Longtime pool supply owners know regular maintenance and a smart set of pool supplies are necessary to make sure their swimming pools remain inviting, but first-time owners may not realize that just a little neglect – however unintentional – can cause the pool environment to turn ugly fast.
Here are four tips on maintenance that every first-time pool owner can benefit from:
- Automatic pool cleaners will make your maintenance routine a lot simpler, faster and noticeably less taxing. Suction cleaners that attach to your filter system are popular; another option is the pressure cleaner, which connects to the pool’s return line for power. If you can afford it, a robotic pool cleaner often includes high-tech features and needs no hooking up – simply let it run freely and methodically around your pool at least once a week for excellent results.
- Automatic pool supply cleaners are very effective, but they cannot be successful alone. You may be tempted to leave every bit of cleaning to your vacuum, but even a top-of-the-line vacuum can’t decontaminate your pool 100 percent. That’s why it is critical to devote a few minutes several times a week to brushing the pool’s sides and bottom, and skimming the water’s surface for leaves and other debris before they fall to the floor, where they will be much more challenging to pick up. Focus on trouble spots that the vacuum may have difficulty accessing or the pump and filter cannot fully reach. An inexpensive leaf net and nylon brush are invaluable to your arsenal of pool products.
- Adjust your use of chemicals depending on the condition of your pool. Pool chemicals such as chlorine are vital to the cleanliness of your pool, but how much you add to the water really does vary and depends on a number of factors, including how often the pool is used, if it sees a significant amount of falling leaves and other debris, and if you have faced severe weather conditions in recent days, such as exceptional rain or heat. If you clean your pool frequently, you may find yourself in need of fewer chemicals to achieve the right balance. Use convenient test kits to monitor the levels.
- Do not neglect your equipment. Regularly check your filter system, pool, heater and other pool supply products to make sure they are working properly and free of debris. Careful maintenance of your most valuable pool supplies will lengthen their lifespans and support greater efficiency.
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