how to maintain swimming pool at home

Maintaining a pool can be quite tricky, so calling a professional is the best way to ensure crystal-clean and safe water. Owning a swimming pool is one of the most rewarding ways to enjoy fun in the sun at home. These tabs dissolve slowly, and can be found in 1-inch and 3-inch sizes. It also helps you avoid costly hardware repairs due to corrosion or mineral build-up, and helps your whole pool last longer. Running your pump and filter is very important to keep your pool clear and its better to leave a timer in charge rather than a human. I thought it may be because I supplemented with chlorine tablets when the water got too warm last summer. Pool care may involve skimming the surface, vacuuming and brushing, emptying skimmer baskets and automatic cleaner bags. ", Always add the chemical to the water, and not the other way around. By choosing I Accept, you consent to our use of cookies and other tracking technologies. It won't last for more than a few weeks. An advantage of cartridge filters over sand ones, is that they have a greater surface area, which results in fewer clogs and easy maintenance. "wordCount": "873", Then push the Leaf Rake back and forth across the surface. To maintain your swimming pool, start by buying testing strips from your local pool store so you can test your pool water's chlorine, alkaline, pH, and cyanuric acid levels. I used to get asked this question a lot when I worked at the pool store. When it comes time to decide between DIY pool care and using a professional pool cleaning service, consider such tasks as maintaining the filter, surface skimming and chemical testing. Luckily, all pool maintenance mistakes are fixable. Also, make sure your pool is clean and crystal clear before you leave. Pool filters need to be cleaned every 2-6 weeks, depending on their size, age, and the dirt load. Clean out the hair/lint catcher in the pump next. "headline": "Pool Maintenance: DIY or Go With a Pro? Or to assist a small or underperforming salt system. The foundation of effective pool care is built on three simple but important concepts: circulation, cleaning, and chemistry. When full, submerge the vacuum head and clamp a hand over the hose until you connect it at the skimmer. Basic Shock Products. Turn the filter valve to "backwash" to redirect water flow. Tip: If your pool has a sand filter, add a cup of D.E. Some baskets have a twist lock, but most just lift straight out. They both produce the same type of chlorine, so completely compatible! Replenish the DE by sprinkling it into the skimmer well. Pool skimming can be difficult after storms, but with the right process and equipment, you can do it like a pro. "name": "In The Swim", Wont stop the crust on the salt cell, but may slow the build-up. If this is a new pool, or you have moved into a home with a pool and the pool is all new to you, a pool cleaning company can come out (usually free of charge) and show you around your pool equipment, valves, gauges and more. Tip: If you have an inground pool, the drains built into the bottom of the deep end will help pull water into the filter and make it easier to clear debris loosened during cleaning. But youll still need to apply some good old-fashioned elbow grease. It can be used to control water flow from the drain, skimmer, jets, water features (waterfall), the amount of water that flows through the heater (if equipped). The average pool requires 30 minutes of vacuuming. This article received 16 testimonials and 100% of readers who voted found it helpful, earning it our reader-approved status. Basic Chlorinating Tabs. Watch for a floating hose, which indicates a hole in the line, or diminshed suction due to a full filter. It is important to understand the chemistry of clear water in a swimming pool. Wading in the water in a backyard meant having a massive swimming pool or settling for a scant hot tub. As you learn more about your pool and how to care for it, your to-do list might start to seem a little intimidating. }, "url": "https://x1.adis.ws/v1/media/graphics/i/lesl/its-logo-wide", The water in the well gets really scummy. If you shock during the day, the suns ultraviolet rays will eat up the chlorine before it has a chance to do its job. Adjust pH firstwith muriatic acid if it's above 7.6 or with soda ash product if it's under 7.4. Proper pool circulation is key to healthy and safe swimming. Brett has some tips to help you figure it out." You can also make your cleaning life easier with a few unorthodox additions to your pool. This helped me understand the needs of keeping a pool clean. Total dissolved