Library

Guides

Questions answered with the working shown.

11 items
Maintenance guideHow long do salt cells last, and when to replace one

Typical salt cell life, what wears a cell out faster, how to tell when it's done, and how to choose a replacement that fits your control board.

Calculator guideHow to calculate pool volume in gallons

Formulas for pool volume in gallons for rectangle, round, oval and kidney pools, with examples and a calculator.

Fit guideHow to find the right replacement pool filter cartridge

How to match a replacement pool or spa filter cartridge using part numbers, cross-references and measurements.

Buying guideIn-line vs off-line pool chlorinators

How tablet chlorinators work, in-line versus off-line installation, which tablets they take, and why they go after the heater.

Buying guidePool heat pump vs gas heater

How pool heat pumps and gas heaters compare on running cost, heating speed, climate and installation, with a sizing formula.

Testing guidePool test strips vs drop test kits

Test strips, drop test kits and digital testers compared, with the water readings to keep in range and how often to test.

Buying guideRobotic vs suction vs pressure pool cleaners

How robotic, cordless, suction-side and pressure-side pool cleaners work, what each needs from your pool's system, and which suits your pool.

Buying guideSalt water vs chlorine pools

How a salt chlorine generator works, what it costs over time compared with adding chlorine, and what to know before converting.

Buying guideSand vs cartridge vs DE pool filters

Sand, cartridge and DE pool filters compared on how fine they filter, maintenance, water use and running costs.

Cost guideVariable-speed vs single-speed pool pumps

Why variable-speed pool pumps cost so much less to run, what federal rules require, and when a single-speed pump still makes sense.

Sizing guideWhat size pool pump do I need?

How to size a pool pump from your pool's gallons and turnover time, why maximum flow overstates real flow, and when horsepower matters.