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# Swim University®: Your Ultimate Guide to DIY Pool Care

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## Posts
- [PoolRx Review for Eliminating Algae](https://www.swimuniversity.com/pool-rx-review/): PoolRx promises cleaner pool water, fewer chemicals, and less algae. But before you spend money on an algae-killing cylinder that lives in your skimmer or pump basket, you probably want to know if it actually delivers.
- [How to Use Soda Ash in a Pool to Raise pH](https://www.swimuniversity.com/soda-ash-pool/): Soda ash is an effective and often cheaper way to raise your pool’s pH. But add it the wrong way, and you'll end up with a pool that looks like a glass of milk. Here's everything you need to know to use soda ash in a pool.
- [Simple Scoop Review: Is It Worth Using for Pool Maintenance?](https://www.swimuniversity.com/simple-scoop-review/): If you’ve ever walked into a pool store and stared down a wall of chemicals, each one promises to solve a different problem. Products like Simple Scoop by Pool Day are betting you'd rather grab one bucket and be done with it. But is it worth it? And will Simple Scoop solve all of your pool problems?
- [Pool Opening Tips to Get Your Pool Ready Fast](https://www.swimuniversity.com/pool-opening-tips/): Opening your pool the right way saves you time and gets you swimming faster. Follow these steps in the correct order, and your water will clear up quickly while your equipment runs smoothly all season long.
- [Pool Plumbing and Anatomy for Beginners](https://www.swimuniversity.com/pool-plumbing/): Do you know how all of your pool plumbing works? Knowing how the water flows through your system and how each valve and pipe operates is critical for proper pool care. And understanding each component will let you troubleshoot issues, like clogged lines and air leaks, before you waste time and money hiring a professional.
- [How to Remove Pollen From Your Pool](https://www.swimuniversity.com/pollen-in-pool/): You wake up in the morning, stretch and then look out at your beautiful, crystal clear water pool. Uh Oh. What is that yellowish tinge floating in the water? You guessed it. That’s pollen. Pollen is just a part of life, and like anyone who has to deal with allergies, pool owners must take a few extra steps to fight off pollen in their pools, especially during those heavier pollen times during the spring and summer months. Luckily, getting rid of that pollen is actually quite easy and won’t take that long, either. Just follow the steps below and you can rid your pool of that unsightly pollen so you can enjoy a swim that is clear and blue and now dusty and yellowy.
- [The Best Pool Supplies You Absolutely Need in 2026](https://www.swimuniversity.com/pool-supplies/): Before you run out to the nearest pool store and plunk down a big ol' chunk of change, make sure you know what pool supplies are actually necessary. You'll save yourself some money, and you'll be ready to take care of your pool like a pro.
- [The Best Pool Alarms To Keep Kids Safe in 2026](https://www.swimuniversity.com/pool-alarm/): Before you open your pool for business, take a moment to think about what safeguards you have in place to keep your friends and family safe. Do you have a pool alarm? According to the CDC, ten people die every day from unintentional drowning. Of those people, two of these are children under the age of 14. Currently, drowning is the fifth leading cause of death in the United States. Children are the most at risk of all the demographics, with children age 1 to 4 ranking highest. Emergency departments are dispatched to deal with five submersion injuries for each child who dies from drowning. With statistics like these, you can't afford not to be protect your pool, and forget about the liability risks, your child could become one of those statistics if you are not very careful. That is why a pool alarm is a must have for any pool owner, and many states even have laws requiring pool owners to install an alarm.
- [The Best Pool Thermometers in 2026](https://www.swimuniversity.com/pool-thermometer/): Here are the best digital pool thermometers on the market today. Keeping an eye on your pool temperature can save you money using a pool heater too.
- [How to Shock a Pool The Right Way](https://www.swimuniversity.com/pool-shock/): Want to learn how to shock a pool? Watch this video and follow along with these easy steps to successfully shock your swimming pool.
- [The Best Solar Heaters for Above Ground Pools in 2026](https://www.swimuniversity.com/solar-heater-above-ground-pools/): The right solar pool heater for your above ground pool needs to be effective, energy-efficient, and take little to no money to heat your water.
