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Scroll down to browse through a selection of e-mail letters with feedback about this website. Not everyone, that sends us an e-mail, asks a question. The "feedback" tells us how we're doing! There are letters from pool and spa owners, industry professionals and from some of the website's sponsoring companies.

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► Feedback From Pool & Spa Owners

Thank you Alan. Just want to say your website offers invaluable advice and shopping ideas!
Elizabeth S., 8/12/2011

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Thanks!! The ColorQ was actually at the house (they usually deliver to the business) when we got home last night, about ½ hour after I e-mailed you. I do appreciate you responding so quickly though. That's why I like doing business with you.

Wanda, Bloomer, WI, 6/16/2011

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Alan! Thank you so much! It actually worked! I put the METALTRAP Stain Remover, in a sock, on top of the stain and it worked! I left it there over night, because I forgot about it, and when i went out there this morning it was 100% gone! In my own words "You Rock!"

Angela S., 5/21/2011

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Last week I emailed a question to you about bubbles popping up under my pool liner that would gush water out the sides of the pool when popped. You suggested a water pipe burst which made perfect sense with the pump problems we were having. We contacted the man we purchased our land from and sure enough he said there were old lines along that side of our property, with one being directly under our pool . We were able to cap it off at our well house (and all the others to go with it!!!!) and fix not just our pool but also our water. I can't thank you enough. I prayed for God to help us find out what was going on and you answered that prayer! God Bless you!

Christy P., 9/20/2010

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This is not a question but a Thank you. The product Fix a Leak saved me over a $1000 in repair bills. My hot tub had a huge leak and after 3 days of running the tub with your product it stopped. I'm ordering more (just in case) for the future. A great product. No wonder the stores around her don't supply it. It would put their repair men out of business.

Thanks again. Chad B., 7/10/2010

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Thanks Alan - you are keenly aware I am type A LOL! But... I am also loyal like gun dog and a great promoter of those who do the right things and provide a great service for the dollar value (you). As expensive as all this has been I could not buy this much education for the same price and it is all money well spent.

Best regards. Wolf, 6/30/2010

PS - Stain removal coming along fine. Will start adjusting my water back up tomorrow eve or Friday am.

Editors Note: The writer resides in an area with known, severe iron and manganese problems, in the well water. While able to control the problem of both precipitated, oxidized metals, as well as the still soluble forms, using a combination of metal trap products, he choose to add a home treatment systems and use a dedicated line to supply water to the PURESTART Pre-FILTER METALTRAP products. The problem is solved and the household water, is all the better for it. (www.askalanaquestion.com/METALTRAP.htm)

Have a iron issue in our pool from the well water top off. Came home from a long vacation to find an algae bloom in progress. Stupid me screwed up the chlorine level. Anyway, shocked the pool and thought metal magnet and clarifier would help get the residue out of the pool. With the high chlorine level, I got an iron precipitate which left the pool surfaces a nice dark orange color. My local pool company recommended oxalic acid which I checked out on the web. Not nice stuff. I have been using your METALTRAP Filter to pre filter the well water to remove the iron for a while and checked your site. I knew about METALTRAP Stain Remover and have used it to remove some iron stains on occasion, but not to this extent. Bought your METALTRAP Stain Remover and waited until the chlorine dissipated, as directed. (Slow process since it is an indoor pool) Sprinkled in the stain remover and all the dark orange stain just vanished without the nasties of the oxalic acid. Didn't even lower the pH by much. Truly pleased with the product. By the way, the pool company had never heard that METALTRAP Stain Remover could do the job. Thanks again. A Satisfied Customer,

Jerry S., Fairborn, OH, 3/30/2010, (Click here to go to Pool Staining Problems - to see the complete Q&A.)
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I just opened my pool and have been working with a local pool supply company to resolve an algae problem. I mis-measured the algaecide they sold me and added way too much - and got the dreaded foam. I must have searched a dozen websites that have a question posted similar to "How do I get rid of foam from algaecide?" and the response every time was "Use a PolyQuat" algaecide"... I'm not pool expert, but that sounds like a preventative measure, not a solution for people that have already messed up and are desperate for help. Your website was the only one I found that gave several specific and helpful suggestions for clearing the foam. I just wanted to thank you for that! I will keep it bookmarked and also support your sponsors in the future. All the best.

