Having a swimming pool is an investment, but those homeowners who have one say it’s one of the best decisions they’ve made. A backyard pool not only provides exercise and entertainment, but it can also add to the real estate value of your home. Swimming in clear blue water in privacy whenever you please is a special treat, but swimming pools require regular maintenance to keep them operating properly and safely for years to come. Check out our pool and spa professionals’ recommendations for effortless maintenance.
The Daily Chores
A backyard swimming pool can bring endless hours of fun, but there are a couple of tasks that should be performed daily. The first is to remove leaves, bugs and debris floating about with a skimmer net. The second little job is to empty the skimmer basket and check under the skimmer lid. Leaving a clogged basket isn’t good for your pool because it causes your pump to work harder to circulate the water.
The Weekly Tasks
Remove the dirt buildup by vacuuming the pool’s floor and walls. The second once-a-week chore is to eliminate algae that often grows on surfaces, like your pool’s steps and ladders. Brush down these surfaces with a stainless steel-bristle pool brush.
The Monthly Assignment
It’s time to inspect your pool’s hardware features for rust or damage, such as the rails and ladders. Another once-a-month task involves a bit of muscle: Wipe down your swimming pool’s waterline to remove oils or any other residue, such as sunscreen.
Chemical Ratios
Clean, clear, safe and sanitary water is essential for every backyard pool, and it all boils down to balancing the chemicals with these five key components: total alkalinity, pH levels, chlorine/sanitation, calcium hardness and cyanuric acid.
The homeowner’s job is to collect and test water samples. Tests can be performed with store-bought test strips. You can make chemical adjustments as needed.
If you ignore your pool’s chemical balance, water quality will suffer, making it unhealthy for swimming, and it will eventually “eat away” at your pool’s surfaces, liner, heaters and pumps.
The Winter Shutdown
Preparing your pool for winter involves steps, including a thorough deep clean, proper chemical treatments and a pool cover for protection against the elements. Pool water should be drained from the pipes, filters and pumps to prevent freezing and costly repairs.
You should also periodically have your pool inspected by an expert. They can spot hidden problems and work with you to fix them. If you’re living in Hillsborough, NJ, and looking for exceptional swimming pool experts, contact S&R Pool & Spa today for pool service plans and more.