Whether you’re a new pool owner or thinking about getting a pool, it’s essential to know about swimming pool care.
It can seem overwhelming at first, so we’re here to break down the basics and cover low-maintenance options that can save time and money in the long term.
Let’s dive in!
There are essential basics for any pool care routine:
| What | When |
|---|---|
| Skimming leaves and debris | Every day |
| Vacuuming the pool | Once a week |
| Brushing the walls and floor | 1-2 times a week |
| Checking and balancing water chemistry | 2-3 times a week |
| Shocking your pool | Once every 1-2 weeks |
| Cleaning the pool filter | Generally, every 3-4 months |
| Inspecting pool equipment | Once every 1-2 weeks |
It may seem like a lot, but consistency will save you time and money down the line by:
By following this routine, you can keep your pool in top condition with minimal effort.
Let’s break it down:
Regular skimming can take less than 5 minutes a day, and it prevents debris from sinking and clogging the pool filter.
Manually vacuuming the pool or brushing can take several hours each week, but you can automate everything.
You’ve likely heard about or maybe even invested in a robotic pool vacuum that brushes the walls, too. Now, there are robots to skim your pool.
Robotic pool skimmers are relatively new, but there are various options on the market that will do the dirty work for you.
Water testing and balancing can be a little more tricky to master. Even if your water appears clean and clear, it might not be safe to swim in, so it’s essential for your routine.
There are several options for water testing:
Depending on your preferences and budget, you may find one option more preferable than another.
For instance, some companies offer subscription plans alongside their digital pool testers, creating custom treatment plans and delivering necessary chemicals with comprehensive care instructions.
After testing, adjust the pH, chlorine, and alkalinity levels as needed. Balanced water chemistry helps prevent algae growth and keeps the water safe for swimming.
Pool shocking is like a deep clean for the water. It’s a quick part of your routine that will help eliminate contaminants that regular chlorine levels can’t handle, such as bacteria, algae, and other organic compounds.
Typically, you should shock your pool once every 1-2 weeks during the swimming season or more often if the pool is heavily used. After heavy rainfall or a pool party, an additional shock may be necessary to maintain water clarity and hygiene.
The best time to shock is in the evening or at night. This timing prevents the sun’s UV rays from breaking down the chlorine too quickly, allowing it to work more effectively throughout the night.
Always wear protective gear, such as gloves and goggles, when handling pool chemicals, and closely follow the instructions on your shock product to avoid mishaps.
Backwash or clean your pool filter according to the manufacturer’s instructions for optimal filtration and circulation. A clean filter removes dirt and contaminants from the water more effectively.
As for your pool equipment, you’ll want to inspect it every 1-2 weeks to catch minor issues before they become major problems.
In addition to maintenance equipment, check pumps, heaters, and valves to ensure they’re working correctly. Address any issues promptly to prevent costly repairs and keep your pool running smoothly.
Regular pool maintenance is the cornerstone of a healthy and safe swimming pool environment.
By consistently addressing minor issues and maintaining proper water balance, you can prevent more significant problems that require costly intervention and extend the life of your pool equipment.
Routine maintenance also helps safeguard swimmers against potential hazards like bacteria growth and chemical imbalances for a safer, more enjoyable swimming experience.
Plus, if you prefer to spend the extra money on automating most of your routine, you’ll save time and effort while enhancing the longevity of your pool.
Or, if you choose to do everything manually, the effort is well worth the peace of mind that comes from knowing your pool is clean, healthy, and ready for relaxation.
It’s no secret—pools and pool maintenance are expensive. Minimizing costs is a key consideration for any pool owner.
When you consider pool maintenance costs, time is also a factor. Time is money, and knowing you want a low-maintenance pool routine will affect your budget.
Understanding what contributes to expenses, determining your priorities, and implementing cost-effective strategies will help you enjoy a crystal-clear pool with a budget you’re comfortable with.
Maintaining a sparkling pool comes with its fair share of expenses:
These costs can vary depending on where you live. Research these expenses and plan your budget accordingly.
Prioritize the essentials first, then allocate your budget based on what’s most important to you.
There are also several strategies you can implement to minimize costs without compromising on quality:
You’ll have to contend with the upfront cost, but energy-efficient equipment like variable-speed pumps and LED lighting can significantly reduce your monthly utility bills. It can also prolong the lifespan of your pool components.
We’ve already discussed this, and it’s worth repeating: following a regular routine can help prevent costly repairs in the future.
If you’d rather spend more money upfront on robotic helpers, they can do most of the work for you. Some even have timers, so the only thing you’ll have to worry about is making sure they’re working correctly.
Don’t stop learning after the basics. Empower yourself to take on more tasks and get creative with your pool cleaning, saving money on professional services.
You can also keep it simple. For instance, tennis balls can soak up oil and help keep your pool clean.
Exploring cost-saving strategies and staying proactive in your maintenance efforts can save time and money while enjoying a beautiful, well-maintained pool.
Don’t have a pool yet and are just getting an idea of what to expect? LiveWell Outdoors is here to help you get the pool of your dreams—no matter the size of your outdoor space.
We can have you relaxing poolside sooner than you think. Schedule a consultation today and take the first step towards creating your outdoor oasis.
