Depending on how you maintain it, a pool can be a home’s best or worst feature. Pools are relaxing and fun and provide an opportunity for cool and refreshing outdoor activities. However, there are aspects of swimming pool maintenance that aren’t so enjoyable. Here are ways to make the process as easy and cost-effective as possible.
Practice Regular Swimming Pool Maintenance
Here are a few reasons why keeping the swimming pool in great shape is essential.
- to prevent algae and bacteria growth
- to keep the pool pump and filter working correctly
- to maintain the chemical balance, so you don’t have to use as many chemicals, which saves money over time
Consistent cleaning makes the pH balance easier to maintain because there are fewer contaminants in the water to throw off the chemical levels.
Easy Ways to Clean the Pool
The list below contains easy-to-use tools and accessories to help you maintain your swimming pool.
- A pool vacuum is the most common method of cleaning a pool. An automatic vac is effortless to use and doesn’t require much upkeep. It also keeps the water clear and sparkling.
- The pool skimmer will catch debris such as leaves and insects before they get into your filter or clog the filtration system.
- A pool brush helps scrub algae off the pool’s walls and floor. If your pool has grout or tile, use a brush to scrub that line clean.
- If you don’t have a robotic cleaner, a pool net is a tool you’ll use most often for removing large pieces of debris from the water’s surface.
- Use testing strips for the water to determine the pool’s chemical balance. Outdoor pools might become chemically imbalanced due to rain, leaf debris, and heavy use.
Pump Maintenance and Filter Cleanings
Proper pool care means regular pump maintenance and making sure you have the right tools for the job. Keeping the filter clean is essential, so the entire system works effectively. Dirty or clogged filters can cause damage to the pump.
Clean the filters as recommended by the manufacturer, and you’ll enjoy clear water and a healthy swimming pool.
How Often Should You Perform Swimming Pool Maintenance?
How often you should clean your pool depends on many factors. The size of your pool, the time of year, and the number of people using it play a role in determining how often you need to perform pool maintenance.
For small pools with less than 1,000 gallons (3,785 liters) of water, cleaning every two to three weeks is usually sufficient. For larger pools or areas with high levels of chlorine absorption, like desert climates, this increases to once per week. Large pools with heavy use during hot summer months may need daily cleaning.
TUFF Home Inspections offers inspections to home buyers and sellers in New Jersey, including pool inspections. Contact us to request our services.