Aquarius Pools and Spas backyard pool and customer resource hub
Customer resources · FAQ hub · Clear next steps

Clear answers for your backyard project.

From planning and construction to service, supplies, hot tubs, and long-term water care, this FAQ hub helps you find the right path faster. Whether you are building new, renovating, scheduling service, or stopping in for water testing, Aquarius keeps support easier to reach.

Pool planning and project guidance Service, supplies, and water care Local support after installation
One Local Team
Pools, spas, service, retail
Clear Routing
Find the right next step
Water Care
Testing, chemicals, supplies
Long-Term Support
After installation help
How to use this page

Tell us your goal, then choose the closest path.

This page is designed the same way the rest of the site works: start with the right path, get clearer direction faster, and avoid wasting time on the wrong next step.

Step 01

Tell us your goal

New project, service issue, water care question, hot tub comparison, renovation, seasonal service, or retail support.

Step 02

Pick the right path

Use the browse links, search box, or quick paths to find the answer closest to what you need.

Step 03

Take the next step

Each answer points toward the right contact, service, showroom, pool, hot tub, or water care option.

Quick paths

What are you trying to solve?

Start here if you already know the general category. Each path takes customers closer to the most useful next step.

New Pools + Renovations

Fiberglass, vinyl liner, gunite, features, upgrades, and project planning with clearer options.

New Builds Renovations

Hot Tubs + Swim Spas

Compare models, features, ownership expectations, showroom options, and setup requirements.

Showroom Sundance

Service + Maintenance

Openings, closings, repairs, equipment, leaks, covers, liners, and weekly care support.

Open / Close Repairs

Retail + Water Testing

Chemicals, BioGuard, SpaGuard, parts, filters, accessories, and in-store water care help.

Water Testing Supplies
Getting started

Common first questions.

Start here when you are trying to compare options or figure out which team to contact first.

What is the best first step if I am interested in a pool or hot tub? Start with the right path so the next step is clearer from the beginning. +
Start with a quick conversation about your goals, property, timing, and the kind of backyard result you want. From there, we can route you toward pool planning, a showroom visit, pricing guidance, financing information, or the right service path.
Do you serve my area? Service area can vary by project type, route coverage, and support need. +
We support homeowners across Greater Lafayette and surrounding communities for pools, hot tubs, service, retail help, and water care guidance. The fastest way to confirm fit is to send your address and what you need.
Can I visit your showroom to compare options? Showroom visits are useful for hot tubs, accessories, and ownership questions. +
Yes. A showroom visit is a strong next step if you want to compare hot tub layouts, talk through features, ask ownership questions, get water testing help, or get in-person guidance before deciding what fits best.
How far out are you typically scheduling pools and service? Timing depends on season, workload, weather, and project scope. +
Scheduling changes throughout the year. Share your location and what you need so we can outline the most likely planning window, service route timing, or next available path.
Pool types and design

Fiberglass, vinyl liner, and gunite pools.

The best pool type depends on site conditions, ownership goals, budget direction, and how the whole backyard should function.

What pool types do you offer? Three main inground paths with different strengths. +
We offer three primary inground pool categories:
  • Fiberglass: factory-built shell, smooth finish, and efficient installation path.
  • Vinyl liner: flexible shapes, comfortable surface, and strong design value.
  • Gunite: the most customizable option for shape, depth, finish, benches, ledges, and features.
How do I know which pool type is right for me? The right answer comes from goals, site conditions, and ownership priorities. +
The best fit depends on installation style, finish feel, customization, site access, long-term ownership preferences, and how the whole backyard is supposed to function. Comparing only broad online pricing often misses the bigger picture.
What size pool should I get? Pool size should work with the entire yard, not just the water shape. +
The right size depends on swimming area, deck space, traffic flow, seating, equipment placement, and how the pool fits with the rest of the property. The best layout usually makes the whole yard work better, not just the pool bigger.
Can you build on a sloped yard or a site with tight access? Often yes, but site conditions can affect design and budget. +
Often yes. Slope, drainage, access width, setback limits, and utility conditions can all affect the project, but they do not automatically rule it out. Reviewing the site early helps keep assumptions tighter and planning more realistic.
Should I choose saltwater or traditional chlorine? Both can work well when the system is designed and maintained correctly. +
Salt systems are popular for consistency and water feel, while traditional chlorine systems can also be simple and reliable. The better choice depends on equipment preferences, ownership habits, and comfort with maintenance.
Build process and timeline

From planning to startup.

Projects move through planning, scope clarity, permits, scheduling, construction, startup, and support after installation.

