What Are the Basics of Pool Maintenance for New Owners

Having a pool all to yourself is fun; it’s your own personal paradise. Daily maintenance, however, is a commitment that requires ongoing attention. 

Even if your pool is new or you’ve had one for quite some time, mastering the fundamentals of pool maintenance will keep your water sparkling and safe to use.

Why Regular Pool Maintenance Matters

In the U.S., the pool business is booming, currently worth $16.5 billion, and growing at a rate of 3% per year. It is not only new pools but a new demand for work. When not properly maintained, a pool may develop algae or, worse still, experience equipment issues or become a health hazard. In a groundbreaking study, it was revealed that nearly 78.5% of public pools had some form of hygiene issue. Therefore, when you have fewer inspections at home, you can imagine the risks it poses.

First Steps: Inspections and Water Chemistry

Here is what you need to do to keep your home pool in excellent condition.

Pool Inspection

Start with a pool inspection, either DIY or by a pro. Look for cracks, leaks, or filter issues. A DIY check can miss what a professional pool inspection catches: pumps, leaks, and surface wear. Unsurprisingly, buyers often pay an additional $200–$500 for a certified pool inspection when purchasing a home.

An optimal time to check is once a year, after a storm or following heavy usage.

Monitor Water Quality

It is all about balance. Check using test strips or a digital:

• pH level: Target for 7.2-7.6.
• Stabilizer and alkalinity levels.
• Maintain free chlorine within the safe but effective range.

The folks at Reddit pool cannot stress it enough:

“Alkalinity is very important. pH is very important… Chlorine should only be used in moderation.”

They further observe that it is worthwhile investing in good test kits.

Weekly Pool Maintenance Routine

Keep things under control with these weekly tasks:

• Skim debris using a net.
• To prevent the accumulation of algae, brush the walls and tiles regularly. Use baking soda and an old toothbrush for this purpose. 
• Clean the pool by vacuuming the settled dirt.
• Ensure that the pump and filter run for 8-12 hours a day to ensure full water turnover.
• Convenience products, such as robotic vacuums or filter socks, reduce workload. A POOL FROG system combines minerals with minimal chlorine to decrease chemical composition by half, and the maintenance becomes simple.

Seasonal/Monthly Care

Here’s what you should be doing on a monthly or seasonal basis to keep your pool in perfect condition.

Monthly Tasks

• Replace or backwash filters.
• Inspect the equipment for leaks or damage resulting from wear and tear.
• Adjust chemical sanitizers and shock treatments.

Seasonal Actions

• Starting (Spring): Take off the cover, balance the water, and examine the equipment.
• Closing (Fall): Reduce the water level, add winter chemicals, and cover the pool. 

For above-ground pools, regular weekly and monthly maintenance, with winterizing early, prevents damage and algae growth.

Avoiding Bigger Problems

To avoid expensive repairs, do the following:

• Sufficient Filtration: Keep the water in circulation to ensure optimal filtration.
• Timely Chemical Balance: Imbalanced water can damage surfaces and heaters.
• Maintenance of Equipment: Clogged filters or malfunctioning pumps will influence the quality of water and the consumption of energy

Failing to invest in regular maintenance can lead to costly repairs. It will cost nearly $234 per week, or approximately $936 per month, to hire a professional for cleaning services. Moreover, poorly maintained pools result in increased utility and insurance expenses, as well as safety issues.

Pool Maintenance = Peace of Mind

A well-maintained pool is not only attractive but also healthier and safer. Good pool maintenance translates to:

• Fewer bacteria and cleaner water.
• Longevity in pump, heater, filter, and liner life.
• More family fun in safety.

Pool Inspection: Why It’s Essential

Don’t skip pool inspection. Seasonal inspection or yearly inspections safeguard against concealed seepage, broken tiles, and malfunctioning pumps. Early identification of issues prevents waste of money and ensures your pool remains operational throughout the year.

Maintenance Table

Final Thoughts

As a new pool owner, start with regular pool maintenance and inspections. Make it your routine. Use high-quality tools and test kits. Use smart products to maximize convenience and save time.

Maintenance is a time-consuming activity, but it helps safeguard your investment and makes your pool more enjoyable.

Are you set to take the plunge into having a pool that does not give you sleepless nights? The Brickkicker offers expert pool maintenance services and thorough pool inspections tailored to your needs.

Allow our trained inspectors to perform weekly and seasonal maintenance work, as well as minor repairs. We will help keep your water crystal clear, your equipment running smoothly, and your pool safe, all year round.

Contact the Brickkicker to have your first inspection or devise a maintenance plan.