Posted June 20, 2010 by Laura Wagner

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11 Common mistakes made when it comes to swimming pool maintenance.                        

 

1.       Not checking your pool’s chemistry often enough. You should check the chemical levels twice a week during the summer months.

2.       You should maintain the pools pH levels around 7.5 and the chlorine at 50-60% active. By keeping the pH levels in check you are able to use the chlorine that is already in your pool at its full potential.

3.       Another mistake is not keeping the alkaline levels between 80-140 PPM. If the alkaline level is too low or too high this can affect the water balance and not allow the sanitizer to perform its job accurately.

4.       Remember to check the TDS or calcium hardness on a regular basis. Check the TDS every 6 months and the calcium hardness every month.

5.       Don’t forget to clean the cells in salt water systems. Corroded or calcified cells will produce little chlorine.

6.       Another common mistake is backwashing sand or DE filters too often. If you are doing this too often the filter can never reach its full cleaning potential. If you backwash on a regular basis for no reason you are simply wasting water. Most filters require you to backwash when the pressure gauge rises 8-10 PSI from clean.

7.       Not cleaning the skimmer basket and lint pot in the pool pump is another mistake often made. If you allow these to get full of debris this will result in poor circulation which could create a larger problem.

8.       Remember to add chemicals, especially liquid chlorine, at night. If added during the day you will not get as much out of the chemicals.

9.       Make sure to keep the tiles and walls scrubbed down and cleaned. Keeping the tile clean will help to save you money. If the tile remains dirty for too long it can become calcified and turn into plaque and will need a specialist to remove the buildup?

10.    A common mistake we often make is not running the pumps long enough. You should run your pump about 1 hour for every 10 degrees of temperature. A decent circulation system within your pool is the key to keep your pool maintenance low.

11.    Not replacing broken or missing drains or suction sources. This can become a real and dangerous hazard if left unattended.

Don’t forget these simple tips when it comes to your pool’s maintenance. These simple tips will keep the pool and your pocket book happy all summer long!!!