Question 1

Why is my pool pump humming loudly but not moving water?

Accepted Answer

If your pool pump is humming and the motor housing is very hot to the touch, it is usually caused by a failed start capacitor or seized motor bearings. If it is humming but cool, it may be a jammed impeller. You can use the free Pool Checker Equipment Troubleshooter to diagnose the exact cause based on your specific symptoms.

Question 2

What does a LO flow or Water Sw error code mean on a pool heater?

Accepted Answer

A LO flow or Water Sw error means the heater's safety pressure switch is not detecting enough water. If your pump is running at full speed and the filter is clean, the internal pressure switch has likely failed. If water flow is weak from the return jets, you need to clean your skimmer baskets and backwash your pool filter. Pool Checker offers a free diagnostic tool for heater error codes.

Question 3

Is it safe to swim if my pool water is cloudy?

Accepted Answer

No, it is not safe to swim in cloudy pool water if you cannot clearly see the bottom of the deep end or the main drain. This presents a severe drowning hazard. You should test your water, check your Free Chlorine and Combined Chlorine levels, and use a tool like the Pool Checker Safe To Swim Calculator before entering.

Question 4

Can I mix liquid chlorine and muriatic acid together?

Accepted Answer

No. Mixing liquid chlorine and muriatic acid (or any pH reducer) creates highly toxic chlorine gas. You should never mix pool chemicals directly in a bucket or chlorinator. Always add them separately to the pool water with the pump running. You can verify chemical reactions using the Pool Checker Chemical Safety Calculator.

Question 5

How much liquid chlorine do I need to shock a green pool?

Accepted Answer

The exact amount of liquid chlorine needed to shock (or SLAM) a green pool depends on your pool's total volume and your current Cyanuric Acid (CYA) level. A standard shock target is roughly 40% of your CYA level. You can get the exact dosage in fluid ounces by entering your numbers into the Pool Checker Shock and SLAM Calculator.