solids should be tested once a week, and at least once a month. "@type": "Person", I have no knowledge of how to maintain a swimming pool which is. Calcium hardness should be tested twice a season. Read our in-depth reviews on home warranty providers. "dateModified": "10/30/2015", By using our site, you agree to our. Shocking your pool gets rid of all sorts of contaminants. It'll help you save $100 right away on pool care! use baking soda to increase your pools alkalinity level, Complete Liquid Test Kit for Pools and Hot Tubs, How to Drain an Above Ground Pool (Even Without a Pump), Pollen in Your Pool? If you click this link and make a purchase, we earn a commission at no additional cost to you. Do you enjoy working on [cleaning] the pool? Clean it regularly, as the scale buildup on a salt cell reduces output and puts a strain on the cell. You will need to regularly test the pool's pH and adjust it as necessary with a variety of chemicals. The ideal candidate is someone who owns a pool themselves. The basic tools youll need are: Both Mother Nature and the folks using your pool bring all sorts of wild and wacky things into your pool, from leaves, mold, and the odd duck or frog to residues from shampoos, perfumes, and hair products. Consider replacing sand with a DE or cartridge system; both clean better, save water, and are better for the environment. wikiHow marks an article as reader-approved once it receives enough positive feedback. Cloudy water will clear more quickly as the D.E. Not ready to dig up the back yard for an inground pool? "url": "https://x1.adis.ws/v1/media/graphics/i/lesl/its-logo-wide" When you know how your pool works, the best ways to care for it, and how to plan for it, youll be ready to solve just about any potential pool problem that floats your way. Both protect you and your pool from harm. Set the timer to run the pool at least 8 to 12 hours a day. But when the dust (and fiberglass) settles, you'll enjoy a fatter bank account and more comfortable indoor temps year-round. Pool vacuums, however, make this job a lot easier for the DIY pool owner. This can result in debris bypassing the skimmer and accumulating in the pool. Without a functioning filter system, your pool will soon be a cloudy, polluted, and unswimmable mess. If the water level is too low, the skimmer is left with little to suck in and it can bottom out. Extend the inner pole about 4 ft and lock it in place, for a comfortable counter-balance. "@type": "BlogPosting", With a DE filter, the claylike remains of marine organisms do the filtering and the backwash directs the dirt into a filter bag (empty every other week and replace every few years). Automatic pool cleaners can cost half-a-paycheck, but free up half-a-weeks worth of time within the first season. Tell your friend or neighbor to check on the pool once a day and provide them with a simple checklist, including: Hopefully, your pump already has a timer. Hi Dwight, perhaps drop in a chlorine tablet or two, depends on size. "@type": "ImageObject", The valves can control many different functions of your pool's plumping system. Follow the dosage instructions carefully and store chemicals according to the manufacturer's directions. "@type": "Organization", And like your veins and arteries, they work best when theyre clean and clear of obstructions. Never pour or return unused or wasted material to the original package, and do not throw it away in regular garbage. "url": "https://blog.intheswim.com/" What chemical should I add if the pH is too high? The best thing to do is get a pool service person out to explain the system to you. In 2007, Rob won House of the Year in Gardena, California. Sanitizer levels are checked and other water treatment chemicals applied. Algae is growing in your pool. After connecting the vacuum to the hose, prop up the pole with the vacuum head suspended over the water. Unfortunately, there is no easy way to lower calcium hardness, except for reverse osmosis or replacing part of the pool water with softer water (the dilution solution). Is pool chemistry at least somewhat interesting? Take your time, follow all the directions, and be sure you know what each chemical does and how itll affect the water, and the folks who swim in it, before you add it. I learned so much about maintaining a swimming pool. If it doesn't, purchase the necessary chemicals and follow the instructions on the label to apply them to your pool water. My chlorine generator gets clogged up with white crust very quickly. All rights reserved. Replace them every 3-5 years. If not, I would invest in one. Looking for a full in-depth video