How to Make Your Pool Energy Efficient and Eco-Friendly In honor of Earth Day, we would like to take a moment to talk about some of the ways you can make your pool a more energy efficient and environmentally friendly space. Owning and maintaining a pool can be a huge responsibility and making sure you’re taking extra care of the environment around you is important. Covering Your Pool According to studies, evaporation accounts for a significant portion of energy loss in pools. While the fall brings cooler temperatures, the sun can still beat down causing pool water to evaporate into the air. Even in the hot summer sun, you can lose out on water. By installing a pool cover, you can dramatically reduce this loss and save some money! There are even cover options that are solar powered, to provide energy efficiency during the summertime. Turn the Heat Off When Not in Use Much like when you’re not using an appliance or your phone charger, you want to make sure your heater is not heating an empty pool. Whether you’re on vacation or the weather is a bit gloomy, turning the heater to your pool off will ensure you save time and energy for when you want to use your pool next. Another way you can heat up your pool without using a lot of energy is to rely on the sun! Solar panels can convert direct sunlight into heat and warm your pool during the day. Darker pool finishes can also provide efficiency, it can reduce heating costs by utilizing the sun’s energy. Monitor for Leaks We mention leaks often here, but it’s because we are passionate about our customers pool experiences. One leaky pipe, filter, or anything else can spoil the fun on a hot summer day. You wouldn’t want your shower or tub to leak into your home, the same goes for your pool! Regularly checking for potential leaks or existing ones helps maintain water levels and prevents unnecessary water and energy use. Conclusion While there may only be one Earth Day, it is important to treat our planet with respect. At Aqua Guys, we make a conscious effort to make your pool energy efficient. Call us today to find out what steps you can take to turn your pool into an environmentally friendly space!

Picture this; you’re getting ready for cannonballs, poolside picnics, and swimming under the stars. While playing out this scenario in your head, you remember that your pool is still covered to protect it from the New England winter. With you and your families busy schedule, when will the pool get opened? Well, that’s when Aqua Guys comes in, we know a thing or two about opening pools! Choosing a Professional Pool service professionals have the knowledge and equipment to handle all aspects of pool opening. When you look for a professional, you want to make sure they can handle any and all issues that may arise during the pool opening process. From removing the cover to reassembling filtration systems, they know exactly what needs to be done to get your pool up and running smoothly. Their expertise ensures that no crucial steps are overlooked, reducing the risk of problems down the line. Assessing any Damage Leaks, rodents making a home, and electrical damage are just some of the things that could have happened during the wintertime. A professional knows how to find these problems, assess them, and then come up with a plan on how to remedy them. Our team is trained to make the right decisions and keep your pool running smoothly. Regular Maintenance Plans We’re all busy, and sometimes a day can fly by, and you haven’t scratched more than 2 things off your to-do list. Aqua Guys offers regular maintenance plans that include routine inspections and cleanings of your pool filter. By signing up for a plan, you have the peace of mind that no matter how busy your life becomes, there will be someone from Aqua Guys there to help. Our proactive approach ensures that small issues are addressed before they become major problems, giving you peace of mind that your pool is always in top condition. Conclusion While DIY projects can be fun, not everything can be handled by just anyone. Our team has the know-how to make your pool into a backyard oasis and keep it running in tip-top shape all summer long! New customers can call today to learn more about our plans!

The Benefits of Signing Up for an Annual Pool Maintenance Plan When you own a pool, you may think that you can handle the maintenance on your own. While this may be true, it is more often than not a good idea to leave these things to a professional. A professional pool company is trained in working with the equipment surrounding your pool and can provide solutions with knowledge and confidence. Why sign up for an annual pool maintenance plan ? Our lives can be very busy, which can mean that cleaning the pool is at the bottom of a long to-do list. When you hire a professional like Aqua Guys, you can have peace of mind knowing that they will be there on a scheduled day and on time ready to work. When you have someone coming by often to check on your pool and perform maintenance, they can point out and begin working on something that may not be working at its top speed. You can be assured that someone will be around your equipment testing it to make sure it’s working. Additional visits may be needed during the peak swimming season or if any issues arise. How often should someone be coming to your pool? The frequency of professional pool cleaning services depends on factors such as pool usage, local climate, and the surrounding area. We will work with you to create a schedule that has your pool in perfect shape for swimming, family parties, or down time by the poolside. By signing up for an annual pool maintenance plan, you are leaving the pool cleaning to a professional and ensuring that you can enjoy your pool without dealing with any potential DIY mishaps. Learn more about our plans and how Aqua Guys can provide you with a beautiful working pool all season long. We are only accepting new full service customers .

