Welcome to the big Piscine Hippocampe family.
Our entire team sincerely thanks you for your trust. Buying a pool is a special moment — it’s not a burden but an investment in your comfort, well-being, and the memories you will create with your loved ones.
At Piscine Hippocampe, we believe a pool should mean fun, relaxation, and simplicity. That’s why we prepared this little explanatory guide to support you in the first steps and help you better understand how your above-ground pool works.
Our goal is simple: to make your experience easy, enjoyable, and stress-free from day one.
Installing a new pool is always an exciting moment. The water is fresh, the equipment is new, and the whole family is eager to swim. But to fully enjoy your investment, one step is essential: understanding above-ground pool maintenance from the start.
A good start makes all the difference. Poorly balanced water or inadequate filtration in the first weeks can lead to cloudy water, algae, overuse of products, and even equipment problems. Conversely, structured and well-planned maintenance lets you keep clear, healthy, and easy-to-manage water all season long.
In this comprehensive guide, we explain how to maintain a new above-ground pool step by step: water balancing, system start-up, disinfection, filtration, and weekly routine. Whether you are a first-time owner or just want to avoid common mistakes, you will find everything you need to get off to a good start.
Step 1: Test and balance the water as soon as it is filled
As soon as your above-ground pool is filled, the essential first step is to test and balance the water. Even if it comes from the municipal network, the water is not automatically adjusted to ideal pool parameters. Proper balancing from the start ensures stable, comfortable, and easy-to-maintain water throughout the season.
Adjustment should always start with alkalinity, then pH, followed by other parameters. Following this order helps avoid fluctuations and maximizes the disinfectant's effectiveness.
To make things easier for you, Piscine Hippocampe offers a free and personalized water analysis service in-store. Our specialized technicians precisely analyze your parameters and advise you on the necessary adjustments to maximize your pool maintenance and avoid costly mistakes. A professional test from the start saves you time, reduces product use, and lets you enjoy clear water faster.
Optimal parameters – Chlorine pool
For an above-ground pool with chlorine, here are the recommended values:
pH: 7.4 to 7.6
Total alkalinity: 125 to 150 ppm
Calcium hardness: 100 to 200 ppm
Free chlorine: 1 to 3 ppm
These levels ensure effective disinfection, optimal swimming comfort, and adequate protection of your equipment and liner.
Optimal parameters – Salt pool
For a pool equipped with a salt generator, the values differ slightly:
pH: 7.2 to 7.6
Total alkalinity: 90 to 125 ppm
Calcium hardness: 100 to 200 ppm
-
Free chlorine: 1 to 3 ppm
The salt system produces its own chlorine, but it remains essential to maintain these parameters to avoid scaling, corrosion, and production variations.
Step 2: Understand the exclusive kit offered by Piscine Hippocampe
By choosing Piscine Hippocampe, you don’t just leave with a pool — you leave with the best in maintenance.
We are proud to offer you as a gift the ultimate maintenance program, an added value that makes all the difference from the very first season. This kit is not just a set of products: it is advanced technology designed to simplify your maintenance, improve your water quality, and protect your investment.
For chlorine pools: Solei & Luna technology
You hold in your hands the powerful Solei and Luna technology, voted best new maintenance technology in North America — and proudly designed in Canada.
Benefits and features:
Advanced chlorine stabilization technology
Significant improvement in water clarity
Reduction of chlorine odors
Softer water, comfortable for skin and eyes
Reduced chemical consumption
Simplified program, easy to follow
Designed and manufactured in Canada
Solei and Luna modernize traditional chlorine maintenance by making it more efficient, more stable, and more predictable. Result: fewer fluctuations, fewer problems, and more enjoyment.
For salt systems: the Pristiva program
For your salt pool, the Pristiva program is offered to you free of charge. And that changes everything.
A well-optimized salt system requires specific supervision. Pristiva is designed to maximize your generator's performance and protect your equipment.
Benefits and features:
Optimization of chlorine production
More effective pH stabilization
Reduction of cell scaling
Increased equipment protection
Clearer and more stable water
Simplified maintenance
Increased longevity of the salt system
Pristiva does more than just maintain the water: it protects your investment and improves the durability of your components.
Step 3: Start disinfection correctly
Before adding the products, it is essential to check that your pool is working perfectly.
