Inspection, cleaning and servicing the entire pool and all pool operating equipment including:

• Pool water testing, analysis and balancing
• Cleaning & servicing of pool pumps, filters, chlorinators, cells & all pool equipment and plumbing.
• A full brush and vacuum of all pool surfacing
• Surface skimming and removing all litter and particles
• Pool and equipment inspection – provides detection of leaks and water loss issues – preventive maintenance & repairs – other hazards
• We provide all chemicals, test results, & pool servicing equipment

Tailor-Made Pool Maintenance

Like us, each pool is different. Pool Clear takes into account your pool’s design, your budget and any other requests. We then create a pool maintenance regime tailor-made to save you money in energy costs, water, chemicals & labour. Whether it’s for a new or existing pool, we will provide the best pool service and pool equipment for your pool – at the best price.

Our Service Clients Enjoy:

• Discounts
• Detailed Invoicing & Test Results
• SMS of pool technician ETA
• On-call friendly service and advice
• Flexible service scheduling
• Rewards for referrals
• Pool Experience you can’t beat
• Sparkling clean pools – envy of the neighbourhood

Regular pool maintenance (pool cleaning and servicing) is vital for safe and healthy swimming. Maintaining balanced pool water (link to faq) chemistry is not only good for your health – it will also protect your pool..

In a Nutshell, Regular Pool Maintenance Will Save You Money!

A clean pool with correctly balanced water will optimise the performance & extend the life of your pool and pool equipment.

The pool has an algae infestation
High Copper levels can also cause green coloured water & staining

Causes of green pool & algae – low chlorine (or sanitiser ) levels – poor circulation, poor filtration, heavy bather load, animals/pets entering pools, water unbalanced, fine suspended solids, phosphates, storms and rain, poor design or construction.
Treatment – supershock (liquid chlorine is recommended) treatment and algae removal, ensure safe cleaning and re-balancing techniques are followed. Clarifiers and clean filters will speed up the cleaning time – vacuum the fine particles and dead algae to waste.

Further preventative treatments with algaecides, phosphate removers may be useful in some situations. Stormwater and rain runoff should never enter pools. Identify the causes and rectify as soon as possible.

High copper levels can also “patinate” a pool – this happens when pool balance drops out of solution and can stain and colour water green – similar to copper’s natural patination process – high copper levels for long periods remain will cause black coloured copper staining. Copper levels can be lowered through dilution – if stain removal methods are required.

At Pool Clear we receive a whole range of enquiries about pools. Pool cleaning and service enquiries are most common. Sometimes a pool is green or pool equipment has failed. In most cases we attend and sort out all the problems. If you want to do this yourself here are some helpful tips – * It is important that any work be carried out safely and adhering to local laws. There are many hazards during green pool clean-ups and pool equipment servicing. Each pool has differing factors, and conditions which help guide correct order to complete tasks and safety systems. So Let’s assume you have a green pool looking as poor as this:Green Pool Cleanups (pics and or links) Obviously this is how we want it to look: Seems amazing but this result took only 2 days.

First task is to undertake a Super-Shock treatment for algae removal – not always in the following order but generally:

• Ensure all pool equipment is clean, functional, serviceable and safe
  Full pool water test – this will help in identifying the cause and calculate chemicals needed for clean up & balance.
• Reduce pH below 7 adding extra acid for pH increase via chlorine addition
• Add amount needed for super-shock – liquid chlorine preferred over granules – for extreme infestations add 2 or 3 times more than recommended
• Remove all large objects and litter from pool possible with manual cleaning tools
• Brush all pool surfaces vigorously and circulate for extended period, bypassing filter if needed
• Allow remaining contaminants to drop – use of clarifiers or flocculants will speed up the process – and vacuum all dead algae to waste.
• Fill your pool to required height – complete clean up of pool & equipment.
• Test water & balance all parameters of water to recommended levels

We have attached a Treatment Table.

Cloudy or turbid water is the result of algae bloom or suspended solids in pool water. A cloudy pool will soon turn green if untreated.

