The Golden Rules of Pool Maintenance
The Golden Rules
1. Maintain Water Level
Ensure that your water level is high enough so that air is not sucked in to the equipment. This usually means keeping water halfway up the skimmer or higher. If air enters the pool equipment it will not work as effectively and may cause damage.
2. Monitor Chlorine & pH
Under normal conditions free chlorine should be maintained between 2 - 5 PPM and requires a pH of between 7.2 - 7.6 in order to sanitise effectively. These should be tested regularly with a suitable test kit and dosing should be adjusted, as necessary. If these are changing rapidly it is likely due to an imbalance in another chemical or an equipment failure and a comprehensive test should be carried out.
- Regularly test water chemistry
- Maintain free chlorine between 2-5ppm
- Increase chlorine dosing in warmer conditions or heavy use
- Maintain pH between 7.2-7.6
- If levels are changing too rapidly perform a comprehensive test
3. Maintain Water Flow
In order for your equipment to work effectively it needs adequate water flow. Clear blockages in suction cleaners, empty skimmer & pump baskets regularly, and clean the filter/s to ensure the flow is maintained and the equipment can do what it is meant to. Large debris will need to be scooped out of the pool to prevent blockages.
- Empty skimmer and pump baskets
- Clear blockages in suction cleaners
- Clean the filter regularly (At least monthly - More often for heavy sediment and debris, or smaller filters)
4. Keep an eye out for trouble, and contact a professional, if necessary
Routinely check your pool to ensure everything is working effectively. Listen out for unusual sounds, check for faults and error lights/messages, and adjust the settings to suit changing seasons and conditions.
- Look for water clarity, and equipment issues
- Listen for unusual sounds
- Plan ahead for changing conditions