There are lots of things to consider when it comes to swimming pools. You need to choose the right one for your home, and keep it clean once it’s arrived. Having one that’s sanitary and well-maintained is essential for comfort, enjoyment and safety. In this article, we’ll discuss 6 key facts you need to be aware of regarding pool cleaning.
1.  There Are Different Types of Cleaners
Suction-side pool cleaners work by attaching to your pool’s skimmer or dedicated suction line. They use the filtration system to remove debris from your swimming pool. Pressure-side pool cleaners use water pressure to force debris into a filter bag while they move around your pool. These types of cleaners typically require a booster pump for optimal performance.
Robotic pool cleaners are powered by electricity and come with their own filtration system. They can scrub and clean walls, floors, steps, and waterlines. It’s possible to buy a robotic pool cleaner that’s climate care certified, reducing energy consumption, water wastage and chemical usage. Thanks to smart technology you can get notifications, and set timers and cleaning cycles. Each type of cleaner will vary in terms of cost, efficiency, ease-of-use and maintenance requirements. If you’re unsure which one is best for your needs or budget, consult a professional who can help you decide.
2.  Skimming And Vacuuming Are Important
Skimming involves the removal of debris from the surface of the water (using a skimmer net). This technique is effective in removing leaves, insects, and other floating objects that could be harmful to swimmers or damage the pool’s filtration system. Vacuuming is a more thorough method that removes dirt and debris from the bottom of the pool. There are different types of vacuums available, including manual and automatic options.
It’s important to perform both of these tasks regularly in order to maintain proper hygiene levels. Neglecting them can result in dirty water that harbors bacteria and poses health risks for swimmers. By incorporating these activities into your regular maintenance routine, you can provide a clean and safe swimming environment. This can benefit yourself, your family members, and any friends or guests who come to use your pool.
3.  You Need To Regularly Test The Water
A correct chemical balance is important for maintaining clear and sparkling water. After all, who wants to swim in murky or cloudy conditions? You may think that your pool water looks clean, but looks can be deceiving. There could still be bacteria and other harmful contaminants present. Unbalanced chemicals can corrode pipes and cause leaks, leading to costly repairs or replacements later on.
Water testing involves checking for pH levels, total alkalinity, calcium hardness, chlorine levels, and cyanuric acid levels. These parameters determine whether the water is safe for swimmers or if it needs treatment. High chlorine levels can cause skin irritation while low levels can lead to harmful bacterial growth. You should therefore test your pool’s water regularly using a reliable test kit, or by hiring a professional technician.
4.  You Need To Prevent Algae From Forming
Algae can grow quickly and create an unsightly appearance – and it’s a common problem in pools that aren’t properly maintained. It can make swimming difficult, unenjoyable and unsafe. Algae can harbor harmful bacteria, which can lead to skin irritations, respiratory issues, and other health concerns.
Algae growth can also damage the structure of the pool itself. When it grows on concrete or other surfaces, it can weaken them over time and cause cracks or leaks to form. This can be expensive to repair and may require you to drain the entire pool in order to fix it properly.
5.  You Need To Perform Filter Maintenance And Shock Treatments
Filter Maintenance
Neglecting to look after your filters can cause your pool pump to work harder than necessary. This can lead to higher energy bills and the potential for premature pump failure. A clogged or dirty filter will not only affect the circulation of water in your pool. It can also harbor harmful bacteria and algae growth which can lead to health problems for swimmers. If you have a sand filter, it’s recommended that you backwash it at least once a week during peak season. Cartridge filters require less frequent cleaning, but should still be cleaned every three to six months (depending on usage).
Shock Treatments
If you notice that your pool water is cloudy or has a strong odor, it might be time for a shock treatment. This helps to remove bacteria, algae, and other contaminants from the water. The process involves adding a high dose of chlorine or other chemicals to the pool. The goal is to elevate the level of sanitizer in the water so that it can effectively kill off any bacteria or algae that may be present. This is especially important during peak swimming season, when the pool gets more use. Most experts recommend performing shock treatments weekly, depending on how much use your pool gets. These treatments should always be done after heavy rain or if there has been an influx of swimmers in the pool.
6.  Your Pool Should Be Winterized
Winterizing your pool helps to protect it from the damage caused by freezing temperatures during the winter months. When water freezes, it expands and can cause cracks in the walls or floor of your pool. Winterizing also prevents the buildup of algae and other harmful microorganisms that would be difficult to eradicate once spring arrives.
Winterizing also helps to preserve the quality of your pool equipment. When left unused for extended periods (such as during winter), rust and corrosion can develop on metal components like pipes and pumps. This can lead to costly repairs or even replacement if not attended to promptly.
These 6 facts can help you purchase the right tools and maintain the best cleaning schedule. This will require some discipline and effort on your part. By doing this, however, you’ll steward your leisure equipment and protect people’s health. In turn, you’ll be able to enjoy your swimming pool for many years to come.
