Swimming Pool Maintenance

Pools are a source of fun, relaxation and enjoyment. However, swimming pools also require proper maintenance and due care. Owners must show a certain level of commitment in keeping the pool free of bacteria and other debris. Proper swimming pool maintenance and care is an important aspect of owning and enjoying a pool. Swimming pool maintenance involves two critical elements - maintaining the right chemical balance of the water and removal of dirt and foreign particles.

Swimming pool maintenance

At the beginning of summer, you need to prepare the pool for use. Check to see that the filter and pump are working properly and clean the hair and lint trap. Make sure that the water is able to flow properly. Check filter pressure and ensure that strainer basket is free from debris. Inspect the jets which should ideally be at 45 degree angle.

Clean the pool of dirt, algae and other contaminants. Dirt, pollen, bacteria, leaves and dust are brought in to the pool by the wind. Once you start using the pool, pool users add sunscreen, sweat, urine and viruses to the water. The pump removes most of the floating particles, so it should run for a minimum of 6 -8 hours per day. Most pumps have a timer that controls the pump's cycle, ensuring that all of the water is filtered.

Regular brushing and vacuuming of swimming pools is essential to keep it free from debris and dirt. Brush the walls and floor of the pool once a week with a stiff brush and once the dirt settles down; vacuum the bottom of the pool. Then backwash the filter. Use a leaf net to keep the pool free of falling leaves. Check for possible cracks or loose tiles in the pool deck if you notice loss of more than quarter inch of water a day. You can make use of automatic pool cleaners that can make light work of swimming pool maintenance. Pressure cleaners and suction cleaners can aid in cleaning of the swimming pool.

Maintenance swimming pool water

You also need to analyze the water and make sure that it is chemically balanced before using the pool. Take a quart of water to your authorized pool dealer, who will analyze it and tell you the adjustments to be made. In order to get an authentic sample of pool water, rinse a bottle with the pool water. Hold the bottle upside down as you dip the bottle in the pool and once the bottle is completely submerged under the water, turn it right side up again.

After analyzing the water the pool dealer will recommend certain products to balance the water chemically. The pool water should be at a level of 7.2 - 7.4 on the pH scale. This shows how acidic or basic your water is. If the pH level is higher than this, the chlorine will be neutralized; if it is lower, it can cause irritation to the eyes. The pH level has a tendency to rise gradually; hence it should be checked at least once a week.

Next, check the total alkanity, which should be 50 - 130 ppm (parts per million). If the level is too high, add muriatic acid to the deep end of the pool when the circulation is off. You also need to measure the calcium hardness which should be in between 200 - 1000 ppm. Keeping calcium hardness balanced is important in order to prevent corrosion.

You need to add cyaniuric acid which prevents the sun from dissolving the chlorine quickly. The ideal level of cyaniuric acid is 40 - 80 ppm. You also need to add water to the pool regularly, to maintain its proper levels. Check to see that the filter and pump are working properly and clean the hair and lint trap. Make sure that the water is able to flow properly.

Inspect the jets which should ideally be at a 45 degree angle. Make sure the skimmer baskets are empty and clear of leaves and other debris. Unchecked algae growth can turn the pool cloudy or make the pool water green and results in foul odors and tastes. Some algae like the Black algae can also stain the walls and floors. Treat it with chlorine and algaecide. You can use sanitizing chemicals to prevent growth of bacteria.

A pool cover keeps debris out and reduces evaporation, in addition to being a safety device. Following the above steps will allow you to maintain a clean, safe and chemically balanced swimming pool that you can enjoy. Taking good care of your pool will ensure that you can enjoy your pool during the summer and years to come.