Startup Instructions

Congratulations on your new swimming pool and/or spa!  Pinnacle takes great pride in our construction and helping you understand how your pool works.  At delivery, we provide a complimentary maintenance pool kit which includes a skimmer, brush, extension pole and chlorine test kit along with a 30-day limited maintenance service.

Keeping your pool running efficiently, clean and safe is best with the help of a professional pool service company. Each pool service company typically provides different levels of care and frequency.  Common maintenance plans and services include testing and balancing of water chemistry, brushing walls, steps and benches, vacuuming, cleaning of skimmers, pump baskets, returns and filters, and monitoring equipment.  Pinnacle does not offer pool maintenance services, however, there are many excellent pool service providers to choose throughout Southwest Florida.  Community reviews and recommendations can be readily found on Angie’s List, Yelp or Google Business.  Neighborhood recommendations are also a great source for identifying pool service companies to consider.

When you know how your pool works and the best ways to care for it, you will get more enjoyment and continuous use. Listed by category below, are abbreviated explanation notes to help you better understand the functions of your Pool and maintenance care tips for important areas. As always, we recommend you hire a professional pool service and maintenance company to perform weekly service for the life of the pool.

External Resources

Care Tips

Routine Pool Care

Pool Rails and Ladders

Equipment, Valves, and Nozzles

Emergency and Safety

Pool Deck Pavers and Walkways

Water Levels, Additions and Loss

Routine Pool Care

To keep your pool in optimal shape, a professional pool service company is recommended to perform a weekly maintenance.

Weekly maintenance should include:

    • Testing of the water chemistry.
    • Managing the chemical balance to achieve optimal water chemistry.
    • Brush down the pool.
    • Vacuum the pool to remove debris and prevent algae growth and staining.
    • Skim the water surface to remove surface debris.
    • Clean skimmer baskets and strainers to prevent clogs.
    • Inspect pumps, filters, monitor pool filter pressure and other equipment for proper operation.

Pool Rails and Ladders

  • Regularly inspect and thoroughly clean mounting hardwire, replacing as needed.  Corrosion sometimes builds up in crevices, weld points, under gaskets, and bolt heads where small amounts of liquid collect and become trapped.
  • Monthly cleaning (or as needed) of the protective film area is important. Rust and corrosion can occur when contaminants become trapped and embedded in the protective film.
  • Barkeepers Friend is a cleaning agent applied with a soft cloth is a great stainless steel cleaning method.  Be certain to follow the manufacturers use and safety instructions.  Always rinse the affected area thoroughly after cleaning.   

Equipment, Valves and Nozzles

  • Electric Heat Pumps: When in use, an electric heat pump will condensate from the unit. This condensation can produce between 3-5 gallons of water per hour when in use. This is within normal operation.
  • Gas Heater Bypass: Heater bypass should be closed a 100% in order to allow water to flow through the heater.
  • Overflow Pipe: This pipe is commonly located in the backwall of the deep end of the pool. It does not return water to the pool. It serves as an “water overflow” to prevent the pool from flooding the surrounding area.

Emergency and Safety

  • In case of an emergency such as a major leak from the pump, plumbing or an electrical issue, turn off the electrical breaker and water source.
  • Refrain from using the pool until a professional pool service company or other qualified pool professional can inspect.

Pool Deck Pavers and Walkways

  • Paver routine maintenance is the simple removal of dirt and leaves by sweeping or water hose rinsing.
  • Heavy oils, grease or other stains are typically removed by light pressure washing along with an appropriate cleaning solution.  Prior to using any cleaning solutions, it is recommended to test it on an inconspicuous area of the pavers. 
  • Paver joints may need sand replenishment periodically depending on weather conditions and resulting erosion.
  • After your 1-year Warranty period, consider sealing concrete pavers surfaces to protect from staining and help lock in joint sand.  Please note that sealing does require periodic reapplication depending on use.

Water Levels, Additions and Loss

  • Water loss occurs is a normal occurrence due from natural environmental evaporation, splash out and backwashing. 
  • Excessive water loss, more than ¼” to ½” daily should be investigated.
  • There are specialist pool companies that do provide leak detection services and repairs if needed.  We recommend to first consult with your pool service company first to address any concerns.