Having a pool is incredible. It can be the perfect place to host weekend parties or just a private get together with friends. Swimming in the pool is also a great way to stay in shape, especially if you are into healthy living. You can also spend your time lounging on the poolside to get that perfect tan skin your friends will talk about. And if you are keen to find out more on how to open an above ground pool, be sure to check this article out. There are just so many things you can do with a pool but often times, pool owner tend to forget one of the most important thing – pool maintenance.
A pool is an investment and you should keep it properly maintained so you can use it for many years. A lovely pool that is not well maintained could turn ugly or worse, it can pose a threat to your health. When the water on the pool is dirty, bacterial build up is expected and swimming in the pool is not safe at all. So what should you do then to keep your pool in its pristine condition? Here are some 10 pool maintenance tips that you need to try right now:
Clear out the area with debris and leaves
Regular skimming and scrubbing debris and fallen leaves on the surface of the water is one way to have a truly pristine pool. Skimming should be done every day to prevent these debris from sinking into the bottom; which will make your work harder when it happens. You can use a strainer basket to remove floating leaves from the water. You might also like to consider buying a robot vacuum to clean the mess that has already sunk into the bottom of the pool.
Clean your swimming pool filter
The main function of your swimming pool’ filter is to strain and remove impurities of your pool. There are basically 3 types of pool filters; the cartridge, sand and diatomaceous. Regardless of the type of pool filter you are using; it is vital to clean your pool filter at least once a month. You would also like to check the filter for any damage and deformities. Should you decide to change your pool filter, consider a filter made of stainless steel casting as it is found to be more durable and deforming-proof.
Check the water’s pH level
Keeping the right pH level of a swimming pool’s water is a no-brainer. A swimming pool water with incorrect balance of chemicals in it will appear murky and easily irritates our skin and eyes. There is also a possible for it to become a breeding ground for bacteria. It is important to test pool’s water at least once or twice a week. Ideally, your pool’s water should be kept between 7.2 to 7.8 pH level. If you find that it’s too acidic, you should learn how to lower pool alkalinity so the water won’t cause harm to you and other swimmers. If you ran out of chemicals to balance the chemistry of your pool’s water, then why not use a baking soda. Sodium bicarbonate has the same concentration as baking soda so it wouldn’t be too hard for you to apply the right amount on the water.
Don’t hesitate to get professional help for your pool heater
Pool heater is one of the parts of your swimming pool that requires the least maintenance. Electric heaters can last for as long as 5 years without maintenance while gas heaters can last for a couple of years. However, in case you would need to have your heater checked and maintained, always get the help of professional pool heater maintenance as they have better knowledge on it.
Absorb oils with tennis balls
Who says tennis balls are only for playing catch when in the pool? People swimming in the pool tends to leave oils in the water; these oils could be from the sunscreen lotion you applied before going in the water, from the conditioner you applied on your hair, or the oil that comes naturally from our skin. These oils can alter the pH level of the water if not addressed properly. To settle this problem, just throw in your tennis balls into the water. The fiber materials from the ball will absorb the oils in it helping your pool maintain its cleanliness.
Winterize your pool properly
Securing your pool for the winter season is one important maintenance tip that you should not forget. You wouldn’t want to discover that your pool has become a breeding ground for bacteria or has leakage during the cold season, would you? Invest in good glass railings to keep stray animals from going to your pool. Glass railings are easy to install; you just need to have it properly fixed on the surface with glass spigots. Then remove any excess water out of the pool and have it covered to protect it against falling branches and debris.
