Pool Maintenance Guide
Table of context
SECTION I - Cleaning your Pool
SECTION II - Chemicals
SECTION III - Handling and Storage
SECTION IV - Equipment
SECTION V - Salt Water Pools
SECTION VI - iAqualink
SECTION VII - Tutorial videos
Section I
Cleaning your pool
Regular pool maintenance keeps your water clear, your equipment running properly, and your investment protected.
Follow the steps below each time you vacuum your pool.
Before You Begin
What you’ll need:
Vacuum head
Vacuum hose
Telescoping pole
Leaf skimmer
Pool brush
Safety Notes:
Never open equipment or move valves while the pump is running unless instructed.
Use caution on wet surfaces to avoid slipping.
Ensure the system is in “Service Mode” before performing maintenance at the equipment pad.
Do not stick hands into skimmers, suction ports, or pump openings while equipment is operating.
Step-by-Step Pool Cleaning
1. Prep the Pool Area
Blow or sweep the pool deck to prevent debris from blowing into the water.
Remove all toys, floats, and loose items from the pool.
Skim leaves and debris from the surface and bottom.
2. Brush the Pool
Brush steps, benches, and any tanning ledges to loosen dirt and algae before vacuuming.
3. Set the System to Service Mode
At the equipment pad, switch the automation system into Service Mode so you can manually control the pump.
Turn on the filter pump using the Filter Pump button.
4. Adjust Suction for Vacuuming
Close the main drain valve to maximize suction at the skimmer.
If the vacuum head sticks to the floor, slightly reopen the main drain to reduce suction.
5. Assemble & Prime the Vacuum
Attach the vacuum head to the pole.
Connect the hose to the vacuum head.
Submerge the hose completely to fill it with water (remove all air).
Place the free end of the hose into the skimmer suction line.
6. Vacuum the Pool
Vacuum the entire pool slowly and evenly until it is clean.
7. Remove Equipment
Remove the hose from the skimmer.
Lift the vacuum head and pole out of the water and set them aside to drain.
8. Shut Down & Clean the Pump Basket
Return to the equipment pad and turn off the filter pump.
Close the main drain, skimmer, and return valves (return valves only if the pool is elevated).
Remove the pump lid and empty debris from the pump basket.
Reinstall the basket with the open end facing the front of the pump and secure the lid.
9. Restore Normal Operation
Reopen all valves that were closed during maintenance.
Switch the automation system back to Auto Mode.
Section II
Chemicals
Proper water balance protects your pool’s plaster, equipment, and finish.
Use this guide to understand ideal levels and how to adjust each chemical.
Ideal Water Chemistry Levels
Test Ideal Range
pH 7.2 - 7.6 PPM
Chlorine 1.5 - 4.0 PPM
Total Alkalinity 80 - 120 PPM
Calcium Hardness 180 - 220 PPM
Cyanuric Acid (Stable) 30 - 75 PPM
Salt 3000 - 3500 PPM
Understanding Pool Chemicals & How to Adjust Them
pH
To lower pH: Add Muriatic Acid.
To raise pH: Add Soda Ash.
Why it matters:
pH controls comfort and protects plaster and equipment. High pH is especially common in new pools and saltwater pools.
Chlorine
Your salt system (salt cell) naturally produces chlorine.
You can also supplement with:
Liquid chlorine
Calcium hypochlorite
Di-chlor
Tri-chlor
Tip: Never mix different chlorine types together or store them in the same container.
Total Alkalinity
To raise alkalinity: Add Sodium Bicarbonate (bicarb).
To lower alkalinity: Add Muriatic Acid.
Why it matters:
Alkalinity helps stabilize the pH so it doesn’t rise or fall too quickly.
Cyanuric Acid (CYA)
To raise CYA: Add Cyanuric Acid (stabilizer).
Some types of chlorine (like Di-chlor and Tri-chlor) already contain stabilizer.
Why it matters:
CYA protects chlorine from being destroyed by the sun.
Calcium Hardness
To raise calcium: Add Calcium Chloride (not mentioned originally but standard practice).
To lower calcium: Dilution (draining and refilling part of the pool) is typically required.
Why it matters:
Low calcium damages plaster. High calcium causes scaling.
Salt
To increase salt level: Add pool salt
Note: Add salt in small amounts—you can always add more, but you can’t remove excess without dilution.