Brian, 4/16/2010

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Dear Alan, This is not a question just a sincere THANK YOU for having this site. I have been having issues with cloudy water in my mom's pool and thanks to your site I have found the solution. But I could not let it go at that with out letting you know how much I appreciate that you have this site.

Sabrina, PA, 8/5/2009
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Hey Alan. Don't know you from Adam, but I stumbled into your web pages. I easily read up on trying to identify and find a solution to remove this horrible stain I nurtured this summer in my above ground 27 diameter footer with sand filter. Figured out pretty quick (thanks to your information) the neighbor's oak tree was sending tannin manufacturing substances (leaves are always quickly removed from my pool) over my way from about 25 yards. Believe me, you do not have to have leaves in your pool to get a tannin stain! My first year as a pool owner (came with house) & being a frugal kinda guy, my pH was kept at nominal, BUT I ran the chorine level in my pool a bit low. Less expensive summer chlorine cost, but, THIS WAS A MISTAKE! A big ugly, ever increasing stain began engulfing my pool liner at the bottom thru the summer? I was scrubbing my brains out trying to take out the beast but to no effect! I BECAME DESPERATE. After reading your question and answer section, I sprinkled about 5 lb. of shock on the surface of the water. A small amount made it to the bottom. I let it linger for an hour with the filter off. Then turned the filter back on and lightly (no sweat involved) brushed the chlorine away until fully dissolved. The next day WHAM, no more stain. My liner is awesome and all is beautiful again. I know, you know, its just simple chemistry :), but this was borderline MAGIC! Thanks so much for the good, solid, no-bull advise. Where do I send your six-pack of your choice? Kindest regards and thanx again,

George, Jacksonville, NC, 12/1/2008

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Alan, awesome website. I just bought the ColorQ Digital Water Analyzer and love it, as I'm colorblind. I've never tested Cyanuric Acid before, and with the ColorQ, I received a reading of "LOW" which means it is too low for the ColorQ to register it (and according to LaMotte, it is accurate +/- 10 when it is between 0-80). Here's my question: If my ColorQ says there is no Cyanuric Acid, and I have a hot-tub with a cover on all the time, do I care? Should I somehow get the Cyanuric Acid up? If so, how? Thank you for your awesome website! Regards.

Joseph F., 9/25/2008 ( Click here to go to Miscellaneous Spa Chemicals - to see the complete Q&A.)

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Alan, Thank You for replying to my message. And I will share this information with my husband and use some of your advise, also check out the websites that you had listed in your reply. We have had this pool for 10 yrs and one would think we would have the maintenance of our pool down. This year it has been a big challenge for us. I will be sure to mention you and your e-address to those who have a pool. Again, you did give us some helpful hints and alternative avenues. Thanks again!

Kendra H., 6/12/2008

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Thank you for your timely response! As I stated in my letter, I log in, writing on a specially ruled pad, each individual test I perform on my pool, so I can keep track of "trends" that I should be aware of. I have been using the ColorQ Water Analyzer since May which may I say is the BEST invention for pool owners since sliced bread!   I LOVE IT! I have logged in 40 tests so far and have only used about 1/4 of each 30ml. reagent. So doing the math that adds up to at least 140-160 tests, as advertised. Also, I do not test for CH and CYA every time, as I don't feel it is necessary, so those reagents will last even longer. Thanks, again, Alan and to LaMotte for making such a fine instrument that makes my job a breeze!

David B., Tucson, AZ, 8/27/2007

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I have had a pool for any years and was never confident about matching colors. either with the liquid testers or the test strips, as I have some color vision problems. When I saw the information on the ColorQ 7 Water Tester, I hoped that it would be my answer. And it was! It is simple to use and I have complete confidence in my test results. Great product and well worth the modest price. Regards.

Henry l., 7/2/2007

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Alan, don't you just love the internet? You have been just great for us. I never though my husband would work on the "honey do list" but this pool deal has been a real adventure. With you as the guide, it has worked. Many thanks.

Jane S., Houston, TX 5/21/2007

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Thanks Alan. I've bookmarked your site. It's the only objective free in-depth site I've seen, related to so many pool topics. Thanks again.

