlorine neutralizer is the reverse osmosis filter. Reverse osmosis filters work by passing water through a semi-permeable membrane. The tiny pores in the membrane allow water molecules to pass through, but they are too small for chlorine molecules to fit through.

As a result, the chlorine is removed from the water, leaving behind clean, fresh-tasting water.

If you are concerned about the amount of chlorine in your tap water, consider investing in a quality chlorine neutralizer. A quality device will remove chlorine without affecting the taste or quality of your tap water.

Pool Chlorine Neutralizer

If you enjoy swimming in your pool but don’t love the harsh chlorine fumes, you may be wondering if there’s a way to reduce the chlorine without sacrificing cleanliness. A pool chlorine neutralizer can be a great solution.

Chlorine is an important part of keeping your pool clean and safe, but it can also be harsh on your skin and eyes. If you’re looking for a way to enjoy your pool without the harshness of chlorine, a pool chlorine neutralizer may be the answer.

A pool chlorine neutralizer is a device that helps to reduce the amount of chlorine in your pool by breaking it down into harmless substances. This can help to make your pool more enjoyable to swim in, as well as being better for your skin and eyes.

There are a few different types of pool chlorine neutralizers on the market, so it’s important to do some research to find the right one for your needs. You’ll also want to make sure that it’s compatible with your type of pool.

Once you’ve found the right pool chlorine neutralizer for your needs, simply follow the instructions on how to use it. Most devices are easy to install and use, and you should see a noticeable difference in the level of chlorine in your pool.

Looking for pool cleaning services? See our locations here or fill out the free quote form below.

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Swimming Pool Bugs Types https://premierpoolservice.com/swimming-pool-bugs-types/ https://premierpoolservice.com/swimming-pool-bugs-types/#respond Tue, 28 Jan 2025 21:42:01 +0000 https://premierpoolservice.com/?p=3397 Types Of Bugs In Swimming Pools

As the weather gets warmer, many of us will be heading to the pool to cool off. But did you know that there are different types of bugs that can also be found in swimming pools? Here is a look at some of the most common swimming pool bugs types and what you can do to prevent them from ruining your fun in the sun.

Water Boatman Pool Bug

Water Boatman (Corixidae)

One of the most common types of swimming pool bugs is the Water Boatman. These small, brown insects are often found near the water’s surface and they can make a loud buzzing noise. Although they are not harmful to humans, they can be a nuisance. To prevent Water Boatmen from getting into your pool, you should make sure that there is no standing water around the perimeter of your pool. You can also try using a insecticide around the edges of your pool.

 

 

backswimmer pool bug

Back Swimmer (Notonectidae)

Another type of bug that you might find in your swimming pool is the Backswimmer. These bugs are larger than Water Boatmen and they are black or dark brown in color. They are

often found near the bottom of swimming pools and they can sting if they come into contact with human skin. To prevent Backswimmers from getting into your pool, you should make sure that there is no standing water around the perimeter of your pool and you should also treat your pool with an insecticide on a regular basis.

 

Springtail (Collembola)

springtail pool bugSpringtails are small, wingless insects that are commonly found in moist environments. Although they are harmless to humans, these pests can be a nuisance when they invade your pool. These tiny insects get their name from the spring-like appendage on their abdomens that allows them to jump long distances. Springtails typically range in size from 1/16 to 1/8 inch long and are dark colored.

While springtails do not bite or sting, their presence can be problematic for homeowners. These pests are attracted to moisture and are often found in damp basements, crawl spaces, kitchens, pools, and bathrooms. When present in large numbers, springtails can cause musty odors and contaminate food sources. In addition, these insects can damage crops and other plants by feeding on them.

 

Predaceous Diving Beetles (Dytiscidae)

Predaceous diving beetles are a type of water beetle that can be found in many ponds, lakes, and pools. They get their name from their diet—they primarily eat other insects, small fish, and tadpoles.

These predators are excellent swimmers and can even walk on the surface of the water. They have a flattened body shape that helps them glide through the water with ease. And their

Predaceous diving beetle pool bug

large, paddle-like legs give them extra propulsion.

Diving beetles are one of the largest groups of aquatic insects. There are more than 4,000 species around the world, including hundreds in North America alone. Many of these species are quite small—less than a half-inch long. But some tropical species can grow to be more than two inches long!

Most diving beetles are dark brown or black in color. But some species sport brightly colored patterns that warn predators to stay away. These flashy colors usually appear on the beetle’s wing covers (elytra).

Diving beetles go through complete metamorphosis, meaning they have four distinct life stages: egg, larva, pupa, and adult. The larvae are often mistaken for small alligators because of their long bodies and sharp teeth. In fact, they’re sometimes called “water tigers”!

The larvae stage is when these predators do most of their hunting. They develop piercing mouthparts that they use to inject venom into prey items such as worms, tadpoles, and small fish. This paralyzes the prey so the larva can swim over and devour it whole. Yum!

Once they’ve reached maturity, adult diving beetles leave the water to mate and lay eggs on land near ponds, pools, and streams. After about two weeks, the eggs hatch and new larvae emerge—starting the cycle all over again!

Water Striders (Gerridae)

Water strider pool bugIf you take a walk near a lake, pond, or your pool, you might see an insect skating across the water’s surface. This insect is called a water strider, and it’s quite a fascinating creature.

Water striders have long legs that are covered in tiny hairs. These hairs help to repel water, so the strider can stay dry while it moves across the surface of the water. The water strider also has a special joint in its legs that allows it to bend its legs forward in a rowing motion. This lets the strider skate quickly across the water’s surface.

Water striders are carnivorous insects, and they prey on other small insects that live in or near water. To catch its prey, the water strider uses its long legs to trap the other insect on the water’s surface. Then, it quickly grabs the other insect with its mouthparts and sucks out its body fluids.

Water striders are usually found near freshwater lakes, ponds, and pools but they can also be found in saltwater marshes and mangrove swamps. They are native to many parts of the world, including Africa, Asia, Australia, and North and South America.

 

Mosquitoes (Culicidae)

As the weather gets warmer, many of us will be looking forward to spending more time outdoors – swimming in our pools, relaxing in our backyards, and enjoying picnics and barbecues with family and friends. But there’s one downside to warmer weather that we can all do without: mosquitoes.

mosquito

These pesky little insects are not only a nuisance, but they can also transmit diseases like West Nile virus. So what can you do to keep mosquitoes out of your swimming pool?

There are a few things you can do to help keep your pool mosquito-free:

• Keep your pool clean and well-maintained. Mosquitoes are attracted to standing water, so it’s important to ensure that your pool is free of any potential breeding grounds. Regularly check for any leaks or puddles around your pool area and repair them immediately. Empty out any kid’s pools or other containers that may hold water when they’re not in use.

• Use a quality mosquito net. If you have an above-ground pool, make sure to cover it with a good mosquito net when it’s not in use. This will help keep the insects from getting into the water and laying their eggs.

• Use mosquito repellent. When you’re using your pool, apply mosquito repellent to your skin and clothes before going outside. You may also want to consider spraying your yard with an insecticide to help keep the mosquitoes at bay.

• Keep the grass short around your pool area. Since mosquitoes like to rest in tall grass, keeping the area around your pool well-trimmed will help discourage them from hanging around.

If you find any type of bug in your swimming pool, you should remove it as soon as possible so that it does not have a chance to lay eggs and multiply. You can use a skimmer to remove any bugs that you find floating on the surface of your pool. For Bugs that are hiding in cracks or crevices around your pool, you can use a small brush to reach them and remove them manually.

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