An inground swimming pool is a lot of work. From knowing when to open and close the pool to determining when it’s time for a new vinyl liner, proper pool maintenance is an everyday chore. Some days the tasks are easy and will only take a few minutes. Other days, you may need to spend a few hours brushing, sweeping, and picking out pieces of debris. Proper pool maintenance should be approached seriously. Your pool is an investment. Keeping it working properly will help it last for several years.
Know When to Open and Close Your Pool
Knowing when to open and close your pool is important. It’s time to open the pool when daily temps are at least 70 degrees or above. When you are ready to open your pool, you will need to remove the pool cover and thoroughly clean the pool. Brush the sides and remove any type of debris you find. Turn on the pump/filter system to ensure that it is working correctly, and then add the necessary chemicals to make sure the water is properly balanced. Make sure to let the chemicals cycle through for at least one or two days before taking your first dip.
When the average daily temps begin to fall below 40 to 45 degrees, you need to prepare your pool for winter. After you have thoroughly cleaned the pool one last time, you will need to make sure the water has the right chemical balance. Make sure the chemicals are allowed to circulate for at least 24 hours. Lower your water level by following your manufacturers’ instructions. Take out the plugs and remove any water from the filter. Winterize all of the plumbing and water lines as well. Make sure ladders are taken out and properly stored. Put the pool cover in place and secure it carefully.
There are several steps involved in opening and closing your pool. Take a few minutes and talk to a pool professional to make sure you cover all the bases.
Sufficient Water Level
In order for your pump and skimmer to work properly, your pool has to have the right amount of water in it. While you will rarely have to drain water out of your pool, you may have to add water occasionally. Check your water level every day to ensure it is at the right level on your skimmer. If you are unsure about the correct levels, talk to your pool professionals to learn how to check your water levels properly. Most pool professionals will discourage you from completely draining your swimming pool. While lowering the water level slightly may be acceptable, draining it may lead to issues and costly repairs.
Get Rid of Any Debris
Even with a pool cover, small amounts of debris will make their way into your swimming pool. Every day, you should check your pool carefully and scoop out even small pieces of debris. Allowing debris to accumulate can clog your skimmer and cause your pump and filter to work too hard. It can also damage your filtration system. It’s also a good idea to go over your pool thoroughly after you have brushed all the surfaces. Skimming the pool with your net will get rid of any junk that may have been left behind.
Find Your Balance
Always check your pool’s chemical balance on a regular basis. In some cases, you may need to check it every day. Low chlorine can lead to algae growth. Use test strips to determine what chemicals your pool needs and then work to bring the water back into balance. With the right chemical balance, the water will remain sparkling clean and you won’t have to brush it as often.
Keep It Clean
Get rid of algae and other types of residue and build-up by brushing the surface of your pool. A good cleaning and maintaining proper chlorine levels will minimize the amount of algae in your pool. Brushing the pool is only one step in the process. You will also have to check the skimmer basket and filter on a regular basis to ensure that they’re debris-free. Cleaning, or at least checking them on a daily basis, is important if you want your pool to look clean and your system to function properly.
Replacing Your Pool’s Liner
Over the years, you may notice that your pool is losing water at a much faster rate. You may also notice a color change in the liner that makes your pool look dingy and dirty. You may also start to see weakened areas of the liner or small imperfections that may start to cause problems if left alone. Any of these issues can be a cause for concern, signaling that it’s time to replace your pool’s liner. Always rely on professionals when replacing your pool liner.
Learning how to maintain your inground pool properly will take some time. Whether you’re looking to maintain your pool or get a new one, allow the professionals to help. At Sparkling Clear Pool Service, we understand what it takes to keep a pool clean, sanitary, and well-maintained. Be sure to contact us on 214-361-0255 for all of your pool maintenance needs in McKinney, Allen, Frisco, and beyond!
