Pool Care

DIY Pool Pump Cover Ideas – Protect Your Pump with Style

April 26, 2023 by swimcity

If you’re a pool owner, you know that maintaining your pool is essential to its longevity and to your enjoyment of it. One aspect of pool maintenance that sometimes gets overlooked is the pool pump. The pump is responsible for circulating the water in your pool, and it needs to be protected from the elements. This is where a pool pump cover comes in handy.

There are a variety of pool pump covers available on the market, but if you’re looking for a more affordable and customizable option, a DIY pool pump cover might be the way to go. Not only can you save money by building your own cover, but you can also create a cover that fits your specific needs and style. In this article, we’ll explore some DIY pool pump cover ideas that you can try out for yourself.

Why Cover Your Pool Pump?

As pool owners, we know how important it is to maintain our pool equipment to ensure that it is running efficiently. One of the essential components of a pool is the pool pump. The pool pump is responsible for circulating the water and keeping it clean. However, the pool pump is also vulnerable to the elements, and that is why it is crucial to cover it.

Here are some reasons why you should consider covering your pool pump:

Protection from the elements: The pool pump is exposed to the sun, wind, rain, and other elements. Over time, these elements can cause damage to the pump, reducing its lifespan. A cover can protect the pump from these elements, increasing its lifespan and reducing the need for repairs.

Prevent debris from entering the pump: Leaves, twigs, and other debris can easily find their way into the pool pump. This debris can cause blockages, reducing the pump’s efficiency and potentially causing damage. A cover can prevent debris from entering the pump, ensuring that it is running smoothly.

Reduce noise: Pool pumps can be noisy, especially if they are located near your home. A cover can help to reduce the noise, making your pool area a more peaceful place to relax.

Improve the appearance of your pool area: A pool pump cover can be an attractive addition to your pool area, improving its overall appearance.

Overall, covering your pool pump is an easy and affordable way to protect your investment and ensure that your pool is running efficiently. There are many DIY pool pump cover ideas that you can try, and we will be discussing some of them in the following sections.

4 DIY Pool Pump Cover Ideas

When it comes to pool pump covers, there are many options available. In this section, we will explore some of the best DIY pool pump cover ideas that you can try at home.

Wooden Pool Pump Cover

If you’re looking for a natural and rustic look, a wooden pool pump cover might be the perfect choice. You can use reclaimed wood or buy new wood from a hardware store. You’ll need to measure the dimensions of your pool pump and build a box that fits over it. You can add hinges to the cover so that it’s easy to access the pump when needed.

PVC Pool Pump Cover

If you want a cover that’s lightweight and easy to move, a PVC pool pump cover might be the right choice for you. You can purchase PVC pipes and fittings from a hardware store and assemble them into a box shape. You can then add a cover made from PVC sheeting or a tarp.

Rock Pool Pump Cover

If you want a cover that blends in with your landscaping, a rock pool pump cover might be the way to go. You can purchase artificial rocks or make your own using concrete and a mold. You’ll need to measure the dimensions of your pool pump and build a box that fits over it. You can then cover the box with the artificial rocks to create a natural look.

Shrubbery Pool Pump Cover

If you want a cover that’s both functional and beautiful, a shrubbery pool pump cover might be the perfect choice. You can plant shrubs or small trees around the pool pump to create a natural cover. You’ll need to make sure that the plants don’t obstruct access to the pump and that they’re easy to maintain.

As you can see, there are many DIY pool pump cover ideas to choose from. Whether you prefer a natural look or something more modern, you can find a cover that fits your style and budget.

How to Build a DIY Wooden Pool Pump Cover

Materials Needed

Before starting the project, we need to gather the necessary materials:

4 pieces of 2×4 lumber, 8 feet long
1 piece of 4×8 plywood, 1/2 inch thick
1 box of wood screws, 2 inches long
1 box of wood screws, 1 inch long
1 box of wood glue
1 set of hinges
1 latch
1 handle
1 pint of exterior paint or stain
1 paintbrush
1 circular saw
1 drill
1 level

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps to build a DIY pool pump cover:

Step 1: Cut the 2×4 lumber into four pieces, each 6 feet long.

Step 2: Cut the plywood into two pieces, each 4×6 feet.

Step 3: Assemble the frame by attaching the 2×4 pieces with wood screws and wood glue. Use the level to ensure the frame is square and level.

