FAQ's

1 Maintenance

1.1 What is the best distance from the pool and pump/filter?

Quite simply, the closer the pump to your pool the better.

The advantage of a shorter distance is that you do not have to make many adjustments to the pipes, such as providing extra insulation or purchasing a heavier filter pump, which in turn leads to more consumption costs.

15 meters is used as standard, longer distances are not recommended.
 

1.2 Is placing a bubble cover interesting?

The bubble cover prevents evaporation of the water and prevents heat loss. The pool cover is placed with the studs down on the water. With the higher quality bubble cover (700micras) you reduce the need for pool chemicals and maintenance products.

Tip! Maintain and regularly remove any algae deposits on the bottom layer (the bubble side) of your bubble cover with a soft brush. Roll up the bubble cover when they are not in water and use a protective cover to extend the life of the cover.

Tip! Always choose one with a custom reinforced edging.All our covers includes the reinforced edging standard.

 

1.3 After how many years does a swimming pool need renovation?

After 10 to 15 years, it is very likely that you will need to replace the liner or mosaic tiling: take the opportunity to recheck the water tightness of your pool.

This is also a good opportunity to purchase newer equipment, such as a heat pump, a salt electrolysis chlorinator, filter pump or other accessories ...

 

1.4 What should I do if there is a problem with my equipment?

The Cristal Blue service technician always checks your equipment at every weekly cleaning visit. Small problems are solved on the spot. If your equipment requires more extensive service, we will indicate this when assessing your site visit (reports) so that we can further discuss the necessary corrective action.

On request, you will receive weekly reports from our customer service about the assessment of the inspection visit to your swimming pool, which you just need to activate or report us at the first start of the cooperation.

 

1.5 How long does the warranty period last?

With regard to the delivery and installation of goods for Spain, we use the statutory minimum warranty period of two years, unless stated otherwise. This means that in the event of factory defects in the good, it will be repaired free of charge up to 3 years after delivery.

The longer and more extensive the warranty, the better. Obviously you want to get effective help when you need it.

For example, you have been our loyal customer for the maintenance of your pool for years and have already installed a range of Cristal Blue equipment. Then you will receive full coverage on breakdown and minor repairs of the above equipment during the maintenance period, just for free.
 

1.6 What is the ideal position of the pressure gauge (manometer) of my sand filter?

Each pool system has different water pressure tolerances. Consult the original pool contractor's manual first to determine the range of proper pressure for your pool.

If you suspect the pressure is too low, check that the pressure gauge at the top of your sand filter shows zero when the equipment is turned off. If it does not drop to zero, replace the meter.
If you suspect the pressure is too high, check and remove all debris from the skimmer baskets and from the filtration pump pre-filter. In addition, check that all your ball valves are set correctly.

• To avoid too low pressure, turn the pump off briefly and open the lid of the filtration pump and let it fill up using a garden hose. Turn the pump back on in the filtration position so that too much air can escape. Absolutely no air should be left in the pipes or sand filter pump. After this, the pressure should recover again.
• To avoid high pressure, it is important to perform a backwash (always switch off the pump before switching position). After backwashing you can check via the pressure gauge whether the pressure has decreased; the pointer moves slowly to the green zone. This is the ideal pressure.

Tip! Both the accessories and the pool pump must also be equal to or below the water level for the ideal pressure, originally installed by the contractor.

 

1.7 Do you maintain salt pools?

Yes, we do 80% of our regular customers in Spain have a salt pool.

During the maintenance of a salt pool, we also keep an eye on the salt electrolysis equipment and make adjustments when necessary. The annual use and addition of the pool salt is also included in this service.

 

1.8 Do you work with a basic maintenance contract?

To maintain your pool, we offer a maintenance proposal for one year because the longer and more extensive the warranty with the intervention of a professional, the better. Of course you still want to get effective help when you need it.

The Cristal Blue maintenance contract consists of two rates depending on the region, dimensions and existing equipment of the pool.

We carefully discuss your expectations and put them into one plan tailored to your wishes and your pool.

Each installation is always professionally monitored by our on-site swimming pool specialist.
 

