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Cleaning Swimming Pools

Swimming pools can be a great investment for a homeowner and a popular attraction for neighborhood kids and family gatherings. Unfortunately, swimming pool care can be both time consuming and expensive if you don’t plan ahead and engage in some simple and inexpensive preventative measures.

The first key to swimming pool care is to monitor the pH and Alkalinity of the pool water on a weekly basis. Any good pool supply store will sell a very inexpensive testing kit and all it takes is a small amount of water in a plastic measuring device followed by a couple of chemical drops and you can instantly determine if your pool is out of balance.

If you discover that your pool is out of balance, it is very important to immediately visit your pool care supply dealer to purchase chlorine, shocker or acid to bring the pool back into swimming shape. Failing to do so can result in much bigger problems down the road and can actually promote the growth of harmful microorganisms that can make family members sick if they accidentally swallow the water.

The second key to pool care is to carefully monitor algae growth. During times of the year when the pool is not being regularly used, algae may start to grow along the walls and on the surface of the pool. Ultimately, this algae will make the water cloudy and can actually clog your pool filter. While algae is generally not harmful to humans, it can create unpleasant odors and eye irritation if not treated.

The third and most critical pool care tip is to frequently skim the pool surface with a net to collect dead leaves and other debris. Collecting these items before they break apart and sink below the surface is critical as they may also lead to cloudy water or chemical imbalances as natural material begins to decay in the pool. If the pool allows for the use of a vacuum attachment through the filtering system, it is important to regularly clean the bottom of the pool to collect any natural material which may have begun to sink and which can quickly lead to the other problems described earlier.

Finally, depending on the lining surface of your pool and tile work, calcium deposits may start to form which will eventually take on a rust color. To prevent this unsightly problem, it is important to regularly use an approved tool to scrape off the calcium, followed by a chemical treatment during off-seasons to assure that calcium and rust stains do not return.

Owning a pool is an incredibly rewarding experience and by following these few simple tips, it can become an investment that your family can enjoy for many years to come. Pool care may take a little bit of thought and planning, but ultimately, the rewards will be well worth it.

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