Aqua + Oak
Knowledge Center
Buying + Installing a Pool
How long does it take to build a swimming pool?
- The short answer is that from the day of excavation, it can take between 4 and 8 weeks.
- The longer answer is that the time it takes to build your pool will depend on several different factors including the size of the pool, the features included, the size and complexity of the deck and always a factor, the weather.
- From the day you sign the contract, many things have to happen before excavation can begin including financing (if desired), HOA approval, finding and marking utilities and permits from your city or county.
- Permits can sometimes hold up the process, it all depends on what city you live in and the time of year. Your Aqua + Oak project manager will have a better idea of how long your city and county permitting might take.
Does a swimming pool add value to my home?
Yes. Normally you will receive an estimated 75% of the value of the pool. Keep in mind, the more of an experience you create in your backyard with landscaping, the more money you will get back on the pool.
What is I have a small or difficult yard to work with?
Our expert designers at Aqua + Oak can design an enjoyable backyard no matter the size. You will be surprised at how a small backyard can have the most innovative design.
Do you install above-ground pools?
No, we specialize in designing and building your own private, backyard oasis. Where you, your family and friends will create memories for a lifetime.
Are you licensed and insured?
Yes, we are licensed by the state of Mississippi and will provide proof of insurance upon request.
Do you provide references?
Absolutely! You can also view a gallery of some of our work here.
Do you offer a warranty?
Yes, we offer a standard warranty on parts and equipment.
Do you offer estimates or quotes over the phone?
Since every pool is different, we cannot provide quotes or estimates over the phone. All of our expert designers need to access a pool to assess the work necessary before we can provide an accurate estimate.
Pool Safety
What is the safest water depth for kids?
Water depth should depend on the child’s size and swimming ability. For younger children or beginners, it’s recommended that water level is waist-high.
What safety measures should I take around my pool?
Ensure your pool area is fenced with a lockable gate. Install pool cover, anti-entrapment drain covers and safety railings. Keep emergency equipment, such as life rings or reaching poles, nearby.
How often should pool water be tested?
Pool water should be tested a minimum of once a week to ensure levels are safe for swimming, but ideally two or three times a week, especially in hot weather or heavy use periods.
Should I be concerned about the pool's drain?
Yes, drains can pose a suction danger. Make sure your pool has a safety-compliant drain and cover, and teach children to avoid playing near drains.
How can I teach my child to swim safely?
You can enroll them in swimming lessons, but also teach them pool safety rules and ensure they understand and respect them.
What should I do in case of an emergency?
Call for help immediately, try to get the person out of the water if possible. It’s strongly recommended to be trained in CPR and first aid.
Are toys left in the pool a safety hazard?
Yes, toys can attract children to the pool. Always remove floats, balls and other toys after use to prevent children from trying to retrieve them.
Should children be supervised around water at all times?
Yes, constant active supervision is essential irrespective of their swimming proficiency. Even for skilled swimmers, accidental slipping, cramps or sudden medical conditions can create dangerous situations.
Is it safe to swim during a storm?
No, it’s extremely dangerous due to the possibility of lightning striking the water. You should wait at least 30 minutes after the last roar of thunder before returning to the pool.
What about diving safety?
Diving should only be permitted where the pool is deep enough (usually at least 9 feet), and it should be clearly indicated. Teach children not to dive in shallow water.
Opening & Closing My Pool
When should I open my pool for the year?
This largely depends on your geographical location and the weather patterns. Generally, if temperatures are consistently above 70 degrees, it is a good time to open your pool.
How do I open my pool?
Opening a pool involves removing the pool cover, balancing the water chemistry, reconnecting the pool equipment, and cleaning the pool.
When should I close my pool?
Most people choose to close their pool when daily temperatures drop below 60 degrees consistently.
How do I close my pool for the winter?
The pool closing process involves balancing the pool water, lowering the water level, draining all pumping, heating, and chlorinating equipment, and covering the pool.
Do I need a professional to open/close my pool?
While a homeowner can definitely handle opening and closing a pool, many choose to hire a professional to ensure it’s done properly and to reduce personal hassle.
