As desert temperatures rise, you may be anxious for time in your pool. Is it ready for you?
To make sure your pool will offer splashing good times, you or your pool technicians should follow these basic maintenance steps.
- Keep the water clean and clear. Remove leaves and other materials that blow into the pool. You may need to skim the pool with a handheld net to prevent floating debris from falling to the bottom.
- Vacuum regularly to remove dirt, sand and debris, or install an automatic pool cleaner.
- Clean the skimmer basket and strainer basket at the pump when they fill with debris, or at least weekly. That allows the pool filter to run more efficiently.
- Test your pool water. Make sure the water contains the appropriate levels of chemicals. Chemical imbalances can irritate skin and cause plaster to flake.
- Keep the pool surfaces in good condition. Most pools have ceramic tiles at the waterline for several reasons. First, tiles waterproof the waterline area. Pool plaster exposed to open air is susceptible to cracks or flaking. Tile enhances a pool’s beauty and makes it easier to remove calcium and mineral deposits. Sunscreen oils, body oils, dust and pollen can form a film at the waterline. The film is easier to remove from tiles than from plaster.
- Keep pipes, filters and motors in good working order.
- To maintain circulation, run the pool pump at least 8 hours a day. This will help the water stay clean and clear and evenly distribute chemicals.
- Evaporation may cause the water level to drop during hot months. If it gets too low, it can affect your pool system, even causing a pump motor to burn out. Replace the water using a garden hose.
If you suspect your pool water level has dropped too much, or your water bill seems unusually high, check for leaks. Coachella Valley Water District offers an easy guide to finding leaks in your pool.
Coachella Valley Water District is a public agency governed by a five-member board of directors. The district provides domestic and irrigation water, agricultural drainage, wastewater treatment and reclamation services, regional stormwater protection, groundwater management and water conservation. It serves approximately 108,000 residential and business customers across 1,000 square miles located primarily in Riverside County, but also in portions of Imperial and San Diego counties.
