Keeping your pool clean and safe is something that requires regular upkeep. If this is your first time owning a pool, though, you might feel a little overwhelmed with all the maintenance that’s involved.
The good news is that with a simple weekly routine, you can keep your pool sparkling clean and ready for a swim at any time. Here are the weekly pool maintenance tips that you need to follow:
Understanding Your Pool’s Needs
Every pool is different, depending on size, material, and filtration system. Before getting started, take the time to learn about your pool’s specific requirements. Some pools may need more frequent cleaning, while others have advanced filtration systems that do a lot of the work for you. Once you understand your pool, maintaining it becomes much easier.
Skimming and Cleaning the Pool Surface
Leaves, bugs, and other debris can quickly turn a pool from inviting to unpleasant. Skimming the surface at least once a week helps prevent buildup and keeps your pool looking pristine. A long-handled skimmer net makes this job easy, allowing you to remove floating debris before it sinks and becomes harder to clean.
Besides skimming, don’t forget to brush the pool walls and steps. Algae and dirt can stick to these surfaces, creating slippery spots and making the water look cloudy. Using a pool brush at least once a week helps prevent buildup and keeps the walls and floor clean.
Checking and Balancing the Water Chemistry
Water chemistry is one of the most important aspects of pool maintenance. If your pool’s pH, chlorine, and alkalinity levels are off, it can lead to cloudy water, algae growth, or even skin irritation. Testing your pool water weekly ensures everything stays balanced.
A simple test kit or test strips can tell you the pH and chlorine levels. Ideally, your pH should be between 7.2 and 7.6, while chlorine levels should stay between 1 and 3 parts per million (ppm). If your pH is too high or low, adding the right chemicals will bring it back to the ideal range. Keeping your water balanced helps prevent bigger problems down the road.
Cleaning the Pool Filter
Your pool’s filter plays a crucial role in keeping the water clean. Whether you have a sand, cartridge, or DE (diatomaceous earth) filter, it needs regular attention. A clogged filter won’t work efficiently, leading to dirty water and extra strain on your pool system.
Check your filter every week to see if it needs cleaning. If you have a cartridge filter, rinsing it off with a hose is usually enough. For sand and DE filters, backwashing is the best way to remove trapped debris. Keeping the filter clean ensures proper circulation and reduces the risk of cloudy water.
Keeping an Eye on the Water Level
Pools naturally lose water due to evaporation, splashing, and backwashing. If the water level gets too low, the pump could suck in air, causing potential damage. On the other hand, too much water can reduce the effectiveness of your chemicals.
Once a week, take a look at the water level and make adjustments if needed. If it’s too low, simply add more water with a hose. Conversely, if it’s too high, you may need to drain some water to restore balance.
Shocking the Pool When Needed
Even with regular chlorine use, contaminants such as body oils, sunscreen, and sweat can build up in the water. This can lead to a strong chlorine smell or cloudy water. To prevent this, shocking the pool every one to two weeks is a good idea.
Pool shock is a high dose of chlorine that helps kill bacteria and break down organic matter. It’s best to do this in the evening so the sun doesn’t burn off the chlorine too quickly. After shocking, wait until chlorine levels return to a safe range before swimming again.
Best Buy Pool Supply Makes Pool Maintenance Easy
Best Buy Pool Supply is your one-stop destination for everything you need to maintain your swimming pool. They stock a wide range of maintenance products, from pool chemicals to vacuum hoses. Keep your swimming pool sparkling clean and visit Best Buy Pool Supply now!