Causes – low chlorine levels, unbalanced water, poor filtration or circulation, algae bloom, heavy bather load, fine suspended solids, stormwater runoff. Treatment – rectify relevant cause or fault. ie; Equipment servicing and repairs – Pools should not receive runoff from rain events. Test & adjust the pool water- Chlorine shock, add clarifiers and run equipment. Balanced Pool Water is the best preventive but other products such as algaecides, phosphate removers, stain preventatives may be useful for your pool problem.

Rest Easy

Pool Clear’s regular service clients rest easy in the knowledge their pool is professionally maintained with our ‘attention to detail’ pool servicing and on-call availability.

We use the latest and best technologies available for our on-site testing, analysis and balancing.

Avoid Expensive Clean-Ups

We have on-call services for existing customers, providing insurance against weather events, staining or equipment failure that turns pools cloudy and green.

Balanced water is a water that corrodes and/or is scale forming is called unbalanced water while water that causes no damage is balanced. Maintaining balanced pool water avoids costly repairs in pools and equipment, but providing this balance also achieves much more. Factors for water balanced pool water include – pH, Calcium Hardness, Total Alkalinity, Temperature & Total Dissolved Solids (TDS has a minor influence). These chemicals work together in a solution only when balanced, allowing for swimmer comfort and reduced chemical & energy usage.

• Causes – poor balancing techniques, insufficient or faulty equipment and/or plumbing, poor maintenance, contaminants entering the pool, weather events.
  
• Treatment – each parameter must be adjusted to recommended levels check local authorities and using the correct treatment reg

Water balance – recommended readings

Saturation Index – while this is not followed by all pool builders and technicians, in our experience, this should be used to help guide pool balancing – we have seen the damage caused by pools poorly maintained. Originally used as a method to intentionally lay down a thin layer of scale to protect cast iron pipe corrosion – This Saturation Index has been adjusted for pools to prevent scale forming or corrosive water.

SI = pH + TF + CH + ALK – constant

Saturation Index = pH + Temperature Factor + Calcium Hardness + Alkalinity – Combined factor and ionic strength correction & conversions.

Introducing….

Only the best quality and fastest dissolving chemicals, additives and adjusters are used in balancing and service treatments. Our state of the art, water analysis equipment and photometers are calibrated and certified regularly with pinpoint accuracy. The Palintest Pooltest 25 Pro+, Luminoso Pooltest 6 & Pooltest Pro 6 photometer units synced with our PoolTracker intelligence + our wealth of experience, guarantees on-site water balancing perfection and optimum pool operation.

The best and most efficient chemicals and equipment, targeted to resolve any water balance or pool stain problems. Pool products that save you money – these right pool decisions will help everything last longer and save you in running costs. Water test brands we also use include Taylor, Lamotte, Eutech & Apera.

Our friendly, and highly skilled pool technicians are devoted to leaving your pool clean and sparkling. We have seen all types of pools and have the know how to fix any pool water balance or other problems.

Download Water Balance Table

Techniques on cleaning your pool vary depending on the type and condition of your pool, pool operating equipment and design. If you’re asking this question, it’s likely the pool water needs a chlorine shock prior to any fine tuning of water balance. Test the water and measure the pool capacity to find out what chemicals you need. If shocking is required – adjust the pH level below 7.0 prior to shock treatment. Don’t add other balancing chemicals until pool clean is completed. Use liquid chlorine for pool shock and brush all surfaces directly after addition. Add clarifiers & run the pump and filter for an extended period. Backwash and rinse filter or clean cartridges as often as required. Vacuum bulk of dead algae & particles to waste wherever possible. Balance following clean up and arrange for Pool Clear commence regular servicing.

Tips for cleaning:

• Regularly remove litter from the pool manually whenever possible.
• Regularly empty all strainer baskets ensuring no blockages in plumbing and equipment.
• Service and clean all pool operating equipment.

Regular Pool Service

A Regular pool service regime is a must for any pool. Without the correct maintenance and regular cleaning, a pool will turn into a green nightmare. Equipment failure and poor water balance can cost thousands of dollars in some cases. And so begs the question… How often do I need pool servicing ?

The answer to this question really depends on many factors influencing your pool and your time.

Daily Maintenance

We recommend visual inspection of the pool is performed daily. For pools where tree litter or other is likely to enter – cleaning the pool with a leaf net or scoop whenever needed.