1.9 Does my pool water taste like salt when I purchase a salt electrolysis?

No, you hardly notice it. Sea water quickly has a salt content of 7% in contrast to your swimming pool, but an average of 0.4% in salt, considerably less. The equivalent of an eye tear.

 

1.10 Filter sand or glass pearls?

Dirty filter sand increases the pressure in your sand filter faster, so that the pool water pumps around less efficiently. Filter sand is also very porous, causing all kinds of bacteria to nest in it. It will only last a few years. Unfortunately, replacing it is really a difficult task because after a few years you can already see the effects start to decrease.

Glass pearls in your filter is definitely a better choice.

• Glass pearls clean the pool water better than sand, no dirt that sticks.
• Glass pearls need to be replaced 80% less quickly than filter sand, less costs in the long term.
• Glass pearls need to be backwashed 50% less, less water consumption.
• Glass pearls need 20% less water to be cleaned, very durable.

Tip! If you have just bought a villa with a swimming pool older than 5 years, be sure to replace the sand in the filter. Think of it as a purchase of a used car, where after purchase you can also have doing the oil changed by a professional.

 

1.11 What does cyanuric acid?

Cyanuric acid (trace element) is a stabilizer that is present in almost all types of tablets, granular and powder forms of chlorine. A stabilizer is needed in your pool water to ensure that the chlorine cannot burn through sunlight (UV) within hours.

Disadvantage or too much of it creates a buffer where the chlorine simply cannot decontaminate at all and may also require you to change the water in your pool as there is no chemical available that can reduce it.

If your pool has been standing still for a long time and turns green, this is probably the cause, so before they advise you to empty the pool, it is best to contact us first to assess the situation together.
 

1.12 Why does dirt return to my pool during vacuuming?

Filter sand in your pool may indicate damage to the interior of the sand filter. In that case, the filter sand must be removed to investigate the nature of the damage, which is quite a job.

Tip! If the filter sand is no longer reusable, it is best to replace it simultaneously with new quartz sand or glass pearls.

If the sand filter has just been installed or has recently been purchased, please wait a while to make this conclusion, a little too much filtration sand may have been added to your filter, or when replacing something it ended up in the pipes that will dissolve itself.

Filter debris in your pool may indicate that the pump power is too great for the filter and is pushing the water so hard that debris passes right through the filter sand.

Another tip for serious water pollution, for example, and to prevent filter clogging, is to vacuum using the waste function. To do this, you must first adjust some valves before the dirt (and water) can be drained directly. Disadvantage, you waste more water that you have to refill afterwards, but the pool is clean again much quicker. Handy if you have not used your holiday home for a long time, and when you expect early tenants.

 

2 Filtration pumps

2.1 How does a good filtration pump work?

The motor (commonly called the "pool pump" or bomba) is one of the most important parts of the pool. Just as it would be impossible to swim in a pool without water, it would be impossible to keep that water clean without proper circulation and filtration.

In short, the pool pump draws water from your pool and pushes water back into your pool. The plumbing pipes and any additional installed equipment that the water flows through after they leave the pool will determine the size and power of the motor you need. That is why it is important to always make the right choice for your swimming pool pump when purchasing or renewing it.

If this task is successfully performed, your pool will operate optimally and you will experience fewer issues that will simplify maintenance, lower utility costs and extend equipment life.

 

2.2 Which pool pump should I install?

The larger the pump, the higher your pumping and maintenance costs, of course. That is why you want to use the smallest possible pump for your pool. If you want to replace the existing pump with a new or different brand, keep in mind that the couplings on the front and top of the old pump match for the new installation. This way you can disconnect them and easily replace them yourself.

You can easily contact us for choosing the right size pump! Contact our customer service to schedule an appointment together. We help you match the correct properties of the pump along with the characteristics of the pool.

Tip! If you plan to use a solar heating system with your pool, consider whether to pump the pool water to and through the collectors.

 

2.3 How long do pool pumps last?

The lifespan of a swimming pool filter pump depends on several factors. However, you can say that pool pumps last an average of 8 years. Swimming pool filter pumps are built for continuous use and last longer if they are protected against internal corrosion and waterlogging in the pump housing.

Humming or buzzing pump bearings usually let you know when you should do something.

