Pool tips, maintenance insights, & expert 
advice.

Groupe Laurentides offers valuable information and resources to help you become a confident and knowledgeable pool owner. Whether you’re seeking seasonal maintenance tips or insights from our experienced team, our educational resources are designed to ensure you enjoy a worry-free pool experience. Subscribe to our newsletter below so we can deliver our insightful newsletter directly to your inbox.

How often should I test my pool water?

Ideally, pool water should be tested at least twice a week during periods of regular use (summer), and once a week during the off-season. The parameters to check are pH, chlorine/bromine levels, alkalinity, and sometimes the stabilizer (cyanuric acid).

The water turns green due to an algae bloom, often caused by a lack of active chlorine, a pH that is too high, or insufficient filtration. Even if the filter is working, a chemical imbalance or a lack of shock treatment allows algae to develop.

The level of free chlorine must be maintained between 1 and 3 ppm (parts per million). Below this threshold, the water may not be properly disinfected. Above this threshold, it may cause irritation. After shock treatment, wait until the level drops below 3 ppm before swimming.

Cloudy water often indicates a problem with filtration, pH, or insufficient chlorine. Recommended steps:
  1. Check and adjust the pH.
  2. Perform a shock treatment.
  3. Add a flocculant or clarifier.
  4. Clean or rinse the filter.
  5. Leave the pump running for 24 to 48 hours.
  • Sand filter: clean monthly (backwash), change the sand every 3 to 5 years.
  • Cartridge filter: clean weekly, replace the cartridge every 1 to 2 years.
  • Diatomaceous earth (DE) filter: rinse after each cycle and replace the powder after each wash.
No. After shock treatment, you must wait until the chlorine level drops below 3 ppm before swimming, which generally takes 8 to 24 hours, depending on the product used and the ventilation of the water.
  1. Remove the protective cover and clean it.
  2. Fill the pool to the normal level.
  3. Reinstall the equipment (ladders, baskets, plugs).
  4. Restart the pump and check the filtration system.
  5. Test and balance the water.
  6. Add shock treatment and algaecide.
  7. Clean the bottom and walls.
Keep the pH and alkalinity balanced, use an anti-scale product if your water is hard, and clean the walls regularly. Also, avoid letting leaves or debris accumulate, as some may stain surfaces.

Discover how we make it easy to realize your backyard dream.

Learn more about our car shelters

Learn more about our car shelters

Stay Connected to Receive Tips

For maintenance tips, exclusive offers,
& seasonal updates.

Protect your vehicle with a sturdy, perfectly installed shelter.
Groupe Laurentides takes care of everything!

Protect your vehicle with a sturdy, perfectly installed shelter. Groupe Laurentides takes care of everything!

Protect your vehicle with a sturdy, perfectly installed shelter. Groupe Laurentides takes care of everything!