Where Can You Find Pool & Spa Supplies Near Westminster? Trust Waterworks Pool & Spa
Searching for a pool and spa supplies store near you that’s both convenient and customer-focused? Waterworks Pool & Spa is just that. We’re proud to serve homeowners in Westminster and nearby areas, providing everything they need to keep their pools and spas running smoother and safer.
Local Experts, Trusted Products: Pool & Spa Solutions Made Easy
We offer the following products and expertise to those in Hampstead, Manchester, Mount Airy, New Windsor, Union Bridge, Sykesville, Eldersburg, Taneytown, Reisterstown, and more.
Need more info or looking for something specific? Reach out! We carry products from decades past, so if you need it, there’s a good chance we’ve got it.
What’s the Ideal pH Level for a Pool?
The pH scale runs from 0 to 14, and the ideal pH level for a swimming pool is between 7.2 and 7.6. Maintaining the pH within this range will give you the best results in terms of swimmer comfort, water clarity, and overall sanitization.
What is pH?
pH is a measure of how acidic or basic your pool water is.
- If the pH is too low (acidic), it can cause damage to pool surfaces, corrode metal components (like ladders or heaters), and irritate swimmers’ eyes and skin. Acidic water can also degrade pool liners and grout, and may even lead to more frequent chemical use, as chlorine burns off faster in lower pH conditions.
- If the pH is too high (basic), it can lead to scale formation and cloudy water, as well as reduce the effectiveness of the chlorine. At higher pH levels, chlorine becomes less efficient at killing bacteria and algae, which could result in unsafe swimming conditions.
Testing your pool’s pH level is a routine task that should be done at least once per week, especially during peak swimming season. You can use test strips, liquid test kits, or even request professional testing from your local pool and spa store – that’s us!
Things that may warrant extra testing include bad weather (rain can affect pH), if debris or leaves have been building up, more pool use than is normal, or if make-up water has been recently added.
How do I adjust my pool’s pH levels?
- If the pH is below 7.2, you’ll want to raise it using a pH increaser (usually soda ash or sodium carbonate).
- If the pH is above 7.6, you’ll need a pH decreaser (commonly muriatic acid or sodium bisulfate).
Always add chemicals slowly and in small amounts, giving them time to circulate, then re-test them before making any additional adjustments.
How Often Should I Clean My Pool Filter?
Because there are different types of pool filters available based on each homeowner’s needs, this question depends a lot on the type of filter you currently use.
- Cartridge Filters: Cartridge filters should be cleaned every 2 to 6 weeks, depending on pool usage. Cleaning involves removing the cartridge, rinsing it thoroughly with a garden hose, and using a filter cleaner if necessary. About once a year, it’s a good idea to soak the cartridge in a chemical solution to remove oils and scale buildup.
- Sand Filters: Sand filters should be backwashed when the pressure gauge reads 8-10 psi above normal – or about every 1-4 weeks, depending on debris load. However, sand doesn’t last forever, so this filter will need to be replaced every 5–7 years, depending on how well it’s maintained and the amount of usage.
- DE (Diatomaceous Earth) Filters: DE filters require backwashing every 4-6 weeks and recharging with fresh DE powder afterward. At least once or twice a year, a full teardown and cleaning of the filter grid assembly is recommended to remove oil and debris buildup.
If your pool is surrounded by trees, exposed to frequent storms, or gets heavy use, you may need to clean your filter more often. Similarly, if you’re dealing with algae or cloudy water, cleaning the filter can help improve circulation and clarity.
Why Does My Pool or Hot Tub Have a Strong Chemical Smell?
If your pool or hot tub has a strong chemical smell, particularly a chlorine or bleach-like odor, it’s not usually due to too much chlorine, as you may first guess. It’s more likely the result of chloramines, which are combined chlorine compounds that form when free chlorine interacts with organic matter like – sweat, body oils, lotions, etc.
What are chloramines?
These are essentially a byproduct of chlorine doing its job. When chlorine sanitizes your hot tub, it reacts with contaminants and forms chloramines. These combined compounds are far less effective at sanitizing the water and are the main source of that chemical odor or “pool smell.” Ironically, this means your hot tub may not have enough free chlorine left to effectively clean the water, even though it smells strong.
What can cause chloramines to build up faster?
- Poor water circulation. If the water isn’t being filtered and circulated properly, contaminants can build up and react with chlorine faster than they can be removed.
- Dirty filters. A clogged or dirty filter can’t remove organic matter effectively, contributing to higher chloramine levels.
- Imbalanced pH or alkalinity. If your pH is too high or low, chlorine becomes less effective, allowing chloramines to accumulate.
How Can I Get Rid of a Bad Pool or Hot Tub Smell?
We recommend testing your water first and foremost. Ensure your pH is between 7.2 – 7.8, alkalinity is within the 80 – 120 ppm range, and sanitizer levels are appropriate. If you still have problems after balancing your pool chemicals, shock the water. In addition, cleaning your filters may help resolve the issue. And if it’s been a few months since your hot tub has been drained, drain and refill it.
Westminster Pool & Spa Store: Make Us Your Go-To Crew
Westminster, Maryland was founded in 1764, so it’s not surprising that the city is rich in history. Yet, despite having lots of historical spots to enjoy, there are plenty of modern amenities to bring enjoyment to both visitors and residents alike.
The Carroll County Farm Museum is a popular and well-loved spot that was established in 1966. It provides insights into mid-19th-century rural life, and visitors can explore original farm structures, including a farmhouse built in 1852-53 and a bank barn. There’s also Union Mills Homestead, which dates back to the 1790s. This historic farm allows visitors to explore original buildings such as the mill and mansion, highlighting Maryland’s agricultural heritage.
Other great spots include:
- Carroll Arts Center, the perfect hub for cultural celebrations, art exhibitions, performances, and community events.
- Bear Branch Nature Center, which features interpretive exhibits about local flora and fauna, live animal displays, and offers over five miles of multi-use trails.
- Westminster Community Pond, a great little pond that makes an ideal spot for relaxing outdoors, playing with the kiddos (at the nearby playground), or having a picnic.
And don’t forget to check out great local events like the Flower and Jazz Festival, Maryland Wine Festival, and FallFest.
Yes, Westminster has it all – including great access to pool and spa supplies and equipment! We serve this area, as well as Owings Mills, Randallstown, Milford Mill, Pikesville, Cockeysville, Mays Chapel, Lochearn, and many more surrounding communities. Reach out now – we’d love to hear from you.
You Go-To Pool & Spa Supplies Store: Reach Out Soon
We love to be your hub for all things pool, spa, and hot tub, but we’re more than just a store – we’re your neighbors. We’re pool experts that want to ensure you have the best summers ever. We’re fellow pool-owners that understand the ins and outs of keeping your pool pristine.
Whether you need weekly pool supplies or seasonal advice, Waterworks Pool & Spa is here to help you enjoy your water with confidence and ease. Come visit us today and experience the difference of shopping local.
Are you a Mount Airy resident? Then, you easily fall into our service area – we’d love to help you out!