A swimming pool is a great feature during the warm summer months. To keep the pool in top condition for your next swim, you’ll need to perform routine maintenance. Here are seven essentials for swimming pool maintenance.
Steps for Proper Swimming Pool Maintenance
1. Clean and Vacuum the Pool
Routine cleaning will help keep the water sparkling and the pool ready for use. Use a pool brush to scrub the sides. Vacuum the entire pool two or three times per week.
2. Test the Water
One of the most basic swimming pool maintenance steps is testing the pool water. Because the pool is outdoors, the water is affected by rain, sun, leaf debris, and the people who swim there. The pool’s chemical balance can change due to these factors.
Test as recommended by the pool manufacturer. Many recommend testing for pH, alkalinity, and chlorine levels at least once a week. Testing for calcium hardness and total dissolved solids should happen once a month.
3. Remove Floating Debris
Sticks, leaves, and insects may land on the surface of the pool. If you don’t remove this debris promptly, it will disintegrate and float to the bottom or get sucked into the vacuum system.
Use a pool skimmer to remove leaves and other floating debris multiple times a week.
4. Add Sanitizer as Needed for Swimming Pool Maintenance
Sanitizer kills bacteria, algae, and other microorganisms in the pool water. The most common sanitizer used in pools today is chlorine. It’s important to add sanitizer to your pool as recommended.
How often you need to add sanitizer depends on the type of product you use. Stabilized sanitizers can last up to a month, while unstabilized types may need daily or weekly applications.
5. Check Water Levels
Another key step in swimming pool maintenance is checking water levels. Water evaporates in the hot summer sun and the pool level needs to stay high enough for the pump to work properly. At least once a week, check the pool water level and add water as needed.
6. Check and Clean Pool Filter
Your pool’s filter helps remove dirt and debris from the water. Without a filter, your pool will accumulate debris and become a breeding ground for bacteria and algae.
How often you need to check and clean your filter depends on what type it is. A sand filter should be deep cleaned at least once per season. Cartridge filters should be cleaned at least twice a year. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations.
7. Inspect Pool Equipment for Swimming Pool Maintenance
At least once a month, take the time to inspect all the pool equipment and fittings. Check the filters, skimmers, drains, ladders, gauges, diving boards, tile grout, and sealant, among other things. Make repairs or replace items as needed. Neglecting to do so could lead to accidents or injuries.
These steps will help you keep your pool safe and in great condition throughout the swimming season.
All Pro Property Inspections provides pool and spa inspections to San Diego, CA and the surrounding region. Contact us to schedule an appointment.