Many replace the whole pool pump if only the motor is bad. The hard plastic parts of the pool pump generally do not wear or fail, and can last the life of the pool, with the occasional replacement of small parts such as the filter basket, pump cover ring or sealing screws.

If the engine of the pool pump is only a few years old, overhaul can also be a wise choice. Overhauling pool pump engines usually means checking or replacing bearings and seals. The costs for overhaul are usually 50% to 60% lower than the purchase of a new engine.

 

2.4 Which pumps can I get a warranty on?

With each of our filtration pumps, you can count on a statutory 2-year warranty on the conformity and installation of the product. On some technical devices, you can count on a longer warranty, such as our Inverter heat pumps, this period is 3 years. The term is always stated with the products themselves.

Do you have any questions about the guarantee scheme? Please contact us via the contact form on the website.

 

2.5 Is the brand of a filtration pump important?

While the features and capabilities of the pump are the main factors you can base your choice on, you should definitely consider the brand as well. Traditionally, the leading brands offer high quality products. They also have models with advanced features for easier operation and energy efficiency. The most important things to check when comparing brands are the warranty and customer service you get. Most pool shops in Spain give the respective and legal 2-year warranty, with Cristal Blue this goes much further ..

 

2.6 Which filtration pump is best for my salt water pool?

In general, any pump can work with a salt water pool, unless the manufacturer specifically states otherwise. In pools, the water is actually ten times less salt than in the ocean, so you shouldn't expect the pump to have problems with the operation due to the salt. However, salt can accelerate corrosion. That is why it is best to choose a model with more plastic parts. The metal parts must be made of galvanized steel. In any case, you should perform more inspection and maintenance more often and replace rusty parts in time. The Cristal Blue pumps are all suitable for the use of high chlorine and salt concentrations.
 

2.7 What difference does the number of speeds of a pump make?

When we install a pool pump with two, four or more speeds, it can perform different tasks at different speeds. You can select the speed that allows the most functionality and the highest level of energy efficiency. When the pump is equipped with a computer system, the speed can be controlled automatically so that the smallest amount of energy is used while the machine is operating effectively.

As a result, a multi-speed model may require a larger initial investment, but the operating costs will certainly be lower compared to a single-speed unit with the same flow rate and power.

 

2.8 How do I estimate the cost of purchasing a pool pump?

There are three factors that determine the costs. The first is the power of the engine. The more powerful it is, the higher the cost will be. The second factor is the flow rate that is measured per minute. The higher the flow rate for specific horsepower, the lower the cost. The third factor is strictly individual. It is the number of hours you run the pool pump daily. We are happy to help you find a suitable model with the highest flow for the number of horsepower you need.

 

2.9 Is it important that a swimming pool pump is self-priming?

Yes, this is very important, especially if you are looking for a filtration pump for an in-ground pool. This is because in this case the pump is usually above the water level. This requires a lot of effort for the water to reach the device. As you know, if run without water, the machine will not work properly and be damaged. Thanks to the self-priming capacity, the pump can automatically draw water from a lower level. This is accomplished by vacuum.

 

2.10 Can I seperate and change the motor with a motor with less power?

This is generally not possible. The reason for this is that the impeller in the pump is made to match the power of the motor. The impeller is equipped with vanes that provide centrifugal forces during rotation, which creates a pressure difference whereby the liquid column is set in motion.

If an engine with less (power) horsepower works with the larger impeller, it will fail faster and must be replaced sooner. Theoretically, it is possible to replace the impeller together with the motor, but this can be technically impossible or quite expensive. If you want a less powerful motor to lower your energy bill, consider replacing the entire pump.

Do not buy another pump are repair it yourself too quickly but get advice first. At Cristal Blue we have our own technical service for overhauling old pumps.

 

2.11 Does the pool pump work more effectively in shorter intervals?

Yes, this is generally a good strategy for achieving energy efficiency and keeping the water clean. When the pump is running in shorter intervals, you don't waste energy filtering all the clean water. In order for this strategy to work, the device must either come with a timer or install one. It is a good idea to first estimate the total daily running time and then divide it into equal intervals. If the water is not properly filtered, you can choose to extend the duration of the intervals first and then consider increasing the frequency.

