Want to spend a lazy summer day in the pool? Easy, as long as the pool is clean. If it has been left for a while, it will need some work first. Here are three simple DIY tips to keep your pool clean and inviting between professional visits. They are easy to follow and make a big difference. Let’s get started.
3 DIY Pool Maintenance Tips
There are many parts to pool maintenance, but these three habits do the most to keep a pool clean. Read on for the details.
1. Skim and Scrub
Skimming and scrubbing are the foundation of pool care, so make them your top priority. Skimming means removing leaves and other debris from the surface with a skimmer net. Do it every day to keep the pool looking clean.
Scrubbing does not need to be daily, but do it at least once a week. Brush the walls, steps and waterline to remove dirt and stop algae from taking hold. A good-quality pool brush makes the job easier. Or hire a professional pool cleaning service like Clear Tec Pools to do it for you.
2. Rake and Vacuum
A leaf rake, a deep net on a pole, scoops twigs, leaves and other debris off the bottom of the pool, while the water drains through the net. When you buy one, choose a model that is lightweight but sturdy.
A wide net picks up more debris with each pass. Attach it to a telescopic pole so you can reach every part of the pool. Then use a pool vacuum to remove the dirt left on the floor. If your budget allows, a robotic cleaner saves a lot of time.
3. Clean the Filter and Baskets
Good circulation is key to a clean pool. A clogged filter slows circulation and can leave the water cloudy or green even when the chemicals are right. As water passes through the filter, fine particles get trapped, and over time that buildup blocks the filter and makes your pump work harder.
Check the filter’s pressure gauge every week and clean or backwash the filter when it reads 8 to 10 PSI above its normal clean reading. Most debris, sunscreen and oils float on the surface, where the skimmer pulls them in, and they collect in the skimmer basket. Empty the skimmer and pump baskets every week so they do not start to smell or block the flow. Or ask our filter cleaning team to do it for you.
Conclusion
These three tips go a long way toward keeping your pool clean and inviting. A clean pool looks better and is healthier to swim in. Follow them, or hire a professional pool cleaning service to maintain your pool for you.
Read more: Pool Cleaning and Maintenance Hacks
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if a pool has too much chlorine?
Too much chlorine can irritate skin and eyes and cause rashes and red eyes. Some types of chlorine, such as tablets, also lower pH and make the water more acidic. Keep chlorine between 1 and 3 ppm and pH between 7.2 and 7.8. Learn more in our guide to too much chlorine in your pool, or let our water balancing team take care of it.
Do all pools need to be shocked?
Most pools need shocking from time to time, but how often depends on the pool. Shocking clears out bacteria, chloramines, algae and other contaminants that make water cloudy. A well-maintained pool needs it less often, typically every week or two in summer and after heavy use or storms.
Why should you shock a pool at night?
Sunlight breaks down chlorine quickly. Shocking at dusk or at night gives the chlorine several hours to work on contaminants before the sun burns it off.
Need help with your pool in Hoschton or nearby? Call Clear Tec Pools at 678-679-0165 or book online.