If you own a pool, it’s important to keep up with regular maintenance to ensure the water stays safe and clean for your family or guests to enjoy. From adding proper chemicals to keeping the area surrounding the swimming pool free of debris.
There are many tasks that pool owners should perform regularly to maintain their swimming pools in good condition and avoid possible risks of injury or even death. With these underlying pool problems, for more details check out Clark Rubber. Here are 10 pool maintenance tips you didn’t know you needed!
Vacuum Your Filter
Your pool filter is one of the most important pieces of equipment when it comes to keeping your pool clean. Without a properly functioning filter, it will be filled with dirt, debris, and bacteria. Vacuuming your filter on a regular basis will help extend its life and keep your pool water clean and clear.
Water Test Levels Daily
Maintaining proper water levels is critical to the longevity and safety of your swimming pool. The ideal range for pH is between 7.2 and 7.6, and alkalinity should be between 80 and 120 ppm. Test your water levels every day to ensure that your pool is safe and clean. Maintain chlorine levels at 1-3ppm to prevent algae growth. It’s important to also maintain a PH level of 7.2-7.6, and an alkalinity level of 80-120ppm
Regularly Service Your Filters
Servicing your filters is one of the most important, and yet commonly overlooked, aspects of pool maintenance. Your filter is responsible for keeping your water clean and free of debris, so it’s important to make sure it’s in good working condition. servicing your filters will extend their life and save you money in the long run. Here’s how to do it:
- First, identify the type of filter you have. There are three main types of pool filters:
– cartridge filters,
– diatomaceous earth (D.E.) filters, and
– sand filters.
- Each type has its own specific maintenance requirements, so it’s important to know which type you have before proceeding.
- Next, familiarize yourself with the parts of your filter.
Maintain Your Chlorine
A pool is only as clean as the chlorine levels allow it to be. Too little chlorine and you risk bacteria and algae growth. But too much chlorine and you’ll end up with dry, itchy skin.
Maintaining a consistent chlorine level is key to a happy, healthy pool – and that’s where a chlorine floater comes in. Chlorine floats help maintain chlorine levels by releasing chlorine into the water column every few hours or days, depending on your needs.
Protect the Surface with a Cover
Most people don’t know that you should turn off your pool equipment when you’re not using it. This includes the pump, filter, and heater. By doing this, you can save on your energy bill and extend the life of your pool equipment. Additionally, it’s important to winterize your pool equipment to prevent any damage from freezing temperatures.
Turn Off Pool Equipment During Non-Use
If you don’t plan on using your pool for a while, it’s important to turn off all the equipment. This includes the filter, heater, and pump. Not only will this save you money on your energy bill, but it will also prolong the life of your equipment.
Additionally, you should clean out your skimmer and vacuum any debris from the bottom of the pool. The last thing you want is algae bloom in your pool!
Follow a Pumpout Schedule
A lot of people don’t realize that their pool needs to be pumped out every so often. Depending on the size of your pool, you may need to pump it out every few weeks or so. This helps to keep the water clean and free of debris.
It also prevents buildup from being deposited in your filter which can lead to a clogged filter. The best time to do this is at night when there are fewer activities going on around the pool.
You’ll want to make sure that if you have a leaf skimmer, you’re cleaning it regularly as well because if leaves get stuck in your skimmer they will decompose and release chemicals into the water.
Clean Fountains Weekly
You should clean your fountain at least once a week to prevent the build-up of algae and other contaminants. If you have a lot of trees around your property, you may need to clean it more often to prevent leaves and debris from clogging the pump. A pool service company can do this for you, or you can do it yourself with a garden hose and some elbow grease.
Clean Vents Weekly
It’s important to clean your vents weekly in order to prevent any type of water damage. Not only will this help your pool last longer, but it will also keep your energy bills down. Here’s how to clean your vents:
- Start by turning off the power to your pool.
- Next, locate the vents. They are usually located on the side of the pool near the pump or filter.
- Using a garden hose, spray each vent with water to remove any dirt or debris that may be blocking them.
- Once the vents are clear, turn the power back on and enjoy your clean pool!
Fix Leaks Immediately
A pool that is losing water needs to be fixed immediately. The first step is to determine where the leak is coming from. This can be done by filling the pool with water and then turning off the pump. Once the pool has stopped leaking, you can then patch the hole or replace the liner. Next, check your filter system for clogs. Clogs in a filter will cause the pump to run constantly and lead to increased use of chemicals in order to keep the water clean.
Check your lights as well; they need replacing every two years or so. After making these checks, test your chlorine levels again. If necessary, add more chlorine but only do so in small doses at a time because too much chlorine can make swimming unsafe. Finally, vacuum the bottom of the pool with a net until it’s clear of debris
Conclusion
Now that you know what you need to do to maintain your pool, you can enjoy it all summer long! Just remember to test the water regularly, shock the pool once a week, and vacuum it at least once a week. Don’t forget to also brush the walls and floor of the pool, and empty the skimmer baskets often. With a little bit of regular care, your pool will be ready for anything!