After being covered for the winter, you may discover that your pool went through some challenges while not in use. In this blog, we will explore some signs that you may need to bring in a professional to ensure that your pool is fixed in time for the first cannonball. Filter and Pump Issues A pool filter is meant to keep your water looking crystal clear and keep debris and potential hazards out. If you start to notice that your pool still looks dirty even after a cleaning, this could be a sign that the filter or pump needs attention. If the filter is clean, but no water is moving through it, your pump should be replaced. Visible Leaks As we all know, water and electricity do not mix. Aqua Guys can help you identify leaks, where they’re coming from, and properly fixing them. Leaks can be dangerous for many different parts of your pool. There is an increased potential for algae growth and changing pH levels, both of which can cause poor swimming pool hygiene. Leaking water onto equipment also poses an electrical threat. Rodent Damage As we’ve talked about before, rodents can make a home inside or near your pool equipment while it’s not in use. They are drawn to the warmth and shelter that pool heaters provide, in turn creating headaches for you when the time comes to open your pool for the season. Aqua Guys know how to deal with these pests and offer many solutions on how to create a rodent-free zone. High Energy Bills If your energy bills are quite high, your equipment could be working overtime, causing financial stress. Save on energy bills and reduce your carbon footprint with energy-efficient pool equipment. Aqua Guys can recommend and install energy-saving pumps, heaters, and lights that keep your pool eco-friendly and cost-effective. Water Quality Achieving and maintaining balanced water chemistry is crucial for a clean and healthy swimming environment. A professional pool technician will test the water and adjust the chemical levels as needed to ensure optimal balance. This includes pH, alkalinity, and sanitizer levels. Properly balanced water not only keeps the pool clean and clear but also helps prevent issues such as algae growth and skin irritation. With professional help, you can enjoy crystal-clear water that is safe for swimming all season long.

While we may still be in the middle of winter, the sun is slowly starting to stay out a bit longer which means spring is on the way. The warmer months promise days by the pool enjoying our time with family, friends, and pets. As we daydream about our first pool party of the season, it is important to remember that to host these festivities, we must open our pool first. The role that a pool maintenance professional can play in your pool opening can ensure that you are prepared for the summer months. Checking for Problems At Aqua Guys, we understand the importance of pool safety and can identify any potential hazards during the opening process. Our dedicated staff will inspect equipment for wear and tear, check your pool for any leaks that may have happened over the winter, and check all chemical levels. The role of a professional is to ensure that you have the peace of mind to know your pool is in great shape. Equipment Tune-Up Your pool's equipment, including pumps, filters, and heaters, are imperative to your pool functioning correctly. Many times, the improper handling during the opening process can lead to damage or malfunction. A professional knows how to handle pool equipment with care, taking the extra steps to make sure they are cleaned, inspected, and tested. By hiring a professional to handle your equipment correctly from the start, you can extend its lifespan and avoid unexpected breakdowns during the swimming season. Removing the Cover Opening a pool properly takes time and effort, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the process. Aqua Guys take care of everything efficiently, allowing you to focus on other seasonal tasks. Opening your pool for the season is a critical part of its maintenance, and it's not something to be taken lightly. By hiring a professional service like Aqua Guys, you’re making a smart investment in the longevity and health of your pool.  Our expertise, attention to detail, and commitment to quality ensure that your pool will be ready to enjoy as soon as the warm weather returns. The role of professionals, like Aqua Guys, is to ensure that your pool and its equipment will be in the best shape for you and your loved ones to create fun memories.

