The Pool Store 2017
Maintenance
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blow off the deck
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brush the pool
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skim the surface
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vacuum the pool
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empty the skimmer & pump baskets
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clean the filter as needed
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test water chemistry
Summertime is the perfect time for
swimming in your backyard pool. So,
start the season with a clean pool and
maintain it all summer long with a few
quick and easy steps.
Step 1: Check
At the beginning of each season, check for pool leaks by conducting the
bucket test. Weight a bucket with a brick or rock, fill it 75% full of water,
and mark the inside water line with a permanent marker. Then set it in
the pool (on the steps) and mark the outside water line on the bucket.
After a few days, check the water levels. If both drops in level are the
same, it’s just evaporation—which typically accounts for about a quarter
inch of water loss daily. But if the water loss outside the bucket is more
than inside, it means you likely have a leak in your pool. And, that means
it’s time to call a pro—sooner rather than later.
Step 2: Maintain
Regularly cleaning your pool makes the work easier. For instance, skim
the water surface at least daily and use a larger leaf net or vacuum
weekly or if you see dirt and leaves settling on the pool floor. Check and
clear out the skimmer basket regularly so that debris isn’t interfering
with circulation or setting the stage for algae growth. Try using a brush
to scrub algae or other stubborn debris that sticks to pool and poolside
surfaces. Clean along the water line and tile border area to keep build-
up at bay. Hose off the deck and walkways around the pool to wash
away extra dirt that could make its way into your pool.
Also, be sure to give the pool’s filter system enough run time each day to
cycle through all of the water. at least 12 consecutive daylight hours.
Step 3: Test
Longer days, warmer weather and increasing pool traffic bring with
them the need for extra sanitization. Work with your pool professional
to determine what the proper chlorine and pH levels should be for your
pool. Test your pool’s water pH 2–3 times per week or daily, depending
on use. Remember, consistency is key!
Swimmers can throw off the delicate balance of your water by wearing
sunscreen, lotions, bug spray or hair products while swimming. To
combat these oils, try this clever trick; throw a plain tennis ball into you
pool. Its fuzzy surface will absorb some of the oils swimmers left behind!
Step 4: Treat
Shock your pool weekly. This could be more based on use or after heavy
rains. Shock will kill bacteria, and oxidize organic material, and cut down
on chlorine odor and eye irritation and keep the water crystal clear.
With this list approach, pool
maintenance will quickly become
second nature. Then the best steps
you take will be right into the pool!
(985) 875-POOL (7665)
Mandeville, LA
We:
(985) 201-8553
Slidell, LA