Create a checklist and include the following tasks:

• check pool water is clean and clear of debris or other contaminants – poor water clarity is a sure indicator that the pool is at risk of algae infestation.
• ensure water level or capacity is suitable for operation and swimmer usage – if a pool’s water level is not maintained equipment failure and major damage may occur.
• inspect the operating equipment while functioning – This will often indicate if any performance issues are present, and can provide key water quality info.
• ensure the auto-cleaning equipment is adapted and functioning correctly – if a cleaner is not working properly it may cause failure or damage to other equipment.
• clean out the skimmer and filtering baskets – if a high amount of litter regularly enters the pool or for high bather loads.
• remove any litter, vegetation or objects which have entered the pool – objects and litter can restrict operation, cause staining and allow for algae infestation.
• check safety barriers/fencing climbable zones have not been breached by objects and entry gates are secure and self-closing – maintaining safety compliance saves lives.

Weekly Maintenance

Pool Clear provides weekly servicing – If you are unable to attend to weekly pool duties or have a pool that needs extra attention.

Weekly service of a pool is generally needed for most pools to remove litter and check operation.

• Inspect the pool & equipment, clean the skimmer and pump baskets.
• Manually remove any litter possible with a leaf net, vacuum and brush all pool surfaces.
• If weekly water testing is done, balance pH, Chlorine (or sanitizer) and Salt/Mineral level .
• More pool equipment servicing may be needed depending on pool condition – carry out pool operating equipment & pool cleaner servicing.
• Pool safety check, walk the barrier perimeter looking for any non-compliance or hazards around the pool. Include daily maintenance tasks.

Fortnightly (& 3 weekly) Servicing

This is a regular pool service interval we find suits our customers due to the convenience and insurance it delivers. A full pool and equipment clean and service is undertaken during each visit.

• We complete a full test of pool water whether it’s a magnesium, salt water pool or otherwise.
• A complete balance of your pool to ensure against nasty surprises.
• Guaranteeing protection to swimmers, pool surfacing and equipment.
• A full brush down of pool surfaces and vacuum of all areas, followed with a net of the pool to remove any remaining litter.
• Backwash & rinse the pool filter if needed, most done at monthly intervals.
• Remove and clean cartridges, replacing when perished.
• Clean the pump strainer baskets & check the chlorinator, cell and leads – clean the cell if needed.
• A performance check of the chlorinator or sanitising equipment will help guide if changes are needed to system settings settings – key for pool water balance.
• Inspect, clean and service any other operating or auto cleaning equipment. Include daily & weekly maintenance tasks.

Monthly Pool Servicing

Monthly pool servicing intervals, year round is the least your pool needs. Pool Clear has no lock contracts we offer flexibility others simply don’t. If you prefer pool services more often in the summer and less in the winter – this is something we can do! Perhaps your pool has minimal usage and is well protected or do some of the maintenance yourself?

Whatever the situation, we can attend as often as you need. A regular monthly pool service should include all tasks, as set out in a fortnightly regime. The longer between pool services always increases risk of equipment failure, causing expensive clean ups and service costs.

Pool Clear provides advice and training to those in need, and we respond immediately to our regular clients in an emergency. During Pool Clear’s monthly pool service, your pool will get ‘the works’ treatment, tailored to you and your pool.

Daily operating times or run-times are calculated considering these things:

• pool capacity,
• all operating and cleaning equipment,
• turn-over or flow rates,
• pool heating and coverings,
• environment and climate,
• bathing loads and other objectives.

For most domestic swimming pool use the following runtimes:

• Summer – 8 to 10 hours per day and
• Winter – 6 to 8 hours per day

Regularity of pool servicing depends mostly on your pool type, equipment, environment, and pool usage. Monthly servicing and cleaning, including pool water balancing is recommended at a minimum. Daily testing or monitoring of levels and manual cleaning including emptying strainers may be necessary for some pools or specific safety criteria.

Pool Clear Sunshine Coast offers reduced rates for regular service clients.

