Pools & Hot Tubs Frequently Asked Questions

Why does the water in my pool look worse after it was opened?

After sitting dormant all winter, it is impossible to predict how any pool will react to initial start-up. Dust, organic matter in decay, pollen on the cover, etc… are a few components of swimming pool water that hasn’t been chemically treated or filtered for months. A properly functioning filter and chemical treatment usually clears up in even the worst pools in 3-5 days.

Why is my heater dripping and feel as if it is not heating the water?

It is common for heaters to create heavy amounts of condensation as thousands of gallons of cold water pass through super-heated heat exchanger tubes. Small fittings on heaters will initially leak but will then seal themselves as warmer temperatures cause parts to expand. If the drips do not subside within 48-72 hours, please contact Arvidson’s for a follow-up service call.

How can I speed up the process of preparing my pool for summer?

Check your filter system and clean your pump basket several times daily until the water is clear.
Continue to run the system 24 hours a day. Continuous filtration is important, especially when starting up a system.
Empty skimmer baskets daily.
Don’t skimp on Sanitizer. Your pool must reach chlorine break point in order to maintain a residual. Sometimes it can take 2-3 double shocks to reach break point.
Brush and vacuum the pool surfaces at least once a day until the water is clear.
Avoid pressure side automatic cleaners at the very start up of the pool.
Backwash or clean the filter as soon as the pressure on your filter rises 8-10 PSI.
Bring a water sample into your local Arvidson’s location 24-48 hours after the pool has been opened for a free water analysis. We can analyze your water using our computerized water testing system and diagnose the proper amounts of chemicals you will require to get your pool up and running.

How often should I clean my filters?

Typical rule of thumb is every 4-6 weeks, regardless of usage. Even when not in use, the water is continually moving and circulating and you’re still filtering impurities that occur naturally in the water. Use a filter cleaner/degreaser, not just water. Even though literature states that Tri-X filters are dishwasher safe, they still require degreasing on a regular basis.

How long do filters last?

Typically 2-3 years if properly maintained, cleaned and rotated in different stations on a regular basis. If filters are neglected, this often leads to clogging which may cause overheating or flow restriction. In any case, it’s can cause serious damage and repair issues.

What does a flashing power light (red/blue) indicate?

The most common cause of this would be a dirty filter. The best way to check for this is to turn off the breaker, take the filters out completely, turn the breaker on and check to see if the light is solid. If within minutes it starts to flash again, contact our Service department for a more thorough diagnosis. If it does stay solid, simply clean/replace the filters and be sure to clean them again in another 4-6 weeks.

What does a flashing power and ready light (red/blue and green) indicate?

Simply, no flow. Once again, 99% of the time it means your filters are needed. Follow the same procedure as in Question #3. In rare occasions, when draining, cleaning and refilling the spa, you may see this light come on which indicates an air lock.

How often should a hot tub be drained and refilled?

Typically every 3-4 months. If you think about it as something to be done at least once each season, you’ll be on schedule. The formula is:

Number of gallons of hot tub
Average daily bather load and/3 = How many days between drain and refills
500 gal. Grandee used every day by 2 people/3 = 83 days which is about 3 months

How long does a silver ion cartridge last?

They last 3 months, but if they dry out, they are no longer effective. In other words, always make sure that they remain submerged in water if you must remove the filter for any reason. A good rule of thumb is to replace the silver ion cartridge whenever you drain and refill your spa.

During the summer months, what can I do to cool the water?

Watkins has a built in feature called summer-timer mode. Consult your owner’s manual for this feature. Just remember to revert back to normal operation in the fall. Of course, water never cools lower than what the ambient temperature is.
Turn the breaker for the heater off.
Open the cover at night and let it breathe.

We’ve had some really cold winters, is there a limit on heating the hot tub?

No, a spa heats to 104° regardless of the outside temperatures. Normally the spa heats 2-4 degrees an hour with the cover on. While you’re in the tub, the water temperature may drop slightly, but shouldn’t be noticeable for an average spa soak of 30 minutes or so.

Didn’t Solve Your Problem?

Here are several ways you can contact us:

Request a Service Call

Need service? We are glad to assist you with your hot tub, swimming pool, heater, filter, pump and much more! Stop by, give us a call, or request your appointment below.

Visit Our DIY Center

Arvidson is your go-to for keeping a pool or hot tub in perfect working order. Our DIY Center is a great place to start. Still need help? Stop by, give us a call or send us an email. We’re always glad to help you find the right part or give you guidance on a DIY project.

DIY Center