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Frequently Asked Questions About Swimming Pools in Thailand
Looking for clear answers about swimming pools in Thailand? This FAQ covers the most common questions about pool construction, costs, equipment, and maintenance. Whether you’re planning a new pool or already own one, you’ll find helpful tips based on years of experience building and servicing swimming pools across all 20 provinces of Isaan.






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Why is water chemistry important for my swimming pool?Balanced water protects your pool structure, tiles, and equipment, and keeps the water safe for swimming. Poor water chemistry can damage the pool, reduce equipment life, and cause skin or eye irritation.
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What should I test in my pool water?The main things to test are chlorine level, pH, calcium hardness, alkalinity, and salt level (if you have a saltwater system). Each plays an important role in keeping water clean and safe.
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How often should water be tested?We recommend testing at least once a week. If you have a saltwater system and your pool is used often, you may want to test every 2–3 days.
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What is the correct pH level for pool water?The ideal range is between 7.2 and 7.6. This keeps chlorine effective and protects both swimmers and pool surfaces.
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How do I adjust the pH level?If the pH is too high, add pH Minus. If it’s too low, add pH Plus. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and adjust gradually.
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How do I check and adjust chlorine levels?Use a pool water test kit or test strips. For a chlorine pool, add chlorine manually. For a saltwater pool, adjust the salt chlorinator’s output or the pump runtime.
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How do I check the salt level in a saltwater pool?Use a salt test meter or strips. Most salt systems work best between 3,000 and 4,500 ppm. If it’s low, add pool-grade salt.
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How do I backwash my sand filter?Turn off the pump, set the filter valve to “Backwash,” and run the pump for 2–3 minutes until the sight glass water is clear. Then set to “Rinse” for 30 seconds before returning to “Filter.”
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How do I maintain my chlorinator cell?This applies only to saltwater swimming pools. Most salt cells are self-cleaning, but if you notice any scale buildup, it’s best to contact our technician for advice. In some cases, the cell may need to be removed and cleaned with a mild acid solution, but this should be done carefully to avoid damage.
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What does Sakon Swimmingpool do during a monthly service visit?We test and adjust pH, chlorine, calcium, and alkalinity; check and adjust the salt chlorinator; vacuum the pool; brush the walls and waterline; skim surface debris; backwash the sand filter or clean the cartridge; clean the pump basket; inspect and clean the chlorinator cell; and check the automatic refill system.
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What should I do between service visits?Keep the pool free from leaves and debris, run the pump daily for the recommended time, and check chlorine and pH weekly. If you see cloudiness or algae starting, contact us immediately so we can prevent bigger problems.
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Can I swim right after adding chemicals?Most chemicals we use in the pool are safe to swim in immediately after they are added, as long as the water is circulating. The only exception is chlorine shock treatment — in that case, you should wait at least 8 hours or until chlorine levels return to normal.
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How long should I run my pool pump each day?Most pools need the pump to run 6–8 hours daily. In very hot weather or with heavy use, you may need to run it longer to keep water clean and clear.
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How can I prevent algae in my pool?Keep the water balanced, run the pump daily, brush the walls weekly, and don’t let chlorine levels drop. A monthly service program is the easiest way to avoid algae.
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Do I need to drain my pool for cleaning?No, most cleaning is done with the water in place. We only drain a pool for major repairs, resurfacing, or if the water quality is beyond recovery.
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What should I do if the water turns cloudy?First, check your chlorine and pH levels. Run the pump longer, clean the filter, and remove any debris from the pool. If the water doesn’t clear within 24–48 hours, contact us for service. We will arrive with the right chemicals to adjust the water balance and clear up the water. We will also advise you about the correct running time for your pump and filter, and if needed, check the condition of the sand inside your sand filter..
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Can you help if my pump or filter stops working?Yes, we handle all pool equipment repairs and replacements, from pumps and filters to chlorinators and timers.
