Spring is upon us, so it’s time to get your backyard and pool ready to enjoy a thrilling summer full of outdoor games and water fun. But before you can put on your swimsuits for a refreshing dip in the pool, you must ensure all the equipment is functioning, and the water is clear, safe, and balanced.
We have compiled some tips to clean and maintain your pool water in the spring to prepare it for summer. These items are listed below. If you still have questions or concerns about your pool’s water, contact Scotty Payne Custom Pools, your trusted local pool builder in Dresher, PA, with your questions.
Clean the Cover
The pool’s cover is meant to protect the water from filling up with dirt and debris, and when it is placed over the pool, it can catch a buildup of leaves, twigs, dirt, and other accumulated debris. Before removing the pool cover, remove all dirt and debris, which helps make the removal process easier without the risk of the debris falling into the water.
In addition, to increase the life of the pool cover, rise with water to remove any residue and additional debris. Once cleaned, allow the cover to completely dry to prevent mold and mildew from growing while the cover is in storage for the summer.
Check the Pump
Chances are, you had your pool pump turned off during the winter. Before turning it on, check for debris that may hinder its operation. Additionally, check the pump to verify all seals are intact, then turn it on to ensure it properly functions.
Clean or Replace the Filter
When checking the pump to ensure it is functioning properly, take time to backwash and clean the filter. If the filter is too dirty or clogged, replace the filter to ensure the pool water can freely flow through the filter and pump, keeping your pool’s water crystal clear.
Scrub the Sides
The next thing to do is scrub down the sides of the pool’s interior with a pool-friendly cleaner and soft scrub brush. This cleaning process helps remove buildup from the pool’s walls to help filter out any debris that may have become stuck to the walls during the winter.
Shock the Water
Once everything is clean, you are ready to prepare the water for all the summer water fun. Shock the pool’s water by adding extra chlorine to kill excess bacteria and algae growth. This helps clean the water, making it healthy for swimming, and any excess chlorine will evaporate to a safe level before it’s time to swim in the pool.
Balance the Chemicals
Now that the pool has been cleaned and shocked, it is time to check the chemical levels and work to keep them balanced. It is best to maintain the alkalinity of the water at 80 to 120 ppm and a pH level between 7.2 and 7.8. There are over-the-counter test strips to help monitor the chemical balance, helping you determine which chemicals must be added to maintain swimmability all summer.
Plan for Routine Service
Planning for routine service and maintenance helps keep your pool fresh and sparkling. Some routine service activities may include the following:
- Regular filter cleaning
- Routine shocking of the water
- Clearing debris from the water
- Weekly testing and balancing of the water
You can easily do these things on your own, but hiring a pool company can help eliminate the stress of maintaining a pool. When your pool is ready for summer, you can rest easily by hiring a local company to assist with routine maintenance and service.
If you need help with your pool maintenance or if you want to install a pool, contact Scott Payne Custom Pools for additional assistance. We are your pool installation company in Merion Station, PA. Call us today to learn more about how we can help prepare your pool for all the summer fun this spring.
