For Quality, Service & Family Fun, A-1 Pools is #1

Our Blog

Our Blog - A-1 Pools

Categories

Extreme Heat Is Coming: Here's How to Prepare Your Pool Before Temperatures Soar

 Author:A1 Pools Posted:June 26, 2026 With temperatures forecast to reach the 90s across southeast Wisconsin and heat index values climbing even higher in some areas, many pool owners are getting ready to spend more time in the water. Your pool should be ready, too. High heat doesn't just affect swimmers; it puts extra stress on your pool's water chemistry. Hot […]

Pool Care After Thunderstorms: What Wisconsin Pool Owners Should Do After Heavy Rain

 Author:A1 Pools Posted:June 11, 2026 After a major thunderstorm rolls through Wisconsin, many pool owners notice the same thing: “My pool looked perfect before the storm… now the water looks dull, cloudy, or harder to manage.” Heavy rain, wind, humidity, and storm runoff can quickly change pool water chemistry -especially during stretches of repeated summer storms. At A-1 Pools, we’re […]

El Niño and Your Pool: What it could mean for Wisconsin pool owners this summer

 Author:A1 Pools Posted:June 8, 2026 You may have heard weather forecasters talking about developing El Niño conditions and what that could mean for the 2026 Midwest this summer. At A-1 Pools, we've been paying attention too. While long-range weather patterns are never guaranteed, forecasts are pointing toward a warmer, more humid, and potentially stormier summer across Wisconsin and much of […]

Summer Starts Here: Backyard Ideas for Memorial Day Weekend in Wisconsin

 Author:A1 Pools Posted:May 20, 2026 After a long Midwest winter, Memorial Day weekend finally feels like the real start of summer. Pools are opening. Patios are coming back to life. Backyard grills are firing up again. And whether you're hosting friends, spending time with family, or simply enjoying a quiet weekend at home, now is the perfect time to refresh […]
Above-ground pool Install set semi-inground. There is a retaining stone wall along the left side with matching steps near the entrance.

Can I Install an Above-Ground Pool in the Ground?

 Author:A1 Pools Posted:April 17, 2026 Thinking about the 2026 pool season? Discover how you can install an above-ground pool in the ground for a custom, high-end look. We explore semi-inground options from Radiant and Doughboy Pools that offer the beauty of an inground pool at a fraction of the cost

How to Measure a Portable Acrylic Spa for a Custom Replacement Hot Tub Cover

 Author:A1 Pools Posted:February 5, 2026 Ordering a custom hot tub cover is one of the easiest ways to protect your spa, improve energy efficiency, and extend the life of your hot tub. But a perfect fit starts with accurate spa measurements. Even small measuring mistakes can lead to gaps, heat loss, or a cover that simply doesn't sit right. Follow […]

Cold Snap Still Here – Don’t Let the Freeze Take Your Spa in Wisconsin

 Author:A1 Pools Posted:January 27, 2026 The forecast is calling for continued bitter temperatures across Wisconsin, and that means one thing for hot tub and spa owners: your spa is still at risk. Extended cold can spell disaster for your spa's plumbing, heater, and other components if left unchecked. With a little inspection and preventative care, you can avoid costly freeze […]

The After Holiday Hot Tub Cleaning Guide

 Author:A1 Pools Posted:January 8, 2026 The holidays are over, and it's time to rejuvenate your hot tub for continued relaxation and enjoyment. At A-1 Pools, we understand the importance of a well-maintained spa, not just for its longevity but for your health and pleasure. Whether you're a DIY enthusiast or prefer a professional touch, we've got you covered. This guide […]
Hot tub covered in the snow

Keep Your Hot Tub from Freezing

 Author:A1 Pools Posted:November 17, 2025 Find out how to prevent or limit freeze damage if you find your spa not heating and review several tips for prevention.  Common problems leading to freeze damage include dirty/expired filter(s), water level too low, circulation pump failure, tripped GFCI causing no power to the spa, or other technical failures such as a bad heating element, temp sensors, […]

Why Saunas Are the Ultimate Winter Wellness Hack

 Author:A1 Pools Posted:November 12, 2025 Winter's coming in hot (well - cold, actually). As the temperatures drop, many people look for reliable ways to stay comfortable, support their health, and manage winter stress. Saunas have become one of the most effective tools for doing exactly that. Once known primarily as a Finnish tradition, they're now recognized for their broad wellness […]