Step 4: Attach the hinges to one of the 4×6 feet plywood pieces and then attach the plywood to the frame.

Step 5: Attach the latch and handle to the other 4×6 feet plywood piece.

Step 6: Attach the plywood with the latch and handle to the frame.

Step 7: Paint or stain the cover with exterior paint or stain.

Step 8: Install the cover over the pool pump.

Building a DIY pool pump cover is an easy and affordable way to protect your pool pump from the elements. By following these simple steps and using the right materials, we can create a functional and attractive cover that will keep our pool pump safe and secure.

Maintaining Your DIY Pool Pump Cover

Once you have built your DIY pool pump cover, it is important to maintain it to ensure that it continues to function effectively. Here are some tips on how to maintain your DIY pool pump cover:

Regularly clean the cover to remove any debris that may have accumulated on it. This will help to prevent clogging of the pump and ensure that it continues to function properly.
Inspect the cover regularly for any signs of wear and tear. If you notice any damage, repair it as soon as possible to prevent further damage.
Check the cover for any cracks or holes that may have developed over time. These can be repaired using a sealant or patch kit.
Make sure that the cover is securely fastened to the pump to prevent it from being blown off in high winds.
Consider adding a layer of weatherproofing to the cover to protect it from the elements and extend its lifespan.

By following these simple maintenance tips, you can ensure that your DIY pool pump cover remains in good condition and continues to protect your pump for years to come.

Conclusion

DIY pool pump covers are a great way to protect your pool equipment from the elements and keep your backyard looking tidy. With so many options available, it’s easy to find a design that matches your style and budget.

We hope this article has inspired you to create your own pool pump cover. Remember to consider the size of your pump, the climate in your area, and any local building codes before you start your project.

Thank you for visit Swim City, please browse our website for more useful articles about swimming and pool.

Whether you choose a wooden enclosure, a PVC fence panel, or a decorative planter, a DIY pool pump cover is a practical and attractive addition to any backyard. By taking the time to build a cover that meets your needs, you can enjoy a clean and well-maintained pool for years to come.

How to Lower Chlorine in Pool – A Comprehensive Guide

April 22, 2023 by swimcity

If you are a pool owner, you may have noticed that the chlorine level in your pool is higher than it should be. High chlorine levels can cause skin and eye irritation, as well as damage to your pool equipment. In this article, we will discuss how to lower the chlorine in your pool and maintain a healthy balance.

First, it’s important to understand why your chlorine levels may be high. One common reason is overuse of chlorine shock treatments. Another reason is adding too much chlorine to your pool on a regular basis. Regardless of the cause, it’s important to take action to lower your chlorine levels and maintain a safe and healthy swimming environment.

There are several steps you can take to lower the chlorine in your pool. One option is to reduce the amount of chlorine you add to your pool on a regular basis. Another option is to use a chlorine neutralizer to quickly lower the chlorine levels. Additionally, you can partially drain and refill your pool with fresh water to dilute the chlorine levels. By following these steps, you can maintain a safe and balanced pool environment for you and your family.

Understanding Chlorine Levels

When it comes to maintaining a clean and safe pool, understanding chlorine levels is key. In this section, we will discuss the ideal chlorine levels for your pool and why high chlorine levels can be a problem.

Ideal Chlorine Levels

The ideal chlorine level for a swimming pool is between 1 and 3 parts per million (ppm). This level is sufficient to kill bacteria and other harmful organisms in the water without causing any harm to swimmers. It is important to test your pool’s chlorine levels regularly to ensure that they are within this range.

There are several factors that can affect your pool’s chlorine levels, including sunlight, temperature, and the number of swimmers. If your pool is in direct sunlight for most of the day, you may need to add more chlorine to maintain the ideal level. Similarly, if the water temperature is high, you may need to increase your chlorine levels to prevent bacteria from growing.

Why High Chlorine Levels are a Problem

While chlorine is essential for keeping your pool clean and safe, high chlorine levels can be a problem. If the chlorine level in your pool is too high, it can cause skin and eye irritation, as well as respiratory problems. In addition, high chlorine levels can damage your pool’s equipment and cause your liner to deteriorate more quickly.

If you notice that your pool’s chlorine levels are consistently high, there are several steps you can take to lower them. You can reduce the amount of chlorine you add to the water, increase the amount of time your pool’s pump runs each day, or add a chlorine neutralizer to the water.

