We take a look at the must-have essentials when it comes to choosing equipment and chemicals for optimal pool maintenance.

There are few things better on a hot summer day than plunging into a crystal clear pool. If you’re lucky enough to have a pool, keeping a thorough cleaning schedule is essential, not only for the quality of the water but also so that your pool itself doesn’t suffer damage from poor maintenance. There are a number of options when it comes to choosing equipment and chemicals for maintaining the quality of the water and cleaning the inside of your pool. Here are some of the must-have essentials.

Naturally, most pools are fitted with an automatic filtration system, which will take care of most of the debris that falls into your pool. However, a good filter alone cannot stop your pool from developing algae growth or collecting heavier sediment such as sand at the bottom.

It’s highly recommended that all pools are cleaned daily by an automatic suction cleaner or weekly by a robotic cleaner. These cleaners roam the bottom and sides of the pool, automatically collecting debris and sand. The action of an automatic cleaner on the pool regularly help keep algae from growing and minimised the leaves and debris in the pool which not only make the pool look dirty but makes your water harder to balance.

Similarly, vacuum heads can also be attached to a hose running to your filtration system. These heads are attached to a long pole, so that you can control where the vacuum goes, sucking up debris and sand from hard-to-reach spots in your pool. Of course, a bit of elbow grease is also required from time to time and basic pool cleaning equipment such as skimmer nets and brushes are equally essential for pool maintenance. Even with filters and chemicals, pools can sometimes develop algae growth or scale, especially in warmer climates.

One of the simplest ways to prevent this is to give the sides and bottom of your pool a good scrub with a pool brush. A telescopic pole with a range of detachable heads is a good way to go so that there are no corners and edges that get neglected because they are hard to reach. These days many of the Robotic Cleaners on the market offer such a thorough clean, you can give up this hard job and have more time to enjoy your pool.

Floating debris such as leaves can also be problematic sometimes, ending up in corners of the pool that the automatic cleaner or filtration system can’t budge it from. A skimmer net is the simplest way to scoop this type of debris out of the pool before it starts to break down and affect the quality of the water.

Water quality is another important consideration when it comes to pool maintenance. Filters do a good job of circulating the water and removing even the smallest bits of debris but in order to sanitise your pool water and prevent algae growth, you’ll need to use pool-cleaning chemicals.

The most popular and widely used chemical used in pools is chlorine, which is readily available in liquid, granular and tablet form. Chlorine is very effective for constant, daily water sanitation and is very easy to use. You can even get a floater that will chlorinate the pool water automatically over time, making it even simpler and easier.

Another option for maintaining your pool water is to invest in a saltwater chlorinator. This system works very well with the filtration system, turning salt into chlorine and then automatically chlorinating the water. Salt-water chlorinators are becoming more popular because the pool water is considered to be less harsh on your skin, eyes and hair. They also produce a regular amount of chlorine each and every day which is a much better way of keeping your pool water sanitised. Most systems now are self cleaning, so the maintenance of them is minimal.

Whichever chemicals you’re using, it’s recommended that you test your pool’s pH level to ensure that your pool maintenance schedule is effective. A level between 7.2 and 7.6 is considered optimal so if your level is too high or low, you’ll need to either add an acid such as sodium bisulphate to lower it or a base such as sodium carbonate to raise it.

Other pool chemicals are also available for more specific issues. Algaecides can be added if your pool is prone to growing algae while clarifiers are used for tiny debris particles, causing them to coagulate for easier removal. There are also enzymes you can use to break down oils and remove bad smells.

Your pool’s maintenance schedule will depend on a number of factors, including the size of your pool, the shape and even the climate. Warmer climates tend to require more water sanitation while areas with a lot of wind will naturally need more filtration. The best way to ensure your cleaning and maintenance schedule is adequate is to speak to a pool cleaning and maintenance professional.

Best Price Pool Equipment supplies all the leading brands of pumps, filters, chlorinators, pool cleaners and much more. If you need to stock up on pool cleaning equipment, visit our website to shop online or get in touch to discuss your needs or to request a quote.