Make sure that:
The pump is running
The water is circulating properly
The filter is working normally
No leaks are present in the plumbing
Fittings and hoses are well sealed
Good circulation is the foundation of effective disinfection. A pool with poor circulation will always have more difficulty staying clear and stable.
Using the Day and Night kit (weekly maintenance)
Your Solei & Luna program is designed to simplify maintenance and stabilize your water throughout the season. Maintenance is done once a week.
Above-ground round pools – Day & Night dosing chart
| Pool | Volume | Protect Stick (skimmer) | Initial Sun | Weekly Sun | Initial Moon (skimmer) | Weekly Moon |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Round 12’ | 14 000 L | 1 | 560 ml | 140 ml | 110 g | 55 g |
| Round 15’ | 21 670 L | 1 | 870 ml | 220 ml | 175 g | 85 g |
| Round 18’ | 31 200 L | 2 | 1 250 ml | 310 ml | 250 g | 125 g |
| Round 21’ | 42 450 L | 2 | 1,700 ml | 420 ml | 340 g | 170 g |
| Round 24’ | 55 450 L | 2 | 2,220 ml | 550 ml | 445 g | 220 g |
| Round 27’ | 70,200 L | 3 | 2,810 ml | 700 ml | 560 g | 280 g |
Above-ground oval pools – Day & Night dosing chart
| Pool | Volume | Protect Stick (skimmer) | Initial Sun | Weekly Sun | Initial Moon (skimmer) | Weekly Moon |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Oval 10’ x 20’ | 18,700 L | 1 | 750 ml | 190 ml | 150 g | 75 g |
| Oval 12’ x 18’ | 20,200 L | 1 | 810 ml | 200 ml | 160 g | 80 g |
| Oval 12’ x 24’ | 27,600 L | 1 | 1,100 ml | 280 ml | 220 g | 110 g |
| Oval 15’ x 25’ | 44,600 L | 2 | 1,780 ml | 450 ml | 355 g | 180 g |
| Oval 15’ x 30’ | 45,300 L | 2 | 1,810 ml | 450 ml | 360 g | 180 g |
Instructions (simple) – once a week
Protect Stick: in the skimmer (according to the grid)
Solei: pour the dose into the pool (initial at startup, then weekly)
Luna: in the skimmer (initial at startup, then weekly)
Important
When your pool water stays warm, especially above 83 °F (28 °C), chlorine consumption increases significantly. Heat accelerates the evaporation of the disinfectant and promotes the growth of bacteria and contaminants. It is therefore important to test your water more frequently during hot periods. If the level drops, simply add one or two chlorine sticks as needed to stabilize the situation. Always ensure to maintain a free chlorine level between 1 and 3 ppm to guarantee healthy, clear, and safe water.
Pristiva Technology – Salt Pool
Why the choice of salt is important
Contrary to what many think, not all salts are equivalent. There are different grades and purity levels on the market. Lower quality salt may contain impurities that:
Clog the generator cell
Increase scaling
Decrease system efficiency
Reduce equipment lifespan
Pristiva salt is specially designed for salt pools. Its high purity allows:
Fast and even dissolution
Better ppm stability
Increased cell protection
Optimal generator performance
To maintain your system's performance and protect your investment, it is strongly recommended to continue using Pristiva salt season after season.
Salt application
Salt systems sold at Piscine Hippocampe operate with an optimal rate of 3,400 ppm.
