What level should my pool water be at?

This is the most common question homeowners ask me, and it’s the most basic one. Weather someone is new to being a pool owner or  a veteran pool owner, I’m often asked. Where should I keep the water level.

For pool owners that have an automatic pool water leveler this is a set it and forget it situation baring any problems with your automatic leveling system which should be checked monthly by your pool service. Often we find the older auto fill systems have worn or broken parts and the float needs replaced the more recent ones are more durable and sustainable.  

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Ideally for best results you want your pool water level 1/3 to ½ way up the skimmer throat. This is the opening in your tile where the surface debris is skimmed or sucked off the surface. Water level too high and the water flow is slowed down to the point that debris can pass right by the skimmer opening without being sucked inside and filtered.

Too low of a water level and the pump will lose its prime and you are risking possible damage to your pool pump from overheating and running dry, a very costly repair.  You also will experience unhealthy swimming conditions from lack of circulation and filtration. If you have a salt chlorination system your salt cell will only produce chlorine with consistent flow high enough to trigger the flow switch.  All of which will lead to an algae bloom.  If you are unsure where to keep your pool water level, please don’t hesitate to ask your pool service or a  pool professional.