Any pool related tasks may seem daunting and time consuming. Maintenance of pool equipment is surprisingly fast and easy.

The joys of owning a swimming pool in summer is rewarding. Taking a splash in a cold pool on a scorching summer’s afternoon is a great feeling. Getting the full benefits of the pool requires maintaining your pool. Let’s face it, no-one wants to swim in murky water. There are a few items of pool equipment that if maintained well, can turn your ‘sparkling pool water’ vision, into a reality. Apart from using chemicals to treat the water for bacteria, you will need the assistance of cleaning equipment, which also needs to be in good working condition at all times.

You will have invested a a significant amount of money into the purchase of your swimming pool equipment. Just as you would take good care for your other big budget purchases, your pool equipment requires the same consideration and upkeep. There are a few uncomplicated tasks that need to be completed to maintain your swimming pool equipment. It will also reassure you to know that these maintenance tasks will not be very costly.

Here are a few swimming pool equipment maintenance tips, for your big-ticket items:

1. Pumps

The upkeep of a pool pump is simple and fast. The strainer basket will be your focus and it requires weekly emptying in an average backyard. For the novice who doesn’t know where to find it, it is the basket at the front of the motor, under the clear lid. The gasket (oring) of your pool pump will also need a regular examination to look out for problems such as wear and tear. Should you spot any detoriation in the o-ring, it is probably time to replace it as it can allow the pump motor to suck in air and run dry. Failure to inspect the pump can result in air and water leaks and will stop the pump operating efficiently.

2. Filters

Dirty pool water is almost always an indicator of congested pool filters. When your filters cease to perform their function, dirt and sand begin to flow back into the pool water. Depending on the type of filter you have, it will need to be rinsed or backwashing. This will need to be done more often during periods of higher swimming pool use. A simple cheat for assessing the functioning of your filter is through monitoring your pressure gauge. Take a reading when the pool is clean after a backwash or cleaning the filter and use this as your baseline. Once the pressure rises 30-40KPA over this, it is normally time to clean or backwash. The greater the difference between readings, the dirtier your filters are. Some dramatic problems can arise from failing to maintain clean filters which include a tank cracking.

3. Salt Chlorinators

For your salt chlorinator to produce enough chlorine to keep the pool sparkling clean, you need to always ensure there is enough salt in the pool. Without enough salt you not only will not make enough chlorine to keep the pool safe and clean, you will also shorten the life of your cell. Check your manufacturers manual on how to clean your cell, this is normally by putting it in a dilute HCl solution for a few minutes. Keeping your cell clean and your salt level above the minimum level will ensure a longer life for  your salt cell and a clean pool.

Also, remember…

Contrary to what some may think, lower levels of water in your swimming pool requires harder work from your equipment. Regular monitoring of your water levels is important so you don’t damage your pool pump. An understanding of the basic functioning of your pool equipment is important. If you know how your pool equipment works, it will be easier to spot when something goes wrong. The biggest issue to note is that your equipment can easily be cared for and maintained with minimal effort and costs – and you can do it yourself. You don’t need to pay a pool expert.

We know how to keep your pool clean and clear. Ask us how.