Matthew R. Kaufman Pools & Supplies

Matthew R. Kaufman Pools & Supplies Family-owned swimming pool & supply store in Lewistown, PA. Matt has been installing pools since 2000 Matthew R.

Kaufman Pools and Supplies LLC is your preferred inground pool installation and supply specialist in the greater Lewiston, PA area.

🚨 Common Hayward Sand Filter Mistakes That Can Cost You Time & Money 🚨If your pool water isn't as clear as it should be,...
06/01/2026

🚨 Common Hayward Sand Filter Mistakes That Can Cost You Time & Money 🚨

If your pool water isn't as clear as it should be, GET YOUR WATER TESTED FIRST! But maybe, one of these common sand filter mistakes could be the reason:

🔹 Changing the multiport valve handle while the pump is running (this is a BIG one and could cost you a new multiport if changing the spider gasket doesn’t do the trick) NEVER MOVE THE HANDLE IF THE PUMP IS RUNNING!
🔹 Not backwashing long enough (you want to run the backwash until the sight glass is clear, there’s no magical number for how long this takes)
🔹 Backwashing too often (it’s time to backwash when the pressure rises 10-15 ppm from your starting value or when the water coming out of the return jet is just trickling)
🔹 Skipping the rinse cycle after backwashing (a lot of people miss this part, make sure to rinse for 10-15 seconds after every backwash, what it does is reverses the way the water & debris exits the filter to get the last bit of “dirt” out)
🔹 Ignoring pressure gauge readings
🔹 Using the wrong type of filter sand (always follow the directions for what is recommended per your brand of sand filter)
🔹 Overfilling or underfilling the filter with sand
🔹 Improper winterization that leads to freeze damage
🔹 Running the system with low water flow (water needs to be AT LEAST above the middle screw of the skimmer faceplate)
🔹 Overlooking broken laterals when sand returns to the pool

A properly maintained sand filter is one of the keys to crystal-clear water and a longer-lasting pool system.

Have questions about your Hayward filter or experiencing issues with cloudy water, high pressure, or sand in the pool? Drop them in the comments! 👇

🚨 Common DE (Diatomaceous Earth) Pool Filter Mistakes 🚨Your DE filter is one of the best tools for keeping your pool wat...
05/30/2026

🚨 Common DE (Diatomaceous Earth) Pool Filter Mistakes 🚨

Your DE filter is one of the best tools for keeping your pool water sparkling clean—but only if it's maintained properly!

Here are some of the most common mistakes pool owners make:

❌ Adding too much or too little DE powder (it might seem like a lot, but following directions allows your filter to work effectively & efficiently)
➿EC40 = 4 lbs / 4 coffee cans
➿EC50 = 5 lbs / 5 coffee cans
➿EC65 = 6 lbs / 6 coffee cans
➿EC75 = 7 lbs / 7 coffee cans
❌ Forgetting to add fresh DE after backwashing (after removing the drain plug at the bottom of the filter & allowing the dirty waste water to run out until it’s clear, you should add about HALF your normal dose of earth back into the skimmer.)
➿If you remove the lid and wash out the inside of the canister, the FULL amount of earth needs put back into the skimmer.
❌ Ignoring rising filter pressure
❌ Backwashing too often (or not often enough) (you can always reference the water coming out of the return jet, if it’s good and strong then the filter is working properly. If it’s low or weak, might be time to bump the handle or backwash)
❌ Skipping deep cleanings of the filter grids (always good to tear the filter apart around July 4 and and end of summer for a deep clean. Or after the beginning of the year if your pool was very green and full of algae)
❌ Using the wrong type of DE
❌ Overlooking torn grids or damaged internal parts
❌ Neglecting proper water chemistry
❌ Opening the filter without relieving pressure first
❌ Ignoring rapid pressure increases that may indicate a larger problem

💡 Pool Pro Tip: Know your filter's clean starting pressure. When the pressure rises 8–10 PSI above that number, it's usually time to backwash or clean the filter. Keep in mind, it doesn’t matter what it ran at last year, or the last 15 years. Whatever the starting pressure was when you initially put the filter together this year is your starting value.

Regular maintenance means cleaner water, better circulation, lower operating costs, and a longer life for your pool equipment.

Have questions about your DE filter? Drop them in the comments below! 👇🏊

From classrooms to cannonballs — you made it! 🎉📚🏊 Graduation is finally here! 🎓✨Cheers to the Class of 2026 for all of t...
05/29/2026

From classrooms to cannonballs — you made it! 🎉📚🏊
Graduation is finally here! 🎓✨

Cheers to the Class of 2026 for all of their hard work, growth, friendships, and the next chapter ahead.

Here’s to making waves all summer long! ☀️💦

Thanks for supporting local & choosing us! 🫶🏼

Thinking about getting a solar cover for your pool? Here’s the difference between clear vs blue covers 👇Choosing between...
05/28/2026

Thinking about getting a solar cover for your pool? Here’s the difference between clear vs blue covers 👇

Choosing between the two depends on your primary goal: heating the pool quickly or saving on chemical maintenance and heat retention.