How long does it take to build a pool? The timeline depends on type, permitting, weather, access, and scope. +
Timelines vary by pool type, permits, weather, yard access, utilities, decking scope, and feature package. The clearest estimate comes after site details and assumptions are better defined.
Do I need a permit? Many projects require permits and inspections depending on location and scope. +
Permit requirements vary by municipality, property conditions, and project type. Once the address and scope are known, we can help outline the likely approval path and what to expect.
What utilities are typically involved in a pool project? Electrical, heating, drainage, and equipment placement matter early. +
Most projects involve electrical planning for pumps, controls, and lighting. Some also require gas or additional electrical for heating. Drainage, water fill access, and equipment placement should be planned early.
How should I prepare my yard before construction starts? Preparation helps reduce delays, rework, and confusion. +
Preparation often includes confirming access points, identifying irrigation or invisible fence lines, planning pet and child safety, and moving personal items from active work areas.
Pricing and planning

What drives cost.

Project pricing is shaped by more than the pool shell. Site, access, utilities, decking, features, and scope all matter.

What factors impact pool pricing the most? The total project cost is driven by more than the pool itself. +
Pricing is usually driven by pool type, size, site access, excavation complexity, utilities, decking scope, drainage, feature package, lighting, heating, automation, cover systems, and broader backyard work connected to the project.
Why can online pricing be inaccurate? Generic numbers rarely include the conditions that shape real cost. +
Online pricing usually does not account for access, grading, drainage, utilities, municipality requirements, or your actual feature package. A short planning conversation usually gets you closer to a realistic range.
Can you help me prioritize upgrades to stay within budget? Yes. The goal is clearer priorities and fewer expensive surprises. +
Yes. We can help separate must-haves from nice-to-haves and build a phased approach around long-term value, reliable equipment, comfort, usability, and the features that matter most.
What is typically included versus considered an upgrade? Base scope and expanded scope should be clear before moving forward. +
Base scope generally includes the core pool structure and essential operating equipment. Expanded decking, automatic covers, water features, advanced automation, upgraded finishes, lighting, and broader backyard enhancements are often handled as upgrades.
Features and upgrades

Comfort, safety, and convenience.

The right upgrades improve how the pool feels, looks, operates, and supports long-term ownership.

Are automatic covers worth it? Often yes, especially for safety, cleanliness, and heat retention. +
Automatic covers are popular because they can improve safety, reduce debris, help retain heat, and lower evaporation. They are often one of the most practical upgrades for long-term ownership when planned correctly.
Should I add a heater? A heater can extend comfort and make the season more usable. +
A heater can extend your season and improve comfort. The best setup depends on use frequency, the energy source available, and whether the system will be paired with a cover for heat retention.
Do you install pool automation? Automation can manage schedules, heating, lighting, and convenience features. +
Yes. Automation can manage pump schedules, lighting, heating, and other system functions. For many homeowners, it becomes one of the most valuable convenience upgrades on the project.
Can you add lighting, water features, and game features? Yes, depending on how you want the space to feel and function. +
Yes. Popular upgrades include LED lighting, bubblers, deck jets, waterfalls, volleyball systems, and basketball kits. The best package depends on day-to-day use, entertaining goals, and nighttime ambiance.
Ownership and care

Water care and equipment protection.

Consistent testing, filtration, circulation, and seasonal care help prevent bigger issues.

How often should I test my pool water? Testing needs change with weather, use, and sanitation system. +
Testing frequency depends on weather, swimmer load, sanitizer type, and equipment performance. Many owners test regularly during swim season to stay ahead of algae, cloudiness, and chemistry swings.
What causes algae and how do I prevent it? Usually sanitizer, circulation, filtration, or balance issues. +
Algae is usually tied to low sanitizer, weak circulation, filtration issues, or imbalance. Consistent testing, proper run times, brushing, and filter maintenance help prevent outbreaks.
What should I do if my pool is cloudy? Start with filtration and water balance, then use testing or service support. +
Cloudy water usually involves filtration, circulation, or water balance. Start by checking the filter and testing the water. If it continues, bring in a sample or request help so the issue can be narrowed down.
Do you offer weekly maintenance or service plans? Yes, depending on location, season, and route availability. +
Yes. If you want a more hands-off ownership experience, ask about maintenance and service options. Availability can vary based on location, season, and route coverage.
Service and repairs

Troubleshooting and support.

Equipment repairs, leak help, liner questions, renovation support, and routing to the right service path.

What pool services do you offer? Openings, closings, repairs, troubleshooting, equipment work, and more. +
We help with openings, closings, troubleshooting, repairs, equipment upgrades, and renovation-related needs. If you are not sure what category your issue falls into, describe the symptoms and we can route it correctly.
Do you replace liners or repair vinyl liner pools? Yes, and photos plus basic details usually help move things faster. +
Yes. Liner replacement timing depends on age, fit, pattern, condition, and related pool concerns. Sharing photos and basic pool details can help us recommend the best next step.
Do you repair automatic covers? Yes. Symptoms, photos, and model information help route the issue faster. +
Yes. Cover repairs can involve tracks, ropes, motors, electrical components, or lid systems. Photos, symptoms, and basic model information help route service faster.
Do you help with leaks? Water loss patterns and visible clues help determine the next step. +
If you suspect a leak, share how quickly the water is dropping, whether the level changes with the system on or off, and any visible areas of concern. We can advise the next step and determine whether diagnostics are needed.
Openings and closings

Seasonal service in Indiana.

