Pool Owner Help Center

How often should a swimming pool be professionally maintained?

Most residential pools should be professionally serviced once a week. During each visit, a technician tests and balances the water chemistry, brushes walls and steps, vacuums debris, empties baskets, inspects equipment, and ensures the filtration system is operating properly. Regular maintenance helps prevent algae, extends equipment life, and keeps the water safe for swimming.

What is included in weekly pool maintenance?

A standard maintenance visit typically includes:

• Water testing and chemical balancing

• Skimming leaves and debris

• Emptying skimmer and pump baskets

• Brushing walls, steps, and tile

• Vacuuming or checking the pool cleaner

• Inspecting the pump, filter, heater, and automation

• Backwashing or cleaning filters when needed

• Equipment inspection for leaks or unusual wear

Every pool is different, so service plans can be customized based on usage, weather, and equipment.

How often should pool water be tested?

Pool water should ideally be tested two to three times per week by homeowners and professionally verified during every maintenance visit. Keeping water chemistry balanced helps protect swimmers while preventing damage to plaster, tile, pumps, heaters, and other equipment.

Why is my pool turning green?

Green water is almost always caused by algae growth. This typically happens because chlorine levels are too low, water circulation is poor, filtration is inadequate, or recent storms introduced contaminants. A professional can determine the cause and restore clear water quickly.

Why is my pool cloudy?

Cloudy water can result from poor filtration, improper chemical balance, algae beginning to develop, high calcium hardness, or excessive swimmer use. Testing the water and inspecting the filtration system is the first step toward correcting the problem.

Leak Detection

How do I know if my pool has a leak?

Some common warning signs include:

• Water level dropping faster than normal

• Wet spots around the pool

• Cracks in decking

• Air bubbles in return lines

• Higher water bills

• Constant need to refill the pool

• Equipment losing prime

• Soil erosion around the pool

Professional leak detection equipment can pinpoint leaks without unnecessary demolition.

How much water loss is normal?

Most pools naturally lose about 1/8 to 1/4 inch of water per day due to evaporation. During hot Texas summers, this may increase slightly. Losing more than half an inch daily often indicates a leak.

How do professionals find pool leaks?

Modern leak detection uses specialized equipment including:

• Electronic listening devices

• Pressure testing

• Dye testing

• Plumbing isolation tests

• Underwater inspections

• Sonar and hydrophone technology

• Camera inspections of underground plumbing

These methods allow technicians to locate leaks accurately while minimizing damage to your property.

Can you find underground plumbing leaks?

Yes. Underground plumbing leaks can usually be located through pressure testing and electronic leak detection equipment without extensive excavation.

Can a pool leak cause foundation problems?

Yes. A long-term underground leak can saturate surrounding soil, potentially leading to erosion or foundation movement over time. Detecting and repairing leaks early helps prevent costly structural damage.

How long does a leak detection service take?

Most residential leak detection appointments take between two and four hours depending on pool size, plumbing complexity, and accessibility.

Pool Equipment

Why is my pool pump making loud noises?

Unusual noises may indicate:

• Worn bearings

• Cavitation

• Air leaks

• Loose impellers

• Debris inside the pump

• Motor failure

Ignoring these symptoms can lead to more expensive repairs.

How long should a pool pump last?

A quality pool pump generally lasts between 8 and 12 years with proper maintenance.

When should I replace my pool filter?

Cartridge filters typically last 2–4 years, while sand and DE filters can last significantly longer when maintained properly.

How often should filters be cleaned?

• Cartridge filters: every 3–6 months

• DE filters: 1–2 times per year

• Sand filters: backwash as needed and replace sand every 5–7 years

Why is my pool losing pressure?

Low pressure may be caused by clogged filters, suction leaks, dirty baskets, plumbing restrictions, or failing equipment.

Water Chemistry

What should my pool's pH be?

The ideal pH range is between 7.4 and 7.6, providing comfortable water while maximizing chlorine effectiveness.

What chlorine level is recommended?

Most residential pools should maintain 1–3 ppm of free chlorine.

Why do my eyes burn after swimming?

Eye irritation is often caused by improper water balance or chloramines rather than excessive chlorine.

Can too much chlorine damage my pool?

Yes. Excessive chlorine can fade liners, damage equipment, deteriorate pool covers, and shorten the life of pool finishes.

Pool Repairs

What are common pool repairs?

Some of the most common repairs include:

• Pump replacement

• Filter replacement

• Heater repairs

• Valve replacement

• PVC plumbing repairs

• Pool light replacement

• Leak repairs

• Automation troubleshooting

• Salt system repairs

• Skimmer repairs

Can pool equipment be repaired instead of replaced?

Often yes. Many equipment issues can be repaired if diagnosed early, saving homeowners money.

Texas Pool Questions

How often should pools be serviced in Houston?

Houston's heat, humidity, rainfall, and long swimming season make weekly professional service the recommended maintenance schedule for most pools.

Does heavy rain affect pool chemistry?

Yes. Rainwater can dilute chlorine, alter pH, and introduce debris and contaminants into the pool.

Do I need to run my pool after a storm?

Yes. Running the circulation system helps mix chemicals, remove debris, and prevent algae from developing.

Should I cover my pool during winter?

Many Houston homeowners keep pools open year-round, but using a cover can reduce debris, evaporation, and chemical consumption.

AquaMD Questions

Why choose AquaMD?

AquaMD provides professional pool maintenance, leak detection, equipment repairs, and water care with an emphasis on honest recommendations, accurate diagnostics, and dependable service. Our goal is to help homeowners spend less time worrying about their pools and more time enjoying them.

Do you offer free estimates?

Many repair and maintenance services include free estimates. Leak detection services require specialized testing, so pricing depends on the scope of the inspection.

What areas do you service?

We proudly serve homeowners throughout the Greater Houston area, including Tomball, Cypress, Spring, The Woodlands, Magnolia, Katy, Jersey Village, Sugar Land, Richmond, Fulshear, Missouri City, Pearland, and surrounding communities.

How do I schedule service?

Simply contact AquaMD through our website, call our office, or complete our online service request form. We'll help determine the best service for your pool and schedule a convenient appointment.