Let’s face it: installing a swimming pool is an expensive project, and you want your pool to last for many years. Routine maintenance is vital to making sure that your swimming facility remains solid, intact and ready to serve you over the years you own it. Taking the right basic steps is vital to making sure this happens. The pool maintenance professionals at Luau Pools Inc. are here to help so you can enjoy your pool.  

Pool Maintenance: Skimming

The first thing you need to do is make sure your equipment stays functional and clean. While the job of your pump and filter is to remove debris, there’s nothing that says you can’t help the process. Take some time every couple of days to skim the surface of your pool with a hand skimmer to get those leaves and other heavy debris up before they sink or get caught in the filter.

While you do this, check your pump strainer and clean it out. The more you do it, the easier and less messy it’ll be and the more you’ll improve your equipment longevity.

Clean Your Filter

It doesn’t matter whether you have a DE (diatomaceous earth) filter, a sand filter or a cartridge, it’s vital that you keep it clean so it can do its job properly. Check the maintenance requirements for your equipment and stay on top of the regular cleaning as recommended.

In general, clean after heavy storms or when you see the flow and pressure change. You don’t want to clean it too infrequently or too often, as either too much or too little can reduce the efficiency of the equipment.

Maintain the Pressure Gauge

Check your pressure gauge every week to make sure that it’s still functioning. This gauge is what monitors the force of water flow through the system. The ideal PSI for your pool will be different than for someone else’s; you want to make sure that the readings are consistent. If the readings seem very off, have a professional check it out.

Maintaining Gaskets and O-rings

Gaskets and O-rings are an essential part of sealing your pool and preventing leaks. Make sure that these are well-lubricated and in good shape. When they get old, make sure that you change them out for fresh ones. Areas these can be found include:

  • Filter head
  • Chlorinator
  • Filter valve
  • Skimmer
  • Various fittings and unions

Check the documentation for the various equipment you use on your pool and take special note of where gaskets and o-rings are located as well as recommendations for replacement and maintenance.

Sanitizer Levels

The sanitizer (Baquacil or Chlorine) levels in your pool are vital to keeping the water fresh, clean and safe. Too much, however, can cause unsafe swimming conditions as well as irritating skin and eyes. Too little and it can’t fight bacteria and growth. Make sure you test your pH, Total Alkalinity, Calcium Hardness and Oxidizer levels regularly to keep your pool safe and clear for the warm days ahead.

For more information, call the pool maintenance experts at Luau Pools.  We are here to help.