Mud Slingers Pool & Patio
Mud Slingers Pool & Patio

BLOG

How To Properly Open A Pool

Pool season is here and while many open their pools as early as March, Memorial Weekend is symbolically the start of pool season. Opening your pool properly will determine how quickly you and your family will enjoy the pool and will help you avoid potential problems such as chemical imbalance and improper filtration. Below are some key steps to properly opening your pool.
1. Clear or remove your pool cover. If you have an automatic cover you should have been keeping it clear of debris and making sure your pump off all the water prior to trying to operate the automatic cover. If you use a winter cover, remove the cover and store for the pool season. If you do not own an automatic pool cover you should consider a solar cover or other to help keep you pool warm and free from debris.
2. Retrieve all of your stored pool parts out of storage such as: return eyeballs,  o-rings, and  gaskets.
3. Check your equipment:

  • Heater – Just like your home heating system you will want to have your gas pool heater or electric heat pump serviced and ready for the season.
  • Filter – Whatever type of filter you use we recommend examining filter media to make sure it’s clean for maximum filtration. Consider having your filter cleaned professionally when you close or upon opening. Your family will appreciate clean water.
  • Pump – Examine all the wires to ensure no damage, place basket in pump housing and to prevent dry rot and help with a better seal use petroleum jelly or magic lube on gasket before installing (this is also recommended for all o-rings and rubber gaskets).
  • Automation – If your pool is equipped with this option reinstall the ORP and Ph probes. Note:  You should always store inside your house through the winter to prevent freezing.
  • The chlorine generator should be checked on the inside to see if the grids are clean. If they are not clean, use a 50/50 muriatic muriatic muriatic and water mixture to clean.

4. Install the pool return eyeballs, pump, and skimmer baskets.
5. Make sure pool water level is at proper level – middle to upper middle of skimmer.
6. Prime the pump prior to operating. Once everything has been checked and installed, simply fill the pump basket with water.
6. Add chemicals – typically chlorine shock, algaecide, salt, stain and scale preventer.  Your initial chemical composition will vary depending the type of pool that you are running and current levels in the water. Don’t experiment with this.

  • Chlorine pool – with a standard chlorine pool you will need test your water chemistry at least once a week (possibly more with extreme heat conditions) and add the necessary chemicals.
  • Automated pools – you will need to recheck the water within a few days after pool has been circulating to check the reading. Then set all of your levels to your preferred setting and your done for the season.

7. Sweep and brush as needed or use a robotic cleaner (just put in water as needed and it does the work for you). For pools with a lot of large debris, vacuuming on “waste” will  bypass the filter to avoid extra filter cleaning.
8. Monitor the seals, gaskets, o-rings, gauges and fittings closely for the first couple days for leaks.
Opening your pool is a good time to think about converting to a salt water pool. Salt water pools have many advantages including being better for your skin and less irritation on the eyes.
Your pool really is a relatively simple system, however, like anything with pumps and motors, proper maintenance and operation are key. Many chose to have their pools professionally opened and maintained to ensure that everything is functioning properly and to help extend the life of your equipment. We offer many options for opening, closing, and maintaining your pool. Ask about our Mud Club VIP program.
 
 



Hello world!

Welcome to WordPress. This is your first post. Edit or delete it, then start writing!



Keep These Plants Nearby to Ward Off Bugs This Pool Season
Nothing is worse than the moment you’re trying to enjoy your pool and are constantly bothered by bugs. Sure there are bug repellants, but there are other more natural alternatives to keep them away for good.
To get a head start, go to your nearest garden shop and look for these plants that repel bugs spiders, mosquitoes, flies, ticks and more.
  • Lemongrass
  • Mint
  • Basil
  • Rosemary
  • Sage
  • Catnip
  • Bay leaves
  • Lemon Balm
Not only will these plants keep bugs away but they will also enhance your outdoor pool space. Check out our other blogs here.


Ask Us: What Are Some Signs That My Pool Has Too Much Chlorine?
Most pools you’re familiar with contain chlorine – and for good reasons. Chlorine can help rid the pool of infections by keeping the water clean but too much can cause health-related problems. Chlorine is a very strong chemical and when found in high concentration, it can cause skin irritations and burning in addition to breathing problems.
The question then becomes, how do you get the right balance to keep your pool clean without harming swimmers?
Here are some signs your pool has too much chlorine:
  • Burning and itchy eyes
  • Skin irritation
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Other asthma-like symptoms
You’ll want to test your chlorine levels using strips or liquid drops to make sure you have a true chlorine problem.
Need help? Give us a call at (317) 650 – 5131.


Pros and Cons of Having a Pool Installed Versus Purchasing a Home with a Pool
When thinking about a pool for yourself or for your family, it is strictly a personal choice. Some house hunters won’t look at homes that do not come with a pool. Others buy their dream home and then later decide to have a pool installed. So which is best for you?
Here are a few points to keep in mind before you make your next move:
  • If you fall in love with a home that has a pool, but you never considered a pool, make sure you will use it and learn to care for it
  • Buying a pool with a home already installed will likely take some time for you to learn how the equipment works. If it’s been installed for many years, some updates may be needed
  • People who decide to have a pool installed have more time  to plan where the pool will go and what equipment they will need to care for it
  • Those who plan for a pool installation can customize their pool exactly how they want it
Whatever you decide, you can look to Mud Slingers for equipment recommendations and pool installations. Give us a call at (317) 650 – 5131.


