Acid Wash-How to Acid Wash a Pool

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--Tips for a Successful Acid Wash--
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In this video I demonstrate the step by step process of acid washing a plaster pool. I have received a few comments criticizing the fact that I am not wearing protective gear or a mask. I have tried using a mask in the past and found that it hinders my ability to see, plus it slides down when the temperature is very hot; both of which create a dangerous distraction. If you feel you need protection, by all means use whatever makes you feel will keep you safe.
If you have a colored plastered pool and need to acid wash, watch this video: • Acid Wash - How to Aci...
--SUPPLIES--
Sump pump and hose long enough to reach sewer/waste line
12 + bottles of muriatic acid
1 bottle Bio-Dex Plaster White ‘n Brite: www.lucyspools....
1 bottle Bio-Dex Aquadex 50 STAIN OFF (To be added with White ‘n Brite if plaster is stained) www.lucyspools....
Garden hose and nozzle with shut off
Large bucket or plastic chlorine case to set pump in after acid wash so it won’t be placed on the deck
--START-UP CHEMICALS--
Cyanuric acid, aka Conditioner (Amount will depend on size of pool)
www.lucyspools....
Some form of chlorine: Liquid, Tri-chlor, Di-chlor or Calcium Hypochlorite www.lucyspools....
www.lucyspools....
www.lucyspools....
www.lucyspools....
A stain treatment (see recommendations)
www.lucyspools....
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I hope these tips help. The video will give you a much better sense of what to do. Again, wear protective gear if you feel safer.

[@teacherlynn671]

We had a pool company acid wash our pool and they left lines on the bottom. It was supposed to disappear but it never did. It looks bad but it is just on one side of the pool and in the deep end. When we said something they said they were not responsible and we would have to pay for everything and the water being emptied and re-filled. Be sure your pool is done right before you refill and get a good company. We got someone that owned a pool store so we thought we were good. Thanks Lucy. I have learned a lot from you.

[@Lucyspools-diy-service-tips]

What kind of lines? Did they miss an area when they poured the acid?

[@ohitslexii]

I didn't even need to know how to clean a pool this was just really relaxing to watch

[@Lucyspools-diy-service-tips]

ohitslexii That makes me happy. Thanks

[@Lucyspools-diy-service-tips]

Thanks. And I agree except that trying to use a respirator in 100+ degrees is very distracting, as it slips off. I believe that if folks out there are smart enough to follow directions on how to acid wash a pool, they are intelligent enough to know what they need to protect themselves. I have tried numerous times to use one but it has been more dangerous for me because it affects my field of vision. But thanks for watching and for the comment.

[@Lucyspools-diy-service-tips]

Hi Dave Carella, I don't know why you don't have 'reply' under your comment, so I hope this finds you. Our City Water Department requires that we send the water to the treatment center, as opposed to draining the acid-water into the street. So we have to find the sewer line and drain it in there. If not, the water goes directly to Lake Mead. Another alternative is to drain it into a toilet...which also goes to the treatment plant. I am currently looking into an environmentally safe product which would be an alternative to using Muriatic acid. I'm in the testing stage now. If it does the job I'm hoping it will do, I will post the results on my website www.lucyspools.com and also post a new video. Hope this helps, and thank you for the question, Lucy

[@manlyinstanley]

Thanks Lucy for the informative video! Your video truly demystifies the process.

[@Lucyspools-diy-service-tips]

Thanks for the nice compliments. Glad this was helpful

[@Lucyspools-diy-service-tips]

It hurts me to hear that, Adam. As a professional, I service a pool once a week and the pools look great all week. If you contact me and tell me what equipment you have and other details, I will help make your pool ownership a pleasant experience. You just have to promise to listen to my advice. Have you visited my website? There is some good information there. You don't have to spend more than one hour per week on your pool (unless it's a 'leafer'). I want you to LOVE your pool. Lucy

[@rasjeshsharma2260]

very good advice! We will use your "White and Bright" powder to secure the muriatic acid to the wall in foam format, but will supplement the cleaning by using a bristle brush. Thank you for this excellent video!!

