Regardless of if your pool is built into the ground or situated above it, maintaining its cleanliness is crucial for extending the life of your pool and ensuring the safety of swimmers. A significant number of individuals opt to employ a swimming pool specialist for consistent cleaning. However, there are several steps you can take on your own to upkeep your pool in the intervals between professional cleanings.
Skim the Surface
One of the most important things you can do to maintain your pool is to skim the surface regularly. This is because leaves and other debris can quickly build up on the surface, which can then sink to the bottom and start to decay. This not only makes your pool look dirty, but it can also cause problems with your filtration system. To avoid this, simply use a skimmer to remove any debris from the surface of your pool on a daily basis. It is a good idea to do this in the morning so that you can remove any debris that has blown into your pool overnight. However, you should also check your pool throughout the day and skim it as necessary.
Brush the Walls and Floor of Your Pool
Another important thing you need to do to maintain your pool is to brush the walls and floor of your pool on a weekly basis. This will help prevent algae from growing and will also keep your pool looking clean. You can use a brush that is specifically made for pools or you can use a soft bristled brush. Here are the steps you need to take:
- Wet the brush before you start scrubbing.
- Start scrubbing in a circular motion from the top of the pool and work your way down.
- Pay extra attention to areas that seem to have more dirt or algae.
- Rinse off the brush when you’re done and put it away.
If you don’t brush your pool, algae will start to grow and it can be very difficult to get rid of. Algae can also cause your pool to become murky and dirty looking. Brushing your pool is a simple way to prevent this from happening.
Check pH Level
The pH level of your pool is also important to maintain. The ideal pH level for a pool is between seven and eight. You can test the pH level of your pool with a testing kit that you can purchase from a pool supply store.
If the pH level of your pool is too high, you can add muriatic acid to lower it. However, you should only do this if you are comfortable working with chemicals. If the pH level of your pool is too low, you can add sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) to raise it.
Clean Filter
You also need to make sure you clean your filter regularly. A dirty filter not only makes your pool look cloudy, but it can also lead to problems with the pump and other parts of the filtration system. The frequency with which you need to clean the filter will depend on how often the pool is used, but as a general rule, it should be done at least once a month. The best way to clean a pool filter is to soak it in a solution of vinegar and water overnight, then rinse it thoroughly with fresh water before putting it back in place.
Maintain Water Level
It’s also important to maintain the water level in your pool. If the water level gets too low, it can damage the pump. Not only does this help to ensure that the pump remains submerged, but it also helps to prevent evaporation and excessive chemical usage. Checking the water level on a regular basis is therefore a vital part of keeping your pool in good condition. There are a few key things to keep in mind when checking the water level.
- Make sure that the skimmer box is turned off. Otherwise, the suction from the pump can cause the water level to drop too low.
- Check the level at multiple points around the pool, as there may be slight variations.
- Refrain from adding too much water at once, as this can disturb the chemical balance of the pool.
Wrapping Up
Maintaining your pool between services is not as difficult as it may seem. By following the tips outlined above, you can easily keep your pool clean and in good working condition. This will help to extend the life of your pool and make it more enjoyable for you and your family. Plus, it will save you money in the long run by preventing the need for frequent repairs. Now that you know how to maintain your pool, there’s no excuse not to get out there and enjoy it!