By understanding the ideal chlorine levels for your pool and the potential problems associated with high chlorine levels, you can ensure that your pool is always clean, safe, and enjoyable for everyone who uses it.

swimming pool maintenance tip

Methods for Lowering Chlorine Levels

Dilution Method

If the chlorine levels in your pool are too high, one of the simplest ways to lower them is to dilute the water. This involves adding fresh water to the pool to reduce the concentration of chlorine. The amount of water you need to add will depend on how high the chlorine levels are and the size of your pool. We recommend testing the water regularly to monitor the chlorine levels and determine when it’s time to add fresh water.

Using a Chlorine Neutralizer

Another effective method for reducing chlorine levels is to use a chlorine neutralizer. These products work by chemically binding with the chlorine in the water, effectively reducing its concentration. There are many different types of chlorine neutralizers available, including liquid and granular formulas. It’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully when using a chlorine neutralizer to ensure that you add the correct amount to your pool.

Natural Methods

There are also several natural methods for reducing chlorine levels in your pool. One of the most effective is to use activated charcoal. This material can be added to your pool’s filter system to absorb excess chlorine from the water. Another natural method is to use hydrogen peroxide. This substance can be added to the water to help neutralize the chlorine. However, it’s important to note that natural methods may not be as effective as chemical methods and may take longer to produce results.

Using activated charcoal to lower chlorine levels

Overall, there are several methods for reducing chlorine levels in your pool. The best method for you will depend on the severity of the problem and your personal preferences. We recommend consulting with a pool professional to determine the best course of action for your specific situation.

Preventing High Chlorine Levels

Lowering chlorine levels in your pool can be a challenging task, but preventing high levels of chlorine is much easier. Here are a few things we can do to prevent high chlorine levels:

Regular Testing

Regular testing is essential to prevent high chlorine levels. We recommend testing our pool water at least twice a week during the swimming season. Testing our pool water regularly will help us detect any imbalances in our pool water chemistry. We can use test strips or a liquid test kit to measure the chlorine levels in our pool water.

Proper Chemical Balancing

Proper chemical balancing is crucial to prevent high chlorine levels. We need to maintain a proper pH level between 7.2 and 7.8. If the pH level is too high, it can reduce the effectiveness of chlorine. On the other hand, if the pH level is too low, it can cause skin irritation and damage to our pool equipment. We also need to maintain a proper alkalinity level between 80 and 120 ppm. Proper alkalinity levels help stabilize our pool water pH level and prevent fluctuations.

Regular Maintenance

Regular maintenance is also essential to prevent high chlorine levels. We need to clean our pool regularly to remove any debris and organic matter. We also need to backwash our filter regularly to maintain its efficiency. We should also check our pool equipment regularly to ensure it’s working correctly. A malfunctioning pool pump or filter can cause imbalances in our pool water chemistry and lead to high chlorine levels.

By following these simple steps, we can prevent high chlorine levels in our pool. Regular testing, proper chemical balancing, and regular maintenance are the keys to maintaining a healthy and safe swimming environment.

Salt Water Pool vs Chlorine – Pros and Cons of Each

April 18, 2023 by swimcity

When it comes to owning a swimming pool, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is choosing the right type of water treatment system. Two of the most popular options are salt water and chlorine. Both have their benefits and drawbacks, so it’s important to weigh the pros and cons before making a decision.

At first glance, the idea of a salt water pool may sound appealing. After all, who wouldn’t want to swim in water that’s naturally sanitized? However, the reality is a bit more complicated. While salt water pools do use chlorine to sanitize the water, the chlorine is generated through a process called electrolysis. This means that the chlorine levels in a salt water pool are lower and more stable than those in a traditional chlorine pool.

On the other hand, traditional chlorine pools require regular additions of chlorine to maintain proper levels. While this may seem like a hassle, it does give you more control over the chlorine levels in your pool. Additionally, chlorine pools tend to be less expensive to install and maintain than salt water pools. Ultimately, the decision between a salt water and chlorine pool comes down to personal preference and priorities.

What is a Salt Water Pool?

When it comes to swimming pools, there are two main types: traditional chlorine pools and salt water pools. In this section, we will discuss what a salt water pool is and how it works compared to a traditional chlorine pool.

How Does a Salt Water Pool Work?

A salt water pool is a type of swimming pool that uses a salt chlorine generator to produce the chlorine needed to keep the water clean and clear. The generator uses a process called electrolysis to break down the salt in the water and create chlorine.

