While owning a pool helps to cool off in the heat, it requires swimming pool maintenance to keep it safe. Proper preservation ensures the water is sanitary and retains its sparkling appeal. Follow the guide below to keep it in prime shape and learn what it involves.

What to Know About Swimming Pool Maintenance

How do I keep debris from getting into my pool?

Invest in a sturdy cover to prevent debris from getting in, especially if trees are surrounding the area, and cover the pool when not in use. Also, keep the overhang from nearby trees trimmed back and away from the water as much as possible. Leave a few tennis balls floating, as their fuzzy surfaces attract natural and synthetic oils to maintain clean water.

How do I remove debris?

Use a net to scoop out debris daily and vacuum the pool every week. The skimmer, the rectangular opening on the side of the pool, also plays a vital role in debris removal. As water passes through, it gets pulled into the skimmer basket, filtering out trash and insects. Keep an eye on the water and make sure it sits at the center level of the skimmer for maximum debris removal. Run the pool filter for at least 10 to 12 hours a day, as this will keep the water circulating and debris consistently filtered out.

How often should I test the water?

When the water is chemically balanced, you won't have to deal with cloudiness, discoloration, or excessive bacteria accumulation. Use water test strips to check the liquid at least twice a week. The pH level should be between 7 and 7.5, while the calcium hardness should be between 200 and 400 parts per million (ppm) to swim in the water safely. Shock the pool using a sanitizer chemical once a week to remove any contaminants.

How do I know how much chlorine I need?

Keep chlorine levels stable for the water to stay at its cleanest. Multiply the number of gallons in the pool by 0.00013 to find how much chlorine to add. A pool's chlorine level should be between 1 and 3 ppm. If the test reads 1 ppm and you want it higher, add 0.00013 ounces per gallon to raise the chlorine by 1 ppm.

When you need professional swimming pool maintenance, trust Captain Cook Pool & Spa in Captain Cook, HI. Since 1980, they have been serving homeowners all throughout the Big Island. Voted the Best Pool Business in West Hawaii in 2016, they provide everything from swimming pool construction to pool repair and resurfacing. Call (808) 323-3063 to request an estimate, or visit their website to browse their services.