If you live in an area with hot summers and own a swimming pool, then you already know that keeping it clean and sparkling can sometimes feel like a full-time job. With the sun beating down, water evaporating faster, and algae growing quicker than you can blink, it takes a little extra effort to stay ahead.
The good news is that maintaining your pool in the heat isn’t as hard as it seems once you know what to focus on. Here’s a swimming pool maintenance guide for you:
Keep Your Water Level in Check
Pool water evaporates quickly in hot weather. You might notice the level dropping faster than usual, especially during peak summer months. This is dangerous because if your pool water’s level gets too low, it can damage your pump or filtration system.
Prevent this from happening by making a habit of checking the water line of your swimming pool a few times a week. If it dips below the skimmer opening, top it up with fresh water. Remember, though, that adding water also dilutes your chemicals, so make sure to test and adjust afterward.
Stay on Top of Water Chemistry
Heat and sunlight can mess with your pool’s chemistry, especially its chlorine levels. UV rays break chlorine down faster, leaving your water unprotected.
To keep things balanced, test your pool at least two to three times a week. A small investment in a reliable test kit will save you from murky or unsafe water later on. Aim for a chlorine level between 1 to 3 ppm and a pH level of around 7.4 to 7.6. Using a stabilizer, also known as cyanuric acid, can help protect chlorine from the harsh rays of the sun.
Keep Algae at Bay
Hot, sunny weather is perfect for swimming. Unfortunately, it also creates the perfect conditions for algae growth. Algae thrive in warm, stagnant water, turning your pool from clear blue to cloudy green.
Prevention is the best defense. To keep the water in your swimming pool circulating, run your pump daily for at least 8 to 10 hours. It’s also a good idea to brush the walls and floor weekly to remove any buildup of algae. Finally, shock your pool once a week to kill off any lingering spores before they take over.
Clean Your Filters Regularly
Your pool’s filter works overtime in a hot climate. Dust, pollen, sunscreen, and debris all end up in your water, especially during windy or dry weather.
Cleaning or backwashing your filter regularly is recommended – do so every one to two weeks depending on usage. A clogged filter can reduce circulation and make it harder for your chemicals to do their job. If your pressure gauge reads higher than normal, that’s a sign it’s time for a rinse.
Alternatively, Let Smith Pool Take Care of Your Pool Maintenance
As you can see, a lot goes into properly caring for your swimming pool. Fortunately, Smith Pool is here to help. They’ve been serving the Greater Memphis Area since 1977! Visit their website to put in a service request today, or call 901-512-6662.
