Summer is here! Here is a list of Do’s and Don’ts to efficiently run your pool and to avoid costly and frustrating pool maintenance mistakes.
Do’s:
1. Store your pool maintenance supplies and chemicals in a cool, dry place and not in the sun.
2. Keep a regular maintenance schedule. Test your water weekly with an at home test or strips. Have your pool store professionally test your water bi-weekly or at least once a month. Apply chemicals accordingly.
3. Run your filter as much everyday as possible. During the summer months keep your filter running 12+ hours a day for best results. If you want to save on electricity, run your pool overnight rather than during the day.
4. Purchase your pool chemicals (chlorine tabs, shock, alkalinity etc.) in bulk in the beginning of the season. You can save up to 50% on your chlorine costs alone by doing this.
5. Keep an eye on your water level. If your water line is halfway up your skimmer, your pool will automatically skim the top of the water, clearing most of the bugs, leaves and other debris.
6. Do your best to keep vegetation, grass clippings, fertilizers etc. out and away from your pool. This will minimize the possibility of having phosphates in your pool or feeding algae.
7. Backwash your filter when your pressure gauge reads 8-10psi higher than when it is clean. You can also plan to backwash after vacuuming your pool, but do not backwash more than once a week to ensure your filter’s optimal functionality.
Don’ts:
1. Do not apply chemicals, especially chlorine products, to your pool during the heat of the day. The optimal time to shock or put other chemicals in is in the evening or at night.
2. Don’t forget to brush! Brushing your pool will not only help keep algae and other contaminants from growing on your walls or tile line but it will extend the life of your surface and tile as well as circulate the water so your filter can grab onto the dirt and algae.
3. Trying to save money on cheaper pool chemicals could be a costly mistake down the road. Some chemical companies can get away with making their products cheaper than the leading brand by adding fillers or decreasing the strength of the product.
4. Do not apply shock directly to the skimmer. It is best to pre dissolve in a bucket and then brush up any settled product.
Recent Comments