The opening of the pool can be a bit of a chore for some pool owners. It can also be a bit challenging to keep up with all the work that needs to be done.
While pools can be high-maintenance, they are well worth the effort. The key to keeping your pool in top condition is to maintain its safety and cleanliness.
Scrubbing
Trim the leaves and debris from the pool surface once a week to keep it looking fresh. Also, scrub the walls once a week to keep the algae from growing.
Cleaning and Rinsing: Pump, Skimmer Basket, Backwash Sand Filter, and Cartridge Filter
Clean the pump and skimmer basket once a week by:
- Turning off the pump;
- Removing the skimmer cap on the pool deck;
- Lifting out the basket;
- Removing its debris; and,
- At the same time, removing the pump cover, removing the basket and removing all debris.
Clean Your Filter
It is important to regularly clean your filter. When the pressure rises to 12 psi, it is time to perform a cleaning.
For sand filters:
- Stop the pump;
- Put the filter on backwash;
- Start the pump and let it run until the water is clear;
- Stop the pump and rinse the filter;
- Start pump for ~10 seconds then turn it off and put the filter back to filtration; and,
- Start pump again.
For cartridge filter:
- Stop the pump and open the filter;
- Remove cartridges;
- Clean the cartridges and reinstall the filter;
- Make sure the filter is closed properly; and,
- Start pump again.
Test and Balance Pool Water
To keep your pool water clean and safe, test the water at least once a week for:
- Cyanuric Acid (pool stabilizer) —protects chlorine from sunlight and determines required Free Chlorine level. The ideal reading is 30 – 50;
- Free Chlorine—sanitizes your pool water (keep between 1 and 3);
- Acidity/Alkalinity/pH—the ideal level is 7.5 – 7.8 to prevent skin irritation and equipment erosion;
- Total Alkalinity—keeps pH balanced, and should be 60 – 120; and,
- Calcium Hardness—prevents damage to plaster. The level should be 220 – 350, or lower for vinyl-lined pools.
Shock Your Pool
If the water in the pool is murky, raise the chlorine level for a few minutes to kill bacteria. Then, gradually add more water to the pool.
Check Your Water Level
The water level should be lowered to the opening of the skimmer. When the water level drops, use a pump to empty the tank.
Wash The Pool Deck
After sweeping away debris, use a power (pressure) washer to clean your pool deck. Go over your deck several times until it’s spotless.
Schedule Yearly Pool Opening Services
Get started with the pool season by hiring a skilled pool professional to check and repair your pool. Doing so will allow them to keep your pool running smoothly and safe.
Winterize Your Pool
Preparing for the upcoming winter season can help prevent damage to your pool equipment. Having the proper closing services can also help keep your pool running smoothly.
Whether it's a pool opening or a repair, contact a pool expert to get the job done right the first time.
This post was originally published on HBPools
If you have any other questions about pool and spa products please do let us know - we are here to help!