Del C., 4/11/2007

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I just had to let you know that we finally can see the bottom of our pool. Over a 7-10 day period (while I was on vacation and had the time) I put in a total of 24 gallons of liquid chlorine. Now I just need to vacuum a little debris and do whatever it take to keep the water clear. How much chlorine do you recommend putting in per week to keep the levels adequate! Any maintenance system you tell me about would be appreciated. We bought the pool used so never had "new owner instructions". As far as Zeobrite, my husband and I discussed replacing the sand with it next year before we open the pool. Thanks again for your help. I will put positive feedback on your website if you can direct me where to go. I really want other people to know you're out there and I really would like to send you something to compensate for your time. Do you have an address where I can send you a check? Take care.

Sharon B., St. Charles, MO, 7/14/2006 (Click here to go to Cloudy Pool Water Problems - to see the complete Q&A.)

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Yours was the first site I found in the search engine and what a great site it is. It helped me find an intermittent leak I have had. I had lost approximately 5 inches of water overnight, but only twice in 2 months. It appears that the multi valve would inexplicably stick without warning and dump water down the waste. Sincerely.

Les S., Sydney, Australia - 26/01/2006

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I don't really have a question. I just wanted to write and let you know that you have the best website out there for information on pool and spas. You really know your stuff and make it easy to understand. I have written you on occasion with problems and you have responded very quickly and helped out tremendously with my problems. Your website is so informative. I had spent countless hours online trying to research my spa and pool water problems before I stumbled upon your website. I am so glad to have found your website and now go to no others. I have it bookmarked and every time I have a question, I go to it and it is normally answered somewhere within the site. If not I simply email you. Thank you for sharing your knowledge.

Kathy S., 8/29/2005

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I own a Fiberglass Pool that is manufactured here in Northern California. It is their own brand. The Contractor-Manufacturer could not help me. I've been trying for over a year to remove those stains. Even the Pool Supply Store sold me tons of products that never worked. Then I found you! Thank goodness!   I have to say, you are so right on! You understand water chemistry and offer tips on how to resolve our problems. Regarding your website, it is so easy and educational. Last night I sat in front of the computer screen and I was able to read all the questions regarding Fiberglass Stains and etc. It was great! We don't have to go to the Pool Supply Store and get ripped off. So THANK YOU! Keep up the great work. Take care.

Linda C., California, 8/9/2005

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OK, so I've been trying to get the stains caused by iron off my pool liner for two weeks now and have been told by every pool "professional" that I can't. I used the idea of ascorbic acid that I found on your website and you cannot believe how beautifully spectacular my pool looks right at this moment. It's a miracle. I am emailing every single person I know with a pool and telling them about you. You are a GENIUS! Thank you!

Susan C., 6/15/2005

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Finally, the pool is clear of stain and the bottom is even visible! Much frustration, expense, and even thoughts of having to drain the thing and start over. But, with your knowledge and help I believe we about have the problem solved. I do thank you for your help and guidance!! You provide an excellent service for blokes like me who had some basic chemistry many years ago but did not recall enough to know what to do. I very much appreciate your help!

Mike S., 6/5/2005

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Alan, once again many thanks for the great advice. You really are the global king of swimming pool technical advice.

Mark A., France, 5/31/2005

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Alan, I just found your letter -- I'd saved it. Just thought I'd let you know, I just took a sample of the water to a pool store and bought what they recommended and did what they said! You were so kind to try and help me out! I just need a "pool man" to come every week. Actually, life with the chlorine generator is simple. I just know now that I still have to test my water. Have a happy and safe Memorial Day.

Colleen, 5/29/2005 (Click here to go to Pool Staining Problems - to see the complete Q&A.)

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I just found your web site today, I have an above ground pool that has a little foaming and an oil slick (so I call it) I have read past concerns and I will try some of your recommendations. Thanks for all that you do.

Peter P., Sterling Heights, MI, 5/28/2005

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Anytime you wanna go to K-Paul's, let me know. I really appreciate the lightening-fast response. I just shocked again. I used the pre-bagged stuff for the first couple of shocks, but today, I used straight Cal-Hypo. That's what I use for routine sanitizing, since my stabilizer level is running at about 90-100. It actually came down a little during the winter with all of the rain that we had. I didn't have an algae problem at all last season. I think it may have been due to the extreme pollen we had this spring. We live in a pine tree belt, and this spring it was severe. Thanks again. The advice you offer to pool owners is priceless. BTW, we just bought this house 1-1/2yrs ago, and this is only the second season we're using it. I've never had a pool before. I'm having to learn fast--can't afford a "pool boy", ya know?

