How to Take Proper Care of Your Pool This Summer

Pools are fun ways to beat the summer heat and can be a highlight of your next outdoor party. However, they require regular maintenance. Here are five tips for keeping your pool operating properly. 

1. Regularly Skim and Scrub Your Pool 

Skim the pool to clear off any leaves or debris from the water’s surface every day. Consider investing in a robot vacuum cleaner to make this process easier. After you have skimmed the surface, you will need to scrub the sides of the pool to prevent algae from building up. 

Use an old sock to get rid of stubborn stains. Fill it with chlorine and set it on top for a couple of hours. 

Pool cleaning supplies can be expensive. Many people only think about the initial installation costs when budgeting for their backyard retreat. Here are some household products you can use to clean your pool and save money:

• Baking soda

• Bleach

• Muriatic acid

• Borax

• Dish soap

2. Clean Your Filter 

Your pool filter helps to purify the water and remove any dirt or leaves. You must take off its cap, remove the basket and clear debris. Try to do this at least once a week. 

You also want to clean out the pipes used in your filter system. To do this, set your filter to backwash. You’ll then need to remove and clear the leaf basket. Turn on the pump when you’re done and let it run until it ejects clear water. 

Consider setting a timer for turning your filter on and off to keep your mechanics from cracking. 

3. Keep Your Chemical Levels Consistent 

You want to make sure your pool water has the correct chemical balance. Check these levels at least once a week. 

Here are some chemicals to use:

• Cyanuric acid: This chemical protects chlorine from sun exposure and determines the level of free chlorine needed. 

• Free chlorine: It sanitizes your water, keeping it safe and germ-free.

• Acidity/alkalinity: This is also referred to as the pH level.

• Total alkalinity:  Total alkalinity helps to keep the pH in balance. 

• Calcium hardness: Having the right levels can help prevent plaster damage. 

Pick up a testing kit from your local store to examine your pool water. Fill it with a sample and add the provided solution. After a minute, the water will change color, which will help you determine your current chemical levels. 

4. Shock Your Pool

Shocking is when you raise your pool’s chlorine levels for a short period. Dilute three to four times the amount of normal chlorine with water. Then, slowly pour it into your pool’s return line, letting it filter. The process helps fight off any bacteria. 

You can also use potassium monopersulfate, which is oxygen-based, to shock your pool. This chemical helps eliminate odors and increases chlorine levels. It also allows you to get back in the water right after it dissipates.

5.  Keep an Eye on Your Water Level 

Your pool’s water level will fluctuate over time. Keep it about halfway from the opening of the skimmer. If it’s too low, use a hose to refill, and if it’s too high, rent a submersible pump to drain out excess water. 

Consult a professional if your pool is made of firm vinyl or fiberglass material.  Also, continue to check your chemical levels.

Maintaining Your Pool

A pool is ideal for hot weather and family fun. You just need to keep up with regular maintenance so you can spend less time dealing with problems and more time enjoying the water.

Guest Contributor: Rose Morrison