At Aqua Guys, we know pets are part of the family, and on a hot summer day, they deserve to cool off just as much as we do! However, as pet owners who love spending time by the pool with our furry friends, one issue that often pops up is pet hair. While it may seem harmless, pet hair can create a mess in your pool's filtration system and reduce water quality if not properly managed. So, what can you do to enjoy pool time with your pets without turning your water into a fur-filled disaster? Here are some tips to help keep pet hair out of your pool: 1. Pre-Swim Grooming Before letting your pet take a dive, give them a quick brushing. A simple brush-down can drastically reduce the amount of loose hair they shed in the water. It's a win-win: your pet will be more comfortable, and your pool filter won't have to work overtime! 2. Invest in a Pool Skimmer A skimmer is your pool’s best friend when it comes to collecting floating debris. Skim your pool regularly to catch pet hair before it gets into the filtration system. If you’re swimming frequently with your pets, you may want to invest in an automatic skimmer that runs while you relax. 3. Use a Pool Cover When Not in Use If your pool isn’t covered, it's an open invitation for pets to take a dip. Covering your pool when it's not in use can reduce pet hair, leaves, and other debris from entering the water. It also doubles as a safety measure! 4. Bathe Your Pet Regularly Keeping your pet clean is crucial for pool maintenance. A clean pet means less dirt and debris in the water, which helps both the pool’s filtration system and overall water clarity. A quick rinse with fresh water before pool time can also prevent dirt and oils from being released into the water. 5. Upgrade Your Filter System If you frequently swim with your pet, you may need to upgrade your pool’s filter. A fine-mesh filter or cartridge filter is more effective at capturing small particles like pet hair than standard filters. Regular cleaning of your filter is also key—especially after pet swim sessions! 6. Create a Designated Pet Area Consider setting up a designated area around the pool for your pet to dry off after swimming. This will help contain shedding before they wander around, reducing the chances of fur getting back into the pool. 7. Use a Pool Vacuum A high-quality pool vacuum can help clean pet hair that has sunk to the bottom. By regularly vacuuming your pool, you’ll remove hair and other debris that could lead to clogging your pool's systems over time. 8. Install a Pre-Filter Consider adding a pre-filter or hair catcher to your pool’s filtration system. These devices trap hair before it enters the main filter, preventing clogging and prolonging the life of your equipment. Swim with Your Pets, Worry-Free! Keeping pet hair out of your pool doesn't mean you have to stop swimming with your furry friends. With a few preventative steps, you can keep your pool clean and your pets happy. At Aqua Guys, we specialize in pool maintenance and care, offering services to keep your water crystal clear and your systems running smoothly, no matter how many pets are diving in. Need help maintaining your pool year-round? Our annual maintenance plan has you covered, from regular cleaning to professional closing services at the end of the season. Let us handle the upkeep, so you can focus on enjoying your pool with your entire family—four-legged members included! For more tips or to learn about our maintenance services, contact Aqua Guys today!

As winter approaches, it's essential to ensure your pool is properly prepared to withstand the cold months. Taking the right steps now can prevent costly damage, keep your pool safe, and make reopening it in the spring a breeze. Here's a comprehensive winter pool maintenance checklist to guide you through the process. 1. Clean the Pool Thoroughly Skim the Surface: Remove leaves, debris, and any floating objects. Vacuum the Pool: Clean the pool floor and walls to remove dirt and algae. Brush the Walls: Scrub the walls, steps, and corners to eliminate any lingering algae or grime. 2. Balance the Water Chemistry Test the Water: Check the pH, alkalinity, and calcium hardness levels. Adjust as Necessary: Ensure the pH is between 7.2 and 7.6, alkalinity between 80 and 120 ppm, and calcium hardness between 200 and 400 ppm. Shock the Pool: Add a chlorine shock treatment to kill any bacteria and prevent algae growth. 3. Lower the Water Level Drain Excess Water: Lower the water level to below the skimmer and tile line. This helps prevent freeze damage and protects the skimmer from cracking. Use a Submersible Pump: If needed, use a submersible pump to drain water efficiently and safely. 4. Add Winterizing Chemicals Algaecide: Add a high-quality algaecide to prevent algae growth during the winter. Chlorine-Free Pool Shock: Use a non-chlorine shock to avoid chlorine lock while maintaining clean water. Stain and Scale Prevention: Add a stain and scale control product to prevent mineral build-up and stains on pool surfaces. 