Need To Know - Caring For Your Pool

Swimming pools can be high maintenance, but that is one of the trade-offs of being able to enjoy a refreshing dip whenever you need it. Check out our 12 great care tips that can make the job a little easier on you.

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1. Water Testing

Check your pool chemistry once per week in the winter and two to three times weekly during the summer, as well as after any heavy rain. If you own a pool then you probably already have a testing kit, and testing the water is not only important for the cleanliness of the pool but also for the health of those that swim in it.

2. Pool Chemicals

As with any hazardous chemicals make sure you store them in a safe location away from the pool when you aren’t using them, and be sure to use gloves and the appropriate clothing when handling them.

 3. Check the Skimmer

Make sure you check the skimmer baskets before you use the pool and once every week when the pool isn’t in use.

4. Clean the Lint Pot

Manufacturers recommend you clean the hair and lint pot in the pump once every few weeks, but it can be hard to remember when you did it last. Instead we recommend you do an inspection once a week when you are doing your water testing. Remember to make sure that the pump is switched off before you go near it.

5. Water Levels

Check water levels at least once per month. After heavy rain fall you will need to check the water level and adjust it as necessary. Be sure the water level is at the centre of the skimmer or tile.

6. In-Line & In-Deck Chlorinators

If you are using an In-line or In-deck Chlorinator be sure to check it once per week and make sure it is working correctly. These devices are fantastic when everything else in your pool is working correctly, but you need to be sure that filters, pumps, skimmers and water levels are all right so that these devices can do their job.

7. Ozone Units

If you have one, you should ensure the light is on in the ozone unit. You should also slightly crack the valve at the pump, but you have to do it with care because you run the risk of breaking the fragile connections. To make sure the adjustment is within range, you should check the flow-meter often. If you have an ozone system, you should not shock your pool on a regular basis.

8. Water Filters

Filters need to be checked weekly and properly cleaned every four to six months. Inspect your pool and check - Does it look clean? Does the in-floor cleaning system work well? Is the water flowing in from the returns very weak? If you experience any of these conditions, then it's probable that your filters need to be cleaned. While the majority of pools need this done a few times a year, some require it done less or more often.

9. Clean around the Pool

The tiles and concrete around the pool need to be kept clean to ensure no unnecessary contaminants are getting in to your pool. Don’t put gardens to close to the edge and trim overhanging trees and branches. Using a foot bath for swimmers to use when they enter the swimming area can also help to reduce debris.

10. Salt Water Pools

Some of us have salt water chlorine generators and cleaning them should be considered every month. The blades should be thoroughly checked to see if they're calcified and if they are, they should be cleaned as instructed by the manufacturer.

11. Repairs

If you see cracks developing between your tile and deck, use a small bead of clear silicon to caulk it. Anything you can do to stop contaminants getting in to your pool is going to reduce the amount of time you need to spend cleaning it.

12. Use an expert

If you can’t get things working as they should, or if you just don’t want to have to spend your time cleaning and servicing your pool then you can call in the experts.

The Plumbing & Electrical Doctor can carry out monthly inspections and cleaning to help ease the load, and our qualified plumbers can offer you the right advice on the system you are using. To make a booking to have a technician out just give us a call today.

Need to book an appointment? Just give us a call - 1800 993 820.