Cleaning a swimming pool is a must for any owner. This process ensures that the pool's water is safe and that there are no algae around to put people at risk.
The type of maintenance will depend on many factors, including:
Type of pool
Size
Location
Features
Requesting pool cleaning services makes the process much easier for most owners, as they won't have to worry about essential tasks that may put their space at risk.
What does pool maintenance include, though? This is a question that many owners ask themselves, and this article will answer it.
Below is a breakdown of what to expect when requesting a pool service. Our team can also help answer questions like Is pool maintenance worth it?
Everything That Pool Maintenance Should Include
Pool operators work hard to ensure that no details are missing in a maintenance session. Understanding the essential components of pool maintenance will help most owners identify all factors that play a role in keeping these spaces in great shape all year long.
Here's an overview of everything to expect in a maintenance session:
Equipment Inspections
A crucial element in maintenance is inspecting pool equipment. This includes the following tasks:
Checking for signs of damage in the pool liner or structure, including leaks or cracks
Securing handrails, ladders, lights, and other safety elements of the pool
Checking heaters, saltwater generators, filters, pumps, and other important equipment to keep the pool safe
Inspecting pool equipment will help maintain water quality over the following weeks and months. It will also help ensure that the water is at a consistent and optimal temperature all the time. For more information, Tucson pool cleaners may be able to help.
Pool Cleaning
Cleaning involves several processes. An important step is skimming the pool surface for any debris. A pool skimmer or net may help during this process, getting rid of bugs, leaves, and other elements.
It also helps to brush the pool walls to prevent algae growth. This is especially crucial for those with concrete pools, as the surfaces are often non-porous. In other words, algae is more likely to grow there.
Getting a pool vacuum will also make the cleaning process easier. Vacuuming the pool floor frequently will remove signs of sediment and dirt.
Water Chemistry Testing
There are plenty of factors related to testing and balancing water chemicals. Those who can maintain proper water balance will have a healthy pool to enjoy for a while. This process involves checking for different elements, such as:
pH
Chlorine
Bromine
Calcium hardness
Alkalinity
In most cases, owners can get pool test strips or kits for this process. They can test their water and compare the results with the suggested healthy ranges. Adjusting chemicals ensures that there's no cloudy water, scaling, or algae growth.
Some pool chemicals involved in the maintenance process include:
Chlorine: It sanitizes the water.
Algaecides: They fight algae and prevent buildup.
pH Increasers/Decreasers: They help maintain a healthy pH level, which should be between 7.2 and 7.8.
Pool Shock Treatments: They can restore clarity to the pool while eliminating contaminants.
Talking to an expert may help owners come up with an accurate list of healthy chemical levels.
Filtration System Maintenance
The filtration system ensures that the water is clean and safe for users, as it prevents the growth and proliferation of algae and bacteria. All owners should get a high-quality pool pump, filter, and skimmer.
Pool pumps circulate the water. Skimmers and filters, on the other hand, collect and remove debris.
Maintenance for this system is straightforward. Users should clean or backwash their pool filter, as well as inspect their pump to ensure that it's running correctly. The basket should be clear of debris. Otherwise, the debris may limit water flow.
Water Level Monitoring
Water should always be halfway up the skimmer hatch. After inspecting the pool, the owners should add water until the levels are appropriate.
When there's heavy rainfall, owners may have to drain excess water later.
What Does the Average Maintenance Schedule Look Like?
Below is an overview of what the average maintenance schedule should be. Of course, pool users may adjust these tasks according to their needs and budget:
Daily Pool Maintenance
Daily maintenance tends to be the easiest process, as it doesn't involve as many tasks. Here's a list of common tasks that owners should take care of:
Check the water level and circulation.
Remove debris from the surface.
Inspect all safety equipment.
Inspect the pool heater, as well as the filters and pumps, for any problems.
Clean the pump basket and skimmer to ensure proper water flow.
Consider using pool covers at night to prevent debris from falling into the water.
Weekly Pool Maintenance
Weekly pool cleaning involves a few more steps, although it isn't too complicated if the owner has the right tools. Here's an overview of what to do:
Use a brush to clean the walls, steps, and corners.
Vacuum the pool floor.
Test water chemistry levels.
Check the filter gauge.
Clean the pool filter itself.
Check the jet pressure levels.
Remove debris from the pool deck.
Clean the pool's tile line.
Consider using pool shock treatments to prevent algae buildup.
Clean pool covers.
Monthly Pool Maintenance
Monthly maintenance will require a lot of work, and this is where most owners consider hiring professional services. Here's a list of common tasks involved in monthly maintenance:
Check all pool equipment for malfunctions.
Deep clean the pool.
Deep clean or replace the pool filter.
Check the salt cell if the pool uses saltwater.
Lubricate seals and O-rings.
Check and adjust the water's chemistry levels.
Inspect the pool's surface for damage.
Check deck drains for debris.
Inspect pool lights for damage.
Inspect the pool cover reel system (if there's one).
Check first aid kits and other safety equipment.
Yearly Pool Maintenance
Yearly maintenance takes one step further to ensure that the pool is functioning properly and stays that way for a long time. As with the monthly maintenance, it's recommended to hire a professional for these tasks:
Inspect the pool's structure and plumbing for signs of damage.
Inspect diving boards, handrails, and slides.
Clean slide surfaces.
Inspect the deck and its surrounding areas for damage and safety hazards.
Check the landscaping to ensure that it doesn't pose any risks for users.
Inspect the pool fences and gates for signs of damage.
Consider renovations (if needed).
Bottom Line
Taking care of a pool environment is easier said than done. Such a consistent maintenance schedule will cost time and money, and not all property owners can handle that. Here's when professional pool cleaners come in and can advise on questions like Is it hard to maintain a pool in Arizona?
At E-Konomy Pool Service & Supplies, people can find everything needed to keep their space in great shape throughout the year. Those who live in Tucson and surrounding areas can contact the team today for more information about the quality of their maintenance service.
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