5. Protect the Pool Equipment Drain and Store: Drain water from the pump, heater, filter, and other equipment. Store them in a dry, sheltered area to protect against freezing temperatures. Remove Pool Accessories: Take out ladders, diving boards, and any other removable accessories. Store them in a safe, dry place. Cover the Skimmer and Return Lines: Use freeze plugs or foam to cover the skimmer and return lines to prevent water from entering and freezing inside. 6. Cover the Pool Choose a Durable Pool Cover: Invest in a high-quality, durable pool cover that can withstand winter weather conditions. Install the Cover Properly: Ensure the cover is securely fastened and free of gaps. Use water bags or cover weights to hold it in place. Check for Tears or Holes: Inspect the cover regularly for any damage and repair it immediately to keep debris out of the pool. 7. Monitor the Pool Throughout Winter Clear Debris from the Cover: Regularly remove leaves, snow, and other debris from the pool cover to prevent sagging and damage. Check Water Levels: Monitor the water level under the cover, especially after heavy rain or snow, and adjust as necessary. Inspect for Damage: Periodically check the pool and equipment for any signs of damage or issues that need attention. 8. Prepare for Spring Opening Plan Ahead: Start thinking about your spring pool opening a few weeks before the season begins. Order Supplies: Make sure you have all the necessary chemicals and equipment on hand for a smooth and easy reopening. Schedule Maintenance: Consider scheduling a professional pool service to inspect your pool and equipment before the new season starts. If this list seems overwhelming, Aqua Guys and their expert team can handle closing your pool this year. By letting the professionals take care of winterizing your pool, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that your pool is protected and ready for a smooth spring opening. Proper winterization is key to enjoying a stress-free spring and a sparkling, inviting pool all summer long.

As the vibrant colors of fall give way to the icy grip of winter, pool owners in Connecticut face the annual task of winterizing their pools. While it might seem tempting to skip covering your pool for the season, doing so can lead to numerous issues that could impact your pool's longevity and functionality. Here’s why it’s essential to cover your pool during the winter months in Connecticut, and how Aqua Guys can help make this task a breeze. Protection from Harsh Weather Connecticut winters are known for their harsh conditions, including heavy snowfall, freezing temperatures, and ice storms. These elements can wreak havoc on an uncovered pool. Pool covers act as a barrier, protecting the pool from debris, snow, and ice. Without a cover, your pool can accumulate dirt, leaves, and other debris that are difficult to remove and can cause stains and damage to the pool’s surface. Preventing Freeze Damage One of the most significant risks to an uncovered pool during winter is freeze damage. When water in the pool and plumbing freezes, it expands, which can lead to cracked tiles, burst pipes, and damaged equipment. A pool cover helps maintain a more stable water temperature, reducing the risk of freezing and subsequent damage. Keeping Your Pool Clean Even during winter, debris such as leaves, twigs, and dirt can find their way into your pool. This debris can clog your filtration system, promote algae growth, and create a mess that’s time-consuming and expensive to clean. A high-quality pool cover keeps your pool clean, minimizing the effort and cost required to get your pool ready for the next swimming season. Reducing Chemical Use Maintaining the proper chemical balance in your pool is essential to prevent algae growth and maintain water clarity. Without a cover, winter rains and melting snow can dilute your pool's chemical balance, making it necessary to use more chemicals to restore the balance. A pool cover reduces the amount of water and chemicals needed, saving you money and effort. Enhancing Safety An uncovered pool can be a safety hazard, especially if you have children or pets. Pool covers provide a crucial layer of safety, preventing accidental falls into the pool. This peace of mind is invaluable during the off-season when your pool isn’t in use. Aqua Guys: Your Pool Cover Experts Covering your pool is a vital part of winterizing, but selecting the right cover and installing it correctly can be daunting. This is where Aqua Guys come in. Aqua Guys make it easy to take care of your pool by carrying the best names in pool covers. Whether you need a durable winter cover, a safety cover, or an automatic cover, Aqua Guys have a wide selection to meet your needs.

