Once the days get longer, and the weather starts to heat up, it’s time to open up that swimming pool and start splashing around. Maintaining a healthy and clean swimming pool ensures you’ll have plenty of fun in the sun and can help prevent illness or injury. Maintaining a healthy swimming pool isn’t as complicated or intimidating as it might seem. With the proper knowledge and some basic upkeep, you’ll be able to keep your pool clean and sparkling year-round.
Check the pH Levels
One of the most important things you can do for your pool is to check the pH levels regularly. Keeping your swimming pool’s pH balanced is essential for preventing corrosion, cloudy water, and eye irritation. Check your pH levels at least twice a week and ensure it ranges between 7.2 and 7.8 . Anything lower or higher than this range could be hazardous. Your choice of pH test kit will depend on whether you have a saltwater or freshwater pool, but many kits available can suit your needs.
Shock Treatments
When the pH levels in your swimming pool become unbalanced due to heavy usage or contamination, it’s essential to give the water a shock treatment. This process involves adding chlorine or other chemicals to the water to kill off any bacteria or contaminants. Shock treatments can also help maintain a healthy chlorine level which is necessary for keeping your pool clean and safe.
Clean Your Filters
Your pool’s filters filter out any dirt, debris, and contaminants that find their way into the water – so it’s essential to check and clean them regularly. Depending on your filter type, this may involve backwashing, chemical cleaning, or replacing it entirely. Ideally, you should clean your pool filter at least once every two weeks to keep it functioning correctly and ensure your water stays clear.
Choose Pool Maintenance Products Carefully
When it comes to choosing the right pool maintenance products, there are many options available. Read up on the different products and research before making your purchase. You’ll want to make sure you choose products specifically designed for the size and type of your pool and any contaminants you may be trying to eliminate. HY-CLOR products are great for maintaining chlorine levels and keeping your pool sparkling clean. Environmental-friendly chlorine-free solutions are also available for those who prefer a more natural approach.
Check the Water Level
Keeping your swimming pool’s water level optimal is vital for proper circulation and filtration. Be sure to check the water line periodically, as too much or too little water can cause problems with your filter system and damage other pool components. For above-ground pools, you’ll want to keep the water level about 6 inches below the top of the pool wall.
Get Rid of Residue
Over time, algae and other organic matter can build up on the walls and floor of your pool. This residue can not only be unsightly, but it can also cause health issues if not dealt with properly. The best way to eliminate this unwanted build-up is by scrubbing it off with a brush or chemical cleaner designed for pool surfaces.
If your pool has an excess of algae, you may need to do a special shock treatment to kill it off – just be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. The best way to prevent this build-up in the first place is by cleaning your pool regularly and running your filter system for at least 8 hours a day.
Test the Water Regularly
A good rule is to test the water in your pool every week, or at least twice a month. Testing your pool’s chemistry levels will help you keep track of pH levels, chlorine content and other important factors that can affect the health of your pool. Checking the water quality regularly will also help you identify any problems before they become too severe, and can help you avoid costly and time-consuming repairs in the future.
Keeping a healthy swimming pool doesn’t have to be an overwhelming task. With the right knowledge and a bit of regular maintenance, you can make sure your pool stays clean and inviting year-round, and don’t forget to enjoy it while you’re at it.
