FAQs
At Distinctive Swimming Pools, Inc., we understand that owning a pool or spa comes with questions about maintenance, repairs, installations, and more. Our FAQ section is here to provide quick and helpful answers to some of the most common inquiries from our customers. Whether you're looking for guidance on pool care, equipment, or renovation options, we're here to help ensure your swimming experience is as enjoyable and hassle-free as possible. If you don’t find what you’re looking for, feel free to contact us—we’re always happy to assist!
Q: How often should I have my pool serviced to keep it in top condition?
A: For optimal water quality and pool longevity, we recommend weekly pool maintenance. Regular service includes:
- Skimming debris and brushing pool walls (as needed)
- Checking and balancing water chemistry
- Inspecting and cleaning filters
- Ensuring pumps and equipment are working properly
- Checking for any leaks or wear
If your pool is used frequently or is surrounded by trees, you may need more frequent maintenance.
Q: What are the essential chemicals I need to maintain my pool’s water quality?
A: To keep your pool water balanced and safe, you’ll need:
- Chlorine or Bromine – Kills bacteria and algae
- pH Increaser/Decreaser – Maintains proper pH levels (7.2-7.6)
- Alkalinity Increaser – Helps stabilize pH
- Calcium Hardness Increaser – Prevents equipment corrosion or surface damage
- Shock Treatment(when needed) – Removes contaminants and restores water clarity
- Algaecide (Optional) – Prevents and treats algae growth
- Clarifier (Optional) – helps clump small particles together to help aid the filter to remove them
- Enzyme (Optional) – Naturally removes contaminates from the water and which frees chlorine and bromine up to sanitize the water.
We offer professional water testing in-store to ensure your pool stays perfectly balanced.
Q: How do I know if my pool needs resurfacing or renovation?
A: Signs that your pool may need resurfacing or a renovation include:
- Rough or discolored pool surface (stains, cracks, or peeling plaster)
- Water level dropping quickly (potential leaks)
- Outdated pool features (old tiles, inefficient lighting, or worn coping)
- Difficulty maintaining water clarity (even with proper chemical balance)
- Equipment inefficiencies (higher energy bills due to outdated pumps or filters)
- Chipping or chalking of paint or chipping of surface
- Subsurface (Gunite or concrete) showing
A renovation can enhance your pool’s aesthetics, safety, energy efficiency and value.
Q: What’s the best way to winterize my pool in Connecticut?
A: Winterizing your pool properly prevents costly damage from freezing temperatures. Here’s what we recommend:
- Balance your water chemistry before closing.
- Lower the water level to prevent freezing expansion damage (bottom of skimmer for vinyl liner pools, down 18” to 20” for Gunite or concrete pools).
- Drain water from all pool equipment (pumps, filters, heaters) Follow manufacturer’s recommendation for each piece of equipment that you have regarding winterizing each.
- Blow out all lines with a professional winterizing blower (We rent them out daily or weekly).
- Add winterizing chemicals to prevent algae growth and scaling (Shock, Sequestering Agent, Winter Algaecide and Antifreeze for pipes).
- Cover your pool with a high-quality winter cover to keep out debris.
- Monitor water level throughout the winter months to keep water off of tile line in Gunite pools or too high in the skimmer in vinyl lined pools.
We offer professional pool closing services to ensure your pool is protected all winter long.
Q: Do you offer emergency pool services if I have an urgent issue?
A: Yes, we offer 24 hr./ 7 days a week all year round emergency service.
After hours, we have an emergency service option which rings through to a live person who will either answer or call you back as quickly as possible to help of dispatch a technician.
Q: How long does it take to build a new pool from start to finish?
A: The timeline for a new inground pool varies based on factors like size, materials, and weather conditions. On average, pool construction takes 10-12 weeks or more, broken down as follows:
- Permitting & design approvals: 2-4 weeks
- Excavation & framing: 1-2 weeks
- Plumbing, electrical, and foundation work: 2-3 weeks
- Finishing (tiling, decking, plastering, etc.): 2-3 weeks
Complex features like waterfalls, custom lighting, or automation systems may add additional time.