- [The Best Above Ground Pool Vacuums For 2026](https://www.swimuniversity.com/above-ground-pool-cleaners/): Got an above ground pool and looking for an automatic cleaner? Check out what we ranked as the 10 best above ground automatic pool cleaners for your pool.
- [The Best Salt Water System for Above Ground Pools in 2026](https://www.swimuniversity.com/above-ground-salt-water-system/): Salt water above ground pools are usually easier to maintain and use fewer chemicals than traditional chlorine pools. Whether you want to convert your existing pool or add a salt water system to a new pool, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- [The Best Automatic Pool Timers in 2026](https://www.swimuniversity.com/pool-timer/): Sure, you could turn your filter system on and off yourself, so they use less electricity. Or you could save yourself time, money, and hassle by getting an automatic pool timer. It keeps your pool running on a regular schedule so your water stays clean without creating outrageous electricity bills. And you won't have to lift a finger.
- [Best Gas Pool Heaters in 2026](https://www.swimuniversity.com/best-gas-pool-heater/): Choosing the best gas heater for your pool means taking several factors into consideration: your pool size, your climate, and how long you want to extend your swim season. But beyond that, you also need to think about which kind of gas to use, how easy it is to install the heater, and whether it can be used with an above ground pool or inground pool. And a good gas heater should be powerful and have a decent warranty from a reputable brand.
- [How to Clean a Hot Tub in Less Than 24 Hours](https://www.swimuniversity.com/clean-hot-tub/): You may spend countless hours carefully managing your hot tub’s water, but that doesn’t mean that you ever think much about the plumbing. Those hidden pipes often go ignored as you use your hot tub day in and day out. Over time, your hot tub’s plumbing can become coated with slime, sludge and grime that can contaminate your water supply and even make you sick! It is important to periodically flush out and clean your hot tub plumbing if you want to make sure your water quality is always at its best so you can enjoy your hot tub safely whenever you are ready to take a dip in the warm, soothing waters. But how do you do it? After all, pipes aren’t as easy to get to as the water and shell of your hot tub. Let’s take a look at how you can easily clean your hot tub’s plumbing so your water is always at its best.
- [Pool Stain Removal That Actually Works](https://www.swimuniversity.com/pool-stains/): To address this problem, the source of pool stains must be identified, and the appropriate solution introduced as soon as possible. Follow along here.
- [Above Ground Pool Chemicals: How to Balance Your Water](https://www.swimuniversity.com/above-ground-pool-chemicals/): Did you know you should be adjusting the pH and chlorine in your above ground pool at least once a week? These levels fluctuate the most in your water. And when they’re off, it can lead to algae growth, eye irritation, and even damage your pool equipment and plumbing.
- [How to Add Chlorine to a Pool (Tablets, Granules, Liquid)](https://www.swimuniversity.com/add-chlorine-pool/): Whether you’re using tablets, granules, or liquid chlorine, you need to add chlorine to your pool about once a week. But how you add it depends on the type of chlorine you’re using. So here’s a quick guide on how to add chlorine to your pool. Let’s dive in.
- [CYA Levels Low? Here’s How To Raise Cyanuric Acid in a Pool](https://www.swimuniversity.com/raise-cyanuric-acid/): Cyanuric acid, or CYA, is also known as pool conditioner or pool stabilizer. And it's crucial for protecting your chlorine from being destroyed by the sun’s UV rays. So if your CYA levels are too low, your chlorine won't last as long. And that leads to unsanitary pool water.
- [How Much of Each Chemical to Add to Your Pool](https://www.swimuniversity.com/how-much-pool-chemicals/): You know you should be adding chemicals to your pool. But exactly how much do you need to add? For example, it only takes about half a pound of pH Decreaser or a gallon of liquid chlorine to balance a 10,000-gallon pool. But the dosing depends on the size of your pool and your current chemistry levels. So here’s a quick guide on how much of each pool chemical you need to add to your water.
- [How to Lower pH in a Pool Quickly with These Common Chemicals](https://www.swimuniversity.com/lower-ph-pool/): Is the pH in your pool too high? If the levels stay high for too long, you might notice itchy eyes and skin, cloudy water, algae growth, and even damaged pool parts. So you'll need to add some pool chemicals ASAP to bring your pH back down to normal levels. There are two ways to lower pH in a pool: pH decreaser (sodium bisulfate) or muriatic acid.