Periods of heavy rainfall or windy conditions affect the pool water balance and cause pool problems. High rainfall will dilute the pool water and can introduce run-off and flooding issues. Pools should be designed so no runoff or flooding water enters the pool, otherwise the pool becomes a stormwater drain or dam.

Increasing the runtime and output of pool equipment can help diluted pools but adding required chemicals directly to the pool is the best option. Test the water following such events and adjust levels to balance. Windy weather introduces extra litter and contaminants and this affects water clarity & balance. Remove all items from the pool as soon as possible. Including toys and any litter, as they can increase the chance of algae forming and stains.

When cleaning the pool, pay particular attention to corners or areas of poor circulation in the pool, as this is where algae and stains will first appear. Ensure you have good pool equipment installed in your pool.

It is extremely difficult to maintain a healthy pool if the pool equipment is in poor condition or falls short.

Prevention is key when it comes to pool stains. Correct pool maintenance, adding healthy water to pool, add metal treatments before adding oxidisers, and remove any metal or staining objects which fall in the pool immediately. Most stains and deposits can be removed via these following methods:

• chemical removal treatments,
• sequestering and chelating,
• manual cleaning tools or rubbing stones,
• acid washing and pressure cleaning.

Your pool should receive absolutely no runoff or overflow from rainfall events. Often the cause of stains is from rainfall runoff bringing in materials from lawns, gardens, pot plants or drains or other surrounds.

Pool Chemicals & Products

Always use a trusted brand of pool chemicals and purchase your pool products from a pool professional. Such products purchased online or at hardware stores can be of poor quality and in some instances can cause staining. The old adage of “you get what you pay for” is very often the case when it comes to bargain pool products.

By entrusting a pool professional you will receive the right products and advice for your pool needs. All with the guarantees and back up service that trusted brands provide. Ultimately it is only by using all the right products, that you can deliver the most savings in time and money.

Pool surface stains are the result of algae, deposited heavy metals, leached plant debris, animal deposits, calcium deposit build up, incorrect balancing techniques or fungus on the reverse side of liners and soils. Identification is key for implementing suitable removal treatments and prevention. Oxidation causes metals to fall out of a solution and stain surfaces. Check for signs of rainfall runoff from lawns gardens or surrounds.

Stains in NEW POOLS

Whilst there are many experienced pool builders, unfortunately most don’t perform pool servicing, pool start ups or follow up service. The operating equipment installed can often be poor quality or not sized correctly for the pool. In such cases, pool surfaces and water quality will almost certainly suffer, adding extra maintenance and electricity costs. Our extensive experience in pool servicing and pool equipment installed on thousands of Sunshine Coast pools allows us to make the right choices for your pool. To prevent any staining or damage to pool surfaces and operating equipment it is essential to balance pool water as soon as possible on new pools. It is particularly crucial on new pool surfaces the right procedures are performed to prevent stains and deposits whilst surfaces are curing.

You can find out where your pool stains are coming from – most of the time stains are caused from runoff & drainage issues. Runoff from gardens, lawns, pots and all stormwater must be directed away from your pool! Pools must be designed to receive no stormwater from surrounds or roofing. Your pool should only receive rainfall directly from the sky and should not be topped up with rainwater, ground or bore water. Always use treated council water for topping and filling pools.

Incorrect chemical choice and poor quality pool salt is also another common reason for pool stains. Alway double check chemical packaging instructions and dosage rates, making sure to dissolve chemicals evenly throughout the pool. Pool salt & magnesium and other chemicals can stain the surfaces if not brushed in completely.

Use Stain Preventatives & Removers that work.

A new pool or resurfaced pool is a big investment – savings in pool chemicals and energy costs that regular maintenance of pool equipment will deliver can be huge. Faulty or insufficient equipment will end up costing you more.

To achieve and maintain healthy and balanced pool water, the pool’s filter needs to be cleaned and serviced regularly. A filter should be sized correctly not only to the swimming pool and existing equipment, but also the expected bather load or other functional requirements. Backwash and rinse are vital cycles required for cleaning sand or media filters, while regular manual cleaning of a cartridge is needed in cartridge filter applications. Pools with poor performing or dirty filters can turn a pool green, and potentially cause further damage to operating equipment or pool surfaces.

