A Beginner’s Guide to Pool Maintenance
Keeping your swimming pool “problem-free” is the fundamental job of any pool owner. While you don’t need a master’s degree in pool care to make that happen, it is essential to know how your pool works, understand the key elements that need weekly attention and take the necessary steps to resolve issues when they occur.
According to Pentair, a pool owner spends an average of three hours a week cleaning their pool and dealing with maintenance concerns. While that may seem like a lot of time, every pool has only four major components that need to be addressed each week. Doesn’t seem as scary now, does it?
Pool Basics: 4 Main Components
No matter your pool type, there are four things to consider when completing weekly pool maintenance.
- The pool water: Keeping the water clean and balanced
- The pool wall or liner: Keeping the walls and liner in good condition while also cleaning to remove algae, mold, and debris.
- The pool filter: Cleaning the filters regularly to make sure they are free of contaminants and working properly.
- The pool system (skimmer, returns, pumps): Making sure the water is circulating properly and clear of obstructions.
Now that you know the basics of your pool, here are a few tips to get things done faster.
Create a Pool Cleaning Schedule and Stick to It!
Skim, brush and vacuum your pool weekly to remove foreign contaminants that enter each day. From hair shampoo to tree debris, keeping your pool clean each week and your pool water sparkly clean is key to enjoying your pool throughout the season.
Helpful Pool Tip: Do some of the cleaning while enjoying the beautiful weather and pool water. For example, put on a pool cleaning glove and float around the perimeter of the pool to get those hard-to-reach places. You can also toss some tennis balls into the pool or skimmer to collect surface oils.
Test and Balance Your Pool Water
At least once a week, make sure to test and balance your pool water. Chemical levels in a pool are arguably the most important part of pool maintenance. If your water is improperly balanced, it will look murky, irritate your skin/eyes and create a breeding ground for bacteria. Testing your water is easy with the help of a testing kit.
Helpful Water Tip: Think about shocking your pool every 1-2 weeks to destroy bacteria and other organic contaminants found in your pool water. Make sure to test your water regularly. When in doubt…test it out!
Make Sure Your Water Is Moving
Water circulation is important for a healthy and safe swimming pool. A pool with proper circulation has fewer issues with cloudy water or pool algae. Keeping your pump and filter system running for at least 10 to 12 hours is the best way to keep your pool safe and clean. Also, keep track of your water level and make sure it is halfway up the opening of your water skimmer.
Helpful Filter Hint: Deep clean your pool filters or pool sand at least twice a year to make sure they are doing their job.
Get Professional Help
It is worth your while to take a water sample to a professional water testing location once a month. Professional water testing is about making sure you, your family, and your investment (aka — your swimming pool) are 100% safe, happy, and healthy. Make sure to properly collect a water sample to increase the accuracy of the test.
At Parnell Pool and Spa, we know that pool maintenance and care can be a daunting task. If you have any questions about the proper running of your pool or maintenance concerns, stop by our Fayetteville or Lumberton location. Visit us online at www.parnellpoolandspa.com or take a look at our Facebook page.
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