When it's clear which swimming pool repairs and spa services you need, your pool and spa service representative should give you a written invoice that includes:

• A list of all work completed, including warranty repairs done at no charge.
• An itemized list of all replacement parts. This should state whether the parts installed were new or reconditioned pool and/or spa parts
• The total cost for your pools and spa service repairs, including the amount charged for labor.
• Any applicable warrantees provided by the pool parts manufacturer or the pool service company.
• The name and physical address of the shop.

It is wise to compare the completed pool work with what was written on the invoice. Ask your pool service company representative to walk through the pool or spa site and show you the repairs or maintenance. Check what was done against the invoice. During the walk-through, ask if there are any special instructions for maintaining your pool or spa. If you have any questions about the work that was done or the materials used, now is the time to ask.

Good pools and spa service and repair companies in Contra Costa County will offer some type of warranty on their work or on the materials that they used. All warranty details should be provided in writing during the contract stage or at the completion of the job. This written warranty information should include:

• What products and services are covered. This should also include whether the contractor will replace or repair your these parts in the event of a product failure.
• Your responsibility if you place a warranty claim (i.e., if you have to pay for labor or materials, or if you are required to pay a prorated amount).
• Limitations and exclusions on the materials and workmanship.
• If the warranties are transferrable to the new owner if you sell your home.
• The pool service company's name and physical address.

Swimming pool & spa services & repair in Contra Costa County provide all types of pools and spa maintenance and repair services. However, some repairs and maintenance are more common than others.

The following are the most familiar requests for local auto repair shops in Contra Costa County, including those in Hayward, San Leandro, Berkeley, Oakland and Fremont and the surrounding areas.

Swimming Pool Service Repair
Services for swimming pools such as patching or possibly replacing a liner. Also these services could be repairing the underground or above ground part of the filtrations system, including the pump and its parts.

Swimming Pool Maintenance
Caring for the upkeep of swimming pools, both aboveground and in-ground. These services include adding chlorine and other chemicals to pools, winterizing the pool, getting pools ready for the season, and vacuuming the pool.

Spa Repair (Hot Tub Repair)
Services to repair spas (hot tubs) by repairing the hot tub itself, the filtration system, and/or the spa pump and its parts.

Pool Cleaning Service
Services for cleaning pool filters, maintaining the pH of the water, and maintaining the pool, pool equipment, and pool accessories, or a combination of these services

Swimming Pool Pump
This mechanical device causes the water to flow under pressure to filtrate or circulate the swimming pool water.

Swimming Pool Construction
The building of an above ground or in-ground outdoor enclosure designed, intended, or used for the containment of water. Also this structure is designed to be used for swimming, wading, or other recreational use

Swimming Pool Cleaners
Products that clean the pool either using the suction and the return lines or cleaning through the pool's circulation system.

Inground Pool Designs
Designs of pools that are in-ground and have differing shapes and contours. With custom designing, the options are endless.

Hot Tub Chemicals
Chemicals used for spas (hot tubs) to disinfect, sanitize, and continuously kill bacteria in the water.

Swimming Pool Service
Services for treating swimming pool water, cleaning swimming pool filters, and also maintaining and repairing pools, pool equipment, and pool accessories or any combination of these services.

Below are key swimming pool and spa service and repair terms and descriptions that will help you navigate your way through your swimming pool and spa’s service from the start to finish.

acid
When the pool’s pH balance is off, acid needs to be added to the pool. This chemical contains hydrogen and balances out the presence of the alkaline materials in the water; however, too much acid can corrode metal and be very uncomfortable to swim in.

Below are key swimming pool and spa service and repair terms and descriptions that will help you navigate your way through your swimming pool and spa’s service from the start to finish.

acid
When the pool’s pH balance is off, acid needs to be added to the pool. This chemical contains hydrogen and balances out the presence of the alkaline materials in the water; however, too much acid can corrode metal and be very uncomfortable to swim in.

Also known as: muriatic acid for pools, cyanuric acid, acid wash pools, swimming pool acid, pool chlorine, cyanuric acid levels in pool, chlorine, muriatic acid swimming pool, ascorbic acid for pools, swimming pool chemical, pool acid wash procedure

above-ground swimming pool cleaning and repair
Services for cleaning pool filters, maintaining the pH of the water, and maintaining the pool, pool equipment, and pool accessories, or a combination of these services for both above-ground swimming pools.