Why Your Hot Tub Cover Is the Real MVP (and Costing You More Than You Think)

 Author:A1 Pools Posted:November 10, 2025 Let's be real, your hot tub cover doesn't get the hype it deserves. Jets? Lighting? Sure, those are flashy. But your cover? It's the unsung hero doing all the heavy lifting - literally. It keeps debris out, locks in the heat, and helps your energy bills from turning into a horror story. But here's the […]

Why Draining, Cleaning & Refilling Your Spa Actually Matters

 Author:A1 Pools Posted:November 3, 2025 If your spa water looks clear, it’s easy to assume everything’s fine… but under the surface, things can get a little murky. Even with perfect chemical balance, hot tubs will build up dissolved solids, body oils, and microscopic contaminants over time. That’s where giving your hot tub a good Drain, Clean & Refill service is […]

6 Reasons Buying Your Spa from A Local Dealer Is Better Than Online

 Author:A1 Pools Posted:October 13, 2025 Shopping online is convenient for a lot of things: groceries, clothes, and even last-minute birthday gifts. But when it comes to something as big and personal as a hot tub, the best place to buy a hot tub isn't online, it's your local hot tub dealer. If you're wondering about buying a hot tub online […]

Don’t Let Algae Win: Why You Should Shock Your Pool Even After Closing

 Author:A1 Pools Posted:October 1, 2025 Warm Fall Weather and Closed Pools Don’t Mix Even though fall is here, the weather isn’t playing by the rules. After a cool early September, we’re seeing unseasonably warm days with temps reaching 60-80° this week and next. If you’ve already closed your pool and have a mesh cover, now is the time to take […]

What's the Best Time to Install an Aboveground Pool or New Liner?

 Author:A1 Pools Posted:August 23, 2025 (Hint: It's Not Next Spring) If you're planning to install an aboveground pool, upgrade your pool equipment, or replace an old liner, your first instinct might be to wait until spring, when the weather warms up and swim season feels just around the corner. But the smart move? Late summer or early fall. Here's why […]

Don't Let Winter Wreck Your Pool

 Author:A1 Pools Posted:August 18, 2025 Protect your investment and guarantee a hassle-free spring with proper winterization. You’ve invested time, money, and energy into your pool. The last thing you want is to start next spring with busted pipes, a swamp-green mess, or expensive repairs. That’s where proper winterization comes in. Why Winterizing Matters When cold weather hits, your pool is […]

Is Your Pool Overflowing After All This Rain? Here's What You Need to Know

 Author:A1 Pools Posted:August 12, 2025 With all the heavy rain lately, we’re hearing from a lot of pool owners worried about their pool overflowing after flooding. The good news? In most cases, it’s not the crisis you might think it is, but there are some important differences depending on the type of pool you have. Above-Ground Pools If your above-ground […]

A Common Sense Approach to Pool Maintenance

 Author:Jason Miller Posted:June 6, 2025 Learn more about the author at the end of this article. Maintaining a clean, healthy, and trouble-free pool doesn’t have to be complicated. In this article, I’ll share straightforward pool maintenance advice drawn from years of hands-on experience. Pro Tip: For personalized help, visit your nearest A-1 Pools store for a free water test. A-1 […]

How to Plan the Perfect Pool Party: Clean, Safe, and Stress-Free Tips for Summer Fun

 Author:A1 Pools Posted:June 4, 2025 Summer Pool Party Planning Starts Here Ever wonder how to plan the perfect pool party? Summer is prime time for sunshine, splashing, and backyard memories. Whether you’re planning a birthday party, 4th of July bash, or graduation celebration, a little prep makes all the difference. Here's how to plan a pool party that’s clean, safe, […]

How to Shock Your Pool Correctly: Stop Wasting Chlorine

 Author:A1 Pools Posted:May 19, 2025 Think “shock” is just dumping chlorine in your pool? Learn the right way to do it and why doing it wrong could be making things worse. Let’s clear up a common misconception right off the bat: "shock" is not a thing, it's an action. Too often, the term “shock” is misused in the pool world. […]