Maintaining a clean and inviting swimming pool is essential for a safe and enjoyable summer experience. Many manufacturer’s warranties require regular maintenance of equipment and proper pool water chemistry.
Proper pool care includes regular filter cleaning, vacuuming, equipment cleaning, water testing, chemical balancing, and proper winterization.
River Rock Pools offers complete maintenance packages, where we handle everything required to keep your pool running smoothly and safely. Visit our Pool Maintenance page for more information.
For those of you ready to learn how to maintain your own pool, here is a comprehensive guide to keep your pool clean and in great condition all season long! Check out our next blog, Pool Chemistry 101, for a guide to keep pool water clear and safe.
Regular Cleaning Routine
Many of the calls we receive regarding pool issues—like low water flow, a heater that isn’t running, a salt cell that isn’t producing, algae buildups, dirt accumulation, and cloudiness—can often be traced back to the cleanliness of the pool. Typically, these mechanical issues arise because one or more components of the pool are dirty or haven’t been properly maintained.
Here are some tips to help keep your pool running efficiently:
1. Vacuuming
It is important to vacuum your pool at least once per week, even if you can’t see dirt or leaves in the bottom. Microscopic particles can sometimes accumulate on the bottom of your pool, which can quickly grow and cause chemistry issues. This can be done manually or with a robot vacuum that has fine filters, such as the Maytronics Dolphin vacuums, available through River Rock Pools.
2. Skimmer Basket
Check and empty the skimmer basket at least once per day to ensure proper water circulation.
3. Pump Basket
Inspect the pump basket weekly and empty it as needed to keep everything running smoothly.
4. Main Drain
Ensure the main drain in the bottom of the pool is clear of debris.
5. Filters
Sand filters should be backwashed weekly, or sooner if the pressure is high or the pool appears cloudy. For cartridge filters, rinse them weekly and soak in a filter-cleaning solution once a month, or as required.
6. Brush Walls and Steps
Brush down the walls and steps at least once a week to prevent algae buildup.
7. Salt Cells
Be sure to rinse your salt cell upon opening the pool and clean it with muriatic acid at least once a year, following manufacturer recommendations. This helps to clear any scaling that may have developed during use and prolongs the life of your salt cell.
8. Leaves and Other Plant Materials
Leaves and other organics can quickly impact your water chemistry and filter efficiency. It is very important to remove leaves and other organics from your pool, skimmer filter, and pump filter as soon as possible.
A Note on Heaters
Ensuring your pool heater operates efficiently is vital for enjoying warm water. Filters that are dirty or pumps running at low speeds can trigger a “LO” error on the heater. Avoid this by regularly backwashing sand filters, clearing the skimmer and pump baskets, and ensuring your pump operates at an optimal speed for effective heating.
Always ensure you are maintaining proper water chemistry to prolong the life of your heater.
Conclusion
Taking care of your home pool may seem daunting, but with regular cleaning, testing, balancing, and cleaning, it can become a manageable routine. By following these guidelines, you can ensure a safe, sparkling, and welcoming backyard oasis for family and friends to enjoy all summer long. Happy swimming!