Also known as: above ground swimming, above ground spas, above ground pools, swimming pool cleaning service, pool cleaning service, pool cleaning companies, in ground swimming pools, pool cleaning, above ground pool liners, swimming pools, swimming pool cleaning, swimming pool liners, above ground pool, ground swimming pool, swimming pool supplies

algae
Algae is a term for a variety of microscopic organisms which have features that are similar to plants. These organisms are fairly harmless, but they can significantly change the color of your pool water. If the algae gets thick enough, it can also damage the filter.

Also known as: swimming pool algae, pool algae removal, pool algae treatment, pool maintenance, pool chemicals, swimming pool black algae, swimming pool algae control, pool green algae, green algae in pool, green pool water

algaecide
Algaecide is a substance used to kill the algae in your pools and spas. These substances could be herbicides, or silver or copper compounds. Each different type of algaecide destroys a different type of algae. You need to be sure you know the kind of algae you have before you buy an algaecide.

Also known as: pool algaecide, green clean algaecide, greenclean algaecide, algicide algaecides, swimming pool algaecide, algaecide for pools, copper algaecide, pond algaecide, silver algaecide, string algae control

alkalinity
Alkalinity is the opposite of acidity and can be referred to as total alkalinity. You can find test your pool’s pH to find its alkalinity. This can be done with test strips from a pool supply store.

Also known as: alkalinity of water, pool alkalinity, alkaline water, lower alkalinity in pool, pool alkalinity high, increase alkalinity in pool, low alkalinity in pool, pool alkalinity low, raising alkalinity in pool

backwashing
This is the process of reversing the flow of water through a pool’s filter so it can be cleaned.

Also known as: backwash, backwash filter, backwash pool filter, backwash hose, back-washing filters

bleach
A term for liquid chlorine. This is similar to the bleach that can be used in cleaning laundry; however swimming pool bleach has three times the concentration of actual chlorine.

Also known as: bleach for swimming pool, swimming pool supplies, bleach in swimming pool

calcium chloride
A water-soluble white salt that is used to alter the hardness of swimming pool water.

Also known as: calcium chloride dehydrate, anhydrous calcium chloride, calcium chloride uses

calcium hardness
A term that describes the calcium content of swimming pool water. Water can be too “hard,” or not hard enough. When it is too hard, the water will not be comfortable to swim in. You could also see white calcium buildup appearing on your fixtures. When the water is not hard enough, it can corrode metals.

Also known as: calcium hardness in pools, swimming pool calcium hardness, calcium hardness test, calcium hardness increaser

cartridge filter
There are many types of pool filters. The cartridge is the replaceable element of the pool filter, and it is usually made of polyester or sometimes paper.

Also known as: cartridge filters, cartridge pool filters, cartridge pool filter, spa cartridge filters, spa cartridge filters, pool cartridge filters, pool cartridge filter cleaner, pool filter cartridges

chlorine
A material that is used to disinfect pool water. What is commonly referred to as chlorine is many times sodium hypochlorite.

Also known as:chlorine tablets, chlorine in water, pool chlorine tables, chlorine pool

clarity
A term that describes the transparency of swimming pool water. When the water is not clear, it can be a sign that there is an algae problem.

Cover
A cover for a pool or a spa that protects the pool or spa when it isn’t being used.

Also known as: spa pool covers, spa covers, spa pool cover, pool and spa covers, pool spa covers, pool spa cover, pool and spa supplies

diatomaceous earth
A powder that is made up of thousands of single-celled organisms (fossilized diatoms). These tiny fossils are porous and make a perfect material for filtering impurities out of swimming pool water. Some of the most effective swimming pool filters on the market are DE filters.

Also known as: DE, diatomaceous earth pool filter, diatomaceous earth pool filters

drain
The pool drain is situated in the deepest part of the swimming pool This drain is connected to the swimming pool pump which circulates and filters the water.

Also known as: main drain

filter
A swimming pool filter keeps the water clean and free from unhealthy particles. It cleans the pool water by running it through a porous substance (diatomaceous earth or sand) which pulls out impurities out.

Also known as: pool filter cartridge, pool filter parts, swimming pool filters, pool filters and pumps, swimming pool filter, pool filter cartridges

filtration rate
A term that describes the speed at which water moves through a swimming pool filter.

hot tub chemicals
Chemicals used for spas (hot tubs) to disinfect, sanitize, and continuously kill bacteria in the water.

