Pool Care 101: Headache-Saving Tips
Having your very own pool is a blast. There’s also a long list of to-do’s in order to keep your pool safe and sparkling clean. In an effort to spare you from the stress, we’ve compiled a few insider tips to help you spend more time enjoying your pool, and less time maintaining it.
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Have mason sand delivered within 20 feet of the pool site, but not inside the pool area.
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For safety and to ensure long-term enjoyment of your pool, thoroughly read all manufacturer instructions and warnings for pools, equipment, and chemicals.
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When putting in new filter sand in a sand filter, use backwash cycle first for one minute before running on filter cycle. This will prevent sand and dust from going into your pool at start up.
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Always use teflon tape on threaded fittings to prevent leaks. Apply tape in the opposite direction the fitting is threaded so tape stays on while being threaded in.
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Don’t overtighten filter fittings and pressure gauge, as this can damage the filter head.
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A few days after initial installation, check and re-tighten hose clamps and fittings. Clamps can become loose with expansion and contraction of hose due to temperature change.
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For most efficient results, add chlorine in the evening after the sun goes down.
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To get maximum enjoyment from your pool, use a solar cover for those cool nights and to extend your swimming season.
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Be sure to protect your solar blanket from direct sunlight when not in use and remove from pool when chlorine level is high.
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Be sure not to leave solar or winter covers on grassy areas to prevent lawn damage.
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To eliminate excess water around pool area, use a backwash hose to remove waste water.
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A good cover and proper winterization will save you money and time in the spring when opening your pool.
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If a patch is ever needed, use a good quality vinyl patch kit that can be used underwater. To insure a proper patch, do the following:
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Apply liberal amount of adhesive to patch and place patch over hole.
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Apply pressure for several minutes.
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Protect vacuum/cleaner hose from direct sunlight for longer life.
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Before replacing a cover, try patching it the same way as a liner or possibly use duct tape.
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Adjust water return eyeball to create a circular motion (down and away from skimmer.) This will allow debris to flow towards skimmer more efficiently.
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For best results, replace filter media each season.
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The heavier the vacuum head, the less pressure you will need to apply. This makes vacuuming easier and requires less time.
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Locate the filter system as close to the pool as possible for maximum filter efficiency.
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The type and size of filter can make a big difference in the time spent on pool maintenance and pool appearance. The better the filter, the less time you will spend on your pool.
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Use a low chlorine mineral system to sanitize your pool and a pool cleaner to automatically vacuum your pool, so you can spend less than 15 minutes maintaining your pool each week.