- [How to Raise Free Chlorine Levels in a Pool](https://www.swimuniversity.com/raise-free-chlorine/): If your free chlorine level is lower than 1 part per million (or ppm), then you need to take action to raise your chlorine levels. Chlorine levels at or below 1 ppm mean your pool water isn't sanitized, which can lead to algae growth and bacteria build-up.
- [How to Balance the Calcium Hardness Level in Your Pool](https://www.swimuniversity.com/calcium-hardness-pool/): I’m sure you have heard the term hard water thrown around by plumbers or even on television during the commercial breaks for your favorite shows. But have you ever taken the time to learn what is and how it can impact your plumbing in your house and, more importantly, your pool? I didn’t think so. Maintaining the proper calcium hardness level in your pool is essentially to you maintaining proper water quality and reducing the chances of your water corroding the plumbing in your pool or causing a scaling build up on the surface of your pool.
- [How to Backwash a Pool Filter](https://www.swimuniversity.com/backwash-pool-filter/): Backwashing is the act of cleaning your filter after it's collected dirt and debris from your pool. It works by sending pool water backwards through your filter and out the waste or drain port. In this guide, I'll teach you the steps to successfully backwashing a DE filter, and how often you should be doing this. First, let's start with how to backwash a DE filter.
- [How Much Chlorine Should I Add to My Pool?](https://www.swimuniversity.com/how-much-pool-chlorine/): How much chlorine does your pool need? Usually, it only takes a few tablets or a cup of granules to keep your water sanitized. But it all depends on the size of your pool and what type of chlorine you buy.
- [The Best Variable Speed Pool Pumps in 2026](https://www.swimuniversity.com/variable-speed-pool-pumps/): If you've been considering buying a variable-speed pool pump, you've probably heard it could save you money on energy costs. But maybe you're still not sure the potential savings are worth the pump's price tag.
- [The Best Hot Tub Vacuums in 2026](https://www.swimuniversity.com/hot-tub-vacuum/): A hot tub vacuum is a must-have tool for getting dirt, sand, leaves, and other debris out of your spa. There are three types of spa vacuums: battery-operated vacuums, rechargeable vacuums, and manual vacuums (which rely on suction or pumping).
- [How to Clear Cloudy Pool Water (in 48 Hours or Less)](https://www.swimuniversity.com/cloudy-pool-water/): Got cloudy pool water? We'll teach you a few methods on how to clear your cloudy swimming pool as quickly as possible.
- [Stabilized vs. Unstabilized Chlorine: What’s the Difference?](https://www.swimuniversity.com/unstabilized-chlorine/): If you are a new pool owner, chances are all these different chemicals you have to buy and use are pretty confusing. One of the first things you will be looking for is chlorine to clean your pool, only to find that there are two different types - stabilized chlorine and unstabilized chlorine. Okay so two choices don't really seem that bad. But do you know the difference between these two types of chlorine and when you should use them? If you are a new pool owner, I'm betting that you don't. Today, let's take a few minutes to examine the differences between stabilized and unstabilized chlorine so you know which one you should be using in your pool
- [Pool Flocculant: How Does It Work and Is It Better Than Pool Clarifier?](https://www.swimuniversity.com/pool-flocculant/): When your pool is cloudy and you want to get it clear again, you have to make a choice whether to use a clarifier or a flocculant. Find out about both and choose wisely.
- [Salt Water Pool vs Chlorine Pool: Which is Better?](https://www.swimuniversity.com/salt-water-pool-vs-chlorine-pool/): If you’ve been thinking about switching to a salt water pool, the salt water pool vs. chlorine pool debate is important to explore. They have a lot in common, since both types of pools use chlorine to sanitize the water and both need similar general care like weekly testing and cleaning. The difference is how the chlorine gets made and a few other maintenance needs, like cleaning a salt cell and keeping high pH and calcium hardness levels in check.