Important Safety Notes
Always add chemicals to water, never water to chemicals.
Keep chemicals stored separately and sealed.
Wear gloves and eye protection when handling acid or chlorine.
Never mix chlorine products together.
Avoid adding acid and chlorine at the same time—give at least 15–30 minutes between applications with the pump running.
How Often Should You Test?
Test your water at least once per week.
Expect pH to rise quickly in new pools and saltwater pools—this is normal.
We also recommend taking a sample to your local pool store regularly for a professional test.
Section III
Handling & Storage
The chemicals used to clean your swimming pool, kill bacteria, and sanitize the water and filtration system are—no surprise—strong chemicals. When used correctly, they keep your pool clean and safe. When handled improperly, they can become dangerous. To help protect you, your family, and your pool, please review the following guidelines for proper chemical handling and storage.
Handling Pool Chemicals
Always add chemicals to the water, not the other way around.
Pool chemicals are designed to be diluted in large volumes of water. For example, a 24-foot round pool filled to the 4-foot mark holds over 13,500 gallons. Adding water directly to chemicals creates a dangerously concentrated mixture that can cause fumes, injuries, or even fire.
Use only the proper equipment.
Pool chemicals are formulated to work with pool-safe tools and cleaners. Using the wrong equipment can cause corrosion, buildup, or contamination.
Avoid spills.
In their concentrated form, these chemicals are highly caustic. Spills can damage surfaces, harm soil, or contaminate groundwater. Even if accidents happen, the user is legally responsible for any resulting environmental damage.
Always read and follow the directions.
Pool chemicals must be used exactly as instructed to work safely and effectively. If you’re unsure about how to use a product, stop and contact the manufacturer or your local pool store for guidance.
Storing Pool Chemicals
Check expiration dates.
Some chemicals can degrade or even self-react if stored for too long. Always check shelf life before storing.
Keep containers tightly sealed.
Pool chemicals react to water—including moisture in the air. A loose lid can allow humidity to enter, causing dangerous fumes or reactions. Make sure every container is properly sealed.
Store chemicals in a cool, dry, dark place.
Heat and sunlight can cause chemicals to break down or react. Choose a storage space that is:
Cool
Dry
Dark
Away from direct sunlight
Ensure good ventilation.
Fumes can build up in closed storage areas, creating a hazardous environment. Good airflow is essential.
Keep chemicals in their original containers.
Original containers have the correct labels and are designed for safe storage.
Keep out of reach of children and pets.
DO NOT:
Store chemicals in unlabeled containers
Place liquid chemicals above solid or powdered chemicals
Store chemicals above head height
Stack chemical containers
Store acids and oxidizers next to each other
Reuse empty chemical containers
Store pool chemicals near household or non-pool chemicals
Final Note
When handled and stored correctly, pool chemicals are safe and effective. Following these guidelines will help keep your pool in great shape and your family safe.
Section iV
Equipment
Keeping your pool clean, safe, and trouble-free
Weekly Tasks
Brush the Pool
Brush walls and steps once a week.
Helps prevent scale, calcium buildup, and keeps surfaces looking great.
Filter Maintenance
When to Clean:
Clean filters when pressure rises 8–10 psi above the starting point.
Recommended: twice a year (spring & fall). Additional cleaning may be needed during heavy use in summer.
Tools Needed:
9/16" socket wrench
Pressure nozzle & water hose
Steps:
Put system in Service Mode and close all valves.
Remove the filter band with a socket wrench.
Remove drain plug & open air release.
Drain water, remove lid & filter cartridges.
Hose off cartridges with pressure nozzle.
Reassemble and restart system.
Salt Cell Maintenance
Cleaning:
Clean twice a year.
Remove the cell and soak in a 50/50 mixture of water and acid for 15–30 minutes.
Rinse thoroughly and reinstall.
Production Settings:
Output varies per pool (sun, temperature, bather load, pets).
Adjust gradually to maintain proper chlorine levels.
Pump Basket Cleaning
Refer to your Pool Cleaning Steps sheet for instructions.
Equipment Operation Tips
Filter Pump Run Times:
April–September: ~14 hours/day
October–March: 8–12 hours/day
More runtime = cleaner water and proper chlorine production
Water Features & Extra Pumps:
Run 5–10 minutes once a month if not regularly used.