What chemicals do I need to open my pool?
Common chemicals needed to open a pool include chlorine, pH increaser or decreaser, alkalinity increaser, calcium hardness increaser, and a metal sequestrant.
What should I do if I have algae in my pool when I open it?
If you open your pool to find algae, you will need to shock it with a high level of chlorine. Following the shock, you should brush and vacuum the pool thoroughly.
What's the purpose of a pool cover and do I need one?
A pool cover helps keep debris out, reduces evaporation and heat loss, and can provide a safety barrier for children and pets. It’s highly advisable to have a pool cover.
Why is my pool water cloudy after removing the pool cover?
Pool water can become cloudy due to imbalanced chemicals, low sanitizer levels, high levels of calcium hardness or even due to the filtration system. Regular maintenance and attention to the chemicals can resolve this issue.
How long do I run my pool pump when I first open my pool?
When you first open your pool, it’s usually recommended to run the pump for 24 hours, then test and adjust the water chemistry as needed.
Why is there so much debris in my pool at opening when I had a cover on it and it was cleaned and serviced before I closed it?
You will probably get a good bit of sediment from a mesh cover over the winter from loose debris and storms. Sediment, dirt and debris can seep through or slip under a mesh pool cover.
How soon after I open my pool can I swim in it?
You can swim in your pool when it is clean, the water is balanced and it is warm enough.
How much do you charge to open, close, and service a pool?
We will provide you with a quote after our pool service technician visits your home to evaluate your pool, equipment and access.
Pool Maintenance
What pool services do you offer?
- Our highly qualified maintenance and repair technicians can service, upgrade or rehab your pool. Specifically, we offer:
- Cleaning & Maintenance
- Pool Repair
- Renovation + Restoration
Why do I need regular, weekly service and cleaning when my pool stays fairly clean?
- During warmer weather, with more people using the pool for longer periods of time, chlorine levels go down quickly. Regular servicing and maintenance, including brushing and vacuuming is required to keep algae at bay.
- It is important to remember that while a pool might look clear, that does not mean it is clean and safe for swimming.
Can I provide my own pool chemicals?
- You can, but they need to be the correct type of chemicals, stored properly in a secure area that our technicians can access.
- It is important to note that the quality of pool chemicals varies. If you are using your own chemicals, we cannot guarantee water clarity.
Why do I have to check the pool and maintain the heater if your company maintains the pool?
- Our highly experienced technicians make sure your pool water is balanced and all systems are running while we are there. However, we aren’t there daily.
- Checking the pool daily, and especially after a storm, helps maintain optimal performance and assists in extending the life of your pool and preventing many maintenance and service issues.
- When we are not present, you need to check the pool physically for any issues, maintain the water level, check for obstructions that could block the flow of circulation to your pool and empty the skimmer baskets.
- Running the heater weekly for a half hour or so, even if it is not needed, will dry out the heater and discourage small animals and insects from moving in.
I am a regular customer, what do I need to do to maintain my pool when the service technician is not there?
- Make sure that you keep the water level maintained, keep the skimmer baskets clean and physically check the pool daily.
- If you have an automatic cover, try to keep it clear of accumulated water and debris to avoid damaging it.
- Keeping the cover open during a heavy storm will also avoid damage.
Why is the water level in the pool going down?
- You can have ¼ inch or more of evaporation at certain times of year. This depends on water temperature and pool usage. Significant loss of water may signify a pool leak.
- If you are a current customer and losing a significant amount of water in your pool, please call us at 662-844-1308.
Why isn't my pool heater working?
- Here are a few things to check before calling for service on your heater:
- Is the heater on?
- Do you have fuel (propane or natural gas)?
- Did you recently get a fuel delivery?
- If you did, a failure to properly vent the line after filling will not allow the pool heater to fire.
- Where is the water level in relation to the skimmer?
- The water level in your pool needs to be halfway up the skimmer mouth (or halfway up through the tile line) for proper skimming action, filtration and for the heater to properly work.
- The pump and piping can be damaged if the water level gets low enough for the pump to draw air.
- Is the skimmer weir (flapper) closed or stuck open?
