6 Little-Known Factors That Could Affect Your Pool Maintenance
Who wants to swim in a dirty pool? In fact, the CDC publishes guidelines regarding pH and chlorine to make sure pool water is clean and safe for swimming.
If you're the pool owner, it's your job to check the chlorine levels and pH balance of the pool water. Pool chemicals and a properly working pool filter are the tools you need.
Having your own backyard pool is all fun and games until your water turns green. Keep reading to learn some lesser-known tips and tricks for your pool maintenance.
1. Brush the Pool Walls
You may not realize it, but dirt and algae accumulate on the walls and floor of your pool. Algae is accumulating before you can even see it. If you have a robot pool cleaner that goes up the walls, this job is done for you.
If not, use a soft pool brush and go along the walls and pool floor to remove dirt and algae. Brush the steps and ladder too to remove hardened debris.
2. Keep the Water Circulating
Run your pool pump for at least 12 hours a day if you have a variable speed pump and a minimum of 6 if you have a single speed pump. When the water is circulating, the pool chemicals get dispersed, contaminants and other particles get trapped in the pool filter, and bacteria and algae growth are inhibited. The goal is to turn the water over at least once a day.
If you're having trouble with keeping your water looking clear, you may need to run the pump overnight for a couple of days.
3. Balanced Chemicals
You may add the same amount of chemicals regularly and your water chemistry may still get out of whack. What affects the water chemistry?
Things like heaving rain and wind, a lot of activity and swimmers in the pool, and extreme temperatures can change the chemistry of the water.
You may need to shock the pool in these instances.
4. Test the Water
Does the water not look quite right? Use a testing kit to determine the pH reading. The pH should stay between 7.2 and 7.6. If it's off, use a pH increaser or decreaser to adjust the pH level.
5. Have a Daily Routine
Establish a daily routine to stay ahead of any problems. Test chlorine and pH levels. Check the water level. It should be around the mid-skimmer level. Empty the skimmer and pump baskets. Lastly, check the filter pressure and pump operation.
6. Once a Week Chores
Weekly maintenance is also important to keep your water crystal clear. Test total alkalinity. It should be between 80 and 120ppm.
Add algaecide, clarifier, and metal control. Add chlorine as needed. If the pressure gauge rises between 7 and 9 psi, you may need to backwash or clean the pool filter.
Pool Maintenance 101
Now that you've learned some pool maintenance tips and tricks, your pool will be ready for whatever fun you have planned.
There's no way around the work that goes with owning a pool, but following these tips and tricks will give you lots of enjoyment.
We at Silver State Pool Service are your number one source for pool cleaning and maintenance. We are certified professionals who offer reliable service. Contact us today for a quick inspection of your pool.
