If you have a swimming pool you need to know about these regular maintenance tips!
Photos By: Stock Images
Your swimming pool needs regular maintenance. It pays to develop a strong basic understanding of pool maintenance essentials, whether you own an above-ground or in-ground pool. The key to keeping your pool clean and sparkling all season long is establishing and maintaining a regular maintenance routine. Although it may seem like a lot of work, taking care of your pool will become second nature once you get into a good groove. To make things as easy as possible, we’ve put together this comprehensive guide that covers everything you need to know about taking care of your pool correctly.
Seek Help From Professional Pool Cleaners
The first step in taking care of your pool is to seek help from professional pool cleaners. They have the experience and knowledge to clean and maintain your pool correctly. While you can certainly clean your pool on your own, it’s best to leave the heavy lifting to the professionals. That way, you can ensure that your pool is being cleaned properly and that all of the necessary maintenance tasks are being carried out.
When choosing a professional pool cleaning service, ask about their experience, rates, and services. A good swimming pool cleaner should provide you with a detailed estimate of the costs associated with cleaning and maintaining your pool. Also, be sure to ask about the frequency of their services. Many pool owners find it best to have their pools cleaned every week.
Develop A Regular Maintenance Routine
Once you’ve sought help from professional pool cleaners, the next step is to develop a regular maintenance routine. This will ensure that your pool is properly taken care of and that any issues are caught early on. There are a few key things that you should do as part of your regular maintenance routine:
- Test the water quality: You should test the water quality at least once a week. This can be done using a home test kit or sending a pool water sample to a professional laboratory. Be sure to test for pH levels, chlorine levels, and alkalinity.
- Clean the filter: The filter is one of the most critical parts of your pool. It’s responsible for removing dirt, debris, and bacteria from the water. Be sure to clean the filter regularly. Depending on the type of filter you have, you may need to clean it as often as weekly or as little as once a month.
- Vacuum the pool: You should vacuum your pool at least once a week. This will help remove any dirt, leaves, or other debris that has settled on the bottom of the pool.
- Shock the pool: Shocking your pool helps kill bacteria and algae that can build up over time. It’s generally recommended that you shock your pool once a week.
Invest in the Right Tools and Supplies
To properly take care of your pool, you’ll need to invest in the right tools and supplies. These cleaning essentials include a skimmer, a brush, a vacuum, and chlorine tablets. You’ll also need to purchase a pool cover. A pool cover will help keep your pool clean by preventing leaves and other debris from falling into it. It will also help keep the water warm, saving you money on your energy bill. In addition to the items mentioned above, you may also want to invest in an automatic pool cleaner. Automatic pool cleaners are a great way to save time and effort in cleaning your pool.
Maintain Consistent Chemical Levels
One of the most critical aspects of pool maintenance is maintaining consistent chemical levels. This includes chlorine, pH, and alkalinity. Chlorine is an essential part of keeping your pool clean. It kills bacteria and other organisms that can cause illness. pH levels should be kept between 7.2 and 7.6. Alkalinity levels should be kept between 80 and 120 ppm.
To test the chemical levels in your pool, you’ll need to purchase a test kit. Test kits are available at most hardware stores. Be sure to follow the instructions carefully and adjust the levels accordingly. If you’re unsure how to properly test and adjust the chemical levels in your pool, be sure to ask a professional. They will be able to help you get the levels just right.
Drain and Refill Your Pool Every Few Years
Even with the best care, your pool will eventually need to be drained and refilled. This should be done every three to five years. When draining your pool, disconnect all of the hoses and plugs. Be sure also to remove any ladders or steps. Once the pool is empty, you can then begin refilling it. The best way to drain would be to use a submersible pump. A submersible pump can be rented from most hardware stores. Follow the instructions carefully and turn off the pump once the pool is empty.
When refilling your pool, be sure to use clean water. The best way to do this is to use a hose connected to a clean water source. Once the pool is full, you can add the chemicals and test the levels. It’s important to note that you’ll need to gradually add fresh water to your pool. That way, you won’t overload your filter system.
Power Wash The Deck and Surrounding Area
To keep your pool area looking its best, regularly power wash the deck and surrounding area. This will help remove any dirt, debris, or mildew that has built up over time. Power washing is also a great way to avoid repainting your deck.
You’ll need to purchase a power washer to power wash your deck. Power washers are available at most hardware stores. Be sure to follow the instructions carefully and use the correct tips for your surface. Be sure to power wash the surrounding area, such as the patio or porch. This will help to keep your pool area looking clean and inviting.
Pool maintenance is essential for keeping your pool clean and safe. Be sure to test the chemical levels regularly and adjust as needed. Shock your pool regularly and keep your filter clean. Drain and refill your pool every few years and power wash the deck and surrounding area. Following these tips will help you enjoy your pool for many years.