How to add salt:
Turn on the filtration system
Pour the salt bags directly into the water
If the water is cold, use a brush to help dissolve
Let circulate for 24 hours before adjusting or fully activating the generator
Round pools – Salt + Pristiva (calculated quantities)
| Pool | Volume | Pristiva Salt (pouches) | Initial Primer | Monthly Primer (1x/month) | Initial Premium Shock | Monthly Premium Shock (1x/month) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Round 12’ | 14 000 L | 3 | 280 g | 140 g | 280 g | 140 g |
| Round 15’ | 21 670 L | 4 | 430 g | 220 g | 430 g | 220 g |
| Round 18’ | 31 200 L | 6 | 620 g | 310 g | 620 g | 310 g |
| Round 21’ | 42 450 L | 8 | 850 g | 420 g | 850 g | 420 g |
| Round 24’ | 55 450 L | 10 | 1,110 g (1.11 kg) | 550 g | 1,110 g (1.11 kg) | 550 g |
| Round 27’ | 70,200 L | 13 | 1,400 g (1.40 kg) | 700 g | 1,400 g (1.40 kg) | 700 g |
Oval Pools – Salt + Pristiva (calculated quantities)
| Pool | Volume | Pristiva Salt (pouches) | Initial Primer | Monthly Primer (1x/month) | Initial Premium Shock | Monthly Premium Shock (1x/month) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Oval 10’ x 20’ | 18,700 L | 3 | 370 g | 190 g | 370 g | 190 g |
| Oval 12’ x 18’ | 20,200 L | 4 | 400 g | 200 g | 400 g | 200 g |
| Oval 12’ x 24’ | 27,600 L | 5 | 550 g | 280 g | 550 g | 280 g |
| Oval 15’ x 25’ | 44,600 L | 8 | 890 g | 450 g | 890 g | 450 g |
| Oval 15’ x 30’ | 45,300 L | 9 | 910 g | 450 g | 910 g | 450 g |
Why this program makes the difference
The Pristiva program allows:
More stable chlorine production
A reduction in pH fluctuations
Less scaling in the cell
Clearer and softer water
An increase in the system's lifespan
A well-maintained salt system is more efficient, more stable, and more economical in the long run.
Adjustment and control of your salt generator
Even if your pool is equipped with a salt system, it remains essential to regularly test your chlorine level. A salt system is not a chlorine-free system: it is an automatic chlorine generator.
The generator converts salt into gaseous chlorine — a colorless and odorless chlorine — which disinfects your pool.
Understanding the production level (output)
Your system generally operates with a production setting from 1 to 10:
The higher you set the level, the more chlorine the generator produces.
The lower you set it, the less it generates.
The goal is to maintain a free chlorine level between 1 and 3 ppm at all times.
Adjustment according to water temperature
Temperature directly influences chlorine demand:
Cold water (start and end of season): decrease production.
Warm water (heatwave, heavy use): increase production.
Warm water consumes chlorine more quickly, which requires system adjustment.
Recommended starting setting
To start the season:
Set your generator to level 5.
Test the water after a few days.
Adjust slightly up or down according to your results.
A small gradual adjustment is always preferable to a large change all at once.
Even with an automated system, the key remains the same: test, adjust, and stabilize. Regular monitoring will allow you to maximize the performance of your saltwater pool and extend the lifespan of your equipment.
Step 4: Filtration – The heart of your pool
Filtration accounts for about 80% of water quality. Even the best chemistry cannot compensate for insufficient circulation or a poorly maintained filtration system. Clear water always starts with good flow and an efficient filter.
The motor (the pump): the foundation of everything
The pump ensures water circulation to the filter. Without circulation, products are not distributed properly and impurities are not effectively captured.
How many hours should you filter?
In Quebec, electricity costs remain relatively low compared to many provinces or US states. For this reason, most customers choose to run their pool motor continuously during the season.
With a conventional single-speed pump, here are the general recommendations:
In peak season (warm water): continuous operation recommended.
At the beginning and end of the season, when the water is cold: it is possible to turn off the motor for 10 to 12 hours per day, since the demand for disinfection is lower.
The warmer the water, the more sustained the filtration must be.
The popularity of variable speed pumps
Variable speed motors are becoming increasingly popular — and for good reasons.
At Piscine Hippocampe, our technicians preprogram these pumps to maximize:
Filtration
Circulation
Energy costs
Heating efficiency
Water sanitation
The pump generally runs at low speed during the day to reduce energy consumption, then slightly increases in the evening or at night to optimize heating and water quality.
If you want to learn more or consider a conversion, visit a branch to meet our technicians. They can analyze your installation and advise you on the best option.
Filter media: sand or activated AFM ng
Piscine Hippocampe offers two types of filter media:
1. Grade 20 silica sand
Reliable and proven solution
Excellent filtration capacity
Average lifespan of 3 to 4 years
Economic option
2. Activated AFM ng
Advanced filter media
Finer and more efficient filtration
Reduction of biofilms
Less chemical consumption
Permanent lifespan (good for life)
AFM ng represents a significant technological improvement for customers who want to maximize their system’s performance.
How to do a backwash and why it’s important
Backwash is an essential step in maintaining a sand or AFM filter. It cleans the filter media by reversing the water flow to remove accumulated debris.
Why do a backwash?
Over time, the filter retains:
Dust
Debris
Organic residues
Fine particles
These accumulations increase pressure in the filter and reduce filtration efficiency.
