If you own a pool, then well done to you. There is nothing better than jumping in the water after a long day at work, or even diving into the water or a swim after you wake. It is a great way to start or end the day, but it is not all fun and games. You also need to learn how to keep a pool clean. If you do not take care of your pool, it is going to become a cesspool of bacteria and algae.
Taking proper care of your pool need not be a chore, but there are some things which you need to plan out before you start your cleaning routine. Here are our top tips.
Chemicals vs. Natural
Do you know how to keep a pool clean without chemicals? Did you even know that that was an option? Many people use chemicals to maintain the balance of their pool water, while others want to go down the natural route and reduce the chemicals they use in their pool. Let’s take a look at both methods.
If you are using chemicals, then you need to check the levels in your pool at least once a week during the summer and once a month during the winter. Be sure to check the pH levels of your pool and add more chlorine based on this reading. You should be aiming for between 7.2-7.8. This will inhibit the growth of bacteria and algae. You will also want to check the acidity and chlorine levels and adjust accordingly.
Keep the water circulating in your pool, with a fresh supply of water constantly entering the pool. Keeping the water moving will also push air through your filtering system, helping to keep the water clean and clear. If you want to get rid of the bacteria and algae, you can use floating sphagnum moss (like you would find in a natural lake) or an ionizing pool cleaning system. Test your pool regularly to make sure that it does not become too acidic.
To keep your pool clean without using chemicals, you have a few options. For instance you may opt for a saltwater pool instead of a chlorine pool. However, chemicals or not, it is always beneficial to keep the surfaces in your pool clean. Clean the ladders, pool equipment, underwater surfaces, and surfaces around your pool. Remove debris and dirt from your pool as often as possible. Skim leaves and other debris from the top of your pool, either by hand or using an automatic pool skimmer to do the job for you.
Of course, using a good robotic pool cleaner can take a lot of the hard work of cleaning your pool off your hands. These devices will save you a huge amount of time.
Filter vs. No Filter
Follow the right advice and you can have an immaculate looking pool - just like this one!
Do you really need a filter to keep your pool clean? Do you know how to keep a small pool clean without a filter? The truth is that it is easier to keep a pool clean with a filter, but there are ways to keep your pool clean without one.
If you are using a filter system, make sure to perform regular maintenance on the filter. You shook refer to the user’s guide for the frequency of cleaning and make sure that you follow it. If you treat the filter system correctly, you are going to prolong its life. You should also change the filter when it becomes too dirty or damaged. If you have a heavy rainstorm or your pool is used heavily in a short period, then we would also recommend cleaning your filter soon after that.
If you do not want to use a filter or do not have one, then you are going to have to do a little more work. You may need to resort to using chemicals if your pool is large, but you can take care of your pool without a filter. Adding chlorine will help to keep your pool clean. You should also clean down any surfaces which you can get to, and scoop out any debris which enters your pool. If your pool has a lot of debris and bacteria, then you can also invest in a pool vacuum or cleaner. These cleaners roam around your pool and clean the dirt as a filter would.
Other Things to Think About
Essential pool cleaning tools of the trade
Even if you have a pool filter and are using chemicals, there are other things to think about and more work to be done.
You should clean out your pool skimmer basket every week (or more if you have had lots of debris in your pool). This will help your pump and filter run more efficiently. You should empty out the hair and lint trap at the same time. This is located at the front of your pool pump (you will need to turn off the pump before you do this).
Pay attention to your water level. If your water level is too low, then the pool skimmer will not be able to do its job effectively. If it is not at the correct level, then you may also be adding the wrong amount of chemical to your water. The water level can also affect the performance of the pump.
You should also take the time to inspect the structural integrity of your pool. If there are cracks or chips in your pool floor, then you should repair them before they become a bigger problem. You should also check the drains and any tiles around the edges of the pool. If you find that you are getting a lot of debris in your pool, then think about a fence around the pool or a pool cover.
Conclusion
It does take some work to look after your pool, but not so much that it should put you off owning one. The great thing about pool maintenance is that you have some flexibility. You can use a filter if you wish to opt for a vacuum. Chemicals will make it easier for you, but you can also go down a more natural route. The way you keep your pool clean is entirely up to you.
Spend an hour or two each week looking after your pool, and your pool water will remain crystal clear and inviting.