Jimmy L., Covington, LA, 5/19/2005 (Click here to go to "Miscellaneous Algae Problems for the complete Q&A)

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Alan, excellent website! Learned more in a few minutes on your page than in several weeks of general web surfing. Couple questions for you. We have . . .

Jim C., Canada, 4/28/2005 (Click here to go to "Salt Chlorine Generators" for the complete Q&A)

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Hi Alan. Your site has been MORE THAN HELPFUL to me in the past few weeks! THANKS YOU SO MUCH for all of your helpful advice. We are having a salt chlorinator system installed on our 25,000 gallon pool in two days and I am so excited! I have learned so much from your site, that I feel confident in maintaining the salt system with virtually little effort. My concern is in the establishment of the system. The pool professional we chose does not know a lot about salt systems, but he says he is learning. My biggest question is in initial startup - how much salt to add and what else needs to be done for the initial startup? Once again, THANK YOU for hosting your site and answering all these questions. I will recommend you to all my friends with pools. Sincerely.

Susan B - Temple, TX, 4/14/2005 (Click here to go to "Salt Chlorine Generators" for the complete Q&A)

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. . . I did read the letter regarding the purple pool walls at your site. My fact (use of the algaecide during the summer months reduced the staining significantly) didn't seem to be a significant fact in that letter. I await your analysis of my info and your suggestions. Many, many thanks. Is there anyway I can repay you for your assistance?

Judith M., 3/10/2005

You can repay me by telling your friends about the website.

Sincerely. Alan Schuster, 3/10/2005

Count on it!!! And many, many thanks. I'll let you know how the interventions go.

Judith M., 3/11/2005

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Boy, Alan! Do we have a sparkling pool this morning! The pool guy just came by and couldn't believe the change either! Your help REALLY is appreciated, recommended your website to everyone I know has a pool. Thanks a million.

Marita S., Houston, TX, 2/19/2005 (Click here to go to "Pool Staining Problems" for the complete Q&A.)

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Thank you very much! What a valuable help you have been, and what a great resource to the community at large. All the best.

Chris, 1/10/2005 (Click here to go to Spa Bromine Problems for the complete Q&A)

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Greetings – Just wanted to pass on the good experience I had with the site www.askalanaquestion.com. I had a problem with staining in my pool and thought part of the problem was corrosion of my heater. Anyway, to make a long story short, the site was VERY helpful in diagnosing my problem and providing very effective resolutions. I would recommend the site to any pool owner and suggest that your own website become a sponsor for them. Thanks.

Alan V., 10/22/2004

(Editors note: the above e-mail letter was sent to the manufacturer, by the pool owner and copied to this website.)

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I have tested the two options that you have recommended and the one that works best is the Vitamin C. It works very smoothly, no damage to the finish and cleans almost completely the stains (a little shade remains but it's not noticeable). Now I suppose I would have to move to the acid for the other stains. Which one should I use (oxalic or ascorbic) and how do I apply it? Are they expensive? Would another option be to continue using the vitamin C? Once again your help is highly appreciated. Before I got your advice, I tested unsuccessfully a test kit for stains and a treatment product, which didn't work and eroded the finish. Have a great holiday season. Best regards.
Gustavo B., 12/21/2004 (Click here to go to "Pool Staining Problems" for the complete Q&A)
PS All my friends and my pool service guy already know about your site!
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Thank you so much for the quick, insightful answers. To get myself out of the under-informed category, I will return to your site, whenever I need good info.

Gene G., Madison, AL, 7/8/2004 (Click here to go to "Mineral Sanitizers" for the complete Q&A)

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Hi Alan. Just wanted to say, many, many thanks. The mega dose of chlorine worked. The eucalyptus tree stains are gone. Don't think it's ever looked any cleaner! Happy Christmas and a great New Year when it comes. Best regards.

Jan M. & a very thankful hubby, 12/13/2004, Spain

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Thanks for all your suggestions! Love the web site and got it saved in favorites, for later use! Have a Happy New Year and happy soaking!

Lori, Canada, 12/28/2004 (Click here to go to Spa Bromine Problems for the complete Q&A)

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Alan! I haven't responded to your e-mail in a while. But man! Thank you very much you have been very helpful! My pool system is working great. That D.E. is magical powder - hahaha. Thanks again! Best Regards.