 

2.12 Does my filtration pump have to be covered?

Yes. It will work to protect the plastic components from UV damage. It also provides protection against dust, dirt, etc ... It also provides some sound insulation. The air must be able to flow freely around the motor so that it operates safely and the risk of overheating is kept as low as possible.

A pre-assembled, industrialized technical room in PVC "caseta de depuración" is practical for this and guarantees you optimum user comfort and protection.

 

3 Heat pumps

3.1 Why do I need a bypass on my heat pump?

Every heat pump needs an optimal flow. The optimal flow for the relevant heat pump is coordinated by valves. It is also easier to maintain your pump if you use a bypass or have it installed. With the inverter heat pumps from Cristal Blue, the bypass is standard in the installation.

 

3.2 Can a heat pump withstand salt water or chlorine?

Yes, the more recent models do.

Only the heat exchanger is vulnerable to the influence of salt and chlorine. Always choose a titanium changer for this, these are much more durable. Our inverter models are standard equipped with a titanium exchanger.

 

3.3 Which is the right place for a heat pump nearby your pool?

It is best to always place the heat pump outside!

The function of a swimming pool heat pump is based on getting the energy from the outside air and not circulating it in an enclosed space. If you put a wall at a distance of less than a meter, you will not work properly, this is sometimes forgotten!

It is therefore advisable to install the heat pump as close as possible to the filter and the swimming pool. The shorter the pipes, the lower the resistance and the cooling in the pipes.

Tip! To avoid unannounced installation costs. Always check carefully when you want to purchase a heat pump where you want to have your pump installed.

 

3.4 What are inverter heat pumps?

Pool heat pumps generally fall into two types:

• Inverter controlled
• On/off

Inverter-controlled heat pumps are a newer generation of heat pumps. They have a variable speed which allows the fan and compressor to run at different speeds depending on the demand of the pool. On / off heat pumps can only run at 100% or be switched off. They have no variable speed.

The advantage of inverter heat pumps compared to on / off models:

• More efficient = lower running costs: when inverter heat pumps run at a lower speed, their efficiency (COP) increases drastically. Inverter-controlled heat pumps can have efficiencies (COPs) up to 14.

This means that for every 1 kW of power used, they can return up to 14 kW of heat to the pool. The maximum COP for on / off heat pumps is approximately 5 to 6.

• They are generally much quieter because they do not always have to run at 100%. As soon as the pool has reached the desired temperature, the inverter-controlled heat pump can slow down and run at a reduced speed, eg 30%. When turning at a slower speed, the noise is significantly reduced.
• Built-in "soft start". When inverter heat pumps start, they gradually increase their speed from zero to the required speed. This soft start avoids the force "peak" encountered with on / type heat pumps.

Both on/off and inverter controlled heat pumps are currently available. With Cristal Blue, delivery is included in the installation of the inverter models.
 

3.5 Do you install everywhere in Spain?

We carry out all installations of our heat pumps in the 4 major regions of the Costa in Spain:

• Costa de Valencia
• Costa Blanca
• Costa Cálida
• Costa de Almeria

Tip! Create an account with us via the website, then choose your desired model and add it to your wish list.

Send us a message via my "My tickets" with the confirmation of your address in Spain.

 

3.6 What is the difference between the digital and analog models?

Analog models use a simple mechanical button to set the desired temperature, while digital models have a digital panel where you usually set the desired temperature via a touchpad.

Once the required temperature has been set for both types, the heat pump automatically keeps the pool at the required temperature.

 

3.7 What warranty is offered on the inverter devices?

The warranty we offer on our inverter heat pumps in Spain is 3 years. The total warranty includes the movement, parts and assembly. Unless otherwise indicated, all our other products have a 2 year full warranty as defined by Spanish law.

After the installation of our heat pump you will receive a purchase invoice.

You can request information about your orders at any time via your account under "My orders".

Tip! When registering your account on the website, make sure that the address for installation in Spain is always noted.

 

3.8 I use salt in my pool instead of chlorine, will this damage the heat pump?

No, all our pool heat pumps have titanium heat exchangers that are resistant to damage from salt or chlorine used in swimming pools.

In fact, salt pools generate chlorine from the salt water and are therefore basically the same as chlorine pools. Only the method of generating chlorine is different.