Your sparkling new pool is finally complete, and it’s everything you dreamed it would be. The first swim, the cooling relief on a hot afternoon, and the gatherings of family and friends have all been worth the wait. However, as much as your pool will provide years of enjoyment, it also comes with the responsibility of regular maintenance and care. Proper upkeep is essential to ensure your pool remains clean, safe, and functional over time.
In this guide, we will explore what to expect after your pool build, including maintenance and care. From balancing water chemistry to mastering equipment operation, carrying out seasonal maintenance, and everything in between, you’ll be on your way to becoming a pro at pool care.
Balance the Water Chemistry
After completing the build, the first and most crucial step is addressing the water chemistry. A brand-new pool requires immediate balancing of chemicals to ensure the water is safe for swimmers. Pool water must maintain the right balance between pH, alkalinity, calcium hardness, and sanitizer levels. Ignoring these chemical levels can lead to murky water, algae growth, or even damage to pool surfaces and equipment.
Start by testing your water using a pool testing kit. Aim for a pH level between 7.4 and 7.6, as this range will prevent irritation to swimmers and corrosion to the pool materials. Alkalinity should fall between 80 to 120 parts per million (ppm), which stabilizes the pH and minimizes sudden fluctuations. Calcium hardness is equally important, as it protects your pool’s plaster or lining from becoming too soft or scaling. Finally, maintain an appropriate chlorine level, usually 1-3 ppm, to keep bacteria and algae at bay.
Regular water testing is not just a one-time action but a continuous process. Expect to test your pool’s water weekly, adjusting the chemicals whenever necessary to ensure it stays balanced and inviting.
Learn Proper Equipment Operation
One of the most crucial aspects of pool maintenance lies in understanding and operating your pool equipment. The filter, pump, and other components are the workhorse of your pool system, working tirelessly to keep your water clean and the pool functional.
Familiarizing yourself with how your filter works is the starting point. Depending on the type of filter your pool uses, whether it’ sand, cartridge, or diatomaceous earth (DE), cleaning them regularly is a necessity. Filters trap fine particles and debris to maintain water clarity, so clogged or poorly maintained filters can hinder the entire system.
Closely tied to the filter, the pump drives water circulation, effectively removing debris and contaminants. Pool pumps typically need to run 8-12 hours a day during peak swimming season to keep the water moving and well-circulated. Monitor the pump’s functionality and address any unusual noises or irregularities promptly.
If your pool has automatic pool cleaners or heaters, spend some time learning their proper operation and maintenance schedules as well. Every device plays a role in enhancing your pool experience and understanding your system inside and out will save you trouble in the long run.
Regularly Clean Your Pool
No matter how advanced your pool equipment is, manual cleaning will always remain a core aspect of pool upkeep. A structured cleaning routine helps to remove debris and prevent grime or algae buildup on surfaces.
Skim the surface regularly. Leaves, dirt, and bugs floating on the water look unpleasant and can affect water chemistry if left unchecked. Use a pool skimmer to remove debris at least a few times a week, especially following windy days when leaves are more likely to land in the pool.
Brushing the walls and floor helps to eliminate grime, algae, and other buildup before they turn into larger issues. Even in brand-new pools, areas with poor circulation, such as corners or steps, can encourage the growth of algae. Aim to brush your pool weekly, focusing on these trouble spots to maintain a pristine look and feel.
Lastly, periodic vacuuming removes debris that the skimmer and brush cannot reach. Automatic pool vacuums are a time-saving investment, but even manual vacuuming will go a long way in preserving your pool’s sparkling appearance.
Perform Seasonal Maintenance
Seasonal maintenance plays a vital role in keeping your pool in optimal condition year-round. Depending on the climate in your area and whether your pool operates year-round or seasonally, adjusting your routine is critical.
During the summer months or peak swimming season, expect to increase the intensity of your maintenance efforts. This includes more frequent water testing, chemical balancing, and cleaning. Heavy pool usage results in more oils, sweat, and sunscreen accumulating in the water, requiring vigilant care to maintain hygiene and water quality.
On the flip side, if you live in a region with cold winters and don’t heat or cover your pool, you will likely need to winterize it. Close the pool by draining water from the equipment, blowing out plumbing lines, and adding winterizing chemicals to prevent freezing and damage. Pool covers are invaluable during this process, as they shield the pool from debris and keep contaminants out until spring.
Spring start-ups are equally crucial when reopening the pool after its dormant period. This involves cleaning and restarting equipment, removing the pool cover, testing the water, and rebalancing the chemicals. Taking these careful steps sets the tone for a smooth swimming season ahead.
Schedule Professional Inspections
While mastering DIY care is essential, enlisting the help of professionals can add an extra layer of assurance. Regular professional inspections can identify issues you may not notice, preventing minor problems from turning into costly repairs.
Certified pool service technicians can check the integrity of your pool equipment, ensuring filters, pumps, and heaters perform as they should. They can also inspect your pool’s structure, looking for signs of leaks, cracks, or wear that require attention.
Even if your pool appears to run smoothly, scheduling a professional inspection every six months or annually is a worthwhile investment. It provides peace of mind, knowing that your pool system is in top condition and ready to support your enjoyment.
Why Proper Maintenance Is the Key to Pool Bliss
Owning a pool is a rewarding experience, blending relaxation and fun with the allure of a private oasis. However, it also demands responsibility and regular care to ensure longevity and effortless enjoyment.
From monitoring water chemistry to operating equipment, cleaning regularly, tackling seasonal challenges, and scheduling professional inspections, every step contributes to a healthy and visually stunning pool. By knowing what to expect after your pool build, including proper maintenance and care, you’ll enjoy years of endless swims, backyard gatherings, and moments of tranquil bliss.
Are you interested in building a new pool or remodeling or resurfacing your existing pool? Gulf Coast Pool Consulting & Construction is a custom swimming pool builder in Florida dedicated to delivering top-notch service every step of the way. Contact us today to create the beautiful and functional pool of your dreams.