Mastering the Art of Pool Cleaning & Maintenance: Do’s and Don’ts

Mastering the Art of Pool Cleaning & Maintenance: Do’s and Don’ts

Mastering the Art of Pool Cleaning & Maintenance: Do’s and Don’ts


Owning a pool in Ocoee, FL, is a luxury that comes with great responsibility. While having a backyard oasis is perfect for cooling off during those hot Florida summers, maintaining it can be daunting. Proper pool maintenance ensures that your pool remains a safe and inviting environment for friends and family. But how do you keep everything running smoothly? Let's explore the essential do’s and don’ts of pool cleaning and maintenance.
 

The Do’s of Pool Cleaning & Maintenance

1. Regular Skimming and Scrubbing

Do: Make skimming a part of your daily routine. Removing leaves, dirt, and debris from your pool's surface prevents them from sinking and complicating cleaning tasks. Invest in a good skimmer net to make this task easier.

Additionally, scrub the sides of your pool to prevent algae buildup. Use a brush suitable for your pool type—nylon bristle brushes for delicate surfaces and stainless steel for concrete pools.

2. Maintain Water Levels

Do: Ensure your pool maintains a consistent water level. Evaporation, heavy rain, or enthusiastic splashing can alter this. Keeping the water level halfway up the skimmer opening ensures that your pool pump runs efficiently.

3. Regularly Check and Balance Chemicals

Do: Test your pool's chemical levels at least once a week. Maintaining balanced chemicals is crucial for a healthy pool. Focus on these main chemical levels:

  • pH Levels: Keep your pH between 7.2 and 7.8.
  • Chlorine: Essential for killing bacteria, maintain a chlorine level of around 1.0 to 3.0 ppm.
  • Alkalinity: Helps stabilize your pH level, should be between 80-120 ppm.

Using test kits or strips makes this an easy task, or alternatively, consult a professional pool service in Ocoee, FL, like Pure & Simple Poolcare.

4. Run the Pool Pump

Do: Keep your pool pump running for at least 8 hours a day. This circulates the water, distributes chemicals evenly, and helps filter out unwanted debris.

5. Shock Your Pool Regularly

Do: Shock your pool every 2 weeks and after heavy use. This involves adding a large dose of chlorine to eliminate bacteria and organic contaminants. Always follow the product instructions and ensure no one swims for several hours afterward.

6. Clean the Pool Filter

Do: Clean your pool filter according to its type and manufacturer's instructions. Whether it's a cartridge, sand, or diatomaceous earth filter, regular cleaning ensures your pool runs efficiently.
 

The Don’ts of Pool Cleaning & Maintenance

1. Don’t Ignore Small Problems

Don’t: Overlook minor issues. Small leaks, unusual noises, or cloudy water can indicate more significant problems. Address these issues immediately to prevent costly repairs down the line.

2. Don’t Overload the Pool with Chemicals

Don’t: Assume that more is better when it comes to pool chemicals. Overusing chemicals can lead to skin irritations and damage to pool surfaces. Stick to recommended levels and consult professionals if unsure.

3. Don’t Forget Pool Accessories

Don’t: Neglect the cleaning of pool accessories like ladders and slides. These can accumulate grime and algae, detracting from your pool’s appearance and safety.

4. Don’t Turn Off the Pump for Extended Periods

Don’t: Turn off your pool pump for extended durations. A stagnant pool becomes a breeding ground for bacteria and algae.

5. Don’t Skip Regular Professional Maintenance

Don’t: Skip over professional maintenance checks. Even diligent DIY maintenance may not catch everything. Scheduling periodic professional inspections can save you time and headaches.

6. Don’t Ignore Safety Measures

Don’t: Overlook safety measures. Always maintain proper fencing, covers, alarms, and supervision to prevent accidents.
 

Conclusion

Maintaining a pool doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By following these do’s and don’ts, you can ensure your pool remains a crystal-clear haven all year round. However, sometimes you need a little extra help. If you require professional pool cleaning services in Ocoee, FL, contact Pure & Simple Poolcare today to schedule an appointment. Our team of experts is equipped to handle all your pool needs, ensuring that your time by the pool remains relaxing and enjoyable.