course on swimming pool maintenance? Knowing the basic parts of your pool, and their functions, helps you keep everything running smoothlyand makes it easier to resolve issues when they occur. Cyanuric acid should be tested twice a season. In the interest of spending more time in the pool than maintaining it, we went for advice to William Sodergreen, chief technician for Shoreline Pools Service Inc., in Connecticut, a guy who has the weekly cleaning ritual down to a science. They do a great job at keeping your pool clean. Most pump baskets have a see thru lid to tell when it needs cleaning. Your pool filter clears dirt and other contaminants from your water just like your liver filters last nights cheese fries from your blood. Get the latest This Old House news, trusted tips, tricks, and DIY Smarts projects from our expertsstraight to your inbox. "width": "611", Chlorinating Granules. If the pool is too wide for one pass, vacuum half at a time. Though pool professionals have the experience and tools for greater efficiency than the average owner, many pool maintenance tasks can be accomplished on your own for less money. How are the control valves set on normal running? You can buy a new pump and see if that fixes the issue. But think about it: your pool pump draws water keeps your water circulating, like your heart does with your blood. Write down your pool maintenance schedule and tape it on the wall, fridge, or even somewhere near your swimming pool. Copyright 2022 This Old House Ventures, LLC. Cover the swimming pool and treat the water as required -- make sure that you scoop leaves off the cover if required, otherwise it will make your cover weak and it might fall into the middle of the pool and that's not a lot of fun to get out of the pool. If the water level is too high, the water moves too slowly into the skimmer. Develop the tech skills you need for work and life. How much time are you willing to spend on your pool? The main pro is that these shocking products allow you to get back into the water within 15 minutes of use. Matt Giovanisci is the founder of Swim University and has been in the pool and spa industry since 1995. In your pool, moving water is cleaner, clearer, and safer. Every once in a while, your sanitizer will need a little help, especially after a rainstorm, or if a lot of people have been using the pool. "publisher": { Step away from the Bunsen burner. When deciding to DIY or Go Pro with pool maintenance, it is important to weigh all the factors. No two pools are alike, and youll no doubt encounter pool maintenance challenges specific to your pool as time goes on. Here are some of the techniques he uses to speed up the process and create a safe, refreshing oasis. Yes, it's a messy job. Thatll turn the water over a few times and help keep your pool safe and clean. To learn how to maintain your pool's filters, scroll down! Pools require frequent chemical testing and adjustments. Creating a pool maintenance schedule makes it easy to stay organized and make sure important tasks dont slip through the cracks. Simply replace both the tennis balls and the pantyhose when they start to show signs of wear. Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered. aids your sand filter in straining fine particles. Cartridge filters: these filters allow water to seep through a fine filtrating surface. References "primaryImageOfPage": { We use cookies and other tracking technologies to improve your browsing experience on our site, show personalized content and targeted ads, analyze site traffic, and understand where our audiences come from. Thats why it pays to develop a strong basic understanding of pool maintenance essentials, no matter if you have an inground, above ground, Intex, or saltwater pool. We cut out all the confusion of pool maintenance in this easy-to-read illustrated ebook and video course. After cleaning, water balance is tested and balancing chemicals may be added. This should help to adjust your pH. Or, if you are talking about the canister of the automatic water leveler, same advice, drop in a tablet (put it in a zip lock bag with an open top, so it wont sit directly on surfaces, and tie a string to the bag, so you can lift it out to add a new tablet every month. "height": "219", If I am not going to use the pool should I empty it or cover it and treat the water periodically? % of people told us that this article helped them. Make sure when you get it checked that you correct any issues before you go. You can buy a nice manual pool vacuum for under $100, and vacuum the pool through the skimmer. Total alkalinity should be tested once