⚪️Clear Solar Covers
✔️Best for: Rapid heat gain. The transparent material allows the maximum amount of sunlight to pe*****te the water, heating it faster.

➿Downside: Because they let in more UV light, they cause chlorine to burn off faster, requiring more frequent chemical top-offs. They also show dirt and debris more easily.

☑️Best Used: In cooler climates or locations with limited direct sunlight where maximum heat transmission is needed.

🔵Blue Solar Covers
✔️Best for: Heat retention and chemical savings. The blue tint blocks more UV rays, slowing down chlorine evaporation and protecting your pool from degradation.

➿Downside: They block some of the sun's warming rays, meaning they don't heat the pool as quickly as clear covers.

☑️Best Used: In sunny locations where the pool heats up easily and the primary goal is maintaining that temperature while reducing chemical costs.

Which Should You Choose?
⚪️If your goal is maximum heating, a clear solar cover is usually better.

🔵If you want a balance of heating, durability, chemical retention and hiding debris/algae stains, a blue cover is usually the better everyday choice.

Thanks for supporting local & choosing us! 🫶🏼

OPEN TODAY 9a-12p🇺🇸 This Memorial Day, We Remember & Honor 🇺🇸As we gather with family and friends this weekend, we pause...
05/25/2026

OPEN TODAY 9a-12p

🇺🇸 This Memorial Day, We Remember & Honor 🇺🇸

As we gather with family and friends this weekend, we pause to remember the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom. ❤️🤍💙

From all of us at Matthew Kaufman Pools, thank you to those who served and to the families who sacrificed so much.

Wishing everyone a safe, peaceful, and meaningful Memorial Day weekend with the people you love most. ☀️🏊

Stop in today 9a-12p as we kick off another summer season together!

05/23/2026

🕘 We are open today 9a-12p

🇺🇸Memorial Day Monday, May 25 9a-12p

Open normal hours rest of the week
Tuesday 9a-5p
Wednesday 9a-12p
Thursday 9a-5pm
Friday 9a-5p
Saturday 9a-12p

Thanks for supporting local & choosing us! 🫶🏼

BAD PRESSURE?! 😮 Your pool filter pressure gauge is basically a check engine light for your pool. When that needle creep...
05/16/2026

BAD PRESSURE?! 😮
Your pool filter pressure gauge is basically a check engine light for your pool. When that needle creeps too high or drops too low, something's wrong.

☝🏼If Your Pressure is Too HIGH☝🏼
High pressure (10 PSI or more above normal) means something is restricting water flow. The two easiest fixes? Clean or backwash your filter or use your air relief valve (in DE Filters) to release any trapped air in the system.

👇🏼If Your Pressure is Too LOW👇🏼
Low pressure (5 PSI or more below normal) means water isn't reaching the filter fast enough. Check your skimmers, check the weir isn’t stuck, pump basket in correctly and not crooked, and lid is sealed properly, pump impeller, no holes or cracks in hoses or plumbing, and any pump connections and unions threaded correctly.

Thanks for supporting local & choosing us! 🫶🏼

05/13/2026

HOW DO I OPEN MY ABOVE GROUND POOL WITH EARTH FILTER?

1️⃣ Remove the Cover
☐ Remove water and debris from winter cover
☐ Remove, clean, dry, and store cover
☐ Inspect pool liner, top rails, and fittings for damage

2️⃣ Reinstall Pool Equipment
☐ Reinstall skimmer basket and return fittings
☐ Reconnect pump and hoses
☐ Reinstall drain plugs/gaskets in pump and filter
☐ Lubricate O-rings if needed
☐ Tighten clamps/unions
☐ Check there’s No cracked hoses from winter

3️⃣ Inspect the Earth Filter
☐ Open the filter tank if needed
☐ Inspect DE grids/fingers for tears
☐ Rinse out any leftover debris
☐ Reassemble securely

4️⃣ Fill the Pool
☐ Bring water level About halfway up the skimmer.

5️⃣ Prime the Pump
☐ Open shut off valves if applicable.
☐ Fill pump basket housing with water.
☐ Secure lid tightly.
☐ Turn on the pump. (Watch for: Air leaks, Low pressure & Water leaks around clamps or fittings)

6️⃣ Add Fresh DE Powder
‼️IMPORTANT: A DE filter should never run without DE coating the grids.‼️
☐ Pour it slowly into the skimmer while the pump is running
☐ Use the amount listed for your filter model. Too little DE can damage the grids; too much can reduce flow.
~EC40=4lbs
~EC50=5lbs
~EC65=6lbs
~EC75=7lbs

7️⃣ Check Filter Pressure
☐ Make sure water is flowing normally and Look for leaks around pump and hoses.
☐ Note the “clean starting pressure.” This becomes your baseline. A clean Earth Filter often starts around 10–15 PSI, though your system may vary.
☐ When pressure rises about 8–10 PSI above clean pressure: Turn pump OFF, Move the bump handle up and down several times slowly & Turn pump back ON. (This redistributes the DE and can extend filter cycles.)
☐ Backwash when pressure rises 8–10 PSI above clean pressure OR when the water from the return jet is just trickling out with less pressure in the pool.