[@Lucyspools-diy-service-tips]

Hopefully you won't have to brush, that's why I use the BnW. Clings so the acid can do it's job. A pressure washer works well too, but don't spray the acid off with that. Rinse first with nozzle, then use it if needed. Or you can brush, just be careful to not get in your eyes. Depends on how bad the algae is. Anyway, glad the video was helpful. Happy swimming, Lucy

[@flaviacavalcante5221]

OMG Thank You so much. I am so happy I had found this video. I need to do that on my pool , plus patch and paint. I don't have thousands of $$ so anything that you can help PLEASE....

[@Lucyspools-diy-service-tips]

+Flavia Cavalcante Hi Flavia, Well, as far as draining...that will depend on your water table. Here in Las Vegas we rarely have to be concerned about a pool popping out, as could happen anytime a water table is too high. (Think of a ship floating on water). When a pool is empty and the water table is high, there is a possibility that the pressure could push the pool up from the bottom. In California we used to call the Water Department and ask what level the table was in a particular area of the city before draining a pool. In terms of the patching and painting...unless your pool has been previously painted I'd try to stay away from painting (unless absolutely necessary). If you can patch the plaster and smooth it, that's what I'd do. However if you have to paint, be prepared to do a lot of prep work and follow instructions closely. Epoxy paint is trickier but is very durable. Rubber based paints are easy to apply and go a long way, but (in my opinion) don't last as long. Basically you can give a facelift to a pool by repainting it but expect it to last from 2 years to 8 years, taking into consideration the water and chemicals. If your plaster has air pockets don't expect the paint to fill them in, regardless of what the manufacturer says. Plaster will pop if it has already begun. I hope I've given you enough to at least start the process of deciding what you want to do. Keep me posted...all the best! Lucy

[@textbo1]

The best way to acid wash a pool is from the bottom up. Some call this a reverse acid wash. This helps to prevent streaking. Also you can use dawn dish soap (cheaper than the additive that you used in this video). About 3 Oz per gallon. I have sprayers that we have built that uses a pump and a spray wand with a fan tip that distributes that acid on the walls and floor with an even coat.

[@textbo1]

Oh, and wear a respirator.

[@jrperez1592]

So I can use dish soap instead of additive? Mix it with acid and apply to walls like she did? I'm in the process of cleaning my pool and there are major brown stains

[@Lucyspools-diy-service-tips]

Juan Rea Hi Juan, No, I don't recommend using Dawn dish soap for this job. I'd use the Bio Dex Plaster White N Brite, and Bio Dex Aquadex 50 Stain Out. These are superior products and the results are the best you'll get. The brown stains are mostly caused by minerals. After you fill the pool, be sure to use a mineral removal product (CuLator or Hasa Super Stain Out or Bio Dex Protect All Supreme) on a regular basis to keep the stains from reappearing. I do not receive any commission from endorsing these products, I recommend them because they work. I have done thousands of acid washes over the thirty+ years in this business and have narrowed it down to these products (after much trial and error). I don't know who Tim is (above comment), but I disagree with just about everything he has to say. Perhaps he has a video and would like to share with us. But if you follow the directions I have laid out, I think you will be very pleased. I learned from a man who started in the industry in the 70's, I started in the 80's. That's a lot of experience!

[@Lucyspools-diy-service-tips]

Tim...do you have a link to your acid wash video? Is your pump and spray under pressure, like a bug sprayer? Curious.

[@elconquistador9921]

lucyspools it's not a bug sprayer. The acid goes into a tank (that is on a cart with wheels) and is pumped out with a small pump that is that is rated for chemicals like muriatic acid. The tank is not under pressure. It sprays out about 20 to 30 psi. I can use about 1/3 of the acid that you will use by pouring it. I've used about every additive known and trust me, dish soap works. I am a manager of a pool plaster company and we are one of the the biggest in the US. Well, they don't do many plastered pools abroad so then the world. In fact we've plastered pools in places like England, Spain, Qatar.... I've used tons add products because someone is always trying to sell us something and have us endorse their products. We've done thousands and thousands of pools. Not trying to be mean but you're acid washing with no respirator and just walking around pouring acid everywhere willy nilly. If it was a new plaster job it will streak the finish by pouring it from the top down. Now with a sprayer you can start about anywhere, when using something like soap, because it will cause the acid to cling to the walls and not run and streaks. It also cuts down on the fumes. On our website we have videos of certain things that we do but we also have a school that people come to you to get certified in certain types of plasters. Because of this there's certain things that I'm not willing to give away for free on KZbin. I will say this though, the acid sprayers that we build cost us about $600 and they're worth their weight in gold.

