Playbooks/First-Timers/New Pool Build

Your Learning Path: New Pool Build

Follow these playbooks in order - each builds on the previous one

I'm building a new pool

Make smart decisions about equipment, sanitizer, and design

Change path
1

Choosing Your Sanitizer System

Chlorine vs salt vs alternatives - understand the tradeoffs

Why now: This decision affects 10+ years of costs and effort

Estimated time: 15-30 min
2

Essential vs Nice-to-Have Equipment

Budget wisely during construction - what's worth the money

Why now: Some choices are much easier to make before plumbing and decking are locked in

Estimated time: 15-30 min
3

Design Decisions That Affect Maintenance

Depth, finish, features - choose for long-term ease

Why now: Beautiful pools can be maintenance nightmares

Estimated time: 15-30 min
4

New Plaster Startup

Protect fresh plaster with proper chemistry and brushing

Why now: Early documentation and startup discipline protect the finish and clarify warranty questions

Estimated time: 2-3 days
5

Pool Chemistry 101

Understand FC/CYA relationship, pH/TA buffering, and CSI basics

Why now: The 'why' behind every adjustment you'll make

Estimated time: 15-30 min
6

Test Strips vs Taylor Kit

Choose your testing method - understand accuracy tradeoffs and costs

Why now: Testing is the foundation of pool care

Estimated time: 15-30 min
7

Using Your Taylor Test Kit

Master accurate testing with step-by-step guidance

Why now: Accurate data prevents expensive mistakes

Estimated time: 15-30 min
8

Smart Shopping for Pool Chemicals

Compare labels, concentrations, shelf life, and side effects before buying

Why now: Ingredient literacy prevents paying for the wrong product or adding unwanted byproducts

Estimated time: 15-30 min
9

Weekly Maintenance Routine

The consistent habits that keep pools crystal clear

Why now: A steady routine catches drift before it becomes a cloudy-water or equipment problem

Estimated time: 15-30 min

What's next? After completing this curriculum, explore the full playbook library for seasonal tasks, troubleshooting, and advanced topics.

Educational guidance only. Verify labels, manuals, local code, and site conditions before acting. Stop for electrical, gas, structural, drain, drowning, injury, emergency, or chemical-mixing risk.

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