Want to keep your swimming pool in top condition but don’t know where to start? Here are some tips you should follow to ensure safe and comfortable swimming conditions:
Regularly Clean the Pool
Swimming in dirty or contaminated water can lead to a range of recreational water illnesses (RWIs), including eye infections, diarrhea, rashes, and bacterial infections. Take the following steps to keep the pool water clean and ensure safety:
Skim the surface: Use a net to remove dirt and debris lying on top of the water. Do this a couple of times a week or after every use.
Clean the skimmer basket: Skimmer baskets are the rectangular openings on the sides of pools. They draw in water from the surface of the pool and collect pollutants. Regularly empty the skimmer basket to avoid blockages.
Backwash the filter: Over time, the pool filter can become clogged with dirt, grease, hair, and sunscreen. Backwashing is the process of reversing the flow of water through the filter. It forces the build-up of debris and contaminants through the waste line, ensuring clean water.
Brush and vacuum surrounding areas: The surrounding surface of your swimming pool can get damaged due to algae and debris buildup. Regularly clean and vacuum the surface to prevent cracks or structural damage. It will also maintain the overall landscaping of your home.
Ensure Proper Chemical Balance
A proper chemical balance offers a safe and enjoyable swimming environment. Frequently test the chemical level of pool water using specialized kits. Here’s a list of standard chemicals and their ideal levels:
- pH – 7.2 to 7.6
- Total Alkalinity – 80 to 120 ppm
- Calcium hardness – 200 to 400 ppm
- Chlorine – 1.0 to 4.0 ppm
One of the most effective ways to balance water chemistry is to shock the pool. This process increases the chlorine levels in the pool water to kill algae, bacteria, and contaminants. After shocking the pool, test the water again at least six hours later and make any necessary adjustments.
Replace and Repair Pool Equipment
By repairing and replacing pool equipment, you can improve energy efficiency and enhance the quality of pool water. Here are four components you should inspect:
- Pool pumps
- Heater
- Lighting
- Sand filter
Depending on usage, get your pool equipment inspected by a professional a couple of times a year. A reliable pool maintenance company, such as WaterTex Pools, will fix minor issues early on, increasing the longevity of your pool and getting you your money’s worth.
Keep an Eye on Water Level
A pool’s filtration and circulation depend on the optimal water level. It should not be below the swimmer’s intake tube, as this can damage the pump. If the water level is too low, the pool chemicals might become too concentrated and cause swimming-related illnesses.
If the pool water level appears too low, run the garden hose in the pool for a few minutes until the water reaches a suitable level.