[@Catrell]

this is exactly what I needed to know. thanks!

[@Lucyspools-diy-service-tips]

Excellent! Thanks for taking the time to let me know. Lucy

[@111powerstroke]

Good video! only thing you're missing is a respirator

[@austinman1234567]

If you are considering acid washing your pool wearing protective clothing and a mask is a must. Lucy has been acid cleaning pools for 30 years, she is probably lucky not to have been injured if she has only ever worn shorts and t-shirt and no mask while working.

[@lramze]

Thanks a lot Lucy. Very informative video.

[@joelsofmen]

Nice Video. Quick question, I saw another video where the person said to do a chlorine wash first to kill the algae, then do the acid wash procedure. Is this needed or not? You didn't mention it so I was curious. Thanks again for the information.

[@Lucyspools-diy-service-tips]

OK...PLEASE READ CAREFULLY! There are certain situations when algae (usually black) is so infested that I have done a chlorine bath before hand. Green/yellow algae doesn't really need to be pre-treated. The DANGER of using chlorine before or after acid, i.e. mixed together, is that it produces a gas equivalent to MUSTARD GAS. It can be harmful! Even when you believe you have rinsed well, there's still chlorine in the main drain, so when the acid is poured, the fumes can knock you out and damage your lungs. If you don't need to use chlorine, I'd suggest not using it. If you do, then be sure that the chlorine in the main drain is sucked out with a shop vac and thoroughly rinsed. Good luck and I'm glad you asked this very important question. It will help other people. Thanks for watching, Lucy

[@69roadr]

very good video! really like the watering can method.

[@Lucyspools-diy-service-tips]

Thanks...I learned that back when I was a youngster and haven't found a better method. Makes for a very even pour. Happy swimming! Lucy

[@RobertnJackieTownley]

What do you do with the acid / water mix in your vacuum afterwards? Is there a reason the sump pump is not used to drain the acid solution? What is the proper way of disposing of used acid?

[@Imforgiven143]

Great Job Lucy. Maybe the owner should consider removing that tree that appears to be wreaking havoc on the pool. however I see it is providing you with some good shade while draining this pool in 100 degree weather. Although I would not recommend that, sometimes you got to do what has do be done. That is what a drain waiver is for right?

[@Lucyspools-diy-service-tips]

Imforgiven143 Fortunately, he was not a regular client of mine. I refuse to service pools with trees hanging over a pool like that. It boggles my mind that folks continue to think it's 'cool' to have a tree, roots and all, so close to a huge investment such as a lovely pool. Sigh...some people cannot be convinced that it's not a good idea...until they have a pipe crack underground, or a mess such as this person encountered. Nice observation however! Lucy

[@kongerocastro3895]

+lucyspools Trees, phosphates, algae.....oh why!!!??? If you have a pool and the city places trees around or nearby, can you complain to have them removed and/or relocated? Wow. That acid wash turned out clean.

[@Lucyspools-diy-service-tips]

+Kongero Castro I guess it depends on where you live. Here in Las Vegas the city is pretty good about maintaining the trees that are close to property lines. If you live in an HOA you may have better luck. When I don't know who to contact I call 211 which connects me to all city services, including the city council office in your district. Also, it may help if you can ask neighbors to complain...many elected officials will step up because that's what keeps them in office. Yeah, that pool was horrible! I was glad it turned out so well. Thanks for watching, Lucy

[@kongerocastro3895]

Thanks for sharing that. Keep cool and hydrated.

[@haroldnunezhn]

You look young to be doing this for 30 years. At what age did you start at 10 you dont look older then 40. You look good but beside this I wanted to know what acid to use and where can I get it .I seem different brands being use which one do you recommend. Keep up the good work

[@Lucyspools-diy-service-tips]

You are too kind, thank you...must be this gentle desert sun :) The acid to use is Muriatic Acid. The best place to buy it is at a pool store such as Leslies or NPS. I believe you can find it at Lowes or Home Depot also, just not sure about the strength of it. There are many different brands and each store carries a particular one. Good luck and thank you for watching. Lucy

[@eldonmeyer3578]

Followed your procedure for the DIY acid wash, pool looks great. I am now getting some "brown" staining on the clean gunite coming from the grout between the tiles at the water line tiles. Any follow up procedure to stop or clear up new brown staining?? Thanks for the help.