Danny A., 9/26/2004

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Alan, thank you so much. Your response is most helpful. Out of 4 separate resources that I contacted either by phone or email, your response is the only one I received. I will definitely pass along your web site to other pool owners in my area and local dealers, when I get their email address. Again, thank you so much for your help.

Ernie K., 6/30/2004

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Love your website, it is so informative, and really do appreciate you getting back with me so quickly. Will tell all of our friends (who have pools, of course) about your site. Thanks again.

Lori P., 5/29/2004

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Hi Alan. Thank you so much for the very prompt and reassuring reply. It is very much appreciated. I set aside time this weekend to spend more time reading your site.   Like everyone else, I love it! I will tell everyone about your website. Thanks again!

Mike G., 5/28/2004

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Not really a question, Alan. I just discovered your site. I am so grateful. I was left alone with a pool to take care of and I am without a clue. Your info has given me more than I have been able to get from the pool store on how to take care of the problems of my pool. I actually cried when I read your advice. Cried from relief of some of the stress of not knowing what to do. I can see I have a lot of work ahead of me but I can work. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. God bless you for sharing.

Barbara B., 5/15/2004
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Hi there Alan. First off, very informative site. I really wish I had found the site sooner in my endeavors, as it has become a real pool water problem-solver. This email is going to be fairly long, mainly because I don't know what is important and what is not. There are several questions/problems that I am having that will be interspersed throughout this narrative email. I will summarize them at the end of the email. If there is any information missing let me know and I will provide it
Chris, New Londonderry, NH, 5/16/2003 This is part of the longest letter ever received. (Click here to go to "Pool Staining Problems" for the complete Q&A.)

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I found your web site and was able to diagnose my problem. I once again have a clean looking pool thanks to your advice. Thanks!

Kitty J., 4/11/2004
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Dear Alan, THANK YOU! My brother is still in Iraq and I was pulling my hair out. Believe me when I say you are a guardian angel.

Vickie, 9/15/2003 (Click here to go to "Pool Closing/Winterizing" for the complete Q&A.)

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Dear Alan, as first time home and pool owners your website has been such a blessing! We opened our pool about two weeks ago and it was a smelly swampy disgusting mess. There were several holes in the cover and we have 3 large overgrown maples that dumped all the leaves into the pool all autumn! I had told my husband there is no way I would swim in that water even if it did get cleaned up and that we should just empty it and start again. Well fortunately, I decided to surf the web and see what I could learn. After many websites, I came to your site. Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!

After about 20 or so pounds of shock, continuous filtration and algaecide, I can actually see half way into the pool. It has gone from BLACK water, to a cloudy green (which probably sounds gross but it is such an improvement I am thrilled to see it.) I am confident now that with in a week I will have a crystal clear sparkling pool. I know I am not there yet but I am keeping he chlorine at about 3 and I am going to the store today to purchase the clarifier. Believe it or not I do have a question. I understand from my neighbors that the former owners swam last summer with green water so I would assume it looked bad before they closed. Is there something I should look out for as far as that is concerned? Could it mean there was trouble with the filter? Or is that from poor maintenance? Besides the large filter that is connected to the pool there is also a smaller filter that was probably used but if it were green I would guess it doesn't work very well. Can you recommend anything with such small amounts of information? The pool is a 24ft round above ground that I believe has a vinyl liner. Thank you again for your help. I couldn't have gotten this far without it.

Jennifer V., Valparaiso, IN, 6/5/2003 (Click here to go to "Blue-Green Algae" for the complete Q&A.)

Hi Alan, I just wanted to drop a note to say thank you for the site and all the great information. We now have crystal clear water and get to really enjoy our new home and pool! If not for your advice I would probably have been at the mercy of the local big box pool store salesperson. Instead I walk in confident and already know what I need for any problem. Sometimes, I even correct their bad advice. Tee hee! Thanks again!

Jennifer V., 7/3/2003

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Thank you, thank you, thank you. I read and read and now its time to go to the pool. I will let you know how I made out.

Elena from Connecticut, 7/19/2003

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Hi Alan. Just wanted to say Thank You, the underwater plastic parts in my pool are now sparkling white again. I had tried the metal treatment originally, but I guess the trick was to drop the pH and Chlorine first. Here's a quick recap: Brown stains on the stairs and underwater plastic parts showed up after putting on a heat siphon pump. First, if sock trick with pH reducer works, drop the pH below the level of the test kit, keep chlorine on the low side. I saw a noticeable difference within 24 hours. Then add a double dose of metal treatment. We were sparkling white within 6 hrs. Now, slowly bring the pH and chlorine back to correct levels. We hope to be swimming into October! Thanks again for the information, you have a great web site.

