Your pool needs regular maintenance to be safe for swimming. This can be done by a pool maintenance company or you can complete many of these tasks yourself. Clean pool water is healthier and safer for your family. Follow these tips for swimming pool maintenance to keep your water sparkling clean.
Pool water should be clear and free from bacteria, cloudiness, and organic matter. Regularly monitor the water’s pH levels to manage the chemical changes that occur. Keeping pH levels in balance helps you to avoid irritation of the eyes and skin.
5 Ways to Maintain Your Swimming Pool
1. Water Testing
Water testing is a simple task that should be done at least once a week. A basic water testing kit includes color-coded strips that you dip into the water and then compare to the colors on the container. These test strips show the balance of the pool water so you know what chemicals need to be added.
2. Swimming Pool Maintenance Includes Adding Chemicals
When handling chemicals and adding them to your pool, follow the manufacturer’s instructions. If you don’t have time to take care of pool maintenance, hire a professional to keep your pool water clean and safe.
After testing the water, add the appropriate type and amount of chemicals according to your test results. Some chemicals are in powder form. Powders are either added straight into the pool or you may need to mix the powder with pool water before pouring into the pool. Other chemicals come in a tablet form. These are placed in a floating dispenser that slowly disperses the chemicals.
Do not add chemicals directly to the skimmer because they could be filtered out before they are circulated in the pool water.
3. Shocking the Water
It is sometimes necessary to shock, or heavily chlorinate, the water. This may be necessary after a lot of rain, in extreme heat, or following a pool party. Shocking eliminates contaminants and balances the water. Test the water first to determine if your pool needs this treatment. It is best to shock your pool at night since it takes time to return to normal chlorine levels.
4. Empty Skimmer Baskets
Check the skimmer buckets for debris daily because clogged skimmers impede water flow. Pull the skimmers out, empty debris, then rinse them with a hose. Use a pool net on a long handle to scoop leaves, insects, and other debris from the water’s surface.
5. Vacuuming for Good Swimming Pool Maintenance
Vacuum the pool at least once a week. You can purchase a pool vacuum at your local pool supply store. Talk to a professional to choose the right vacuum system for your pool and make sure you know how to use it properly.
If you don’t have the time or ability to tend to your swimming pool, some companies offer scheduled maintenance packages. They will come out to clean and treat your pool on a routine basis.
Homesmith Home Inspections offers home inspections to customers in the Houston, Texas area. Contact us to schedule an appointment.