a week, and at least once a month. Plus, it doesnt hurt to know an expert than can come out when you need additional help! With the included booklet, youll know exactly how to test, analyze and calculate proper adjustment dosages. Liquid Chlorine. Thanks! It has its own well near the skimmer well. Calcium hardness: 180 - 220 ppm, though some say 200 - 400. Need help with home maintenance? He can skim, vacuum, clean, and chlorinate in under an hour, not much more time than it takes to suit up, slather on sunscreen, and get out the inner tube. }. This often makes a backyard pool more of a burden than a blessing. A cartridge filer is a removable unit that you hose off and reinsert. First, shut the system off, then close the skimmer valve in front of the pump to hold the water in place so the system won't need repriming when it starts up again. They should already know what to do. And each year, he continues to help more people with water chemistry, cleaning, and troubleshooting. }, 10 Steps to Winterize Your Above Ground Pool, Raising Pool Equipment for Flood Protection, Flooded Inground Pool: 10-Steps to Recovery. Every type of swimming pool has four components that need regular care. Most people see creases at the bottom of the pool as a failure of the plaster, but that is not the case. Perhaps your next salt system will have reverse polarity, which provides a self-cleaning salt cell, as the charge is reversed regularly, which throws off attached scale. But like most good things, a swimming pool requires quite a bit of maintenance and attention to detail. The filter, pump, heater and chlorinator or other equipment is checked and cleaned. Attach your Leaf Rake to your Pool Pole. Direct the nozzles of the return jets on the pool sides downward to quiet surface ripples so you can see the bottom clearly. And, you can always trust the results! The answers to these questions should lead you to the best decision for you and your pool. }, Many people choose to enlist the help of pool professionals, but if you're more of a do-it-yourself kind of person read on to find out how to keep your pool's water sparkling clean. Approved. How do you know when it's time to resurface your pool? Read the packaging and calculate the number of sticks needed for the pool based on the water volume. Pool care entails a lot of little details. Backwashing and replacement/addition of a new DE has to be done once or twice a year. Thank you Davy, is it OK to use chlorine tablets in a salt water pool with a chlorine generator? Add some pH minus to your pool, following the manufacturer's instructions. Then, test your pool water with the strips and make sure that it has 1-2 ppm chlorine, 80-120 ppm alkalinity, 40-80 ppm cyanuric acid, and a pH between 7.2 and 7.8. Understanding whats in your water, and what isnt, is the first step to balancing it. Finally, check the pool's water level, refilling if it's less than half way up the skimmer well mouth. "caption": "In The Swim Blog" To make sure your pool stays clean even when the sanitizer is maxed out, add pool shock on a regular basis. { Above ground pools dont have these drains, but you can get the same water-clearing boost with a manual pool vacuum. An automatic pool cleaner can significantly cut your pool cleaning time. Keeping it clean, clear, and balanced protects you and your family from contaminants and pollutants. Keep your pump and filter system running daily to maximize circulation. Or you could treat it with a good algaecide, or both. If I just bought a house with a pool, would a local pool store be the best place to get lessons on what I need to do? "caption": "In The Swim Blog" Dealing with scratches on your glass windows? In a sand filterno longer used in new constructionsand blocks dirt and oil; the backwash directs the dirty water to a waste line leading to the ground or a storm drain. Walk briskly around the entire edge of the pool, with the edge of the Leaf Rake touching the edge of the pool at the water line. "@context": "https://schema.org/", "identifier": "" Snap together an Intex pool, stock up on a few supplies, and be swimming before you know it! Plus, most chlorinating tablets contain a built-in stabilizer to shield your water's chlorine from the sun's rays. You can also clear cloudy pool water quickly with flocculant. The walls of your pool liner are in constant contact with pool water, and everything that enters it.

• Reflective Glitter Gel Polish
• Sculpey Style & Detail Tools
• 3/4'' Ar500 Steel Targets
• Beach Plum Resort Promo Code
• Custom Wedding Flip Flops
• Baby Photo Banner Design
• Academic Conferences In Usa 2022