Dottie L., North Kingstown, RI, 9/9/2003

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Thank you! I closed off the skimmers and was able to drain the rest of the water to 3-4 inches below the skimmers. We've had an awful experience with the building of our pool and I never seemed to be able to get my questions asked. I'm so glad I finally lucked upon your web site! Most of my questions have already been asked and answered on it! I've definitely put you in my Favorite Places! Have a great winter and I'm sure I'll be back in touch in the spring! Sincerely.

Lindi D., 10/20/2003 (Click here to go to "Pool Closing/Winterizing" for the complete Q&A.)

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Thank you so much for your advice on treating mustard algae. After many unsuccessful treatments recommended by our local pool professional, we found your website, followed your advice and are finally beginning to hold chlorine! How nice to be able to go out and not dread opening up the pool!! Thanks a million!

Lori, 7/9/2003

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Without a doubt the very best site I have seen yet on pool stains.

Ray S., 6/19/2003 (Click here to go to "Pool Staining Problems" for the complete Q&A.)

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Dear Alan, I just wanted to make a point of thanking you for your help with the pool! Your information worked great, the pool is blue again, and we're all swimming. Thanks Again.

The N. Family, 6/12/2003 (Click here to go to "Algae Control Products" for the complete Q&A.)

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Wow! Great advice!  I can see the bottom of my pool for the first time in 2 weeks after just 16 hours of using the DE and Blue as you suggested.  I had to backwash about 3 times during that period because of all the green gunk that was being cleaned out of the pool.  Still a little cloudy, but I should have it licked today.  Thanks again, Alan.

John U., 5/17/2003 (Click here to go to "Pool Filtration Problems" for the complete Q&A.)

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I was doing a search for something on alkalinity and cyanuric acid and found a reference to it on your site. For me, the site is perfect. I like the language - easy to understand, and the style is casual. I also liked that you offer a contact email and responded. Thank you again. My pool is only a year old and I have at times been in a real "soup" of conflicting info from local pool people in attempting to learn the ropes. The company that installed the pool profoundly over dosed the pool with cyanuric acid at the start up which gave me all those wrong readings resulting in stained plaster, an acid wash, and a lot of upset when the pool was not even a year old. I found that no one really talked about the formula to address the alkalinity and cyanuric. Again, thank you very much. I sent your site to a neighbor who is getting a new pool in a few months. Sincerely.

T.C., Houston, TX, 4/8/2003 (Click here to go to Pool "pH & Total Alkalinity" for the complete Q&A.)

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Hi Alan, I was looking for treatment for green algae and did a Google search. We have a small garden pond that is topped up using bore water that is high in nutrients. We were looking for maybe a UV sanitizer/filter system, as we do not want to use scheme water to top up the pond. Here in Western Australia our water is scarce and we have to use it sensibly hence using bore water. The evaporation rate is very high so we need to top up each day during summer months. I found your site very informative and user friendly. I am glad that you have taken the trouble to put the site together. Regards.

Steve, Australia, 3/19/2003

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Dear Alan, thanks for your speedy reply. By pure chance yesterday I was talking to a pool valet man who said he'd heard of a case years ago in South Africa where there was a problem with the pool ladder. I hadn't even considered our pool ladder! It is stainless steel with white plastic-like rungs. I very quickly used myself as a guinea pig and rubbed my skin against the rungs of the ladder and sure enough I got the rash! Our pool builder said he thought the rungs of the ladder were fibreglass rather than plastic. It also make sense that as the children stand on the ladder, the skin on their legs possibly touch the rungs of the ladder. Our next step is to contact the manufacturer of the ladder and confirm what the material is, get the water tested for that material, replace the rungs and get an expensive, but hopefully happy ending. I came across your website by looking up "Pool Problems" under Google and couldn't believe there was someone independent I could discuss this with. We live in Auckland, New Zealand and the swimming pool industry is a small market dominated by monopolies with not much choice for help, independent advise and alternative products. So I thank you again. All the best.

Carolyn M., Auckland, New Zealand, 3/14/2003 (Click here to go to "Miscellaneous Pool Problems" for the complete Q&A.)
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Thank you very much. Your response and your website have been very helpful.

