Nothing beats summer’s blistering heat like splashing around in the comfort of your own pool. But without proper care, contaminants can take over and make that private oasis a breeding ground for bacteria, complete with murky water. By establishing a consistent maintenance routine, though, you’ll keep your backyard sanctuary safe, clean, and always ready for use.

Test Your Water Regularly

At least three times a week, check the pH and chlorine levels so algae and bacteria remain at bay. In addition, evaluating the alkalinity and calcium hardness will keep the water clear and the liner intact.

Based on the results, alter your chemical levels to promote a healthy swimming environment.

Consider Chlorine Tablets

Whenever you use liquid chlorine, it raises the level quickly at first, but it also dissipates rapidly, requiring frequent applications.

To avoid the hassle, use chlorine tablets alone or with a liquid solution. The tablets slowly and consistently disperse chlorine, and they’re convenient to use — just place one in the spa dispenser and let it float around.

A word of advice: especially if you’re using both types of chlorine, test your water and then adjust the stabilizer levels accordingly. Be cautious not to overchlorinate, and never place liquid and tablet chlorine in the same dispenser simultaneously.

Use Algaecides as Necessary

While algaecides stop a problem once it arises, you don’t have to wait until you have an issue. Be proactive and incorporate one into your usual maintenance routine.

How often to use an algaecide depends on your diligence in monitoring and maintaining your chemical levels. If you’re not on top of it, your pool could benefit from a once-weekly treatment with an algaecide.

However, if you keep up with testing and regular maintenance, using one only at certain times is adequate, such as when your pool is seeing heavy usage, before a vacation, or when you open or close for the year.

Don’t Skip the Skimming

Especially if you have children (and their friends) entering and exiting the pool frequently, debris builds up fast. That’s not counting the bugs, dirt, and grass floating through the air that end up in the water.

While your filter works hard, cycling all that water takes time. Skimming the pool daily or every other day gives your filter a helping hand so the water is cleaner than the device can manage to keep it on its own.

Brush and Vacuum Weekly

Ideally, brush and vacuum your pool once a week to remove the substances that accumulate on the walls or floor of the pool that your filter may not reach. With brushing and vacuuming, you remove the debris that otherwise could lead to major algae growth or make your water cloudy.

Schedule a Professional Cleaning

Book professional pool services to thoroughly clean your pool and assess for chemical imbalances and early signs of equipment failure. The frequency depends on your usage and maintenance habits, but at least once a month is advisable.

Your pool will remain safe and continue to act as your personal paradise when you consistently clean it and balance the water’s chemistry. And it’s always a good idea to routinely schedule a professional pool cleaning.

Contact S&R Pool & Spa today to book a pool cleaning to keep your water crystal clear and inviting all summer. We proudly serve Hillsborough Township, NJ and the surrounding areas!