If you’re thinking about getting a pool then you’re probably daydreaming about hosting weekend pool parties with friends,
swimming laps before the workday, and perfecting your tan as you teach your kids to swim, or enjoying the latest mystery
novel poolside. But aside from the fun possibilities that come with having a
pool also comes the hefty responsibility of pool maintenance.
If you already have a swimming pool, then you
know maintenance is a big commitment. But you also know that it’s totally worth
it when you can enjoy your safe, clean swimming pool all summer long.
Why is it important to maintain your swimming pool?
Maintaining your pool is important for keeping
the water clean and safe. If not properly maintained, pools can become overrun
with harmful bacteria and algae. This not only makes your
swimming experience less fun but also unsafe. Properly maintaining your
swimming pool can also increase its longevity; ensuring you and your family
have it to enjoy for years to come!
Whether you’re still considering if a pool is
right for you or you’re looking to brush up on your pool maintenance knowledge as
the weather warms, we’ve put together some tips to help you keep your swimming
pool ship-shape and ready to use this summer.
5 Tips for Maintaining Your Swimming Pool
Familiarize
yourself with your pool’s anatomy: To properly
maintain your pool it’s important to be familiar with its key components. These
include your pool’s water, the interior wall or liner, the filtration system,
and the skimmers and returns system. Knowing all of the parts that make up your
pool will allow you to focus on how each needs to be cleaned and maintained
differently.
Keep a
schedule: When
it comes to pool maintenance, consistency is key! It’s best to establish a
weekly cleaning routine; use this time to do a shock treatment if necessary and
measure the chlorine levels in your
pool. It’s best to test your chlorine level two to three times a week but if
you’re new to pool-ownership you may want to check it every day. You may need
to do additional shock treatments if you experience heavy rain or wind storms, extreme
temperatures, algae growth, foul odor, slimy water or if your pool has
experienced a larger than normal volume of swimmers. Aside from your chlorine
level, you’ll also want to keep an eye on pH, or the level of acidity. The
optimal pH for pool water is 7.4.
Always
follow safety instructions: Maintaining the safety of
your pool means dealing with a handful of different chemicals. Make sure you
always follow the safety instructions outlined on the package and store your
pool chemicals out of reach from young hands and pets.
Grab
the skimmer: Do you have debris floating in the pool?
Grab your skimmer and fish out unwanted leaves, sticks, etc. This will help
keep your water clear and clean. Do you have kids who are old enough to help you with house
chores and also know how to swim? This is a great job for them - just make sure
you’re always in eyesight in case they accidentally fall in. Safety first!
Get a
pool vacuum: Vacuums are great for cleaning the lining
of your pool and preventing algae build-up. When vacuuming, hit all areas of
the pool lining, paying special attention to the areas with poor circulation,
where algae is more likely to accumulate.