Unlike traditional chlorine pools, which require regular addition of chlorine tablets or liquid, a salt water pool only needs to have salt added to the water periodically to maintain the proper level. This means less time and effort is required to maintain the pool, as there is no need to handle and store potentially hazardous chemicals.

Benefits of a Salt Water Pool

There are several benefits to choosing a salt water pool over a traditional chlorine pool. First and foremost, salt water pools are generally considered to be more gentle on the skin and eyes. This is because the water is softer and contains less harsh chemicals than a traditional pool.

Additionally, salt water pools require less maintenance than traditional chlorine pools. As mentioned earlier, there is no need to add chlorine tablets or liquid on a regular basis. This can save both time and money in the long run.

Finally, salt water pools are often considered to be more environmentally friendly than traditional chlorine pools. This is because they use less harsh chemicals and require less energy to maintain.

What is a Chlorine Pool?

When it comes to swimming pools, one of the most common types is a chlorine pool. These pools are treated with chlorine to keep the water clean and free of harmful bacteria. In this section, we will explore how chlorine pools work and some of their benefits.

How Does a Chlorine Pool Work?

Chlorine is a chemical that is added to the water in a swimming pool to kill bacteria and other harmful microorganisms. It works by breaking down the cell walls of these microorganisms, which ultimately kills them. Chlorine is added to the pool in various forms, including tablets, granules, and liquid.

Chlorine levels in a pool need to be maintained within a certain range to ensure that the water remains clean and safe for swimming. This is usually done using a test kit to measure the chlorine levels in the water. If the levels are too low, more chlorine needs to be added. If the levels are too high, chlorine neutralizer can be added to bring the levels back down.

Benefits of a Chlorine Pool

One of the main benefits of a chlorine pool is that it is a tried and tested method of keeping the water clean and safe for swimming. Chlorine is effective at killing harmful bacteria and microorganisms that can cause illness, making it a popular choice for public swimming pools.

Chlorine pools are also relatively easy to maintain, as long as the chlorine levels are kept within the recommended range. Chlorine tablets or granules can be added to the water as needed, and a test kit can be used to measure the chlorine levels.

Finally, chlorine pools are typically less expensive to install and maintain than other types of pools, such as saltwater pools. This makes them a popular choice for homeowners who want a pool but are on a budget.

Salt Water Pool vs Chlorine: Pros and Cons

Pros of a Salt Water Pool

There are several advantages to having a salt water pool:

Lower chlorine levels: Salt water pools use a generator to convert salt into chlorine, resulting in lower levels of chlorine compared to traditional chlorine pools.
Less maintenance: Salt water pools require less maintenance since the generator produces chlorine continuously, reducing the need for manual dosing.
Softer water: Salt water pools have softer water, making it gentler on the skin and eyes.
Cost-effective: Although the initial setup of a salt water pool is more expensive, it can save money in the long run since there is no need to purchase and add chlorine frequently.

Cons of a Salt Water Pool

Despite the benefits, there are some downsides to consider:

Higher upfront costs: The initial cost of installing a salt water pool is higher than a traditional chlorine pool.
Corrosion: Salt water can be corrosive, leading to damage to pool equipment and surfaces over time.
Complexity: Salt water pools are more complex to install and maintain, requiring a professional technician.

Pros of a Chlorine Pool

Chlorine pools have their advantages as well:

Lower upfront costs: Traditional chlorine pools are less expensive to install compared to salt water pools.
Effective: Chlorine is a powerful disinfectant that can quickly kill bacteria and other harmful organisms in the pool.
Simple maintenance: Chlorine pools are easy to maintain with regular dosing, making it a popular choice for pool owners.

Cons of a Chlorine Pool

However, there are also some disadvantages to consider:

Strong odor: Chlorine pools can have a strong odor that can be unpleasant for some people.
Harsh on skin and eyes: High levels of chlorine can be harsh on the skin and eyes, causing irritation and discomfort.
Costs: Chlorine needs to be purchased and added to the pool regularly, which can add up in cost over time.

Maintenance and Cost Comparison

Cost Comparison

When it comes to cost, the initial investment for a saltwater pool is typically higher than a traditional chlorine pool. The saltwater generator itself can cost anywhere from $1,500 to $2,500, while a traditional chlorine system can cost as little as $300. However, over time, a saltwater pool can save you money on chemicals. On average, a saltwater pool owner can expect to spend around $100 a year on salt and other chemicals, while a traditional chlorine pool owner can expect to spend around $300 a year on chemicals.