[@Lucyspools-diy-service-tips]

Try using a product by Biodex called 'Aquadex 50 Stain Off'. If you saw the video or read the PDF about start up chems after an acid wash, I recommended Biodex 'Protect All Supreme'. That is very good, but I have recently discovered the Stain Off, and I must say, it works phenomenally well. I wish I would have known about it earlier. When the pool is full, add the required amount (depending on the gallons) and after a day or two start brushing the stains off. I'd still use the 'Protect All Supreme', but the other just gives the plaster a boost of clarity. If that doesn't work, please email me again. Pictures help if you want to send them to [e-mail]. I can better assess the situation. All the best, Lucy

[@Wirewheels]

You show a text screen at 10:02 that says to add water to the acid - NO! If you add water to acid, so much heat is released that the solution may boil very violently, splashing concentrated acid out of the container! If you add acid to water, the solution that forms is very dilute and the small amount of heat released is not enough to vaporize and spatter it. So Always Add Acid to water, and never the reverse.

[@Lucyspools-diy-service-tips]

OMG Wirewheels...You are so right!! I will have my video editor change that asap. Thank you SO much for making me aware of that oversight. And thanks for putting in the exact time, I really appreciate it. I can't believe no one else has brought this to my attention. Gratefully, Lucy

[@aa4376ja]

RIGHT ON! WATER FIRST THEN ACID. Just like when you pour it into your pool, no reaction.

[@rorygray2975]

@@Lucyspools-diy-service-tips 😂

[@antoniokfranco]

Hey Lucy it's antonio on Montoya in las vegas, I hope your well!

[@jasonmcpeak1335]

I'd invest in a 2" trash push, and a 3000 psi pressure washer with a chemical feed line, this could have been done in 1/3 the time, with less acid, and not dangerous balancing on the walls to traverse the perimeter.

[@Lucyspools-diy-service-tips]

Oh my, Jason. Your 'idea' is exactly why I have posted so many videos for people who want to do things the correct way. But if you do happen to actually acid wash a pool using your method, please create a video and post it on KZbin. I'm sure we could all learn something. Be careful out there, young man.Thanks for watching, Lucy

[@russellwinters1803]

Nice video Lucy I was wondering how many gallons of acid was used for a pool that size and If you could mention a ball park price that you charged the customer for that job. Thank You

[@Lucyspools-diy-service-tips]

This was an extreme example; very large and green. I believe I used 16 gallons (normal pool is about 8). I also think I charged $700.00 but then I had to repair the light and other stuff, so it was $900.00. Usually a starting price for a pool that is not green and is around 12,000 gal starts at $400.00. This includes draining, acid wash, filter cleaning and start-up chems. There are too many factors to ever bid a pool without seeing it; water pressure being a big issue. I know I gave you more info than you asked for, but maybe this will help others when seeking a service company. Always be sure a company has at least 20 acid washes under their belt before hiring one. You don't want to be their experimental pool. And thanks for the compliment. Lucy

[@renzcedeno6192]

Add water first in your can before the acid.

[@Lucyspools-diy-service-tips]

That rule of thumb applies to dry chemicals. But thanks for your contribution. L

[@renzcedeno6192]

Actually rule of thumb for liquid muriatic acid as well so you won’t have much fumes come out.

[@azcharlie2009]

I didn't see you do any scrubbing? Is that normal? Also, I saw no use of soda ash to neutralize the acid before removal? I have a material similar to pebble tech on my pool. Over the 4 years we've had it, the calcium has built up on the bottom... Also, what do you use for a defoamer?

[@Lucyspools-diy-service-tips]

When the Biodex chemicals are added to the acid solution nine out of ten times no scrubbing is necessary. Plaster White n Brite and Aquadex 50 Stain-off are a must. I don’t understand the question about the soda ash…before removal of what? The only time soda ash is necessary if if you’re going to paint a pool after acid washing, or if you acid wash a painted pool you’d want to pour soda ash on the surface to neutralize the acid. I use a Spa Foam Down , again I like Biodex or Natural Chemistry but they’re pretty generic. When doing a pebble tec type pool it’s very important that you don’t let the acidic water stay in the bottom for a long time. I start the process with a few inches of water so the acid is more diluted. Also, best to do two-three light pours than one strong one. I hope I’ve answered your questions. I’m around today if you need anything else. L

[@azcharlie2009]

@@Lucyspools-diy-service-tips Thanks for the quick response. I thought that soda ash was needed to neutralize the acidic water before it's discarded. A safety precaution, I guess... i live on an acreage, so maybe that's not so important. I have watched lots of your videos over the years... Just stumbled onto them again!!! Thank you!!

