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What to Do with Animal Droppings in Your Pool

What to Do with Animal Droppings in Your Pool

What to Do with Animal Droppings in Your Pool


Your backyard pool is your oasis—a place where you unwind, enjoy with family, and escape the scorching Florida heat. But what happens when nature decides to drop a less-than-welcome gift in your shimmering sanctuary? Animal droppings in a pool are not just gross; they pose health risks and can wreak havoc with the pool's balance. If you're dealing with this messy situation and need professional pool service in Orlando, FL, contact Pure & Simple Pool Care today to schedule an appointment. In the meantime, let's explore what to do when you find animal droppings in your pool.
 

Understanding the Risks

Before we jump into the cleanup process, it's essential to understand why animal droppings in a pool are a big deal. These droppings can introduce bacteria, viruses, and parasites into your pool water, including E. coli, Giardia, and Cryptosporidium, which can cause gastrointestinal illnesses. The presence of these pathogens isn't just unpleasant; it can be dangerous, especially for children and those with weakened immune systems.
 

Initial Safety Measures

Before you start cleaning, make sure you take these initial safety measures:

  • Close the Pool: Make sure no one uses the pool until it's been cleaned and treated.
  • Wear Gloves: Prevent direct contact with the droppings by wearing disposable gloves.
  • Prepare Cleaning Supplies: Gather necessary cleaning items such as a net, bucket, chlorine, and pool test strips.
     

Step-by-Step Cleanup Process

1. Remove the Droppings

The first step is to carefully remove the droppings from the pool. Use a net designed for pool cleaning to scoop out the droppings carefully. Ensure that you remove as much of the solid waste as possible. Place the waste in a sealable plastic bag and dispose of it with your regular trash. Remember to disinfect the net afterward.

2. Shock the Pool

Once you’ve removed the droppings, it's time to shock your pool. Shocking involves adding a large dose of chlorine to kill any bacteria or pathogens that might have entered the water. Follow these steps:

  • Test the Water: Use pool test strips to determine the current chlorine level.
  • Add Shock: If you're using granular chlorine, dissolve it in a bucket of water before adding it to the pool. Make sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions regarding the amount needed for your pool size.
  • Circulate the Water: Turn on the pool pump and circulate the water for at least 8 hours to ensure even distribution of the chlorine.

3. Test the Water Again

After the shock treatment, test the pool water again to ensure that the chlorine levels are within safe swimming limits. Ideally, chlorine levels should be between 1-3 ppm (parts per million). If the levels are still high, wait until they drop to the safe range before reopening the pool for use.

4. Monitor pH Levels

Chlorine isn't the only factor to consider when ensuring your pool is safe to swim in. You also need to monitor the pH levels, as improper pH can cause skin irritation and reduce the effectiveness of chlorine. Maintain a pH level between 7.2 and 7.8.
 

Preventing Future Incidents

Prevention is the best cure. Here are some tips to prevent animal droppings from making their way into your pool:

  • Install a Pool Cover: Using a pool cover when the pool is not in use can effectively keep animals out.
  • Use Deterrents: Consider installing motion-activated sprinklers or ultrasonic repellents to deter animals from coming near your pool.
  • Regular Maintenance: Routine checks and cleanings can help catch any potential issues early. If you're looking for professional pool service in Orlando, FL, Pure & Simple Pool Care can help maintain your pool's pristine condition.
     

Why Choose Professional Pool Service?

While DIY methods can be effective, there are compelling reasons to seek professional pool service in Orlando, FL:

  • Expertise: Professionals have the knowledge to handle unexpected complications and ensure thorough cleaning and chemical balancing.
  • Time-Saving: Cleaning up animal droppings and balancing pool chemistry can be time-consuming. A professional service can save you valuable time.
  • Consistent Monitoring: Regular professional checks can help preemptively identify issues, ensuring your pool remains safe and clean.

Pure & Simple Pool Care is your go-to choice for excellent pool service in Orlando, FL. Our team provides comprehensive services that include regular maintenance, cleaning, and emergency responses like removing animal droppings.
 

Conclusion

Encountering animal droppings in your pool is certainly unpleasant, but understanding the correct steps to take can mitigate health risks and restore your pool to its former glory quickly. While DIY methods can be handy, professional pool services offer the experience and precision needed for effective resolution and prevention. Don't hesitate to reach out to Pure & Simple Pool Care for top-notch pool service in Orlando, FL.