Maintenance Comparison

When it comes to maintenance, both types of pools require regular upkeep to keep the water clean and safe for swimming. However, saltwater pools require less maintenance than traditional chlorine pools. With a saltwater pool, you don’t need to add chlorine tablets or shock the pool as often. The saltwater generator produces chlorine as needed, which means you only need to add salt to the pool when necessary.

Another benefit of a saltwater pool is that the water is softer and gentler on skin and hair. This means you may not need to use as many chemicals to balance the pH and alkalinity levels in the water. Additionally, saltwater pools tend to have less algae growth than traditional chlorine pools, which means less time spent cleaning and scrubbing the walls and floor of the pool.

Overall, while the initial investment for a saltwater pool may be higher, the long-term cost savings on chemicals and reduced maintenance make it a worthwhile investment for many homeowners.

How to Clear Cloudy Pool Water – Ultimate Guide

April 16, 2020 by swimcity

You might wake up one day and find your pool all cloudy. Do you want to swim in a pool like that? I doubt anyone is willing to jump into a mass of water if they can’t see the bottom of it. The process to get the water clean again will require some time and effort, and that’s where we step in. How to clear cloudy pool water?

In this article, we will explain the causes of your ‘milky’ pool and suggest some methods to deal with the unwanted situation, to fix the cloudy pool. Let’s bid the uninviting look goodbye!

how to clear cloudy pool water

Why is your pool cloudy?

It was all clear and beautiful yesterday. What happened?

In most cases, it gets cloudy slowly as days pass by. You might have noticed the cloudiness but brushed it off until it’s too visible to ignore. Sometimes, the issue occurs overnight. And we have three main reasons.

#The surrounding

There are so many sources of dirt and dust around us that we won’t be able to list them all: weather, construction, tree, people, algae, and a lot of trivial things.

#The filter

It’s the key factor in keeping your pool clean. Therefore, if you are experiencing a cloudy pool, the chance of your sand or cartridge filter having problems is high.

#The pool chemicals

We add chemicals to sanitize and balance the pool water, but an abundance of chemicals might cause cloudy pool issue.

What do they do to the pool?

There are some links between the reasons above. For example, the sanitizers can’t dissolve an excessive amount of solids, the filters have to take care of the rest. If the filtration system fails to do so, the solids will take over and deactivate the sanitizers.

While we are in the water, we add sweat, sunscreen, urine, and so much more. They deplete chlorine over time. Another culprit is the sun. The UV rays ruin the sanitizing ions and cause them to evaporate. That’s why we have to test the balance and add more sanitizers if needed.

The sanitizer also kills off the algae that we don’t want to touch at all. The more algae you have in your pool, the more chemicals you need and the less efficient they are in fighting off other contaminants.

Moreover, pH, alkalinity, calcium, and other indexes can also be the cause of the cloudiness, which means we will always need to balance the pool chemistry.

Luckily, cloudy water belongs to the simpler side when it comes to pool problems. However, the consequences are severe.

The issues following a cloudy pool

We can agree that a cloudy pool means the level of sanitizer is low, and bacteria have the ideal environment to grow. Swimmers will face dangerous contaminants and put their health at risk.

With many contaminants in the pool, your filtration equipment will be under pressure. The system will have to work extra hours and still fail to distribute the filtered water thoroughly.

The cloudy water might be the beginning of something worse: algae. It makes the experience with the pool yuck, of course, but the suspended debris can impair your sight as well. If someone or something falls into a pool full of algae and you can’t spot them immediately, it will be very dangerous.

Last but not least, you’re facing serious problems if the water chemistry is wrong.

High pH? Your pool is less acidic than it needs to be. It allows scales to form on the surface and in the plumbing, and they will make it difficult for the sanitizer and the filter to do their job.
High alkalinity? It means the water isn’t acidic, but high alkaline water still causes the metal to pit and vinyl to tear. The flakes will also clog the filters.
High chlorine? Skin irritation is the first threat. If you have a history of troubles with breathing, your lungs will be vulnerable too. As if it wasn’t bad enough, chlorine byproducts could be corrosive.

Now, you already know about the reasons and problems a cloudy pool water may bring. It’s the time to learn how to fix cloudy pool water. Keep reading!