[@Lucyspools-diy-service-tips]

@@azcharlie2009 Oh, if you’re you pumping the acidic water onto the ground then yes, you should mix it with soda ash. By law we have to put it into the sewer which goes to the treatment plant. One tip about mixing soda ash into the water…if you can get another person to brush at the point where the soda ash is being poured it will prevent it from clumping into a hard rock. If nobody is around, I used to pour it from a bucket while stirring it with pressure from water using a nozzle. Not sure if that makes sense. Have your phenol red (tests Ph) with you and squirt a few drops into the water so you know when it’s balanced.

[@Armeniamexico4ever]

Hi I would like to know how much it cost to do acid wash for that size of a pool

[@firespawn0006]

I like having a pool but i just hate the maintenance of it

[@patricknoland7402]

Q: Why aren't you wearing protective clothing and boots?

[@altuna55]

Lucy, upon opening my pool I check the water chemestry and found the Calcium was very low. Lesley pool recommended to add 40 Lbs. of calcium. I did but nothing removes the stains from the plaster on the walls of pool floor. I partially drained my pool and tried with my power washer. 3000 psi of pressure won't even scratch the stains. Please if you be so kind watch this 3 minute long video kzbin.info/www/bejne/eaO4i5Vtm7J3ZrM. Any recommendations on what to do to fix this horrible problem would be greatly appreciated.Thanks, Leon

[@CherylStevensRealtor]

Lucy do you have any ideas how to remove build up safely around water line in pool as well as under the water on a tanning shelf that started out as a white stain going in the flow of the water coming out of the jet that moves the water across the tanning shelf and now has began to cover spots all over the shelf. Not sure what it is. We have a light colored plaster with tiny pebbles like Pebble Tec and pool is about 8 yrs old. Also have white around the flagstone on the spillway of the spa going to the pool. We had a bid for blasting with Max Strip but it was $1,100+ and we are trying to find another way to do it ourselves. thank you,

[@Lucyspools-diy-service-tips]

Cheryl Stevens Hi Cheryl, It really helps if you can send me pictures in situations such as this. My email is [e-mail] Where do you live? In a hard water area? I'm doing some field testing for a company, Safecid, that has a product that safely removes calcium...but it would help to see some pictures. I'll be able to give you more accurate guidance, Lucy

[@medina239ify]

Can you use that plaster white stuff even though the pool finish is black?

[@Lucyspools-diy-service-tips]

You can use the Plaster White N Brite on black finish but use less. What I might do is add Bio Dex Stain Off to the solution. What you're basically doing when you acid wash is removing the calcium. I've had great results, but the acid solution needs to also be a little less strong. Best to go around twice with a weak solution than to go once with a strong one. And don't let the acid sit in the bottom too long...keep pumping it out or it will leave a lighter ring. Good luck, and thanks for the great question. Lucy

[@nihalrg]

Im your 1000th subscriber

[@Lucyspools-diy-service-tips]

+NihalGamingYT (Nihal Ahamed) Oh my gosh!! Thank you for pointing that out. You've inspired me to keep posting more videos. For me, this is quite a milestone. Thanks again :) Lucy

[@nihalrg]

@@Lucyspools-diy-service-tips 4 years later and you've passed 5k... wow

[@Lucyspools-diy-service-tips]

@@nihalrg You keep track closer than I do. Thanks! I’ve had many surgeries since then but am on the mend. I’m hoping to post more new videos this year. Thanks again!!

[@nihalrg]

@@Lucyspools-diy-service-tips I've actually just been finding old comments and found your channel again

[@mikes8235]

Hi lucy. What do we do if some of the acid wash gets in the drain at the bottom of our pool? Should we seal the drain before we start? I can remove the screens(or round things) at the bottom and cover it up that way. Right now, i have the entire pool drained but i don't want to get any acid waste into the drain and drain it into the woods behind my house.