Malinda H., Pennsylvania, 12/30/03 (Click here to go "Vinyl Pool Liner Problems" for the complete Q&A.)

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I recently bought my first pool. It's 2400 gals and mostly for my 7 year old daughter and her neighborhood friends. I have learned everything I need to know from your site and can't thank you enough! I don't even have a question after reading through your answers to others. I feel as though I've gotten a solid education in pool maintenance in one day, as well as an excellent problem-solver and reference for answers to those unexpected situations. I sincerely hope that you enjoy your work. You are doing a great service to others!

Heather M., Barrington, NH, 6/1/2003

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A week or so ago, you helped me identify a pool water problem that I had been fighting for several months. You advised me that I should be killing "mustard Algae" (not green algae that I thought was my problem and so did several other local "experts"). Thanks to you and your expertise, and following your instructions I now have a clear, algae free pool. You were absolutely correct, my problem was mustard algae and NOT green algae. You deserve more than just a thank you, but that is about all I can pass along to you. Thank you!

Bill T., Sun City West, AZ   (Click here to go to "Yellow Mustard Algae" for the complete Q&A.)

I am very glad to see that you will continue with a very valuable service.  Pool water problems can be most difficult to solve.  Two years ago, after fighting a problem for 2 years which 2 local (large and respected) pool companies could not solve, I contacted you.  I followed your advice and my pool has been absolutely trouble free since.  I will visit your website as you get further along and I would expect that every concern I have will be handled.  Thanks.

Bill. T., Sun City West, AZ, 11/18/2003

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Dear Alan, Oh why didn't I run across your website @ the beginning of the summer season? I have been reading your archives since 9pm. It is now 12am! It was so interesting and informative. I inherited my pool this year, when I bought the house. It is a 25k gal, vinyl liner with a sand filter. I didn't have a clue as to the care and maintenance of it, but I am happy to say that I learned from the pool dealers that installed it and I had a very enjoyable summer w/o too much trouble. I am writing you because I want to know about closing it for the winter. I live in Atlanta, GA. They say I don't have to cover it, it is up to me (As if I know what I want or what is best!) What do you say? Also, one of those solar heater pads was left, can and is it used as a cover? As far as draining filters, covering ports and all that, I know I am going to need them to come and show me how as I am clueless as to where and how! One more question, how do decide what brand of product to use? If I can just cross this last hurdle (Learning about opening and closing the pool) I think I may even feel confident that I actually know what I am doing! (smile) By the way, the pool is only 1.5 yrs young. You really know your pool/chemical stuff and I thank you for all the knowledge that I gained tonight and any help you can give me concerning opening and closing it. P.S. I am throwing away my OTO test kit and getting one of the ones that you suggested! Did I mention that it is an in ground?

Debra R., Atlanta GA (Click here to go to "Pool Closing/Winterizing" for the complete Q&A.)

askalanaquestion.com . . . the helpful resource for the pool & spa professional!

► Feedback From Pool & Spa Specialists

Alan, good Afternoon!! My name in Jillian and I am the manager at Flamingo Pool Supply, located in Frederick, Maryland. A customer found our store because you had mentioned to him to find a LaMotte testing center. I wanted to send you an email and say thank you for the business! Also, I wanted to know what kind of things you do so that I can return the favor, if at all possible. At Flamingo Pool Supply, we offer free water testing, service, and retail. If there is anything we can do to help with answers or business - please let me know! Thanks again.

Jillian, Frederick, MD, 7/28/2011

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My name is Ray and I am the senior service tech with a busy pool shop and service company on an island off Queensland Australia. I have visited your site often for clues, answers and advice on some problems that have been very successful. I was just looking up a stain problem on a customers pool and found a possible cure for the exact problem and just thought I would take a minute to drop you a email to say that your website is excellent. I have worked as pool manager on a popular island resort for 6 years with 3 main pools of total cap of 675,000 litres plus 3 years in domestic pool service company. I have no specific question to ask you, but I could ask you thousands, if I thought about it. Just like to say thanks for your advice. Regards.

Ray, Queensland, Australia, 11/17/2010

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Alan, Thank You for such a quick response! I will be trying your suggestions and have no doubt they will be helpful. Your website has been a blessing to the aquatics industry. Thanks.