How to clear cloudy pool water?

# Test the water

Since the chemistry balance is one of the main reasons for your cloudy pool, we can start from there.

There are two common options: a test kit and a set of test strips. The test strips allow you to measure the indexes mentioned above, while the test kit has a wider range of uses.

Still, we will focus on pH, chlorine, and alkaline concentration. If the water is more on the base side, we use hydrochloric acid or sodium hydrogen sulfate. If the acid level is high, sodium carbonate will balance it out. To maintain the chlorine level, don’t forget the chlorine stabilizer.

# Deep cleaning

It will get dirt and debris off the pool surfaces, and you need a good start like that before anything else. Vacuum the remnants out of your pool, and vacuum to waste if you’re dealing with algae.

# Shock it

For the stubborn contaminants, you might need a harsh solution. A huge dose of chlorine will shock your pool and eliminate all of the little invaders like bacteria, organic wastes, and algae.

# Check on your filter

You should backwash the filters every few months. Why do we put this suggestion after deep cleaning and shocking the water? If you run the filters after completing those steps, the sanitizer will also go through the circulation system, and the clean water will reach farther corners of the pool.

# Utilize the bottom drains

If your above ground pool uses no bottom drain, there’s a trick: hook your vacuum cleaner up and center it on the pool bottom before turning it upside down. This way, the vacuum head will suck the water from the bottom of your pool and finish what the skimmer can’t do.

# Pool floc

They usually come in a powdered form. You will dissolve them in water and spread them all over the surface. They will draw the particles in the water closer and clump together on the bottom.

During this time, your filter pump should be resting and let the pool floc collect the debris. After 48 hours, you can use the vacuum to get the clusters out of your pool.

# Pool clarifier

Although its function is to pull tiny particles into clumps, it’s not the same thing. With the pool clarifier, the filter will remove them from your pool instead of the vacuum. Thus, it’s known as a preventative method to keep the water clear.

# Maintenance

It’s always better to stop the problems before they affect you badly rather than trying to fix it. A pool maintenance plan is necessary if you want your pool to be in its best shape.

Testing the chemical levels and keeping them balanced
Shocking the pool periodically
Making sure there is no giant clump troubling your filtration system
Removing the debris and vacuuming the pool regularly

Final Verdict

Now you know what causes the cloudiness in the pool, the damage it does, and how to clear a cloudy pool. It will take some time and cost quite some money, but you will find it worthwhile when your pool is crystal clear again! If you have any question, feel free to ask us Swim-City

Swimming Pool Maintenance Tips for Beginners

February 27, 2020 by swimcity

Are you new to swimming pool and have no idea about swimming pool maintenance? The article below about swimming pool maintenance for beginners will help you to take care of your pool the right way.

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Regular swimming pool maintenance is an absolute must if you want to have a consistently crystal clear swimming pool that you can enjoy all season, or year round. There are some pool maintenance jobs that need to be done every day, and other tasks that should be done weekly. There are also some seasonal maintenance checks.

All of these pool maintenance jobs, when done regularly will ensure you can have a fully functioning and fun swimming pool when you require it. You can find all the tools and equipment you need to maintain your pool in many online stores.

swimming pool maintenance

Equipment for maintaining swimming pools help keep the pool clean and clear. Pool manufacturers recommend the regular use of specific tools to keep the water safe for swimming. Without proper maintenance, swimming pools can become dirty or contaminated. Sometimes this can happen very quickly.

Some of the things you’ll need to keep the pool clean include a pool filter, vacuum, and skimmer. Chlorine tablets prevent the growth of algae that can turn the water cloudy or greenish. To maintain an in-ground swimming pool, you will also need some pumice stones and brushes to clean the tiles.

Daily Swimming Pool Maintenance Tasks

Run the pool filter at least 8 hours a day, or as recommended by the manufacturer. It is best, however, to keep the filter running 24 hours a day.
Use a pool skimmer to remove floating leaves and debris. Empty your skimmer baskets and clear them of leaves and debris.
Add chlorine to the pool daily. You can use a chlorine floater with chlorine tablets inside. You can also place slow-dissolving chlorine tablets in the skimmers or filter once a week.

Weekly Tasks – Swimming Pool Maintenance

Vacuum the pool to remove dirt from the bottom. Pool vacuums come in automatic or manual models.
Use a brush or pumice stone to scrub the tiles along the waterline. This is where deposits tend to form.
Swimming pool maintenance experts recommend adding a dose of Algae Preventative to discourage the growth of algae.
Use a pool cover if the pool will not be used for an extended period of time.

