Pool season means sunshine, laughter, and refreshing dips in your own backyard oasis! But what happens when that crystal-clear water starts to turn murky or a green film creeps across the walls? While shocking is a crucial part of pool maintenance, some common mistakes can actually make things worse. Let’s continue reading to learn the 4 swimming pool maintenance mistakes to avoid.
Mistake #1: Adding Pool Shock Directly to the Water
Pool shock, also known as chlorine shock, is a concentrated form of chlorine used to kill bacteria and eliminate algae. However, tossing those granules directly into your pool is a recipe for disaster. Undiluted shock can bleach your pool liner, damage surrounding surfaces, and irritate swimmers’ eyes.
Solution: Always pre-dissolve pool shock in a bucket of water before adding it to your pool. This ensures even distribution throughout the water, maximizing its effectiveness and protecting your pool.
Mistake #2: Adding Shock Through Your Skimmer
The skimmer basket is your pool’s faithful friend, scooping up leaves, debris, and surface scum before they sink and settle. But it’s not the best place for pool shock. Here’s why:
- Chemical Explosion Risk: Some pool skimmers have automatic chlorinators that dispense chlorine tablets slowly. Adding pool shock directly through the skimmer could create a dangerous mix of concentrated chemicals, potentially causing an explosion.
- Uneven Distribution: Shock needs to circulate freely throughout the pool water. Adding it through the skimmer concentrates it in one area, making it less effective.
Solution: Bypass the skimmer altogether. Pour the pre-dissolved pool shock directly into the pool water, ensuring even distribution around the perimeter.
Mistake #3: Shocking Your Pool During the Day
Sunshine might feel lovely on your skin, but it’s not the best friend of pool shock. Here’s the deal:
- Chlorine Breakdown: Sunlight rapidly breaks down chlorine, rendering your shock treatment less effective.
- Safety Concerns: Strong sunlight combined with concentrated chlorine can irritate swimmers’ eyes and skin.
Solution: Shock your pool in the evening when the sun has set. This allows the chlorine to work its magic overnight, effectively tackling bacteria and algae growth.
Mistake #4: Using an Automatic Pool Cleaner System for an Algae Problem
Automatic pool cleaners are fantastic for keeping your pool free of leaves and debris. However, they’re not the answer for a full-blown algae attack. Here’s why:
- Limited Algae Removal: Most automatic pool cleaners simply stir up algae, redistributing it around the pool instead of removing it.
- Filter Clogging: Disturbed algae can clog your pool filter, requiring manual cleaning and potentially shortening its lifespan.
Solution: For an algae problem, a multi-pronged approach is needed. First, manually brush the walls to dislodge the algae. Then, shock the pool according to the instructions (following the tips above!) to kill the algae. Finally, run your pool filter continuously for 24 hours to remove dead algae particles.
Sparkling Clear Pool Service – Your Partner for Swimming Pool Maintenance
Maintaining a sparkling clean pool shouldn’t be a mystery. By avoiding these shocking mistakes and following proper pool care practices, you can enjoy a crystal-clear pool all summer long.
Still feeling overwhelmed? At Sparkling Clear Pool Service, our experienced pool technicians offer various pool maintenance services, including professional shocking, algae treatment, and filter cleaning. Contact us today to have your pool sparkling in no time, guaranteed.
