The average lifespan for most of your pool components is 10 years. Without proper maintenance, this span can be cut in half.
Considering the uniqueness or complexity of most of those parts, replacement costs can range anywhere from hundreds to thousands of dollars. That is why knowing how to maintain a pool is an essential part of owning one that will save you time and money in the long run.
Why Cleaning is Important
Many people do not clean their pool often enough, thinking it needs a thorough scrub just before summer starts and a few times after will suffice.
What they do not realize is that because of high summer temperatures, there is a significant increase in the amount of maintenance required. This fact is especially true if you are using the pool frequently as extra contaminates can upset the pH levels.
It is also important to note that a pool’s cleanliness is one of the first things insurance companies check if you need to make a claim.
How to Maintain a Pool and the Frequency of Cleaning Required
You may be surprised to learn that maintaining a pool requires dedicated attention almost every day and certainly every week.
That is because different components require varying frequency of care. Let’s break down each part and go over what you need to do for a clean pool throughout the summer.
Daily
- The surface of your pool: Leaves, plants, and other debris often find their way into your pool and, eventually, your filter. Keeping the surface free and clear daily helps to reduce the levels of bacteria in the water and the overall cleaning you will be required to do.
- The filter basket: Of course, you cannot remove every bit of debris. That is what the skimmers are meant to do. Be sure to check the baskets frequently and empty them as often as possible as it helps prevent buildup and blockage.
- The pH balance of the water: If you are using the pool frequently this summer, you should check the pH balance of the water daily, if not every few hours. This process is necessary because the strength of the sun’s rays can remove almost all of your pool’s chlorine in just two hours. This chemical is essential for keeping your friends and family safe from bacteria and other contaminants while also preventing the build-up of algae.
Weekly
- The bottom of the pool: Rather than float on the surface, a lot of debris will sink to the bottom of your pool. With wet feet picking up dust and jumping in, this can lead to excessive build up over the summer that will compromise your pools pH levels. Ensure you vacuum the bottom of the pool to keep it clean over time.
Bi-Weekly
- The tiles/plaster: Just like in your bathroom, grime and bacteria can collect on the tiles and in between. It is a tough job but avoiding it can mean considerable build over time requiring further maintenance.
- The filter system: Even if you have been cleaning out the debris, your filter will collect grime and bacteria, just like the tiles. Be sure to give it a proper cleaning to help ensure the water going back into your pool is as clean as possible.
Hire a Professional
Knowing how to maintain a pool is crucial for the lifespan of the pool and, more importantly, the health of your friends and family. The amount of time and energy required can make it a chore that takes away the joy of having one.
The advantages of hiring professionals to clean your pool for you are numerous. From special knowledge about how the local weather and climate affect the water and pH balance to having all the chemicals and materials needed to get the job done.
You will save numerous trips to the stores, significant amounts of time, and ensure your pool is at its best all year round.
Check out our services and let us know if we can help you this summer.
Mirage Pool Services specializes in pool maintenance, equipment repairs and replacement, chlorine washes, draining pools and pool startups in the Moreno Valley and Riverside, California areas.