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Does the pH level change in a saltwater pool?Yes, in saltwater pools the pH level often rises over time. High pH makes chlorine less effective and can cause scale on tiles and equipment. During our service visits, we always check the pH and add the right amount of pH Minus to bring it back into the correct range.
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Why is calcium level important in pool water?Calcium hardness needs to be balanced. If it’s too low, it can make the water “hungry” and cause it to dissolve calcium from the pool surface, damaging tiles and grout. If it’s too high, it can cause scaling on tiles, pipes, and equipment. We check calcium levels on our service visits and adjust them by adding calcium increaser or by diluting the water if it’s too high.
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What is black algae and how do you prevent it?Black algae is a stubborn form of algae that grows into cracks and grout lines. It’s hard to remove once established. We use a special preventative chemical during service visits to stop it from growing, especially in pools that have had black algae problems before.
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Can iron in the water damage my pool?Yes, water with high iron content can cause brown or rust-colored stains on tiles and surfaces, and can also lead to scaling inside pipes and equipment. We have special chemicals that bind to the iron and prevent it from causing damage.
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Why do I sometimes smell chlorine even if the level is low?A strong chlorine smell usually means the chlorine is “locked up” as chloramines from dirt, sweat, or sunscreen in the water. This is a sign the pool needs a shock treatment, not that too much chlorine is present.
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Can rain affect my pool water?Yes, heavy rain can dilute chemicals, lower chlorine, and change pH levels. After rain, it’s important to test the water and rebalance if needed.
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What is Zelbrite, and why do you use it instead of sand in the filter?Zelbrite, also known as zeolite, is a natural volcanic mineral used as premium filter media. Compared to standard sand, it offers much finer filtration, capturing particles as small as 3 microns (versus around 20 microns with sand), resulting in clearer water and fewer chemical adjustments Less backwashing needed — saves up to 50% water because of its higher dirt-holding capacity. Improves water quality — helps remove ammonia and chloramines, reducing odors and skin or eye irritation. Many commercial facilities and swim schools choose Zelbrite to deliver top-quality water and reduce maintenance costs.
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Will I have to change my filter or backwash more often with Zelbrite?No special equipment is needed and no modifications are required. Zelbrite works in all standard sand filters. In fact, because of its superior filtration capabilities, you’ll typically backwash less often, extending the time between cleanings.
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What is the benefit of using a variable speed pump?A variable speed pump can run at different speeds instead of just on or off. For normal daily circulation, it can run at a much lower speed, which uses far less electricity, and only run at high speed when needed for cleaning, backwashing, or special features. This can reduce your pool pump’s power use by up to 50–70%, which means big savings on your electricity bill. It also makes the pump quieter and can extend the life of both the pump and other pool equipment.
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Is electricity and voltage a problem for pool equipment in Thailand?Yes, in many parts of Thailand, especially in rural areas, the electricity supply can have voltage drops or sudden spikes. These can damage pumps, chlorinators, and other pool equipment. To prevent this, we supply our pump room control boxes with built-in voltage protection. This helps protect your investment and keeps the system running safely even when the power supply is unstable.
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When did Sakon Swimmingpool start?We started our swimming pool business over 10 years ago, after building our own first pool and seeing the demand for high-quality pools in Isaan.
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How long does it take to build one swimming pool?On average, a standard swimming pool takes about 4–8 weeks from start to finish, depending on size and design.
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How is your price compared to other types of swimming pools?My goal is to give the right price for the right product. I don’t want to be the cheapest, because quality costs money, but I also don’t want to be expensive. The focus is on delivering lasting quality and good value.
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What provinces do you work in?We work in all 20 provinces of Isaan, including: Sakon Nakhon, Nakhon Phanom, Mukdahan, Kalasin, Roi Et, Yasothon, Amnat Charoen, Ubon Ratchathani, Si Sa Ket, Surin, Buriram, Nakhon Ratchasima (Korat), Chaiyaphum, Khon Kaen, Maha Sarakham, Nong Bua Lamphu, Loei, Nong Khai, Udon Thani, and Bueng Kan. On special request, we take on jobs outside this area too.