- [How to Clean a Pool Salt Cell](https://www.swimuniversity.com/cleaning-pool-salt-cell/): Regularly cleaning your pool salt cell keeps your salt water generator running smoothly and producing enough chlorine to keep your water sanitized. Skip it, and calcium scale quietly builds up on the titanium plates until your generator can barely do its job.
- [What’s in a Pool Opening Kit?](https://www.swimuniversity.com/pool-opening-kit/): A pool opening kit has the essential chemicals you need to balance your water and get it swim-ready after winter. But before you add anything to the water, you need to know which chemicals are necessary, which are optional, and whether a pre-packaged pool opening kit is actually worth buying.
- [How to Remove Calcium Buildup on Pool Tile](https://www.swimuniversity.com/remove-calcium-buildup-on-pool-tile/): That white, chalky buildup on your pool tile is calcium scale, and it's one of the most common pool problems (even in a well-maintained pool).
- [Salt Water Pool Maintenance 101: How to Keep it Clean and Clear](https://www.swimuniversity.com/salt-water-pool-maintenance/): There are a few key differences between salt water pool maintenance and traditional chlorine pool maintenance. While you still need to keep your water balanced and circulating properly like a normal pool, you'll need to pay extra attention to things like high pH levels and calcium build-up in your saltwater generator.
- [The Best Robotic Pool Cleaners in 2026](https://www.swimuniversity.com/robotic-pool-cleaners/): Looking for the best robotic cleaner for your swimming pool? Look no further then our EPIC list of, what we consider, are the 10 best robotic pool cleaners.
- [The Best Pool Test Kit For Saltwater Pool Owners in 2026](https://www.swimuniversity.com/pool-test-kit-for-saltwater-pool/): Your salt water generator has a built-in salinity display, but a dirty salt sensor or low water temperature can throw off the numbers. Salt water pools are also notorious for chronically high pH and sensitivity to high calcium hardness levels. So what’s the best test kit to keep your salt water pool balanced and sanitized?
- [How to Convert Your Chlorine Pool to Salt Water](https://www.swimuniversity.com/salt-water-pool-conversion/): Converting a chlorine pool to salt water is easier than most people think. A balanced chlorine pool is ready to become a salt water pool once you install the salt water generator and add salt (no draining required). Once you convert, salt water pools are easier to maintain, gentler on your skin and eyes, and don't produce that harsh chlorine smell.
- [How to Drain a Hot Tub Quickly (3 Simple Steps)](https://www.swimuniversity.com/drain-hot-tub/): You should drain and clean your hot tub every 3 - 4 months. I'll teach you how to drain and clean a hot tub properly with just a few steps.
- [The Best Solar Pool Covers in 2026](https://www.swimuniversity.com/solar-pool-covers/): A solar cover can raise and hold your pool's water temperature by 10 to 15 degrees Fahrenheit. It'll also reduce your energy costs, water evaporation, and chemical needs.
- [14 Pool Cleaning Hacks That Save Money](https://www.swimuniversity.com/pool-cleaning-hacks/): I compiled every money saving pool tip I've given to customers over the years. I also included 2 bonus tips. Check them out and supply your own!
- [How to Add Muriatic Acid In Your Pool (to Lower pH and Alkalinity)](https://www.swimuniversity.com/muriatic-acid/): Muriatic acid is a cheap way to lower your pool’s alkalinity and pH. And you can also use it to clean your pool filters (cartridge and D.E.) and concrete surfaces. But adding an acid to your pool can be dangerous if it's not done safely.
- [Cyanuric Acid: Why Your Pool Needs It and How To Balance It](https://www.swimuniversity.com/cyanuric-acid/): You may have heard the term pool stabilizers or pool conditioners thrown around a lot while visiting your local pool shop. How many of you pool owners out there know what that means? Pool conditioners and stabilizers are made up of cyanuric acid and work with the chlorine to make it more effective in cleaning your water properly. One problem many pool owners face is an excess of cyanuric acid levels in their pools. Just like any chemical in your pool, too much is never a good thing, and you must take the steps necessary to bring these levels down to normal in order to maintain top quality water in your pool.