Four Tips for Opening Your Pool
Spring has officially sprung, and now is the time to begin your pool opening process. There are a few things you can do ahead of time to make your opening run smoothly.
Here are a few tips to consider:
  1. Get right to the deck: Before you actually take a peek at your pool, look at the surroundings. Your pool deck may need a good scrub. Check for bushes and plants that may have grown too close to the pool.
  2. Check your tools: Do you need to purchase new tools and pool chemicals? If you don’t, make sure to check all expiration dates on bottles and containers.
  3. Inspect the pool: Check underwater lights, the filter, pump, tile and anything else on your list that may or may not have been damaged from the winter season.
  4. Test the water: Before adding any chemicals you think your pool may need, make sure to test the water first.
These tips are just a handful to consider in conjunction with your normal pool opening routine. If you find yourself with more questions, give us a call at (317) 650-5131 and we would be happy to help you open your pool.

 



Ask Us: What’s The Best Way To Clear Snow From My Pool Cover?
It’s finally feeling like winter, so of course, we’ve been getting snow. What is the best way to remove snow from the top of my pool’s cover?
It’s great that you are being proactive by looking for solutions to a pool problem like this one. Leaving snow on top of your pool cover for long periods of time can cause more issues than you’ll want. Heavy snow is known for stretching pool covers and even ripping them. In addition, those who do not remove the snow could be left with water to remove later.
The great thing is, it isn’t that difficult to remove the snow from your pool cover even if you don’t have expensive equipment.
The easiest way to remove the snow involves a broom with a long handle. Many pool owners likely have one and it can for sure come in handy during the winter months. If your area has continuous snow, you’ll want to keep the broom nearby to clear off the cover to keep the snow from accumulating.
Whatever you do, make sure you don’t use a shovel or any other sharp objects that could damage your cover.
Want to learn more about caring for your pool, give us a call at (317) 650-5131.


Ask Us: How Many Types of Pool Pumps Are On the Market And How Do I Choose One?

How many types of pool pumps are on the market and how do I choose which one is best for me?
That’s a great question because having the correct pump for your pool can make all the difference in how much you need to maintain your water.
Here are the three main types of pumps:

  • Single-speed pump: Offers one speed and is usually controlled by a timer. While the timer does the work for you, there isn’t an option to lower the speed to save energy costs.
  • Two-speed pump: Has a high speed and low-speed switch that can help you control energy costs.
  • Variable-speed pumps: Allows you to change the flow rate of the water.

We recommend in-ground equipment from Hayward.
Have more questions about pool pumps, give us a call at (317) 650-5131.



Five Reasons to Get a Pool in 2019
As the weather gets cooler and the year winds down, you may be thinking about your wants for 2019. Is a swimming pool on that list? We hope so!
Now is the perfect time to think about and take action on purchasing a pool that will be ready by summer. Here are five reasons to make your pool purchase:
  • Build family memories: Whether it’s a pool party of a lazy afternoon in the sun, a pool is the perfect place to gather around.
  • Great form of exercise: You can skip the gym and use your pool as a low-impact form of exercise.
  • It’s your vacation spot: When you’ve had a long day at work, your pool will be the place you’ll want to unwind.
  • Make a good impression: When selling your home, potential buyers could be truly impressed by your pool amenity and which could help close the deal.
  • It’s great for your kids: Teens will want to hang out with their friends (which means they’ll be closer to home) and kids will play until they tire out.
Need a little more convincing? Call us at 317-650-5131.


What Should We Look For When Buying A Home With A Pool?

My family is looking to buy a home soon with a pool in the backyard. What are some items we should look for during the process?

We’re excited to hear your family is interested in purchasing a new home (and pool). Many homeowners believe pools add value to their property and provide an outdoor space for families to make memories. 

While you’re on the hunt, here are a few things to ask:

– What was the estimate monthly maintenance charge for the pool?

– How old is the pool?

– When was the last time the pool has been cleaned/maintained?

– Is a pool fence required for safety?

Additionally, once you’ve discovered a home you’d like to put an offer on, you’ll want to find an inspector familiar with pool maintenance. 



How To Use Swimming As A Form of Exercise
If you’re going to carve out time to exercise, why not make it as enjoyable as possible? Owning a swimming pool can have great benefits for your health if you choose to utilize it for low impact exercises.
Even if you only find yourself dipping into your pool once a week for a quick workout session, it could increase your strength and clarity.
Here are a few benefits of swimming to better your physical health according to Swimming.org:
  • Swimming can give you a full body workout
  • Great way to destress as many believe the water has a calming effect
  • A gentle swim can burn as many as 200 calories in 30 minutes
  • Lowers the risk of cardiovascular disease
  • Increase energy levels
  • A form of exercise that doesn’t require much sweating



Archives


HAVE QUESTIONS? TALK TO THE EXPERTS!