Getting Your Pool Ready for Summer
There are a few simple steps that you should take to make sure that your pool is ready to use this summer. After a long winter, a good cleaning is in order, so you’ll want to make sure that you have all of the tools and equipment you need. You’ll want to do a general cleaning with your skimmer net to remove leaves, twigs, insects, and any other debris. Clean out the skimmer basket and clean the filter. While you’re at it, check the water level to make sure that it is higher than the skimmer. If the water level drops below the skimmer box, you could run the pump while dry and risk burning it out.
Inspect the pump and filter to see if they are in good working order by checking that all the connections, gaskets, and seals are in good condition. Then you should give the pool a “shock” treatment with a couple of doses of highly concentrated chlorine granules to kill off all the algae. Let the pump run for at least several hours. In the meantime, you can brush the walls and vacuum the bottom.
Once the pump has been running for at least four hours, you can test to see if all of the chemicals are in balance. The chlorine level should be between 1.0 and 4.0 parts per million (ppm). The pH level should be between 7.2 and 7.8. Alkalinity needs to be in the range of 80-120. Calcium hardness should be between 150 and 450 parts per million (ppm).
Check to see that your pool remains childproof. Make sure the fence is sturdy and secure and the gate latches are working. Look to see if there is any way an unattended child could enter the pool. Inspect pool furniture to make sure chairs and tables are still safe to use. Stow all the equipment in a safe, out-of-the-way place, and that chemicals are in childproof storage.
It’s also a good idea to check periodically to see if the deck or patio surface is still in good condition. If your deck hasn’t been resurfaced in a long time, it may become worn and slippery.
If you find that your pool needs service or repairs, or if you have any questions about pool safety or maintenance, contact the expert pool contractors at Premier Pool Contractor. Call 352-247-4785 anytime for information.