- Does the heater show a code?
- If you have a spa, was the system left in “spa mode?”
Why do I need a porta-vac?
To clean the heavy debris from the pool that comes in the winter, we use the Porta-Vac system. This portable vacuum pump and filter keeps the larger debris out of the pool and filter system.
I am not opening my pool this year. Is there anything I need to do?
Pools must be cleaned and debris-free before closing. They must also be winterized properly, treated with chemicals and have a secure safety cover. The pool should be serviced once a month to check the water level and water balance. If chemicals are added, your pool needs to be circulated by a portable pump supplied by the service technician.
Why do I need to change my safety grates on the pool drain?
Pool drain grates or covers deteriorate over time and should be replaced.
Pool Chemicals
Is there a simple formula for adding chemicals to my pool?
Unfortunately, there is no simple formula for adding chemicals to your pool. Each pool is unique and requires a different amount.
Why am I using more chemicals than last month?
- As pool usage increases or if the water temperature rises, chemical usage can be affected and could be one of many reasons why you are using more chemicals than last month.
- Weather and many other physical and environmental factors can also affect chemical usage.
Can I provide my own pool chemicals?
- You can, but they need to be the correct type of chemicals, stored properly in a secure area that our technicians can access.
- It is important to note that the quality of pool chemicals varies. If you are using your own chemicals, we cannot guarantee water clarity.
How does well water affect my chemical balance?
If there is a drought, water levels can get low in the well and churn up a lot of debris and metals like iron, manganese and copper. This can affect your swimming pool chemistry and water balance.
Cleaning My Pool
What pool services do you offer?
- Our highly qualified maintenance and repair technicians can service, upgrade or rehab your pool. Specifically, we offer:
- Cleaning & Maintenance
- Pool Repair
- Renovation + Restoration
Why do I need regular, weekly service and cleaning when my pool stays fairly clean?
- During warmer weather, with more people using the pool for longer periods of time, chlorine levels go down quickly. Regular servicing and maintenance, including brushing and vacuuming is required to keep algae at bay.
- It is important to remember that while a pool might look clear, that does not mean it is clean and safe for swimming.
Why do we need to clean our cartridge filters periodically during the season?
- Dirt, debris and other contaminants like iron, phosphates and calcium can inhibit the operation of your system.
- They cause an increase in pump pressure preventing optimal performance and leading to additional wear and tear on the equipment.
- Regular cleaning and servicing of your cartridge filter prevents this.
Why do I have to empty the skimmer basket?
Skimmer baskets must be cleaned regularly. Clogged skimmer baskets block the flow of water, which can burn out the pump motor and prevent the heater from working.
Why do I need to drain and clean the pool?
If the pool appears scaly (very rough, sharp surfaces), sharp or dirty; or if the level of total dissolved solids in the water is above 1500 ppm, your pool should be drained and cleaned. The best time for a drain and clean is in early spring.
Pool Servicing
What pool services do you offer?
- Our highly qualified maintenance and repair technicians can service, upgrade or rehab your pool. Specifically, we offer:
- Cleaning & Maintenance
- Pool Repair
- Renovation + Restoration
Why do I need regular, weekly service and cleaning when my pool stays fairly clean?
- During warmer weather, with more people using the pool for longer periods of time, chlorine levels go down quickly. Regular servicing and maintenance, including brushing and vacuuming is required to keep algae at bay.
- It is important to remember that while a pool might look clear, that does not mean it is clean and safe for swimming.
Why can't the service technician clean my pool in one visit?
- Depending on why the pool is not clear, it may take a few days. If you have metals and phosphates, you have to treat each cause separately.
- Remember, just because a pool looks clear and clean, does not mean it is.
Why is the water level in the pool going down?
- You can have ¼ inch or more of evaporation at certain times of year. This depends on water temperature and pool usage. Significant loss of water may signify a pool leak.
- If you are a current customer and losing a significant amount of water in your pool, please call us at 662-844-1308.
How much do you charge to open, close, and service a pool?
We will provide you with a quote after our pool service technician visits your home to evaluate your pool, equipment and access.
