How to Maintain Your Pool After Construction

Congratulations on Your New Pool!

It's an exciting addition to your home, offering countless hours of relaxation, exercise, and fun. As the owner of a new pool, you should know that this comes with new responsibilities. Keeping up with pool maintenance to keep the water clean and safe is something that you will need to monitor moving forward. To help you keep your pool looking great and staying safe, we've outlined the most important tasks and information below.

Understand Your Pool System

Start by familiarizing yourself with your pool's components. Understanding how the pump, filter, skimmer, and chemical feeder work together will make maintenance easier. Keep the following in mind:

• Pump: Circulates water, preventing stagnation and algae growth.
• Filter: Removes debris and keeps water clear.
• Skimmer: Captures floating debris before it sinks.
• Chemical Feeder: Ensures proper water balance.

Read the user manuals and follow manufacturer recommendations to extend the life of these components.

Balance the Water Chemistry

Proper water chemistry is the backbone of pool maintenance. Balancing chemicals keeps the water safe and prevents damage to your pool's surfaces and equipment. Test your water weekly and adjust as needed:

• Chlorine Levels: Keep between 1-3 ppm to disinfect and kill bacteria.
• pH Levels: Maintain a pH between 7.4-7.6 to avoid irritation and equipment damage.
• Alkalinity: Aim for 80-120 ppm to stabilize pH levels.
• Calcium Hardness: Ensure levels are between 200-400 ppm to prevent scaling or corrosion.

Invest in a reliable pool testing kit or take a sample to a local pool supply store for analysis.

Skim and Clean Regularly

Leaves, bugs, and other debris can quickly accumulate in your pool. Regular skimming helps keep the water clear and prevents debris from clogging your filter.

• Skim Daily: Use a long-handled net to remove floating debris.
• Brush Weekly: Clean pool walls and steps to prevent algae buildup.
• Vacuum as Needed: Use a pool vacuum or automatic cleaner to remove debris from the bottom.

Run Your Pump and Filter

Your pool pump and filter are your best allies in maintaining water clarity. Running the pump for 8-12 hours a day ensures proper circulation and filtration.

• Clean the Filter: Backwash or clean cartridge filters regularly to maintain efficiency.
• Check for Debris: Empty the pump and skimmer baskets to prevent blockages.
• Inspect for Leaks: Periodically check hoses and fittings for signs of wear or leaks.

Shock the Pool Periodically

Shocking your pool involves adding a high dose of chlorine to eliminate contaminants and restore water clarity. It’s particularly important after heavy use or during hot weather.

• When to Shock: After a pool party, after a storm, or if the water appears cloudy.
• How to Shock: Follow product instructions carefully, and always shock at night to prevent sunlight from depleting chlorine levels too quickly.

Protect Your Pool Equipment

Your pool's equipment is an investment, so take steps to keep it in good condition:

• Winterize: If you live in a colder climate, properly close your pool for the winter to prevent freezing damage.
• Inspect Regularly: Check for wear and tear on pumps, filters, and other components.
• Schedule Professional Maintenance: Periodic inspections by a pool technician can identify and address issues early.

Keep an Eye on Water Levels

Maintaining the correct water level is essential for the proper functioning of your pool's equipment. The water level should be halfway up the skimmer opening.

• Too Low: The pump may run dry, causing damage.
• Too High: The skimmer won’t effectively remove debris.

Adjust as needed, especially after heavy rain or water loss due to evaporation.

Cover Your Pool

A pool cover is one of the easiest ways to reduce maintenance time and costs. It keeps debris out, minimizes evaporation, and helps retain heat.

• Safety Covers: Protect children and pets while keeping your pool clean.
• Solar Covers: Reduce heat loss and extend your swimming season.
• Automatic Covers: Offer convenience and superior protection.

Plan for Seasonal Maintenance

Pools require different levels of care throughout the year. Create a seasonal maintenance schedule to ensure you stay on top of your pool’s needs.

• Spring: Reopen your pool, test and balance water, and inspect equipment.
• Summer: Focus on frequent skimming, brushing, and chemical adjustments.
• Fall: Prepare for winterization by cleaning thoroughly and lowering water levels.
• Winter: Protect with a cover and monitor for ice or snow buildup.

Call in the Experts

While regular maintenance is manageable for most homeowners, some tasks are best left to professionals. Consider hiring a pool service for:

• Deep Cleaning: Remove stubborn stains or algae buildup.
• Equipment Repairs: Address leaks, malfunctions, or wear and tear.
• Seasonal Openings and Closures: Save time and ensure a proper start or end to the season.

A Beautiful Pool Starts with Great Care

Maintaining your pool doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With a consistent routine and a bit of effort, you can keep your pool in top condition for years to come. By staying proactive, you’ll not only save money on repairs but also enjoy a clean, inviting oasis every time you step outside.