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Owning a swimming pool is a joy, but it also comes with responsibility. To ensure that it remains safe and inviting, it’s important to perform regular maintenance and cleaning. In turn, this can enhance the longevity of the pool. The process involves understanding pool chemistry, and using the right tools regularly. In this article, we’ll walk you through the necessary steps to keep your pool crystal clear and ready for enjoyment.
Understand Why It’s Essential
As we’ve just touched on, regular pool maintenance is important for three primary reasons: health, aesthetics, and longevity. Stagnant water or irregular cleaning can lead to the growth of bacteria and algae. In turn, this can be harmful to the health of swimmers.
A clean and clear pool is visually appealing and inviting, whether it’s being used by your family or guests. Thanks to regular maintenance, you can extend the life of the pool and its equipment. In return for your diligence, it can save you costly repairs and replacements in the long run.
Invest In A Robotic Pool Cleaner
These advanced devices are designed to save you time and effort. Robotic cleaners are equipped with powerful suction capabilities. This enables them to remove small particles (like dirt and dust) and large debris (such as leaves and twigs) from the water. They have intelligent algorithms that allow them to efficiently navigate through the pool. This ensures that every corner and surface is thoroughly cleaned. They can climb walls, reach tight corners, and clean steps effortlessly. They can scrub the walls and floor of the pool, using rotating brushes or jets of water.
These cleaners leave no room for dirt or algae buildup, plus they’re energy-efficient. They typically operate on low-voltage power supplies, saving electricity and helping reduce costs long-term. Specialist websites discussing automatic robot pool cleaners cover their importance and benefits. You can buy trusted brands that have durable and long-lasting designs, and that feature advanced cleaning technology. They’re easy to use and maintain, and can be operated using a smartphone.
Regularly Perform Skimming And Scrubbing
A hand skimmer is an easy and efficient tool to collect leaves, bugs, and other floating debris. It’s important to do this before they become waterlogged, and sink to the bottom. Skim your pool every day (or at least every other day) to keep the surface sparkling clean.
Likewise, scrubbing the sides of the pool prevents algae buildup. A long-handled scrubbing brush makes it easy to reach every area of the pool. Pay special attention to areas that are hidden or shaded, as they offer perfect conditions for algae growth. Scrub the pool once a week, using a chlorine-based cleaner for stubborn spots.
Frequently Vacuum The Pool And Decode Its Circulation System
Skimming and scrubbing only address debris on the surface and sides of the pool. For a thorough clean, regular vacuuming is necessary. Whether you choose a manual pool vacuum or an automatic pool cleaner depends on your budget and convenience. It’ll clean the bottom of the pool and also the pool walls, picking up any debris that was missed during scrubbing.
The circulation system of a swimming pool (comprising the pump, filter, drains, and skimmers) plays a vital role in keeping the pool clean. The pump acts as the system’s heart. It moves the water and pushes it through the filter to remove debris and contaminants. Skimmers collect larger debris floating on the surface, before they sink to the bottom and become difficult to remove. Understanding your pool’s circulation system will allow you to spot any irregularities or malfunctions. If you rectify these quickly, you can ensure efficient operation, and enjoy a clean pool.
Maintain Balanced Pool Chemistry
This is crucial to prevent the growth of bacteria and algae, ensuring the water is safe for swimmers. The important parameters to monitor and control are:
- the pool’s pH level
- the level of alkalinity
- the concentration of sanitizers such as chlorine or bromine
The pH level measures how acidic or basic the water is, and alkalinity acts as a buffer. In turn, it prevents sudden pH changes which can be harmful to swimmers and pool equipment. Chlorine or bromine are sanitizers used to kill bacteria and other microorganisms in the pool water. It’s essential to maintain the proper sanitizer level in the pool at all times.
Maintain Your Filter And Shock The Pool
The filter plays a key role in keeping your pool hygienic, by removing small debris. However, it can only do its job if it’s kept clean. Whether you have a cartridge, sand, or diatomaceous earth (D.E.) filter, regular cleaning is essential. However, don’t do this too often, as a slightly dirty filter traps debris more effectively than a completely clean one.
Over time, contaminants such as sweat, oils, and cosmetics can build up in your pool. This leads to cloudy water and an overly strong chlorine smell. This is where “shocking” your pool (or super-chlorinating) comes in. This involves adding a large amount of chlorine (or non-chlorine shock) to the water, to kill algae and other contaminants. This restores the water clarity and eliminates the chlorine odor. The frequency of shocking depends on pool usage and environmental factors. Generally, you should shock your pool once a week during the swimming season.
Use A Pool Cover And Consider Professional Help
A cover can significantly reduce the amount of debris that gets into your pool. It can also limit water evaporation. For heated pools, a cover can help to maintain the water temperature, reducing energy costs.
Despite your best efforts, there might be times when it’s best to call in a professional pool cleaning service. They’ll have the expertise to deep clean your pool and adjust the chemical levels accurately. An annual or bi-annual professional cleaning can help to keep your pool in top condition, and extend its lifespan.
A clean pool is a healthy pool, and one that’s inviting for all to enjoy. With these tips, you can make sure it remains a beautiful and enjoyable feature of your home. It can add property value, and be of long-lasting benefit.
