Many first time home buyers are fascinated by the thought of having a pool. There is no argument that a pool in one’s backyard can be quite a luxury and would also be a great way to spend time with family and friends, especially during summers.
While having a pool could be an amazing feature, managing and maintaining one is another story altogether. There is no doubt that swimming pools require maintenance. But if you want to enjoy the perks offered by your pool, you should also be willing to undertake some basic maintenance to keep it up and running.
The following are some tips on how to maintain your swimming pool:
Be Regular:
The first thing you need to know is that pool maintenance is not an annual or a seasonal event; it must be done on a weekly basis. If you do not maintain this schedule, your pool will not remain clean or safe for swimming.
Remove Debris:
No matter where you live in North America, leaves and insects are two things which tend to accumulate in the swimming pool. Plus, weather in this region can often be unpredictable. High winds and heavy rains can bring a lot of debris. Unless you have an indoor pool, this debris will have to be removed from the pool otherwise the ducts and filter will become blocked. If debris is not handled quickly, it can settle down at the bottom of the pool and could stain the tiles if not removed. There are many types of brushes and leaf collectors that you can buy in a hardware store to perform this task. People often use a water vacuum to collect the sediment from the bottom of the pool. In addition, you may have to brush off all the sediment and dirt that collects around the sides and edges of the pool. Finally, keep all your equipment clean as well so that they continue to function properly.
Check Water Circulation:
You should also regularly check the pool’s circulation system which includes the pump, skimmer, drains, and filter. It is the circulation system that filters the water and makes sure that your pool is clean. You will need to run the pump almost every day in the summer to ensure that the water is being properly filtered. Repairing this item a costly undertaking if you fail to maintain it.
Clean Filter:
Every pool has a filter that screens out particles and debris from the pool water. This filter has to be cleaned and maintained as directed by the manufacturer. If the filter is not cleaned or replaced, it could lead to the accumulation of debris and poor function of the pump.
Shock treatment:
Shocking the pool is mandatory as it will get rid of anything that may make the water in your pool appear slimy and murky. Unclean water in your pool can be disastrous for you and your family. It can cause skin and eye irritation and can also cause infections. Regular shock treatments can cleanse the water of bacteria, algae, suntan lotion, makeup, urine, food particles and any organic matter that may have accidentally entered the pool. Shock at least weekly during the summer and more frequently when the pool is in heavy use. Check the pH and free chlorine in the water. You may have to perform additional shock treatment when the weather is rough like during windstorms, and/or heavy rains or when there is a foul smell in the water, the water appears slimy or there is visible algae growth.There are several types of shock products that will breakdown suntan lotions cosmetics, sweat and other body water like urine out of the pool water. Shocking also reduces bad odor and risk of eye irritation. Shock treatment can restore your pool back to normal within 20-30 minutes.
Maintain The Right PH, Calcium Hardness Levels and Alkalinity:
By doing so, you will prevent your equipment from corroding and etching. In addition, the water balance also prevents scale formation that can cloud your water, stain the surface and damage the motor pump. More importantly, the right water balance can help prevent skin and eye irritation.
Algae
During warm, humid weather, one thing you will not be able to avoid is growth of algae. If you leave this growth unchecked,the water will become cloudy which in turn can clog up the filter and decrease the effectiveness of pool chemicals. The most important thing is to prevent algae formation in the first place and this can be accomplished by using algaecide even if you have no algae growth. Chlorine levels between 1-4 ppm can effective prevent algae formation. There are several options for chlorinating your pool; you may use tablets, liquid chlorine or granules.
Many families dream of a house with a pool. The dream is achievable but it is important to maintain your dream pool by following these strategies and tips.
