FAQ
Since 1982
ALBATROS POOLS Inc.
Everything You Need to Know About Pool Maintenance and Repair
Have questions about your inground pool? Here are the answers to the most frequent concerns from our clients on the South Shore of Montreal.
Regulation
Does my swimming pool need to comply with the new safety standards?
Yes. The Quebec government has confirmed that the compliance deadline is now September 2027. All residential pools must have a fence at least 1.2 m high with openings no larger than 10 cm. Non-compliant owners face fines of $500 to $700.
Is an RBQ license required for swimming pool work?
In Quebec, anyone performing construction work must hold an RBQ license, unless legally exempt. In-ground pool installations and structural repairs require this license, which certifies the contractor's professional qualifications. Since 1982, we have complied with all regulatory requirements to protect your investment.
Inground pool water loss
How much water is considered a loss versus evaporation?
When we can see 1 centimeter of loss per day or when you have to add water every 3 days, you should notify a professional to find the leak.
Can I help locate the water leak to reduce the costs incurred?
Yes, by comparing water loss
- Engine running for 24 hours.
- Engine off for 24 hours.
What are the deadlines?
In the vast majority of cases, and thanks to our 14 experienced teams, a pressure test can be scheduled in less than 24 hours, while a fabric inspection takes a few days. Repairs typically take one to two weeks to complete.
How do you go about detecting leaks?
From the web:
Using an electronic sonar device works in most cases. If the sonar test is inconclusive, we must delve deeper by going under the liner, after draining the pool; this is a last resort.
Piping:
We detect the loss by pressurizing the pipes with air and water; if there is a loss of pressure, we use an electronic device to detect the location of the leak.
Concrete swimming pool
Do you repair concrete swimming pools?
Yes, that's been our specialty for over 40 years;
- Crumbling walls;
- Cracks in the concrete;
- Leaks;
- Skimmers and backflows;
- Lights, etc.;
- Opening, painting, and closing
Commercial swimming pools
Do you repair commercial swimming pools?
Yes, the piping/skimmers/water returns, the filtration, the cement… painting…
Equipment sales
Do you sell pumps, filters, salt systems and heat pumps?
Yes, and we travel, free of charge, to conduct an assessment and meet the specific needs of each pool.
Pump
Can a pump that's so noisy be repaired?
Yes, it will be necessary to assess it on site.
What pump is recommended for my swimming pool?
Depending on the piping, the size of the pool and the filter, we will need to assess on site.
Filtered
What should I do if the water is cloudy?
Cloudy water can be caused by three different factors:
A. The filter sand or cartridges;
B. The chemistry of water;
C. The size of the filter.
Which filter is recommended for my swimming pool?
You need to see on site depending on the pump, the size of the pool and the piping
Pool heating
Is it recommended to heat your pool water?
To extend the short summer season, 90% of our customers in Quebec own a water heater
What type of water heater is recommended?
The electric heat pump is the most economical.
Swimming pool closed
Why hire professionals?
It's easy to forget a cap and it can be very costly.
When is the right time to close the swimming pool?
In Quebec, close your pool as late as possible, ideally in October, as closing it too early promotes algae growth. Our teams follow a rigorous protocol that includes all available complementary services.
When is it too late to close the pool?
After November 10th, there may be snowfall which makes the work more difficult and may cause the filter to freeze if there is a lack of electricity.
Should we add products to the water when closing?
It is recommended to put the closure kit in place to facilitate the cleaning task in the spring.
Swimming pool opening
Why choose professionals for the opening?
Entrust your pool work to experts at the start of the season, ensuring balanced water chemistry. This allows you to enjoy your pool instead of having a nightmare about it.
Why throw away the water?
To prevent the water from stinging or damaging your equipment.
What is the lifespan of an in-ground pool liner?
How long does an in-ground pool liner last?
A well-maintained vinyl awning typically lasts between 8 and 12 years. Exposure to the sun's UV rays and the chemical balance of the water affect this lifespan.
When should I replace rather than repair my canvas?
When vinyl becomes brittle with age, it can become too fragile for a repair to adhere properly. Multiple tears, loss of elasticity, detachment from the rail, and persistent leaks indicate that replacement is necessary.
Weekly maintenance
Do you offer weekly interviews?
For a worry-free summer, we offer weekly maintenance packages to keep your pool water spotless.
What services are offered during an interview?
We spray the water, do a back wash, clean the underside and sweep.
Swimming pool condition inspection
Do you offer a pool inspection before buying a house?
Yes. We conduct pre-purchase inspections with a complete report on the condition of the pool and its equipment.