[@Lucyspools-diy-service-tips]

+Mike Schreiner SR Mike...I am SO SORRY about not getting back to you. I had a full hip replacement on October 5. I haven't been able to sit long enough to respond. I would have suggested that you add soda ash to neutralize the acid. That way you wouldn't have to cover any thing up. What did you end up doing (if you're not too mad at me to answer)? I'm on the mend so hopefully this won't happen again. Thanks, and again my most sincere apologies. Lucy

[@xr4ticlone]

This is the 2nd video on acid washing a pool I've watched...the first guy was suiting up like he was going to spend a week inside Chernobyl reactor #4...and Lucy's in cut offs and running shoes with no eye protection or respirator. Seems like there might be a happy medium?

[@Lucyspools-diy-service-tips]

+xr4ticlone Lol...The 'Chernobyl' guy was actually my inspiration to create this video. I mean...really? However, I do admit that a person who has not been around these chemicals should probably take some measure of precaution. I realize that after posting many videos, people are actually watching. Thus, I've been more conscientious when demonstrating 'How To'... Happy medium would probably be; wear safety glasses, don't pour when it's windy, and use the Plaster White N Brite so that the fumes will be knocked down. But, I'm so excited that you noticed my running shoes...cool, huh? Thanks for taking the time to write...Lucy

[@mikibusse9267]

Using acid is harmful for your lungs for sure.. I are precautions to protect my breathing and my arms.

[@SallySuttoniamlove]

Can TSP be used instead of plaster white and bright?

[@Lucyspools-diy-service-tips]

NO! TSP is an alkaline based product and will negate the function of the acid.. TSP should be used as a pre-cleaner when prepping to paint a deck or pool. Or after a light acid wash on a painted pool, it is suggested to use a light solution of TSP and water, poured on the walls in order to neutralize the residual acid which will prevent 'chalking'. Please be careful mixing ingredients together with acid...NEVER mix chlorine with acid. Hope this helps, Lucy

[@Jimboo0825]

Why not just use a pressure washer to clean it when it's empty?

[@flaviacavalcante5221]

ohhh one more thing.. I am in Florida Can I drain my pool completely? it is a concrete pool

[@franciscocarrera6188]

Why didn't you brush the walls / floor?

[@Lucyspools-diy-service-tips]

Francisco Carrera In most situations when you use the correct chemical solution there is no need to brush the walls or floor. Using Biodex Plaster White n Brite helps the acid cling to the surface which makes the acid more effective.

[@franciscocarrera6188]

@@Lucyspools-diy-service-tips thank you for your reply. :) could I bother you with another question? My pool was resurfaced anout 5 years ago but the walls and steps always had blotchy white areas. I went ahead and drained the pool and the walls are mostly white but you can see the diamond brite on certain spots the white spots have been worn down. Why did this happen? And would I be able to wear down the white blotches by acid washing? (to presumably get to the diamondbrite). It seems odd because the flooring you can clearly see the diamond brite. But once you look at the walls it almost looks like old white plaster . Have you come across this? Great videos btw.. :)

[@Lucyspools-diy-service-tips]

Francisco Carrera I have seen that white blotchiness before. My guess would be that the aggregate may not have been mixed thoroughly. It’s possible that an acid wash may expose more aggregate but be careful not to go too deep an ruin the plaster. The White n Brite could help, plus add in Biodex Aquadex 50 to the acid solution to help remove any calcium (about 1/2cup to every 2 gallons of solution) You can also use a pressure washer with the wide spray nozzle AFTER you rinse the solution off the walls. Hope this helps.

[@nrdalrt15]

Lucy, what about the hydrostatic plug? Did you remove it?

[@Lucyspools-diy-service-tips]

I have not met a pool builder that installs them out here in Las Vegas, or in Southern CA for that matter. The water table is almost never high enough. When I serviced pools in CA, if we had a lot of rainfall, and I had a scheduled acid wash, I would call the Water Department and ask what level the water table was in that area. If there was any question/doubt in my mind I would reschedule the draining. I have seen pools pop up from a too high water table. Boy...wouldn't it be nice to have that problem of a water table too high...especially in CA where they are experiencing extreme drought conditions. Thank you for your question. This is why I continue to re-iterate that most of my information is for the Southwest part of the USA. Lucy

[@richardhall1213]

You dont ever worry about the pool popping out of the ground when you drain all the water out?