Water Balance
Free water testing. Not sure if your pool or spa chemicals are the right pH? Bring a sample of your water into our showroom, and our trained technicians will run an assessment and make sure you have the supplies you need to get your water balanced and safe again.
Why is my pool green?
Green water can be caused by any number of factors, or a combination of several including algae growth from phosphates or metals in the water.
I am a regular customer, what do I need to do maintain my pool when the service technician is not there?
- Make sure that you keep the water level maintained, keep the skimmer baskets clean and physically check the pool daily.
- If you have an automatic cover, try to keep it clear of accumulated water and debris to avoid damaging it.
- Keeping the cover open during a heavy storm will also avoid damage.
How does well water affect my chemical balance?
If there is a drought, water levels can get low in the well and churn up a lot of debris and metals like iron, manganese and copper. This can affect your swimming pool chemistry and water balance.
I have a newly plastered pool. Why does it use so much acid?
New plaster has a very high Ph (alkalinity) and can require a season to stabilize. Acid helps stabilize the pool and decreases the alkalinity.
I have a salt chlorine generator installed in my pool. Why does it use acid?
- Salt chlorine generated pools use sodium hypochloride, which is very high on the Ph scale, usually 12.5-13.5 on a scale of 14. Since pool water needs to be between 7.2 and 7.6 Ph, adding acid to your pool helps maintain the proper Ph levels.
- If the pool water is higher than 7.6, the pool becomes alkaline, which causes scaling (very rough and sharp surfaces) and calcification of salt cells. If the pool is below 7.2, the water can become corrosive and eat metals and equipment. The proper balance is necessary to maintain the health and fitness of your pool and the safety of your swimmers.
Why do I need to clean salt cells in my salt chlorine generator if the PH is balanced every week?
Without proper cleaning and maintenance, contaminants can build up and inhibit the performance of your swimming pool.
How regularly should I test the pool's water?
You should test your pool’s pH and chlorine levels at least once per week. These tests can help identify any potential issues before they become significant problems.
How do I properly balance my pool water levels?
Balancing your pool water involves maintaining the levels of pH, alkalinity, and calcium hardness within the recommended ranges. This can be done by adding the appropriate chemicals as needed.
What should the pool's PH level be?
Ideally, your pool’s pH level should fall between 7.4 to 7.6. This range is safe for swimmers and helps sanitize the pool effectively.
Good Practices
Why should I shower before entering the pool?
Shampoo, soap, body lotions and oils can make a pool’s systems work harder and throw off the water balance. This means your pool requires more chemicals and more treatment. Showering prevents many issues and helps ease the burden on your pool.
Why do I need to remove toys from the pool?
Toys can block the water flow and circulation in the pool. This can damage pumps and heaters.
What is the importance of maintaining the correct water level?
- The water level in your pool needs to be halfway up the skimmer mouth (or halfway up through the tile line) for proper skimming action, filtration and for the heater to properly work.
- The pump and piping can be damaged if the water level gets low enough for the pump to draw air.
Why should I not swallow pool water?
Swallowing pool water can be harmful because it often contains chlorine and other chemicals to keep the water clean. These chemicals can cause stomach discomfort or more serious health issues if swallowed in large amounts. Additionally, pool water can contain harmful bacteria or pathogens that can cause recreational water illnesses like gastrointestinal disease, skin rashes, ear and respiratory infections.
What to do if I swallow pool water?
- Swallowing a small amount of pool water is usually not harmful. If you swallow a large amount or start to feel ill, take the following steps:
- Try to stay calm. Panicking can make the situation worse.
- Drink fresh water to help dilify the chemicals you swallow from the pool.
- If you’re feeling sick, having stomach issues, or experiencing other signs of illness, seek medical help immediately.
- Remember it is usually best to avoid swallowing pool water as it may contain chlorine and other chemicals used for sanitization, along with bacteria and other contaminants.
Why should you not pee in a pool?
- Hygiene: Urine can mix with other chemicals in the pool, causing harmful reactions. This can create unwanted substances that can lead to health issues such as skin or eye irritation and respiratory problems.