Also known as: hot tub chemical

hot tub accessories
Accessories to maintain the pH of the water, the pump and its parts, the cleaning of the filters, the upkeep of the hot tub equipment, and other accessories that aid in the upkeep of the hot tub.

Also known as: hot tub chemicals, hot tub covers, hot tub parts, hot tubs, hot tub, hot tub filters, portable hot tub, portable hot tubs, hot tub accessory, hot tub maintenance, hot tub filter, hot tubs covers, spa maintenance services

in-ground swimming pool repair & cleaning
Services for cleaning pool filters, maintaining the pH of the water, and maintaining the pool, pool equipment, and pool accessories, or a combination of these services.

Also known as: in-ground swimming, pool repair, in ground swimming pools, swimming pool supplies, in-ground pool repair, in-ground swimming pool repair, swimming pool liner repair, swimming pool liner, swimming pools services

pool cleaning service
Services for cleaning pool filters, maintaining the pH of the water, and maintaining the pool, pool equipment, and pool accessories, or a combination of these services.

Also known as: pool cleaning services, swimming pool cleaning, swimming pool cleaning equipment, pool cleaning business, cleaning pool services, swimming pool cleaning service, pool cleaning, swimming pool cleaning services, pool tile cleaning, pool cleaning equipment

spa cleaning
Services for cleaning spa filters, maintaining the pH of the water, and maintaining the hot tub, hot tub equipment, hot tub accessories, or a combination of these services.

Also known as: hot tub maintenance, spa maintenance, spa cleaner, spa filter cleaning, spa cleaning supplies, pool and spa supplies, cleaning spa filters, hot tub products, pool service, pool and spa cleaning, spa cleaning products, pool cleaning products, spa maintenance services

spa repair
Services to repair spas (hot tubs) by repairing the hot tub itself, the filtration system, and/or the spa pump and its parts.

Also known as: hot tub repair, spa repairs, hot tub heater, spa pump repair, hot tub heaters, pool and spa repair, hot tub maintenance, hot tub repairs, hot tub repair, spa heater, hot tub spa repair, spa heaters, spa accessories, pool spa repair, spa maintenance services

swimming pool cleaners
Products that clean the pool either using the suction and the return lines or cleaning through the pool’s circulation system.

Also known as: swimming pool cleaner, automatic swimming pool cleaners, pool cleaners automatic, pool cleaners, automatic pool cleaners, swimming pool cleaner, swimming pool cleaning, above ground pool cleaners, swimming pool parts, swimming pool cleaning service

swimming pool construction
The building of an above ground or in-ground outdoor enclosure designed, intended, or used for the containment of water. Also this structure is designed to be used for swimming, wading, or other recreational use.

Also known as: concrete swimming pool construction, swimming pool builders, swimming pool designs, swimming pool contractors, swimming pool installation, in-ground swimming pool construction

swimming pool maintenance
Caring for the upkeep of swimming pools, both above-ground and in-ground. These services include adding chlorine and other chemicals to pools, winterizing the pool, getting pools ready for the season, and vacuuming the pool.

Also known as: swimming pools maintenance, swimming pools, swimming pool supplies, in-ground swimming pool maintenance, above ground pool maintenance, swim pool maintenance, swimming pool chemicals, swimming pool service and repair, spa maintenance services

swimming pool painting
Water impermeable paint that is specially formulated and has good wet adhesion. This paint is used to protect and also decorate the interior surfaces of pools.

Also known as: swimming pool paint, swimming pool paints, concrete swimming pool paint, swimming pool deck paint, swimming pool paint colors, painting swimming pool, pool paint, paint swimming pool, pool painting

swimming pool pump
This mechanical device causes the water to flow under pressure to filtrate or circulate the swimming pool water.

Also known as: swimming pool pumps, swimming pool filter pumps, above ground pool pumps, above ground swimming pool pumps, swimming pool filter pumps, swimming pool pumps filters, swimming pool heat pump

swimming pool service
Services for treating swimming pool water, cleaning swimming pool filters, and also maintaining and repairing pools, pool equipment, and pool accessories or any combination of these services.

Also known as: swimming pool service and repair, swimming pool maintenance, pool service, swimming pool services, swimming pool cleaning services, swimming pools service, swimming pool cleaning service, swimming pool supplies, swimming pool maintenance, pool cleaning service, spa maintenance services

swimming pool service repair
Services for swimming pools such as patching or possibly replacing a liner. Also these services could be repairing the underground or above ground part of the filtration system, including the pump and its parts.

