Getting Your Swimming Pool Ready To Swim
After a long winter, it’s finally time to get your swimming pool ready for summer. Here are a few steps to follow to ensure that your pool is safe and clean for swimming:
1. Remove the pool cover. Once the weather has warmed up consistently, it’s time to remove the pool cover. Be sure to clean the cover thoroughly before storing it away for the summer.
2. Inspect the pool structure. Take a close look at the pool structure for any signs of damage. Check the walls, floor, and coping for cracks or holes. If you find any damage, repair it immediately.
3. Clean the pool. Use a leaf net, hand skimmer, and pool vacuum to remove all debris from the pool. Then, thoroughly brush the pool’s floor and sides.
4. Balance the pool water chemistry. Test the pool water chemistry using a test kit and adjust the levels as needed. The ideal pH level for swimming pool water is between 7.2 and 7.8. The alkalinity and calcium hardness levels should also be within the recommended ranges.
5. Add chlorine or other sanitizer. Chlorine is the most common sanitizer used in swimming pools. It helps to kill harmful bacteria and algae. Be sure to follow the instructions on the chlorine product label to add the correct amount of chlorine to your pool.
6. Run the pool filter. Run the pool filter for 24 hours a day until the water is clear.
7. Test the pool water again. Once the water is clear, test the pool water chemistry again to make sure that the levels are correct.
8. Enjoy your pool! Once the pool water is clean and balanced, you’re ready to enjoy your pool all summer long.
Tips for maintaining your swimming pool:
- Test the pool water chemistry weekly and adjust the levels as needed.
- Add chlorine or other sanitizer to the pool water on a regular basis.
- Run the pool filter for 8-12 hours per day.
- Clean the pool skimmer basket and pump basket regularly.
- Vacuum the pool floor and walls weekly.
- Backwash the pool filter every 2-3 weeks.
- Shock the pool every 1-2 weeks.
By following these steps, you can keep your swimming pool clean and safe for swimming all summer long.