Chris O., Aquatics Manager, Parks and Recreation Department, 5/3/2009

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I am interested in purchasing a Tracer pocket tester. You have the TDS, Salt, and Temperature Tester. Do you have the pH, Salt, TDS Tester manufacturer code 1766? If so what is the cost? I am not a pool professional, but am a field engineer for the water and wastewater municipal industry. You have a great place for pool info and test equipment. I searched forever to find a web shop to buy the type of products I wanted and then found your site. Thanks.

Troy, 4/26/2005 (Click here to go to the "Pool & Spa Test Equipment Store")

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Thanks very much, Alan. Working in the profession myself, I can say I both appreciate and respect your knowledge. Good to hear your advice and pool maintenance tips. Best regards.

Kent K., 6/27/2005 (Click here to go to Pool "pH & Total Alkalinity" for the complete Q&A.)

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Hello Alan! I just returned from the National Spa and Pool Trade Show in Atlantic City, where I had a nice conversation with Richard LaMotte. We were talking about getting calls from consumers and he recommended that I check out your website. I work for a Pennsylvania distributor and answer a bunch of dealer and consumer questions about water chemistry. Had a store for years so I am comfortable giving out advice! I will definitely use your website again!! I browsed through it today and you are my hero! Your answers are clear and concise and make sense to a pool professional, as well as a consumer. Thank you.

N.M., Pennsylvania, 1/31/2004

askalanaquestion.com . . . the helpful resource for the pool & spa industry!

► Feedback From Website Sponsors

Alan: Thanks for all you do!!   We really appreciate your comments and advice to customers.

Steve Peterson, CPG, 8/12/2011
VP - Operations
Zeotech Corporation
www.zeobriteXtreme.com

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Nancy, Please work with Alan and get us signed up. Barry

Alan,

Your inside contact here is Nancy R. I think you are doing beneficial work and we would like to be part of it. Thanks.

Barry Nelson, President, 1/11/2008
UltraPure Water Quality, Inc.
www.waterquality.net

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Alan, I was wondering if Viking Pools can get the documentation needed to renew our current agreement. Stacy Nelson and I are going over what we are going to do for 2008 and we decided that your website is definitely one that we want to renew for the 2008 advertising year. Thank You.

Billie D. Yost, 11/11/2007
Advertising Assistant, Viking Pools
www.vikingpools.net

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Alan. Your site has provided quite a comfort zone for us since we can now refer customers who have unique pool or spa problems to a reliable source of information. In addition we have mentioned your site to many dealers who sometimes have customers question their recommended courses of action. When their client goes to your site, and sees the same information from a third party source, they drop their gloves and go back to the store and admit they need to heed the advice originally given. Consumers faced with expensive solutions are quick to look for other opinions; your site makes this possible in the privacy of their home saving them time and money. I’m sure the consumers who find your site will bookmark it and refer back to it over and over.

Best wishes,

Richard LaMotte, 4/15/2005
V.P. of Sales & Marketing
LaMotte Company ( www.lamotte.com )

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Hi Alan,

Although most of your feedback letters are about pools and spas, I want to take the time to write to you about the increased traffic we have received to our website(s) through yours.

You provide an outstanding service, anyone who does business with you, can surely tell you so. I wish you the best of luck in your business endeavors.

Many thanks from your friends at HornerXpress, AutoPilot, and AquaCal.

Fernando C., 3/31/2005 ( www.teamhorner.com )

Web Developer

New Business Development

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Hi Alan,

Thanks for all the great leads. You are showing up as one of our main website forwarders which we appreciate greatly. Thanks again for your referrals.

Lynn, 4/2/2007
King Technology, Inc. ( www.kingtechnology.com )

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Alan, thanks for your support of our product, although I know some is influenced by our sponsorship. I didn't see the initial investment, but am fully aware of it now. You have been very flexible with information that I've passed on and I appreciate the cooperation.

Sincerely,

Sean A., 3/14/2005
AquaCal, Inc. ( www.aquacal.com )

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I've seen a few emails popping in for what surely will be a busy weekend for you. I just wanted to say thanks for allowing us to be part of your site and for all the hard work you do year around. You are providing a very valuable service and helping people never goes out of style-so keep up the good work.

Sincerely,

Richard LaMotte, 5/22/2009
V.P. Sales
LaMotte Company ( www.lamotte.com )

askalanaquestion.com . . . the helpful resource that helps promote pool & spa ownership!!!