A backwash allows you to:
Restore normal pressure
Improve circulation
Optimize water clarity
Extend the life of the filter media
A backwash is generally recommended when the pressure increases by 8 to 10 PSI above the normal starting pressure.
Steps to perform a backwash (above-ground pool)
Turn off the pump.
Turn the filter valve to the BACKWASH position.
Restart the pump.
Let run for about 2 to 3 minutes, or until the water in the sight glass becomes clear.
Turn off the pump.
Set the valve to the RINSE position.
Restart the pump for about 30 seconds to 1 minute.
Turn off the pump.
Return the valve to the FILTER position.
Restart the system.
Important: Always turn off the pump before changing the valve position to avoid damaging the internal seal.
Well-maintained filtration is the key to stable, clear, and easy-to-manage water all season. If you have any doubts about the pressure, flow, or performance of your filter, our branch technicians can assist you and analyze your situation.
Step 5: Essential weekly maintenance
Good above-ground pool maintenance is not limited to startup. The key to clear and stable water all season long lies in a consistent and well-applied routine.
It’s not the amount of products that makes the difference, but the regularity of checks and adjustments. A pool maintained weekly requires fewer major corrections and costs less in the long run.
Maintenance routine – To do every week
Test the water 2 to 3 times per week
Adjust pH as needed
Maintain chlorine between 1 and 3 ppm
Brush the walls and bottom
Empty the skimmer and pump baskets
Vacuum or use a cleaning robot
Monthly maintenance – Preventive check
Clean the Waterline
Inspect seals and connections
Check the filter pressure
Perform a backwash if necessary
Inspect the filtration system
Practical maintenance schedule – To keep
| Frequency | Action | Why |
|---|---|---|
| 2-3x / week | Test the Water | Maintain Balance and Prevent Problems |
| 1x / week | Adjust pH and Chlorine | Ensure Effective Disinfection |
| 1x / week | Brush the Walls | Prevent Algae Growth |
| 1x / week | Empty the Baskets | Maintain Good Circulation |
| 1x / week | Vacuum or Robot | Remove Debris from the Bottom |
| 1x / month | Clean the Waterline | Prevent Deposits and Stains |
| 1x / month | Check Seals and Filtration | Protect the Equipment |
How long should an above-ground pool be filtered per day?
During peak season, it is recommended to run the pump continuously, especially when the water is warm. At the beginning and end of the season, when the water is cooler, you can reduce filtration time to about 10 to 12 hours per day. Good circulation is essential to maintain clear water.
What is the ideal chlorine level in an above-ground pool?
The free chlorine level should always be between 1 and 3 ppm. During hot periods or heavy use, consumption increases, so it is important to test the water more frequently.
How often should the water of a new pool be tested?
It is recommended to test the water 2 to 3 times per week, especially during the first month. Good monitoring helps avoid imbalances and algae problems.
What is the difference between a chlorine pool and a salt pool?
A salt pool automatically produces its chlorine thanks to a generator. It is not a chlorine-free pool. The system converts salt into gaseous chlorine to disinfect the water. Balance parameters remain essential in both cases.
Why does my chlorine drop quickly when it’s hot?
When the water exceeds 83 °F (28 °C), chlorine consumption increases significantly. Heat accelerates evaporation and promotes contaminant growth. You should then test more often and adjust as needed.
When should I do a backwash?
A backwash is recommended when the filter pressure increases by 8 to 10 PSI above the normal starting pressure. This cleans the filter media and restores good circulation.
How much salt should I put in my above-ground pool?
The systems sold at Piscine Hippocampe generally operate at 3,400 ppm. The number of bags varies depending on the pool size. It is important to run the filtration during addition and allow it to fully dissolve before adjusting the generator.
Should I adjust my salt generator according to the temperature?
Yes. When the water is cold, production should be decreased. When the water is warm or during heavy use periods, production levels should be increased to maintain 1 to 3 ppm of chlorine.
What is the lifespan of filter sand?
Grade 20 silica sand lasts on average 3 to 4 years. The activated AFM ng filter media, on the other hand, is considered permanent and offers superior long-term performance.
Can I have my water analyzed in-store?
Yes. Piscine Hippocampe offers a free and personalized water analysis service. Our technicians precisely evaluate your parameters and recommend the necessary adjustments to maximize your pool maintenance.