FAQ

Your pool water level should be about two-thirds of the way up the skimmer opening. Too low, and your pump may run dry; too high, and the skimmer won’t work effectively. If needed, add or remove water to keep it at the ideal level.

Click here to learn more about Suntime’s Pool Opening and Closing offerings

Rinse your filter cartridges with a hose every 2–4 weeks to remove dirt and debris. For deeper cleaning, soak them in a cartridge cleaner every few months. If the cartridges show wear or don’t clean effectively, it may be time to replace them. You may also need to rinse them more frequently during the pool opening process and when there are more contaminants in the air, such as pollen.

For chlorine/salt pools, it’s best to replace your filter sand every 3 years. For Baquacil pools, it’s best to replace it every year. Over time, sand becomes less effective at trapping debris, leading to cloudy water and reduced filtration. If you notice your water quality declining, it may be time for a change.

On average you should backwash once a week. During the pool opening process and when there are more contaminants in the air, such as pollen, you will need to backwash more frequently.

There are several ways to improve your pool’s energy efficiency! Upgrading to a variable-speed pump, installing LED pool lights, and keeping your filter clean can all help reduce energy use and save on costs. You can also consider energy-efficient heaters or automated systems for optimal performance.

Our primary focus is on inground pools, including new construction, renovations, and maintenance. However, we’re happy to provide guidance for water chemistry and retail needs, or recommend local professionals for aboveground pool services!

Regular water testing helps keep your pool clean, safe, and enjoyable. Proper water balance prevents algae growth, equipment damage, and skin or eye irritation. Testing also ensures your sanitizer is working effectively to kill bacteria and contaminants.

To keep your pool clean and balanced, you’ll typically need chlorine or another sanitizer, pH adjusters, alkalinity and calcium hardness balancers, and shock treatments.

Algaecides and clarifiers can also help maintain water quality. Regular testing will help determine exactly what your pool needs to stay in top shape!

For the best water quality, test strip your pool water at least once a week and take a sample to our retail store once or twice per month for a more detailed analysis. If you use your pool frequently or after heavy rain, test more often.

We specialize in renovating existing inground vinyl liner pools, including liner replacements, structural repairs, updated decking, new coping, equipment upgrades, and more. If your pool needs a refresh, we can bring it back to life!

The cost of building a pool varies based on size, materials, and additional features. Our team will design a custom vinyl-liner pool or guide you through the process of choosing a Latham fiberglass shell to create a backyard that is tailored to your vision and budget. Our pricing begins around $80,000, and includes your pool equipment, concrete pool surround, and in-depth training with our service team on how to maintain your new pool. Contact us to set up a free consultation!

Embracing the spa lifestyle shouldn’t mean you have to add extra work to your day. Choosing a hot tub that’s low maintenance can make the experience of owning one so much better. Sundance^® spas use the MicroClean^® Ultra Filtration System that filters more water than typical spas. All models have CLEARRAY Active Oxygen™ technology that neutralizes waterborne pathogens, resulting in clean, fresh water.

When it comes to hot tub care, ask if there are any monitoring features to alert you when the spa needs servicing, like the indicator light on Sundance^® spas. Sundance^® control panels also allow you to regulate your spa for energy-efficiency and lock it for safety, in addition to adjusting the jets and temperature. And spas with apps like the SmartTub™ System remind you when you need to perform routine maintenance or if your spa needs attention, and more, making water care and spa ownership a breeze. Hot tubs outfitted with SmartTub™ can be remotely monitored by Suntime Pools West and will expedite repairs in the unlikely event that an issue arises with your tub.

When it comes to therapeutic benefits,not all hot tubs are created equal—is why you’ll want to inquire about the types of jets, their placement, and the kinds of massage they offer. If you have a specific physical issue (such as back soreness, or arthritis in your joints), makesure the hot tub you choose can target your problem areas. Sundance^® spas feature Fluidix^® jets that provide a variety of massage combinations.

When buying a hot tub, it’s important to consider both the materials and where the spa will be placed. For example, Sundance^® spas feature a high-quality, UV-resistant synthetic cabinetry that’s beautiful, durable and low maintenance.

Beyond the soothing sensations, you want your spa to have style. There are lots of enhancements that can help make your spa time even more spectacular. Some to ask about include underwater illumination, water features like waterfalls, smart device syncing, and touchscreen control panels. Some Sundance^® spa models also come equipped with a SunCooler™ cold storage area so you can keep cold drinks within arm’s reach. You can also enjoy some SunScents™ aromatherapy.