Heaters:
Run 5–10 minutes once a month if not regularly used.
iAqualink App & Antenna:
For troubleshooting, visit iAqualink.com or check your door hanger guide.
Quick Reminders
Proper water chemistry protects equipment, pool surfaces, and swimmers.
Weekly brushing + regular filter & salt cell maintenance = longer-lasting equipment.
Run pumps and heaters periodically, even when not in use, to prevent malfunctions.
Section V
Salt Water Pool
Understanding How Your Pool Stays Clean and Safe
Congratulations! You have a salt water pool. While it works similarly to a traditional chlorine pool, instead of adding chlorine manually, fine-grain salt is added. Your salt chlorinator (salt cell) then uses the salt to produce chlorine automatically.
Important: A salt water pool is not chlorine-free—chlorine is still required for proper sanitation.
Why Salt Water Pools Are Different
Salt cells generate chlorine by breaking apart salt molecules (NaCl) into sodium and chlorine.
Chlorine produced in this way sanitizes the pool continuously, providing a more consistent chlorine level than manual additions.
The water feels softer and more pleasant on the skin, similar to the effect of a home water softener.
Note: Your pool must cure for 30 days before salt is added.
How a Salt Water Pool System Works
1. Saltwater Chlorination Process
Add a specific amount of salt to the pool water.
The salt cell passes a low-voltage current through the water, splitting the salt into sodium and chlorine.
Chlorine is produced in the form of hypochlorous acid (HOCl) and sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl), both effective disinfectants.
2. Continuous Chlorine Production
As water circulates through the filter, it passes through the salt cell.
Chlorine is continuously generated, ensuring a steady supply to sanitize the pool.
The Role of Chlorine in Pool Sanitation
Disinfection
Chlorine kills bacteria, viruses, algae, and other pathogens to keep swimmers safe.
Oxidation
Chlorine oxidizes contaminants like sweat, oils, and debris to maintain clear, clean water.
Maintaining Pool Balance
Proper chlorine levels help prevent cloudy water, algae growth, and bacterial proliferation.
Common Misconceptions About Salt Water Pools
“No Chlorine” Myth: Salt water pools do use chlorine; it’s just generated automatically.
Lower Chlorine Levels: Salt water pools often maintain lower chlorine levels, which can be gentler on skin, eyes, and swimsuits—but adequate chlorine is still necessary.
Advantages of Salt Water Chlorination
Convenience:
Automates chlorine production, reducing the need for manual additions.
Consistent Chlorine Levels:
Avoids peaks and troughs of manual dosing, keeping the pool stable and safe.
Softer Water Feel:
Many swimmers notice a smoother, more pleasant feel compared to traditional pools.
Key Takeaways
Salt water pools still rely on chlorine to sanitize and oxidize contaminants.
The difference is how chlorine is introduced—through a salt cell rather than tablets or liquid.
Benefits include consistent chlorine, softer water, and reduced manual maintenance.
Proper chlorine production is essential to keep your pool safe, clean, and enjoyable.
Section VI
IAqualink
Control your pool and equipment from your phone!
Setting a Schedule (Lights, Fountains, Etc.)
Open the iAqualink app and tap Web in the upper right corner.
Tap Menu on the bottom row.
Tap Schedule (top left).
Highlight the equipment you want to program (it will turn white).
Tap Edit.
On the right, you will see Run Days.
Select ALL for every day, or choose specific days (highlighted in white).
Set Start Time – enter the time you want the equipment to turn ON (remember AM/PM) and press Enter.
Set End Time – enter the time to turn OFF (AM/PM) and press Enter.
Tap Save (on the same row as Edit).
Once saved, tap the back arrow at the bottom to return to the main screen.
System Offline / Red Dot Issue
If your app shows a red dot and you cannot connect:
Locate the gray automation box by the pool equipment (houses pool breakers).
Find the breaker labeled CPU, Computer, or iAqualink.
Turn the breaker OFF for 1 minute, then back ON.
You should hear beeps indicating the system is resetting.
If the system does not reconnect after this, please call or email our office to place a work order.
Quick Tips
Always connect while on home Wi-Fi.
Double-check AM/PM when setting schedules.
Keep your system breaker accessible for troubleshooting.
Section VII
Video Tutorials
When things go wrong these videos will help you find a solution. If there are still issues afterwards, please reach out to us.