As the days grow longer and the temperatures rise, the thought of fun summer days spent by the pool becomes increasingly appealing. However, before you can dive into those calm, inviting waters, some essential maintenance is required to ensure your swimming pool is clean and safe for everyone. Here are five tips on how you can get your pool ready for summer.
1 – Clean the Pool Deck
First things first, start with a clean slate by tackling the pool deck. Over the winter months, it’s common for debris, leaves, and dirt to accumulate. Begin by sweeping the area thoroughly. Then, use a power washer to remove any stubborn dirt or stains. This not only makes your pool area more inviting but also prevents debris from getting into the pool, saving you a lot of cleaning hassle down the line.
2 – Check For Wasps Nests on Trees Near Your Pool
If you have tree branches near or over your pool area, check for wasps’ nests and decide if you want to remove those or leave them. Wasps will likely come to your pool to drink water, and kids tend to feel apprehensive and scared of them.
3 – Test Your Pool Water to Get Your Pool Ready for the Summer
For Chlorine Pools:
Before you start swimming, check the chemical balance of your pool water. The ideal pH level should be between 7.2 and 7.8 to prevent irritation and protect the pool equipment from corrosion. Chlorine levels should be between 1 and 3 ppm to sanitize your pool effectively. A simple test kit can help you measure these levels. If your pool’s balance is off, you can correct it by adjusting the chemicals safely and accurately.
For Salt Pools:
To test the water in a salt pool, use a test kit or electronic tester designed specifically for measuring salinity levels. Collect a sample of pool water according to the test kit’s instructions. If using a test strip, dip it into the water for a few seconds, remove it, and compare the resulting color to the provided chart. For a digital tester, place the probe in the water, and the device will give you an immediate reading. The ideal salinity range for most salt pools is between 3,000 and 4,000 ppm. Adjust as needed based on the results, ensuring your pool’s chlorinator and equipment function optimally.
4 – Shock Your Pool
For Chlorine Pools:
After a long period of disuse, it’s advisable to thoroughly clean your pool by shocking it. This process involves adding a high concentration of chlorine to the pool water to kill bacteria and other pathogens, ensuring the water is hygienically safe. This should ideally be done a few days before you plan to use the pool, allowing the chlorine levels to return to normal.
For Salt Pools:
Once the pH is balanced, add a non-stabilized chlorine shock, preferably calcium hypochlorite or sodium hypochlorite, directly to the pool water in the evening or at night to minimize chlorine degradation from sunlight. Circulate the pool for several hours to ensure the shock is evenly distributed. For best results, follow the manufacturer’s dosage guidelines, keeping the pool pump running until chlorine levels stabilize within the standard 1 and 3 ppm range. Be sure to wait at least 24 hours for levels to return to normal before swimming.
Independent of the type of pool you have, you can always take a sample of your pool water to any trusted or preferred local pool store, and they will test it for you.
5 – Schedule Regular Maintenance
Regular maintenance is indispensable to keeping your pool in pristine condition throughout the swimming season. It’s important to clean the filter and inspect the equipment every six months—once at the beginning of the season and again at the end. You should also clean the filter when its pressure rises 10 pounds above the normal running pressure. Look for a service that includes cleaning, chemical checks, and equipment inspection to help detect potential issues before they become costly repairs.
Conclusion
We have over 25 years of experience servicing residential and commercial swimming pools. If you are looking to get your pool ready for this summer season, we are here to help. Feel free to give us a call and we will be out there in no time to make sure your pool and back deck are ready for your family and friends.
