Basic Pool Care For Beginners

If you're new to pool ownership, the maintenance can seem overwhelming. But with the right knowledge and routine, keeping your pool clean and safe is manageable. Here's a beginner's guide to pool care.

Building Your Kit

You'll need some basic supplies: a skimmer net, pool brush, vacuum, test kit, and chemicals including chlorine, pH adjuster, and algaecide.

Daily Care

Skim the surface of your pool daily to remove leaves and debris. Check your skimmer basket and empty it as needed. Make sure your pump and filter are running properly.

Weekly Care

Test your water chemistry at least once a week. Your pH should be between 7.2 and 7.6, and chlorine levels should be 1-3 ppm. Brush the walls and floor to prevent algae buildup. Vacuum the pool to remove dirt and debris from the bottom.

Testing Your Water

Use a test kit or test strips to check pH, chlorine, alkalinity, and calcium hardness. Adjust chemicals as needed based on your results.

When to Shock

Shock your pool (add a high dose of chlorine) after heavy use, after a rainstorm, when you notice algae, or at least once a week during swimming season.

Call the Professionals

If you're ever unsure about your pool's condition, don't hesitate to call a pool professional. Regular professional service can catch problems before they become expensive repairs.