We supply and install all pool equipment. No fuss or bother – we are the one-stop pool shop AND we come to you!

Carrying a wide range of quality brands, we offer expert advice on all pool equipment to suit your needs and budget. We are happy to provide an obligation-free quote today.

It is important to have good quality, but also essential to also have a right sized product. Equipment such as pool pumps, chlorinators, filters, automatic cleaners and more, must be correctly sized to perform in each pool. Pool usage rates and the surrounding environment will also dictate the pool equipment best suited.

Our extensive experience and knowledge of servicing, cleaning and installing pool equipment in all types of new and existing pools on the Sunshine Coast delivers pool insurance to our clients. Too often we come across new pools without the right type of pool equipment or plumbing. This often leads to stains and a green pool.

Please don’t let this happen to you, call us to arrange a visit to insure your pool!

• pool salt water chlorinators
• pool pumps
• pool filters – glass/sand filters & cartridge filters
• pH control units
• pool dosing systems
• auto suction cleaners
• robotic pool cleaners
• pool cleaning equipment & tools
• Pool Spares & Parts
• pool plumbing
• pool chemicals
• stain removers & tools

Pool Clear will ensure you have the correct equipment and plumbing best suited to your new pool or existing pool, including all operating systems and servicing needs. We take care of the lot – so you don’t have to!

Best pool pump? Variable – Enviromax Single – Pantera & Silentflo

The best pool pump is most suited to your pool’s design and functions. Factors you may consider are – existing pool operating equipment, plumbing, allowable operational efficiency, noise restrictions and budget. Match the pump rating, performance and size to the pool and the pool operating equipment.

Variable speed pumps are more energy efficient (check AMPS ratings for calculating energy usage). We have all leading brands available with the Pentair Enviromax 800/1500, Silentflo & Pantera pool pumps our pick. Free installation quotes available.

What is a variable speed pump?

A variable speed pump has a variable speed motor. This hydraulic design allows for the selection of these differing speeds (RPM’s) as per required. Such adaptability provides economy of operation (energy savings), wider ranging functionality (for differing pool sizes, designs, features, existing operating and cleaning equipment, service requirements)

Pool Pumps Compatible For Your Pool

Pool Pump Price – Upfront & Running Costs

When you buy a new pool pump, it is important to understand the potential energy costs. Calculate energy costs by multiplying energy tariffs by required operating run times and the efficiency (amps use rating in pump specifications) of the pool pump. Pool Clear Sunshine Coast can advise you on this.

Best Chlorinator? K-Chlor & XLS links

Is an ioniser (ioniser) better than a salt water chlorinator?

– The pool ioniser versus salt water chlorinator argument is often subjective to author bias or sales tactics. Ultimately it really comes down to personal preference. Ionisers can be an effective substitute in cases where skin irritations or allergies are apparent. Ionisers produce natural mineral ions via a safe electrical charge being passed through copper and silver anodes. Salt water chlorinators and cells use electrolysis in the presence of salt to produce hypochlorous acid and sodium hypochlorite (chlorine). Ionisers can produce differing water shades to chlorinators depending on pool surfacing, and may not be suitable when considering all pool operating equipment, functionality and environment. Ionisers can reduce pool chemical costs, however it is important to note that each pool must be assessed individually for suitability prior to estimating full costs. All pool systems require balancing of parameters, including stabilisers, algaecides and clarifiers as required clients.

Our preference – we recommend the use of salt water, minerals & magnesium chlorinators before Ionisers or other systems.

Quite simply the science and technology is proven. Back up service and experience is far more available and better priced. Most investment remains in the pool chlorinator sector pushing further advances, particularly in the reduction of pool minerals needed to perform.

Best Filter? Pantera Filters Link

Best pool cleaner? DOLPHIN X30 & Phoenix Hayward

– The best pool cleaner is the most suited to your pool surfacing and design. Factors include, pool pump (circulation), sanitising units, skimmer box (auto-suction cleaners), filters and of course cleaning requirements, litter types entering pool.
Auto suction cleaners use the existing circulation equipment and rely on their performance.