- [How to Protect Your Chlorine Level with Pool Stabilizer](https://www.swimuniversity.com/pool-stabilizer/): Cyanuric Acid (aka Chlorine Stabilizer) is a pool chemical that protects the chlorine from being eaten up by the sun, which can happen at 1ppm every hour.
- [The Best Pool Shock for Salt Water Pools](https://www.swimuniversity.com/pool-shock-for-salt-water-pools/): Not every pool shock is safe for your salt water pool. Using the wrong one can cause calcium buildup in your salt cell and shorten the life of your salt water generator.
- [How To Raise Your Pool’s Alkalinity with Baking Soda](https://www.swimuniversity.com/baking-soda-in-pool/): Here’s a secret for pool owners. Some brands of alkalinity increaser have just one active ingredient: sodium bicarbonate. Well, guess what? Sodium bicarbonate is baking soda.
- [Pool Volume Calculator (For All Shapes and Sizes)](https://www.swimuniversity.com/pool-calculator/): Do you need to figure out the water capacity of your pool? Just enter your pool’s measurements into our pool volume calculator below. 👇
- [Pool Salt Calculator: How Much Salt to Add to Your Pool](https://www.swimuniversity.com/pool-salt-calculator/): Knowing how much salt to add to your pool is crucial to keeping your saltwater pool chlorinated and your chlorine generator running properly. If your salt levels get too low, your generator won’t produce enough chlorine to keep your pool sanitized (or it'll stop running altogether). But if your salinity gets too high, you risk damaging your pool’s equipment and surfaces. Use our pool salt calculator below. 👇
- [When To Open Your Pool in 2026 (Based On Where You Live)](https://www.swimuniversity.com/when-to-open-pool/): You should open your pool when the outside daytime temperature stays consistently above 70 degrees Fahrenheit (or 21 degrees Celsius). 70 degrees is still a little too cold to go swimming, but it’s not too cold for algae.

## Pages
- [Swim University Live](https://www.swimuniversity.com/live/)
- [Terms of Service Agreement](https://www.swimuniversity.com/terms/): Last Updated: September 15, 2025
- [Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Data](https://www.swimuniversity.com/data/): We use your personal and personally identifiable information to provide our services to you, to customize our services to your preferences and requests, to communicate with you, and to provide you with interest-based advertising. When we provide you with interest-based advertising or utilize third-party service providers, this use may be considered a “sharing” or “sale” of personal or personally identifiable information under the California Consumer Privacy Act or other applicable data privacy acts.
- [Privacy Notice](https://www.swimuniversity.com/privacy/): Last Updated: September 2, 2025
- [The Pool Care App by Swim University®](https://www.swimuniversity.com/app/)
- [Pool Care Plan Landing Page](https://www.swimuniversity.com/pool-plan-lander/)
- [Hot Tub Podcast](https://www.swimuniversity.com/hot-tub-podcast/)
- [Pool Podcast](https://www.swimuniversity.com/pool-podcast/)
- [Pool Money Course](https://www.swimuniversity.com/pool-money-course/)
- [Pool Hot Tub Course Bundle](https://www.swimuniversity.com/pool-hot-tub-course-bundle/)
- [Pool Course Bundle](https://www.swimuniversity.com/pool-course-bundle/)
- [Pool Winterization Course](https://www.swimuniversity.com/pool-winterization-course/)
- [MSDS Product Safety Info](https://www.swimuniversity.com/msds/): At Swim University®, we prioritize not only the quality of our products but also the safety and well-being of our customers and the environment. That's why we provide comprehensive safety data sheets (SDS) for all our pool and hot tub chemicals. These sheets are a testament to our commitment to transparency and social responsibility, ensuring that every user has access to crucial safety information.
Our safety data sheets are meticulously crafted to meet and exceed the standards set by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) under its Hazard Communication Standards. They serve as an essential resource for professionals in transport and manufacturing, offering detailed guidance on handling, storage, and emergency measures related to our products.
However, the utility of these SDS sheets extends far beyond professional settings. They are an invaluable tool for our customers, providing in-depth insights into the composition of our chemicals, potential hazards, and safe usage guidelines. This information is crucial for homeowners, pool maintenance professionals, and anyone involved in the handling and application of pool and hot tub chemicals.
