Having an outdoor pool in your backyard is a wonderful addition to any home. It can provide hours of fun, entertainment, and relaxation for family and friends. However, outdoor pool maintenance requires regular upkeep, especially when it comes to cleaning it.
A dirty pool not only looks unsightly but can also be a breeding ground for bacteria and other harmful microorganisms. Therefore, it’s crucial to keep your pool clean and well-maintained. In this article, we’ll discuss 7 ways to clean your outdoor pool properly.
Table of Contents
1) Skim the Surface Regularly
Skimming the surface of the pool is the first and foremost step in keeping it clean. The surface of the pool can accumulate debris like leaves, twigs, insects, and other floating objects. Therefore, it’s essential to use a skimmer net to remove them regularly. Skimming the surface of the pool also helps prevent the debris from settling at the bottom, which can clog the pool filter and create a breeding ground for algae and bacteria. Experts recommend skimming the pool every day to keep it clean and well-maintained.
2) Brush the Walls and Floor
Even if you skim the surface of the pool regularly, some debris may still cling to the walls and floor of the pool. Therefore, it’s essential to use a pool brush for scrubbing the pool floor and walls. The brush helps to remove dirt, algae, and other debris. It’s recommended to brush the pool walls and floor once a week to keep them clean and well-maintained.
3) Vacuum the Pool
Vacuuming the pool is another important step in keeping it clean. This involves using a pool vacuum to remove any debris that may have sunk to the bottom of the pool. There are different types of pool vacuums available, including manual and automatic vacuums. Manual vacuums require you to push them around the pool to clean, while automatic vacuums operate independently. Whichever type of vacuum you choose, make sure to use it regularly to keep your pool clean and healthy.
4) Clean the Filter
The pool filter is an essential component of the pool’s cleaning system. It helps to remove dirt, debris, and other impurities from the water, keeping it clean and clear. However, over time, the filter can become clogged with debris, reducing its efficiency. Therefore, it’s important to clean the filter regularly. The frequency of cleaning depends on the type of filter you have. Cartridge filters should be cleaned every 4-6 weeks, while sand filters need to be back washed once a month. If you have a D.E. filter, you should clean it at least once a year.
5) Check the Chemical Balance
Maintaining the proper chemical balance of the pool is essential to keep it clean and safe for swimmers. The chemical balance refers to the levels of pH, chlorine, and alkalinity in the water. It’s recommended to test the pool water at least once a week to ensure that the chemical levels are balanced. The ideal pH level for a pool is between 7.2 and 7.8, while the chlorine level should be between 1 and 3 parts per million (ppm).
If the levels are off, you will need to adjust them using chemicals. It’s essential to follow the instructions on the chemical containers carefully, as adding too much or too little chemicals can be harmful to swimmers and damage your pool.
6) Shock the Pool
Shocking the pool is an essential step in maintaining the pool’s cleanliness and keeping it safe for swimmers. Shocking the pool involves adding a large amount of chlorine to the water to kill bacteria, algae, and other microorganisms that may have built up over time. It’s recommended to shock the pool at least once a month or whenever there’s heavy use, such as after a pool party. It’s essential to follow the instructions on the chlorine container carefully and avoid swimming for a few hours after shocking the pool.
7) Hire a Professional Cleaner
Maintaining a pool can be time-consuming and challenging, especially if you have a busy schedule. Hiring a professional pool cleaner can help take the stress off your shoulders and ensure your pool remains clean and well-maintained. A professional cleaner can handle all aspects of pool maintenance, including skimming, brushing, vacuuming, cleaning the filter, checking the chemical balance, and even shocking the pool. They have the knowledge, expertise, and equipment needed to keep your pool sparkling clean and healthy all year round. While it may cost extra, the peace of mind and the time you save may be well worth it.
Conclusion
Maintaining a clean and well-maintained outdoor pool requires consistent effort and attention to detail. By following the above tips and incorporating them into your regular pool maintenance routine, you can enjoy a clean, sparkling pool that’s safe and enjoyable for all swimmers. Remember to always follow the instructions on pool cleaning and maintenance products carefully and seek professional help if necessary.