[@Lucyspools-diy-service-tips]

+Richard Hall Hi Richard, the reason a pool pops out is if the water table is too high. In Las Vegas we rarely have that problem. When I was in Los Angeles we would definitely keep an eye on it. In fact, many times after a few days of rain, or if someone lived in the foothills, I would postpone draining a pool. Or I'd call the water department. One time a client insisted that I drain his pool. When I told him he had to sign a disclaimer exonerating me of any responsibility if the pool popped out...he decided to wait. Thanks for the insightful question...Lucy

[@mikibusse9267]

We live in Arizona and we are afraid to drain the pool because it was here when we purchased it and aren't sure if corners were cut during installation. Any thoughts? Thanks..

[@brendahester4662]

Where can I get "White N' Brite"???

[@Lucyspools-diy-service-tips]

If you have a pool store near you called NPS, they carry it. Online, Amazon does. If you can't find it and want to get it done, I have heard from an old timer that Ivory liquid soap works, It'll probably be pretty sudsy, so be sure you have a 'foam down' product. Those are readily available from any pool store. Biodex makes Plaster White n Brite so I'd search for Biodex. Their Stain Off is remarkable and can be added to the solution, or afterward in the pool water to keep the plaster looking great. All the best, Lucy

[@brendahester4662]

LucysPools THANKS TO YOU...this 67 year old and her daughter, just acid washed our 15,000 gallon pool !!!! Saved us hundreds! Thanks : )

[@Lucyspools-diy-service-tips]

brenda hester You are an inspiration!! Good for you and your daughter. Messages from folks like you make my efforts worth it all. Thanks for watching and enjoy your pool. (Be sure to watch the video or read the pdf on start-up chems after an acid wash.) Also, I will be sending out a newsletter so you may want to sign up from my website www.lucyspools.com Have a great summer, Lucy

[@poolmonkey7479]

OMG…hate to say it, but so much wrong here. Mix too strong, left to burn soooooooo far too long. Cringed at the perching on spa wall….couldn’t get past that. This pool called for a very light wash, if any. 1/4 strength and sprayed down very quickly. Power wash and a chlorine rinse is probably what it should have received.. Please, folks….watch more videos.

[@Lucyspools-diy-service-tips]

When you add Plaster White n Brite you can leave the solution on for a lot longer. Not sure how long you’ve been in the business but the ability to have good balance is important. I’ve been doing this work since 1983 and have never fallen in nor have I pitted plaster with the solution I use. Good luck in your endeavors with trial and error. L

[@mikeanderson8023]

What!!!NO!NO!NO! ALWAYS ACID TO WATER. YOU RISK DANGEROUS RESULTS WITH WATER ON ACID

[@mikeanderson8023]

@10:02 from the strart

[@Lucyspools-diy-service-tips]

Not liquid acid. Only applies to dry chems. Otherwise I would have been blown up years ago.

[@mikeanderson8023]

@@Lucyspools-diy-service-tips Nowhere did you mention dry chemicals, just 12 + bottles of muriatic acid, and later on 16+ bottles of acid. Be specific. You're talking to diy'ers out here and a lot can be put in harms way with bad instructions and poor written information

[@Lucyspools-diy-service-tips]

@@mikeanderson8023 What I’m saying is water being added to liquid acid or chlorine is not dangerous (unless you splash it on you but that can happen with any liquid). It’s the DRY acid or chlorine that you never add water to…always add the dry chem to water. But since I’m not using dry acid it doesn’t matter. The reason I add the acid into the pouring container first is that I want to be sure that the solution is the same on every pour. Otherwise the finished job will turn out uneven. I hope I’ve clarified your concern. Thanks for giving me the opportunity to explain. I’m sure your question will help someone else. Lucy

[@crystalboucher2742]

your video is all fuzzy.

[@Lucyspools-diy-service-tips]

+Crystal Boucher Hi Crystal, hmmm. 60,000+ people have viewed this and not one comment that the video is fuzzy. And believe me, folks don't hesitate to express their views. Have you tried 'compatibility view' under tools, or view on your computer? See if that helps. Hope this helps, Lucy