REACH POLE: A pole of varying length, used at a swimming pool to help in the rescue of a swimmer in distress. The pole allows someone to help a swimmer without personally getting into the pool. Some reach poles include a hook on one end, making it easier to retrieve a swimmer from the water.
REAGENT: The chemical indicators used in testing various aspects of water quality. Reagents are an integral part of the swimming pool test kit.
SAND FILTER: A filter using sand, or sand and gravel as the filter medium. Water is circulated through the filter to remove suspended solids.
SANITIZE: To kill all microorganisms, including bacteria and algae, and to remove other unwanted contaminants.
SKIMMER: A device installed in the wall of a pool that is connected to the suction side of the pump. The suction pulls in water and floating contaminants.
SPA: For purposes of this site, spa means a hot tub fitted with a whirlpool device for hydromassage. For purposes of this site, a spa and a hot tub are the same.
SKIMMER BASKET: A removable basket or strainer placed in the skimmer, which is designed to trap large solids from the water before they get to the pump or filter.
TEST KIT: A manual or electrical device used to measure specific chemical residual levels in pool water. Test kits usually contain reagents, vials, and color comparators. The most common tests associated with swimming pools are: pH, free chlorine, combined chlorine, total alkalinity, calcium hardness and cyanuric acid.
VETERINARIAN: A physician for animals and someone who practices veterinary medicine.
WEIR: The small floating door on the side of the skimmer over which water flows on its way through the circulation system of a swimming pool. . The weir helps create the surface tension that moves floating debris toward the suction drain.