Maintaining a swimming pool can be a daunting and time consuming task for new homeowners. Not only does it require regular attention and upkeep, but it can also be expensive when you need to consult a professional for help. However, small weekly routines can go a long way, ensuring your pool is crystal clear and ready for use whenever you need it.
To help make pool maintenance easier for new homeowners, here are a few tips to get started:
1. Perform regular skimming. Using a handheld skimmer or pole-mounted net, remove remnants of leaves, bugs, and other debris from the pool’s surface. This will help to maintain the cleanliness and longevity of your pool.
Reducing Pool Chemical Acid Levels
2. Maintain required chemical levels. To ensure your pool does not become a breeding ground for bacteria and harmful microorganisms, the chemical levels in your pool must be monitored and managed. A good rule of thumb is to keep the pH levels between 7.2 – 7.6 and the chlorine levels between 1.0 – 3.0 ppm.
3. Test the water on a regular basis. Homeowners can purchase an at-home pool test kit to test the pH, chlorine, and alkalinity in the pool. The kit comes with instructions and testing strips that can then be compared with a chart that indicates what chemical levels should be.
Cleaning Pool Surfaces
4. Scrub the walls and floor of the pool. As a part of good maintenance, pool owners should use a pool brush to scrub the walls and floor of the pool on a regular basis. Make sure to use the correct brush for your pool surface – either tile, vinyl or fiberglass – so that the brush bristles do not cause any damage.
5. Vacuum the pool. Vacuum the pool’s surface and floor at least once a month. If a pool vacuum isn’t available, a regular backpack or poolside vacuum cleaner should do the trick.
6. Empty skimmer and pump baskets. As part of the weekly maintenance routine, empty the skimmer and pump baskets of accumulated debris. This will help to keep your pool’s circulation system working properly.
Preventative Maintenance
- Clean the pool filter regularly – no less than every 6 months.
- Check the hoses and connections for signs of wear or damage.
- Check the pool equipment for proper operation.
- Conduct regular pool inspections for any visible damage.
- Perform periodic water treatments and shock treatments.
Conclusion
Pool maintenance does not have to be a daunting and expensive task. With a few simple tasks each week, your pool will stay clean and crystal clear. Regular skimming, chemical testing, and cleaning will help maintain the health and longevity of your pool.