By consulting our SDS, users can learn about: Chemical Properties: Understanding the basic characteristics of each chemical, including its appearance, odor, and potential reactivity. Safe Handling Practices: Guidelines on how to safely store, handle, and use the chemicals to prevent accidents and ensure safety. First Aid Measures: Critical information on immediate steps to be taken in case of accidental exposure or ingestion, providing an extra layer of safety. Environmental Precautions: Information on how to minimize environmental impact, aligning with our commitment to sustainability and ecological responsibility. Regulatory Information: Details on compliance with local, state, and federal regulations, ensuring that users are up-to-date with legal requirements. Our safety data sheets are not just documents; they are a part of our pledge to ensure a safe, enjoyable, and responsible experience for all our users. We encourage everyone, from casual pool owners to seasoned professionals, to familiarize themselves with these sheets. It’s a step towards a safer, more informed approach to pool and hot tub maintenance.
At Swim University®, your safety is our priority, and through these SDS sheets, we aim to empower you with knowledge and peace of mind. For any further questions or clarifications, our dedicated team is always here to assist you.
Pool Chemicals Fast Floc Safety Data Sheet Weekly Clarifier Safety Data Sheet Hot Tub Chemicals Detox Safety Data Sheet Weekly Cleanse Safety Data Sheet Filter Cleanse Safety Data Sheet
- [The Salt Water Pool Care Cheat Sheet](https://www.swimuniversity.com/salt-water-pool-cheat-sheet/)
- [The Pool Care Cheat Sheet](https://www.swimuniversity.com/pool-care-cheat-sheet/)
- [The Hot Tub Cheat Sheet](https://www.swimuniversity.com/hot-tub-cheat-sheet/)
- [Quick Start Guides](https://www.swimuniversity.com/guides/): How to Use Pool Water Clarifier How to use Fast Floc How to use our Hot Tub Products to Drain and Clean Your Hot Tub
- [Shipping & Refund Policy](https://www.swimuniversity.com/shipping-refunds/): All orders are processed within one business day after receiving your order confirmation email. You will receive another notification when your order has shipped.
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- [About Swim University](https://www.swimuniversity.com/about/)
- [Mobile Application End User License Agreement and Terms of Use](https://www.swimuniversity.com/disclosures/): Last Updated: September 2, 2025
- [Brand Assets](https://www.swimuniversity.com/brand/)
- [Search](https://www.swimuniversity.com/find/)

## Updates
- [New Help Buttons and Notifications](https://www.swimuniversity.com/update/help-buttons-and-notifications/): Stay informed with new notifications and get expert pool care answers right when you need them with our built-in help buttons.
- [Smart Weather Widget](https://www.swimuniversity.com/update/smart-weather-widget/): Your pool dashboard just got a whole lot smarter! We've added real-time weather tracking with personalized care tips that help you stay ahead of Mother Nature. Now you'll know exactly when the sun will burn through your chlorine, when rain might throw off your water level, or when windy days mean you'll need to skim out extra debris.
- [Track Your Pool Chemical Treatments](https://www.swimuniversity.com/update/track-your-treatments/): Keeping track of which chemicals you've already added to your pool just got a whole lot easier. This update introduces a treatment checklist that lets you mark off each step as you go, so you never have to wonder, "Wait, did I already add that?"
- [Chemical Warning Buffers](https://www.swimuniversity.com/update/chemical-warning-buffers/): Your pool chemicals aren't always perfectly in range, and that's okay. Not every slightly off reading means you need to grab a bucket of chemicals. This update makes The Pool Care App smarter about knowing the difference.
- [Target Chemical Ranges](https://www.swimuniversity.com/update/target-chemical-ranges/): Ever find yourself flipping back and forth between screens just to remember what your free chlorine should be? Yeah, we fixed that. Version 2.2 is all about making it faster and simpler to log your water test results and get back to enjoying your pool.
- [Custom Pool Chemical Ranges](https://www.swimuniversity.com/update/custom-chemical-ranges/): This update brings one of our most requested features: the ability to set your own custom chemical ranges. Plus, we've smoothed out the salt reading slider and made some performance improvements under the hood.