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What happens after the swimming pool is finished?We offer a monthly service program where our own technician takes care of the swimming pool. This includes water testing, cleaning, and equipment checks to keep the pool in perfect condition all year round. This is especially important and convenient for foreign owners who are away from their pool for many months, as it ensures the pool stays clean, safe, and ready to use at any time.
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Can you build custom shapes and designs?Yes, we can build any shape or size you want — from lap pools to infinity edge designs, spa areas, and seating zones. Everything is made to fit your space and style.
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Do you only build new pools?No, we also renovate and repair old pools. Many customers call us to fix leaks, replace tiles, upgrade pump rooms, or convert chlorine systems to saltwater. Renovations can be small upgrades or full rebuilds, depending on the condition of the pool. We also have our own service technician who can handle smaller repairs, equipment replacements, and maintenance jobs to keep your pool in top condition.
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Do you give updates during the building process?Yes, we send photos and videos to customers so they can follow the progress every step of the way.
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Can you install saltwater systems?Yes, most of our pools use saltwater systems for easier maintenance and softer water. We also install high-quality pumps, filters, and LED lights.
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How do I know the water will stay clean and safe?If you join our monthly service program, our technician will check your water chemistry, clean the pool, and maintain the equipment so it stays perfect all year. We also often oversize the pump, filter, and salt system so they can work more efficiently, keep the water cleaner, and last for many years with less strain.
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Do you work with foreign customers?Yes, the owner is Norwegian and understands the higher demands for quality and communication that many foreign customers expect.
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Can you build pools in rural areas?Yes, we work in cities, villages, and countryside across all 20 provinces of Isaan.
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Can you give me a price without seeing my property?Yes, I can give you a rough price for a standard swimming pool if it’s not too big. But I prefer to come and visit you — not only to look at your land, but also to have a more private conversation with you about your ideas and what will work best.
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How strong is a tiled concrete swimming pool compared to other pools?A well-built tiled concrete pool is the most durable type you can have. If maintained properly, it can last for decades without major repairs. The water quality and pH balance are the most important factor. Keeping this correct will protect the structure, tiles, and equipment so the pool lasts much longer.
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How do you know that the concrete is waterproof?We use a high-grade waterproof concrete mix and add water stop seals between the floor and walls. We also always protect the walls with a Flex Shield waterproofing membrane before tiling, to give an extra layer of protection and ensure the pool stays watertight for many years.
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Do you handle all the work yourselves or use subcontractors?We have our own experienced team for all major construction stages, and we never use subcontractors. This allows us to control quality from start to finish and make sure every detail is done to our high standards.
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Can you add extra features like waterfalls or seating areas?Absolutely. We can add waterfalls, jets, spa areas, LED lighting, and other features to make your pool more enjoyable.
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What type of tiles do you use?We use high-quality swimming pool tiles from trusted suppliers like Stone Club, Imex, Cotto, and Sritanee. All four brands are top quality and offer a wide range of colors and styles, with quick delivery times so your project stays on schedule.
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What glue, grouting, and waterproofing do you use for your pools?We use only top-quality products from Crocodile, made specifically for swimming pools. This includes special pool tile glue, special pool grouting, and Flex Shield waterproofing membrane. We are also an official dealer of the Crocodile brand, which means we use trusted products and know exactly how to apply them for the best results.
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How long have your workers been with you?Our workers are the heart of Sakon Swimmingpool. Many have been with us for years and know exactly how we want things done. Four of them have worked with me since our very first pool over 10 years ago, and many others have been here for more than five years. Last year we grew to 17 employees. I treat my workers well so they want to stay. This way we keep their experience in the company, and that’s how we can always deliver good quality.
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What kind of equipment do you use in your pools?We use high-quality equipment for every part of the pool — from bright, long-lasting LED lights to pumps, filters, and salt systems. We often oversize the main equipment so it works more efficiently, does a better job, and lasts longer with less wear.
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