Robotic pool cleaners need an electrical supply only. They have individual pool scanning and memory with built-in filtration systems. Free of hoses and not damaging to pumps like the Dolphin X30 …for some pools an auto-suction cleaner may be more suited and in most cases we recommend the brilliant Phoenix 2Wheel.

Still…No auto cleaner competes with our professional pool cleaning service!

– All pools must currently have pool safety certification conforming to all relevant and existing safety and regulatory systems and definitions. Proposed pool safety laws effective 30th Nov 2015 warn that fines apply for all pools non-conforming or without certification. However Proof of Inspection may be all that you need. Pool safety certificates have an expiry date and must be renewed every 2 years for non-shared pools and 1 year for shared pools….

Under Queensland’s swimming pool safety laws:

• a pool safety certificate, issued by a licensed pool safety inspector, is required when selling, buying or leasing a property with a pool (pool safety certificates are valid for one year for a shared pool and two years for a non-shared pool)
• the pool safety standard applies to all pools associated with houses, units, hotels, motels, backpacker hostels, caravan parks, mobile van parks and other forms of short-term accommodation
• the pool safety standard applies to indoor pools as well as outdoor pools
  all swimming pools had to be included on the state-based pool safety register by 4 November 2011
• safety barriers are mandatory for all portable pools and spas deeper than 300 millimetres.

If a building such as a home, unit or hotel room is within the pool fence perimeter, it needs to be fenced from the pool. This includes buildings with living areas such as games rooms.

Toilet facilities and change rooms may be located within the pool area, but these structures must not provide a thoroughfare into the pool enclosure from outside.

Copping a fine would hurt…. but think of losing a life!

Our children’s lives depend on us and on adequate pool barriers and safety systems being in place. A pool is only ‘a safe pool’ when compliant to all relevant and pool safety laws and regulations, with acceptable security of entry. Pools which fail in any of the safety criteria are ‘unsafe’ and fines may apply…. or god forbid worse.

Risk management and hazard identification are integral for pool safety and so understanding all risks and hazards is essential in pool maintenance and pool fencing. Pool definitions and categories are crucial in identifying ‘climbable’ pool barriers and fencing, accuracy of measurements and other criteria for accreditation.

A safe pool also requires other safe practices or work methods, particularly those associated with pool and equipment maintenance. Having a professionally serviced pool should include water sampling, balancing and cleaning for safe pool chemistry, and identifying potential or existing operational and pool-side hazards.
Pool Safety Laws

Queensland’s new pool safety laws introduced in 2009, state pool owners must comply with new pool safety laws by 30 November 2015 or earlier if they sell or lease their property before this time.

These laws apply to all pools associated with dwellings categorised under ‘building classes 1 – 4’ as defined under the Building Code of Australia. Hotels, motels and resorts and other class 3 buildings were required to comply by 1st June 2011, whilst optional pool safety management plans must be approved by the department.

Pools in Queensland must be registered on the Queensland Government’s pool safety register. If you have not registered your pool, you can do so online, or contact the QBCC on 1800 634 or [email protected]

Failure to register a pool may result in a fine of $227.70 or a maximum of $2277.00.

Pool Safety Laws

A pool safety certificate has been a requirement since 1st December 2010 when selling or leasing a property with a pool. Different rules apply for non-shared pools and shared pools, differing premises (building classes), sellers, buyers, leasers, contracts and recently built pools. Understanding pool safety laws and definitions is critical for compliant pool fencing and other criteria. Check out all the new pool safety laws and requirements for your pool online at the Department of Housing and Public Works website.

Pool Safety Inspections

A pool compliant to pool safety laws, and with a pool certificate also require other safe work methods and swimming practices. Key to achieving pool safety is ensuring your pool is maintained and inspected regularly. A professional pool service can include inspection of safety systems, pool and equipment cleaning, hazard identification and water balancing for safe swimming. Most important in pool safety is supervision of children at all times.

If you want to check out all the current information on pool safety laws and requirements, click below links:

https://www.hpw.qld.gov.au/SiteCollectionDocuments/QLDpoolSafetyLaws.pdf

https://www.hpw.qld.gov.au/construction/BuildingPlumbing/PoolSafety/PoolSafetyLaws/Pages/default.aspx