Maintaining Your Pool Equipment

Check your pool maintenance equipment regularly to make sure they are in good working condition and to correct small problems before they get worse. Clean out the swimming pool’s skimmer basket and empty the contents into a trash bag.

Open and clean out the pump strainer basket. After cleaning the skimmer and strainer basket, check the filter and see if it also needs cleaning. You may also have to replace the filter. It’s important to check the condition of the machinery and pool equipment on a monthly basis.

Testing The Water of The Swimming Pool

You should test the swimming pool water every two to three weeks. The water’s pH level should be between 7.2 and 7.9 to keep it clean and clear and safe for users of the swimming pool.

Water test strips will show the levels of chlorine and pH level in the pool. Free available chlorine level should be at 1.0-3.0 ppm. If the chemical levels are not maintained, algae can grow. This can lead to water that appears cloudy, green, black or brown.

It is vital to follow these basic pool maintenance tasks to keep your pool ready for swimming. Proper and regular maintenance is the only way to keep your swimming pool crystal clear.

swimming pool maintenance tip

Swimming Pool Chemicals Beginner’s Guide

Maintaining the proper water chemistry of your swimming pool is just as important (if not even more) as keeping it clean of visible dirt, leaves, and other debris. If you are in the process of buying your first swimming pool, this article will help you understanding what chemicals go into your swimming pool and why. The right balance of chemicals keeps your pool water safe and clean for swimmers.

There are several pool chemicals used to maintain the proper water chemistry of your swimming pool, including sanitizers, algaecides, shocks, balancers and stabilizers. The right combination of them can result in a clean water, but it’s important to use them the proper way. an imbalance can have negative impact on the health of swimmers, and can also harm your filtering, pumping, and heating system.

It’s not enough for your pool to look crystal clear. The pH level must also be maintained between 7.4 and 7.6. Lower or higher pH levels can lead to eye and skin irritation as well as corrosion to the filter system.

Sanitizers

Chlorine is the most popular swimming pool chemical used to kill pathogens in the water. It can be purchased in the form of tablets, liquid or powder. Chlorine is added to the water as calcium hypochlorite (a solid) or sodium hypochlorite (a liquid). The compound reacts with water to form a variety of chemicals, including hypochlorous acid. Hypochlorous acid sanitizes the pool by killing bacteria and other pathogens.

Chlorine can be added directly to the water using a chemical feeder. Chlorine tablets can also be placed in skimmer boxes to provide a steady supply of chlorine.

Bromine is another type of swimming pool chemical used as a sanitizer. It is similar to chlorine but has a less penetrating smell.

Algaecides

Algae make your pool water look cloudy, green or brown. Algaecides destroy and prevent algae from growing. This swimming pool chemical can be purchased in tablet or liquid form.

Shocks

Shocks are high doses of swimming pool chemicals. They are normally used after your pool has been active for a significant amount of time. Shocks are also used periodically throughout the swimming season to disinfect the pool, kill algae, clear out organic matter and get rid of chloramines which irritate the skin and eyes.

Balancers

Balancers are swimming pool chemicals that increase or reduce the pH level to maintain the proper acidity and alkalinity of the pool. Soda ash, sodium carbonate and sodium bicarbonate are used to raise the pH level. Muriatic acid or sodium bisulfate lower the pH level and make the water more acidic.

Stabilizers

Stabilizers are important in swimming pools that use a chlorine-based sanitization system. These swimming pool chemicals enhance the effectiveness of chlorine and help to make the chlorine levels last that bit longer before requiring top ups.

Many companies now offer swimming pool chemical kits that include all products you will need to keep your pool clean. Special kits can also be purchased for the treatments you will need at the start and end of the pool season. One of the best ways to buy your swimming pool chemicals is to buy in bulk online from leading pool supply companies. Usually you can get some great deals, with free shipping thrown in and you will have enough chemicals to get you right through the swimming season, and then some.

Swimming Pool Maintenance – Last Saying

Hope that these swimming pool maintenance for beginners tips above will help you to get what to do with your pool. Try to pay a little attention to your pool everyday or at least every week and then you will have a great pool to enjoy. If you have any question about taking of swimming pool, feel free to ask Swim-City by leaving a comment below.