Summer is almost here! Do you know what that means? It’s time to start prepping your pool for those relaxing pool days that are coming in HOT. If you’re just as excited as we are about taking a dip on a warm summer day then follow these simple yet effective pool cleaning tips to have your outdoor swimming arena ready for summer!
Clean the Surrounding Area
Being that we are Floridians, there’ s a good chance that your backyard and pool are covered in leaves and debris from the seasonal changes. Don’t wait to tackle this daunting task. Start collecting the leaves in trash bags until the pool cover is free of debris. After leaf duty, continue the cleanup by removing standing water on the pool cover.
Strip the Cover
Be sure to properly clean and dry the cover before putting it away in storage. Spray the cover down on a high-pressure hose setting and spread the cover out to dry. Once it’s dry, you can fold it up and place it in a dry, cool area for storage.
Top It Off
The water level could have dropped over the winter. Check the skimmer water level. It needs to be in the middle of the skimmer opening for the pump to work properly. Also, before filling the pool to the proper water level, clean the cartridge filter. Watch the YouTube video for step-by-step instructions.
Check the Pump
Check all of the hoses, pumps, and filters. Start the circulation system and let it run for a few hours. Check back to monitor and ensure the equipment is in working condition.
Check Chemicals and pH
After the pool has been running for about 8 to 12 hours, check the pH, alkalinity, calcium hardness, and chlorine.
- The pH level should sit between 7.2 to 7.8.
- Alkalinity should sit between 80 to 120 ppm (parts per million).
- Calcium hardness should sit between 150 to 250 ppm.
- Chlorine should sit between 1 to 3 ppm.
Safety Measures/Inventory
After months of no pool use, you’ll need to stop in your local pool supply store to stock back up on pool maintenance chemicals, such as chlorine tablets. Check all surrounding pool decking and clean appropriately to prevent any slippage. Lastly, re-stock your first aid kit — especially if you have children!
Add a Fence!
Adding a fence to your pool decor is not only beneficial to your family’s safety, a fence also provides privacy while enhancing your yard’s appearance. If you currently do not have a fence or your fence isn’t up to certain safety measures, be sure to contact Best Fence of Jacksonville for a FREE estimate. Visit BestFenceJax.net