Pool words, explained
Clear explanations of common pool terms.

A
Algae
Microscopic plants that can grow in pool water and cause it to turn green.
B
Backwashing
Cleaning the pool filter by reversing the water flow through it.
C
Calcium Hardness
The level of calcium in pool water, which affects water balance and equipment.
Chlorine
A chemical used to sanitize pool water and kill bacteria.
Coping
The cap or edge at the top of a pool wall that covers the edges of the pool.
D
Deck
The hard surface area surrounding a pool where users can gather and walk.
F
Filter
A device that removes small particles and impurities from pool water.
H
Heater
A device that warms the pool water to a comfortable swimming temperature.
L
Liner
A vinyl sheet that covers the inside of some pools to hold water and enhance aesthetics.
P
pH Level
A measure of how acidic or alkaline the pool water is.
Pump
Equipment that circulates water through the pool's filtration system.
R
Return Jets
Openings that return filtered water back into the pool.
S
Shock Treatment
The process of adding a large amount of sanitizer to the pool to clean it.
Skimmer
A device that removes debris from the surface of the pool water.
Stains
Discoloration in pool surfaces often caused by metals or organic materials.
T
Total Alkalinity
A measure of the water's ability to resist changes in pH.
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