Also known as: swimming pool repair, pool service, swimming pool service and repair, swimming pool cleaning service, swimming pool service and repair, swimming pool repairs, swimming pool repairs companies, pool cleaning services, swimming pool repair service, swimming pool service, swimming pool services

swimming pool supplies
Supplies to maintain the pH of the water, the pump and its parts, the cleaning of the filters, the upkeep of the pool equipment, and other accessories that aid in the upkeep of the swimming pool.

Also known as: swimming pool supplies, swim supplies, swimming pool supply, swimming pool supply, swimming pools supplies, swim supply, swim pool supplies, swimming pool equipment supplies, swim supply store, swimming supply, above ground swimming pool supplies, swimming pool service and repair

Q: Why choose a Diamond Certified pool and spa service company?
A: Diamond Certified helps you choose a pool & spa service and repair company with confidence by offering a list of top-rated local companies who have passed the country’s most in-depth rating process. Only pool service companies rated Highest in Quality earn the prestigious Diamond Certified award. Most companies can’t pass the ratings. American Ratings Corporation also monitors every Diamond Certified company with ongoing research and ratings. And your purchase is backed by the Diamond Certified Performance Guarantee. So you’ll feel confident choosing a Diamond Certified pool and spa repair company.

Q: How will I be able to tell if my pool has a leak?
A: It is very simple. Put pool water in a bucket and place it in the pool. You want the water level of the bucket and the pool to be the same. After one week, if the water level in the pool is lower than the water level in the bucket, you possibly have a leak. This is a relatively reliable method since the condensation behavior is the same in both tanks.

Q: Do I need to keep maintaining my home pool in the winter months?
A: Yes, you do. Cleaning and balancing your water should be done all year. Ask your pool service technician if your pool will need a change in procedures in the winter.

Q: What do I do if I have algae in my home swimming pool?
A: Most of the time, algae is not dangerous to your health. You should have a lab analyze the algae since it can produce substances that will irritate the skin or the eyes. Algae probably won’t present a health risk, but it can make the water cloudy; therefore, your pool will look dirty. Constant chemical cleaning can lessen the algae in the pool. If chemicals don’t help, contact a professional pool cleaning service.

Q: How can the fresh water consumption be reduced?
A: A lot of pool systems require you to change the water, even when the water quality is very good. You can use automatic systems which can analyze and reduce the water consumption. Modern filter systems are so effective that the water needs to be replaced much less frequently.

Q: How many hours should I run my pump?
A: You need to run the pump as long as it will take to cycle the water through the circulation system (turnover rate). This can vary from pool to pool depending on the size of the pool, the pump, and the plumbing. Typically, run the pump for 8 to 12 hours a day.

Q: Can my dog go for a swim in the pool?
A: Pets should not swim in home pools or spas. One dog is equal to 3 or more people contaminant-wise. The dog will raise the pH which will rapidly consume the chlorine in the pool. Animals may also have small amounts of fecal matter stuck in their fur. That will contaminate the pool’s water, and can be a part of transmitting Recreational Water Illnesses (RWI’s) like E. coli, Giardia, Hepatitis A and Cryptosporidium. Also dog fur can get caught in the pools equipment resulting in service more often and more frequency of replacement of parts, along with higher maintenance costs.

Q: My automatic pool cleaner isn’t working as well as it used to. What is wrong?
A: It is probably incorrect pressure which leads to incorrect water flow or it could be the condition of the cleaner itself. Keep the filter clean. When the filter is dirty, the cleaner won’t be receiving the necessary water flow for optimum operation. The result is the cleaner could slow down or even stop completely. If everything appears to be right, but the cleaner is still not working, it may need a new part. Parts are easily available for most cleaners at your local pool service company.

Q: Will algae make me or my family sick?
A: It isn’t algae that makes people sick, however, it is possible for algae to harbor disease-causing organisms which can cause sickness. Also, on the pool surfaces, algae can be dangerously slippery. Because of these problems, it is best to stop algae growth by using an algaecide.

Q: How often should my pool be drained?
A: The water in your pool should be changed every 2 to 3 years. This may be different depending on pool usage and your type of pool and pool chemicals. Ask your swimming pool service provider for specific recommendations on your pool.