- Health Risks: Urine contains ammonia which when mixed with chlorine, can produce chloramines, which can cause respiratory issues and can trigger asthma attacks.
- Alters pH balance: Urine can alter the pH of the pool water making it less effective at sanitizing and may cause cloudiness in the pool water.
- The Spread of Disease: Certain bacteria and viruses can stay alive in urine, potentially spreading diseases.
- It’s Disrespectful: Many people find it offensive when others pee in the pool due to the gross factor, it’s a communal space and people should respect each other’s right to a clean and safe environment.
- Maintenance: If everyone pees in a pool, more chemicals will be needed to keep the water clean and this can make overall pool maintenance more challenging and costly.
Why should you keep a close eye on children in pools and provide them floatation devices?
Keeping a close eye on children in pools is crucial because they may lack the skills and judgment needed to keep themselves safe. They may not understand the risks or dangers of water and can quickly get into trouble. Floatation devices can provide an added layer of safety, but they are not a substitute for supervision. They can help to keep a child afloat, but should not be relied upon completely as they can accidentally slip off, deflate or may not fully support a child in water. Drowning is often silent and can happen very quickly so constant active supervision is key when children are in or around water.
Why should you keep floatation devices near and in your pool?
Keeping flotation devices near and in your pool is crucial for safety reasons. They can aid in preventing drowning incidents, as they provide immediate assistance to those who are struggling to swim or get out of the water. Floatation devices are especially helpful for children and individuals who are not strong swimmers. Moreover, in case of emergencies, these devices can be thrown in to support the person until help arrives.
Why is it important to dry your ears thoroughly after swimming?
Drying your ears thoroughly after swimming is important to prevent infections. When water gets trapped in the ear canal, it creates a damp environment that is ideal for the growth of bacteria and fungi. This can lead to various ear conditions such as swimmer’s ear (also known as otitis externa), a painful infection of the outer ear and ear canal, or other ear inflammations. Therefore, it’s crucial to dry your ears properly after swimming or showering.
At Home Spa
What spa services do you provide?
- Our highly qualified maintenance and repair technicians can service, upgrade, or rehab your spa. Specifically, we offer:
- Cleaning & maintenance
- End-of-warranty inspection
- Relocation (restrictions may apply)
How should I plan for a spa?
- Select level, smooth, solid ground to support the weight of the tub (with water and any accessories).
- Consider convent access, overall appearance, and proximity to any necessities (water and power).
- Avoid placing near any potential hazards, like overhead power lines or large trees.
- Take note of all dimensions available to know which size spa to look at.
What should be completed before my spa is installed?
- Prepare the foundation it will sit on (if one is needed).
- A certified electrician should install a 240-volt, 50 or 60 amp electrical service attached to a GFCI breaker a safe distance from the desired location.
What temperature should my spa sit at?
For the most part, it should have a temperature range of approximately 102-104 degrees F or 38-40 degrees C. Maintaining the optimal temperature is important to how quickly your sanitizer is consumed and dissolved.
Do I need to keep my spa covered and locked when not in use?
Yes. This will not only keep debris from entering the water, it will also keep pets or children from accessing it.
Should children or pets be allowed in the spa?
- Children in general should always have adult supervision. Especially young children – ages five and under – should have limited, if any, exposure.
- Pets and any other animals are not recommended to soak in a spa. It is harmful to the spa but also dangerous for them.
Can I use the spa while pregnant?
Usage is not recommended and should be avoided or limited, as it can harm the fetus.
How long can I stay in the spa or hot tub?
Soaking time in the spa is generally recommended to be limited to 15 minutes. Extended soaking time at high temperatures can cause the body temperature to raise to an unsafe level.
Why do I need to drain my spa so often?
- Spas have much less water than a pool and are more likely to get contaminated with body oils, lotions and bacteria.
- Spas are heated to a higher temperature which can make bacteria grow faster and can cause skin irritations and rashes.
- Another common reason is the presence of a high TDS level. This is the level of total dissolved solids in the water and is a sign that your water is saturated with chemicals that make it tough to clean, sanitize and maintain water clarity.