While many people put off pool cleaning and maintenance, it is an important step in ensuring a clean and safe swimming experience.
In addition to keeping your water looking nice, regular cleaning also helps ensure that your sanitizer isn’t spending unnecessary energy fighting debris. It helps to keep algae growth at bay as well.
Debris Removal
Debris is a common issue in swimming pools. Leaves, bugs, and sand float in the water as people walk over them or blow in the wind, while fine debris settles to the bottom and forms a layer of sediment.
Raindrops tossed about during heavy storms can carry algae spores and airborne debris to your pool. These can decompose into a green mess, requiring a significant boost in chlorine levels to keep the pool clean.
The ash and smoke from wildfires can also fall into your pool. They contain carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus.
This ash, dirt, and other particles from the ground can form a muddy layer on the bottom of your pool. This mud and dirt need to be removed, as it’s unsightly and can cause swimmers to be uncomfortable in the water.
Water Cleaning
Keeping a pool clean is arduous, but having the water pristine and safe for swimming is essential. An unkempt pool is a breeding ground for bacteria, algae, and other harmful microbes.
To keep your pool water squeaky clean, check the pH level frequently and adjust the chemicals in the water until it reads between 7.2 and 7.8. A pH reading in this range is ideal because it helps the sanitizers work efficiently.
Chlorine is a chemical that helps sanitize the water and removes unwanted bacteria and algae. It can also help keep the water odorless by breaking down urea in urine and other nitrogen-containing wastes from swimmers, often producing a toxic, irritating smell.
Chlorine should be added at a level of 1 to 3 ppm/liter, according to the directions on the package. Excessive chlorine can be dangerous, causing eye and skin irritation. The level should monitor with test strips and a chemical tester.
Vacuuming
Leaves and other debris can accumulate on the floor of your pool over time. This can lead to issues like algae blooms if left unchecked. Luckily, vacuuming your pool can quickly suck up dirt and debris. This will help keep your pool clean and inviting while preventing maintenance headaches.
To start, connect the hose to your pool’s filter and pump. Then, place the loose end of the hose against a return jet in your pool to force water through the hose. Bubbles will rise from the hose, but make sure the hose remains fully submerged. Next, move the vacuum head slowly along the floor of your pool. This will help transfer debris from the skimmer into the pool’s pump and sand filter.
If your pool is soiled with large amounts of debris, it is best to change the settings on your filter valve. Use the multiport valve’s “Filter” setting for light vacuuming, but for larger jobs, set it to “Waste.” This will send the water down the drain rather than through your filter.
Brushing
When it comes to swimming pool cleaning, brushing is a great way to remove a lot of debris from your water. This process will keep your pool clearer and healthier, which can help you save money on your water bill.It is also essential to prevent algae and to scale in your pool. Algae and scale build up over time, so it is important to brush your pool regularly.
Many different types of brushes are available on the market, but it is best to choose a brush with nylon bristles. These are sturdy enough to handle daily brushing but soft enough not to scratch the surface of your pool.Check out the Wall Whale Classic Swimming Pool Brush if you want a quality pool brush. This brush has a unique fin design that applies extra pressure to the surface you are brushing, helping you clean more efficiently.