Booking early helps protect equipment and makes scheduling easier during busy seasonal windows.

When should I open my pool? Many homeowners open in spring based on weather and usage plans. +
Many homeowners open in spring based on weather and when they want the backyard ready. Seasonal schedules can fill quickly, so earlier planning usually gives you better date flexibility.
When should I close my pool? Closing on time helps protect plumbing and equipment from freeze risk. +
Closing at the right time helps protect plumbing and equipment from freeze risk. If you want a specific timing window, it helps to book early during the busy part of the season.
Do I need to be home for opening or closing? Often no, as long as access is safe and clear. +
Often no, as long as we have safe access to the gate and equipment area. If indoor access or special approvals are needed, we will coordinate with you in advance.
Can you open a green pool? Yes, but it often requires more than a standard opening visit. +
Yes. Green water often requires more than a basic opening and may need a cleanup plan built around filtration, circulation, chemistry, and equipment condition.
Hot tubs and swim spas

Buying and ownership questions.

Comfort, therapy goals, setup, electrical, water care, and support after the sale.

What should I consider before buying a hot tub? Comfort, therapy goals, efficiency, electrical, and access all matter. +
Most buyers compare seating comfort, therapy goals, efficiency, operating cost expectations, electrical requirements, and delivery access. A showroom visit can help narrow the right fit faster.
What is the difference between a hot tub and a swim spa? One is relaxation focused, the other adds exercise and current-based use. +
Hot tubs are typically built for hydrotherapy, relaxation, and recovery. Swim spas are designed for current-based exercise and more active use, often while still offering seating and relaxation benefits.
What electrical is required for a hot tub? Requirements vary by model and should be confirmed during selection. +
Electrical requirements vary by model and configuration. We confirm those details during selection so installation and delivery planning are smoother and more accurate.
Do you service hot tubs after purchase? Yes. Support after the sale is an important part of ownership. +
Yes. Service support after the sale is a major part of ownership, and our team can help with diagnosis, repairs, and general spa support.
Retail and water testing

Chemicals, parts, and in-store support.

Bring a sample, photos, labels, or part numbers when possible so our team can help faster.

Do you sell pool and spa chemicals, parts, and accessories? Yes. Bring details if you have them so matching goes faster. +
Yes. Bring photos, part numbers, or model information if you have them and we can help narrow the right product or replacement option.
What should I bring for water testing? A clean sample plus a little context helps improve recommendations. +
Bring a clean water sample in a small container. If possible, it also helps to know your approximate pool or spa volume and any recent chemical additions so recommendations stay more accurate.
Can you help me understand my water chemistry results? Yes. The goal is clearer action, not just handing you products. +
Yes. We can explain what is out of range, why it matters, and what to adjust next so you are not just guessing which products to add.
Do you carry BioGuard and SpaGuard products? Yes. We support both pool and spa water care. +
Yes. We carry pool and spa water care products and help customers choose the right path based on water testing, symptoms, sanitizer type, and the equipment they are using.
Warranty and support

How to get help faster.

Photos, symptoms, model numbers, dates, and context help us route support more efficiently.

If I have an issue, what information should I provide? Photos, symptoms, and model details make support faster. +
Include your name, address, best contact info, photos or video, model numbers if visible, when the issue started, and what has already been tried. That helps route the issue to the right person faster.
How do warranty claims usually work? The process depends on product type, manufacturer, and issue details. +
Warranty handling depends on the product, manufacturer, installation details, and the nature of the issue. Clear documentation and photos help determine the right next step.
Do you support customers after the pool is finished? Yes. Long-term support is part of the ownership journey. +
Yes. We support owners through service, seasonal openings and closings, water care, retail products, hot tub support, troubleshooting, repairs, and ownership questions.
Financing and payments

Planning the investment.

Financing, payment structure, project scope, and timing should be discussed early so expectations stay clear.

Do you offer financing options? Financing availability can depend on product type and current programs. +
Financing options may be available depending on the product, project, and current programs. Ask our team for the current options when you are comparing pools, hot tubs, or larger upgrades.
When should I discuss financing? Early, before finalizing scope and feature priorities. +
It is best to discuss financing early so the project scope, feature package, payment timing, and budget direction are aligned before decisions move too far into design or scheduling.
Can financing help me compare feature packages? Yes, it can help separate monthly comfort from total project investment. +
Yes. Financing can help some customers compare the impact of adding features like heaters, covers, automation, lighting, and larger backyard scopes. The best approach depends on your priorities and overall project direction.
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Still need help?

Send us your question and we will route it to the right team.

Whether you are comparing pool types, scheduling service, troubleshooting water, buying a hot tub, or looking for parts and supplies, our team can help you find the right next step.