Owning a pool is a luxury that comes with the responsibility of regular maintenance to ensure its longevity and optimal performance. One critical component of pool maintenance that often goes overlooked is the protection of your pool heater. This vital piece of equipment can fall prey to a surprising adversary: rodents. Understanding the Importance of Pool Maintenance Maintaining a pool involves regular cleaning, chemical balancing, equipment checks, and winterization. Neglecting these tasks can lead to a host of problems, including algae growth, cloudy water, and malfunctioning equipment. Among the various components of your pool system, the pool heater is particularly vulnerable and can be costly to repair or replace if damaged. Rodents: An Unseen Threat to Your Pool Heater Rodents, including mice, rats, and squirrels, are drawn to the warmth and shelter that pool heaters provide. During colder months, these creatures seek out warm places to nest, and the internal components of your pool heater offer an ideal environment. Unfortunately, their presence can lead to significant damage in several ways: Chewing on Wires and Components: Rodents have a natural instinct to gnaw on objects to keep their teeth trimmed. Electrical wiring, plastic components, and even gas lines inside your pool heater can become targets. This gnawing can result in exposed wires, short circuits, and gas leaks, posing serious safety hazards and necessitating expensive repairs. Building Nests: Rodents may bring in nesting materials such as leaves, grass, and twigs, which can obstruct airflow and ventilation. Blocked vents can cause the heater to overheat or fail to ignite, compromising its efficiency and potentially causing long-term damage. Contamination and Corrosion: Rodents can leave behind urine and feces, which can cause corrosion and contaminate internal components. This contamination can degrade the performance of your heater and lead to premature failure. Preventing Rodent Damage Preventing rodent damage to your pool heater requires a combination of regular maintenance, proper storage, and deterrent measures. Here are some practical steps to protect your investment: Regular Inspections: Conduct routine inspections of your pool heater, especially during the fall and winter months. Look for signs of rodent activity, such as droppings, nests, or chewed wires. Early detection can help prevent extensive damage. Secure Storage: If you do not use your pool heater year-round, consider storing it in a rodent-proof enclosure. Ensure the enclosure is sealed with no entry points for rodents. Alternatively, cover the heater with a durable, rodent-resistant cover. Rodent Deterrents: Use rodent deterrents around your pool area and heater. Natural deterrents, such as peppermint oil or predator urine, can be effective. Additionally, electronic rodent repellent devices emit ultrasonic sounds that discourage rodents from approaching. Professional Maintenance: Schedule regular maintenance with a professional pool service like Aqua Guys. Technicians can clean and inspect the heater, ensuring it is in optimal condition and free from any signs of rodent damage. Aqua Guys’ experts can spot potential issues early, saving you from costly repairs and ensuring your heater runs smoothly year-round. Landscaping: Keep the area around your pool heater clear of debris and overgrown vegetation. Trim back shrubs and trees that could provide rodents with easy access to the heater. How Aqua Guys Can Help Aqua Guys specializes in comprehensive pool maintenance services, offering regular inspections and professional care to protect your pool heater from rodent damage. Our team of skilled technicians is trained to identify and address potential threats, ensuring your heater remains in top condition. By choosing Aqua Guys, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing your pool equipment is in expert hands. Our maintenance packages include: Thorough Inspections: Regularly scheduled checks for signs of rodent activity and wear and tear. Cleaning and Servicing: Detailed cleaning and servicing of your pool heater to maintain optimal performance. Preventative Measures: Implementation of rodent deterrents and recommendations for secure storage and landscaping adjustments. Timely Repairs: Prompt repair services to address any damage and prevent further issues. Conclusion Maintaining your pool heater is a crucial aspect of overall pool maintenance. By taking proactive measures to protect your heater from rodent damage and partnering with professionals like Aqua Guys, you can ensure it operates efficiently and safely for years to come. Regular inspections, secure storage, and the use of deterrents are all essential steps in safeguarding this valuable equipment. With a little effort and vigilance, you can enjoy a trouble-free pool experience and avoid the costly consequences of rodent infestations. Contact Aqua Guys today to schedule your next pool maintenance service and keep your pool heater in top shape.