WHAT EVERY POOL OWNER SHOULD KNOW

No matter what pool care system you choose, these are five tips for pool maintenance you need to follow.

 

Tip 1: Circulation

The pool must have minimal dead spots, good water movement and preferably a bottom drain. The more your water is in motion, the harder it is for bacteria and algae to take hold.  The best time to circulate water is during the day, for 10 – 12 hours or more. Circulation can also be improved by brushing the pool with a BioGuard pool brush at least once a week.

Tip 2: Filtration

The filter removes both visible debris and microscopic matter, so a properly functioning filter is essential.  Sand and D.E. fiters need to be backwashed about once each week.  The filter needs to be chemically cleaned every four to six weeks. The media itself (cartridge or sand) should be replaced every year.

Tip 3: Cleaning

All swimming pools have certain areas (dead spots) that have little or no circulation.  This is where algae and bacteria can begin to grow.  At least once a week, you should brush and vacuum the walls and floors with a pool vacuum to remove debris that may be clinging to these surfaces.

Tip 4: Proper Water Maintenance

Another step in a total pool maintenance program is the right application of products in a timely manner.  When you’re balancing your pool water, these are the ranges for a properly balanced SoftSwim® pool:

pH 7.2 – 7.6 ppm pool
Total Alkalinity 125 – 150 ppm
Calcium Hardness 200 – 275 ppm
SoftSwim B 30 – 50 ppm
SoftSwim C 20 – 60ppm

Tip 5: Testing

Every pool has certain chemical levels which must be measured regularly. Most important are the pH and the level of active sanitizer. By testing these two factors at regular intervals, you’ll be able to understand how bathers, weather, and product application affect the water.  Test your pool water at least once a week.  Plan to bring a sample of pool water to G & S Pool at pool opening, then every four to six weeks, and at closing.  This will help maintain proper balance and greatly reduce the potential for problems.

Each and every tip is very important. When you follow all of them you will enjoy the optimal pool experience.