Q: What are the best pool designs for small or irregularly shaped backyards?
A: For smaller or uniquely shaped spaces, consider:
- Plunge pools – Compact, deep pools perfect for relaxation
- Lap pools – Long and narrow, ideal for fitness enthusiasts
- Freeform pools – Custom shapes that fit naturally into any space
- Infinity edges – Create an elegant, modern look even in a small area
- Spool (spa + pool) – A hybrid option for limited space
Our team specializes in custom pool designs tailored to your backyard layout and needs.
Q: What factors should I consider when choosing between a saltwater and chlorine pool?
A: When choosing between a saltwater pool and a chlorine pool you should consider:
- Maintenance: Saltwater pools require less frequent chemical adjustments than chlorine pools.
- Comfort: Saltwater is gentler on skin and eyes compared to traditional chlorine.
- Cost: Saltwater pools have a higher initial setup cost (salt cell generator) but lower ongoing costs.
- Sanitization: Chlorine pools kill bacteria quickly, while saltwater systems generate chlorine naturally.
We can help you decide which system best fits your lifestyle and budget.
Q: How much does a new inground pool typically cost, and what affects the price?
A: The cost of an inground pool depends on:
- Material choice (gunite/concrete, fiberglass, or vinyl)
- Size & depth of the pool
- Additional features (lighting, waterfalls, spas, decks)
- Permits & excavation requirements
On average, vinyl pools start at $50K+, fiberglass pools at $50K+, and gunite pools at $90+.
Contact us for a personalized estimate based on your backyard and design preferences.
Q: What permits or approvals are required for new pool construction in Connecticut?
A: Pool construction requires:
- Local building permits from your city or county
- Zoning approvals to ensure compliance with property line setbacks
- Electrical and plumbing permits for safe installation
- Safety barrier compliance (fencing, self-latching gates, etc.)
We handle all permit applications and inspections to make the process hassle-free for you.
Q: Can you upgrade my old pool with modern features like LED lighting or automation?
A: Yes! We offer pool upgrades, including:
- LED lighting – Energy-efficient and customizable for ambiance
- Smart automation systems – Control your pool’s temperature, lights, and filtration from your phone
- Energy-efficient pumps & heaters – Reduce operating costs while improving performance
- Water features – Bubblers, waterfalls, and deck jets for a luxury feel
- Resurfacing & tile replacement – Refresh your pool’s look and durability
These upgrades can enhance aesthetics, improve energy efficiency, simplify maintenance and increase property value.
Q: What are my options for energy-efficient pool equipment?
A: We recommend:
- Variable-speed pumps – Use up to 90% less energy than traditional pumps
- High-efficiency pool heaters – Heat your pool faster while saving on energy bills
- LED pool lighting – Lasts longer and uses a fraction of the power of traditional lights
- Solar pool covers – Retain heat and reduce evaporation
- Automatic Pool Covers – Retain heat and keep the pool cleaner and safer
- Automation Systems - Help you take more control over your pump, heater and salt generator by timing them at certain times and days to help with energy costs and ease of use.
- Energy-efficient upgrades save money in the long run and reduce your environmental impact.
Q: How long does a typical pool renovation take?
A: A basic renovation (resurfacing, tile replacement) takes 1-3 weeks. A full remodel (new decking, lighting, and equipment) may take 4-6 weeks.
The exact timeframe depends on the scope of work, weather conditions, and material availability.
Q: What pool supplies do you carry in your retail store?
A: We carry a wide variety of pool supplies in our store including: toys, floats, rafts, noodles, spa chemicals, pool chemicals, plumbing supplies and parts for pools including baskets, lids, etc.
We also carry Saratoga line of spas.
Q: Do you offer free water testing, and how does it work?
A: We charge $4.82 per test which we apply to any in store purchase of a balancing chemical. This is to help cover the cost of the lab disk only.
