Swimming pools are the best way to beat the summer heat and enjoy quality time with friends and family. But, with great fun comes great responsibility. Proper pool maintenance is crucial to keep it safe and healthy for everyone who uses it. So let’s discuss everything you should know about pool maintenance in St. Louis.
Why is pool maintenance essential?
It ensures the pool is safe for swimming by maintaining proper water chemistry and eliminating harmful bacteria and contaminants.
It extends the life of pool equipment, such as the pump, filter, and heater, by keeping them clean and in good working order.
Proper maintenance helps prevent costly repairs and replacements, eventually saving you money in the long run.
Skimming and Cleaning
The first step in basic swimming pool maintenance is skimming the water’s surface to remove leaves, debris, and other unwanted items. Use a skimmer net to collect the debris and dispose of it. You should also clean the pool walls and floor with a brush to remove any dirt or algae buildup.
Vacuuming the Pool
Vacuuming the pool is necessary to remove any dirt or debris that might have sunk to the pool’s bottom. Use a pool vacuum to clean the floor and walls of the pool. It is recommended to vacuum the pool once a week or more often if necessary.
Checking and Adjusting Water Chemistry
Maintaining proper water chemistry is crucial to keep the pool safe and healthy. The three main factors to check and adjust are pH, chlorine levels, and alkalinity.
- The pH level of pool water should be between 7.2 and 7.8
- Ideal chlorine levels – 1 to 3 ppm (parts per million)
- Ideal alkalinity levels – between 80 and 120 ppm
If you are in St. Louis and need help adjusting water chemistry, contact H & H Pools, one of the most trusted pool contractors in St. Louis. We offer the best pool maintenance services.
Running the Pool Pump and Filter
You should run the pool pump and filters daily to circulate and filter the water. The recommended run time for the pool pump is eight to twelve hours per day (however, it depends on your pool size and usage.
Backwashing the Filter
The pool filter should be backwashed when the pressure gauge indicates an increase of 8 to 10 psi above the normal operating pressure. Backwashing is done by reversing the flow of water through the filter to remove any debris or buildup that may have accumulated.
Winterizing the Pool
If your area experiences harsh cold winters, you are advised to winterize your pool for its protection against freezing temperatures. This involves draining the water from the pool, disconnecting and draining the pump and filter, and covering the pool with a winter cover.
Apart from these, there are some advanced maintenance procedures that you might need help with, such as;
- Shocking the Pool
- Acid Washing the Pool
- Calcium Hardness Adjustment
- Stain Removal
If you require professional pool maintenance services in St. Louis, contact H & H Pools. Our experienced pool maintenance experts can meet all your swimming pool maintenance needs, from regular cleaning and chemical balancing to more advanced tasks like filter cleaning and equipment repair.
Let us help you keep your pool in top condition so you can enjoy it all season long. Call us today to schedule a service appointment; dial (636) 209-8449.
