Swimming Pool Maintenance Tasks That Should be Completed
Along with the fun and relaxation that a swimming pool offers, there are tasks that come with having one so that your pool stays clean and safe. Here are some tips for swimming pool maintenance that will help you keep your pool in great shape.
1. Skimming
Skimming is an easy part of swimming pool maintenance. A skimmer is a tool that has a net on the end of a long pole. Several times a week remove debris from the pool’s surface with the skimmer. The pool also has skimmer baskets that need to be emptied to keep the filter and pump operating properly.
2. Swimming Pool Maintenance Includes Vacuuming
Be sure to vacuum your pool at least once per week. You can perform this task manually with a pool vacuum that you guide or purchase an automatic vacuum that moves autonomously along the bottom of the pool.
3. Brushing
The sides of the pool should be brushed every two weeks to prevent algae build-up. Wire or steel brushes work better for concrete and other rough surfaces while soft nylon brushes should be used on materials like fiberglass and vinyl.
4. Cleaning the Filter
Taking care of your filter is another important part of swimming pool maintenance. The most common types of pool filters are sand, diatomaceous earth (DE), and cartridge.
Sand filters and DE filters should be back washed for 3-5 minutes. More DE will need to be added after this process for the latter. A cartridge filter can be taken out and cleaned with a garden hose. Sand filters aren’t as effective as DE and cartridge filters, so you might consider replacing your sand filter with another type.
5. Maintaining the Water Level
Pools will lose water to evaporation over time. To avoid damage to the pump, the water level should always be above the skimmer basket intake tubes. Use your garden hose to fill your pool to the right level. However, you shouldn’t need to frequently add water to a swimming pool. The need for daily refills may indicate that you have a leak. Call a professional because repairing a pool leak is not DIY swimming pool maintenance.
6. Testing the Water is Important for Swimming Pool Maintenance
There are several types of pool test kits for the chemistry of pool water. Testing should be done regularly. Water that’s too acidic or too alkaline can cause skin or eye irritation and damage the walls and pool equipment. Follow the test kit’s instructions to understand the pH level of your pool. Add chlorine when the chlorine level falls below one part per million (less than 1ppm).
Lakeland Home Inspection Service offers swimming pool inspections and other home inspection services. We’ll look for safety issues and maintenance concerns so you can get your pool in top condition for summertime. Contact us to schedule an appointment.