8️⃣ Shock the Pool
☐ Run pump continuously 24 hours after opening.
☐ Brush walls and floor.

9️⃣ Day 2+ Cleanup
☐ Vacuum settled debris
☐ Skim surface
☐ Brush walls/floor
☐ Empty pump/skimmer baskets

🔟 Test and Balance Water
⚠️Clear water doesn’t always mean balanced water—always test

🚫Common Earth Filter Mistakes to Avoid
* Forgetting to add more DE after backwash
* Running pump dry
* Starting with low water level
* Ignoring air leaks at pump lid/hose fittings

Thanks for supporting local & choosing us! 🫶🏼

05/12/2026

HOW DO I OPEN MY ABOVE GROUND POOL WITH SAND FILTER?

1️⃣ Remove the Cover
☐ Remove water and debris from winter cover
☐ Remove, clean, dry, and store cover
☐ Inspect pool liner, top rails, and fittings for damage

2️⃣ Reinstall Pool Equipment
☐ Reinstall skimmer basket and return fittings
☐ Reconnect pump and hoses
☐ Reinstall drain plugs/gaskets in pump and sand filter
☐ Lubricate O-rings if needed
☐ Tighten clamps/unions
☐ Check there’s No cracked hoses from winter

3️⃣ Inspect the Sand Filter
☐ Verify filter drain cap is installed
☐ Inspect multiport valve and pressure gauge
☐ Check sand condition (If sand is 3–5+ years old or water quality was poor last season, consider replacing the sand now while it’s dry)
☐ Set valve to BACKWASH before startup

4️⃣ Fill the Pool
☐ Bring water level About halfway up the skimmer.

5️⃣ Prime the Pump
☐ Open shut off valves if applicable.
☐ Fill pump basket housing with water.
☐ Secure lid tightly.

6️⃣ Start the System Correctly
‼️IMPORTANT: Never move the multiport valve while the pump is running.‼️
1. Set valve to BACKWASH
2. Turn pump ON until sight glass runs clear
3. Turn pump OFF
4. Set valve to RINSE
5. Turn pump ON
6. Run 10-20 seconds
7. Turn pump OFF
8. Set valve to FILTER
9. Turn pump ON
10. Make sure water is flowing normally and Look for leaks around pump and hoses.

7️⃣ Check Filter Pressure
☐ Note the “clean starting pressure.” This becomes your baseline.
☐ Backwash when pressure rises 8–10 PSI above clean pressure OR when the water from the return jet is just trickling out with less pressure in the pool.

8️⃣ Shock the Pool
☐ Run pump continuously 24 hours after opening.
☐ Brush walls and floor.

9️⃣ Day 2+ Cleanup
☐ Vacuum settled debris
☐ Skim surface
☐ Brush walls/floor
☐ Empty pump/skimmer baskets

🔟 Test and Balance Water
⚠️Clear water doesn’t always mean balanced water—always test

🚫Common Sand Filter Mistakes to Avoid
* Switching multi-port valve settings with the pump ON
* Forgetting to rinse after backwash
* Running pump dry
* Starting with low water level
* Ignoring air leaks at pump lid/hose fittings

Thanks for supporting local & choosing us! 🫶🏼

TURN YOUR GREEN POOL CRYSTAL CLEAR — FAST! 🌊Opened your pool and found a swamp instead of sparkling water?Don’t waste we...
05/11/2026

TURN YOUR GREEN POOL CRYSTAL CLEAR — FAST! 🌊

Opened your pool and found a swamp instead of sparkling water?
Don’t waste weeks guessing. Our Dynamic Duo is our little secret 🤫 and the fastest and easiest way to clear a green pool and get back to swimming!

✔ What You Need:
* Heavy-Duty Pool Shock
* Algaecide Treatment
* Expert Water Testing
* Step-by-Step Recovery Plan

WHY CUSTOMERS LOVE IT:

✅ Clears green water fast
✅ Kills algae at the source
✅ Safe for all pool types
✅ Saves money on unnecessary chemicals
✅ Free in-store water testing

THIS WEEK’S SPECIAL:

💥 Green Pool Cleanup Bundle —
Bring in a water sample and get FREE step-by-step directions from our pool experts!

📍 Stop by today and let us help you go from GREEN to CLEAN — FAST!

Your backyard paradise starts here. 🏖️
Monday 9a-5p
Tuesday 9a-5p
Wednesday 9a-12p
Thursday 9a-5p
Friday 9a-5p
Saturday 9a-12p

Thanks for supporting local & choosing us! 🫶🏼

Address

1131 West Fourth Street
Lewistown, PA
17044

Opening Hours

Monday 9am - 5pm
Tuesday 9am - 5pm
Wednesday 9am - 12pm
Thursday 9am - 5pm
Friday 9am - 5pm
Saturday 9am - 12pm

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