Congratulations on becoming a new pool owner! Owning a pool can be an incredibly fun and rewarding experience. However, as a first time pool owner, there are some important things you need to know in order to properly maintain your pool and keep it safe. Proper pool maintenance not only keeps your pool clean and usable, but also extends the life of the pool so you can enjoy it for years to come. In this article, we will go over everything you need as a new pool owner including essential pool chemicals, cleaning tools and accessories, safety equipment, and any special considerations for your specific type of pool. With the right supplies and a routine maintenance plan, you will be on your way to enjoying hassle-free pool ownership.
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Essential Chemicals
Maintaining proper chemical balances is crucial for keeping your pool water clear, sanitized, and safe for swimming. There are a few key chemicals every pool needs:
Chlorine
Chlorine is the most common pool sanitizer. It kills bacteria and algae and oxidizes organic compounds that can cloud the water. Chlorine is available as liquid sodium hypochlorite, tablets, or granular dichlor. Use chlorine to maintain a free chlorine level of 1-3 ppm in your pool. Add chlorine weekly or as needed to maintain proper levels.
pH Balancer
Proper pH balance keeps pool water from becoming too acidic or too alkaline. Ideal pH for pools is 7.4-7.6. Use a pH increaser (like soda ash) if pH is too low or a pH decreaser (like muriatic acid) if pH is too high. Test and adjust pH weekly.
Algaecide
An algaecide prevents algae growth in your pool. Copper-based algaecides work by inhibiting photosynthesis. Use an algaecide preventatively or if you notice algae starting to form.
Shock
Periodic shocking helps destroy contaminants and revives chlorine levels after heavy pool use. Use a chlorine or non-chlorine shock weekly or as needed. Shocking also helps clear up cloudy water.
Cyanuric Acid
Cyanuric acid helps stabilize and maintain proper chlorine levels by protecting chlorine from UV ray degradation. It’s especially useful for outdoor pools. Maintain 20-50 ppm of cyanuric acid.
Specialty Chemicals
Other specialty chemicals that may be useful include clarifiers to clear up cloudy water, enzymes to break down organics, and stain & scale inhibitors. Consider your needs to determine if these are necessary.
Cleaning Tools & Accessories
In addition to chemicals, there are some key tools and accessories you’ll need to keep your pool sparkling clean:
Pool Skimmer
A pool skimmer connects to your filtration system to remove leaves, bugs, and other debris floating on the water surface. Use it daily.
Telescoping Pole
Attach cleaning tools like brushes, leaf rakes, and vacuum heads to a telescoping pole to reach all areas of the pool. Get an adjustable length pole.
Pool Brush
Use a stiff-bristled pool brush attached to your telescoping pole to scrub the pool walls and floor. This removes algae and other buildup.
Pool Vacuum
A manual or automatic pool vacuum thoroughly cleans the pool floor. Manual vacuums attach to your skimmer and telescoping pole. Automatic vacuums connect to your filtration system.
Leaf Rakes
Scoop out leaves, debris, and insects from the water using a sturdy leaf rake. Rake regularly to keep your pool clean.
Pool Filter
Keep your filter clean and replace cartridges as needed so it operates efficiently to remove particles and keep water clear.
Additional Tools
Other useful tools include tile scrub brushes for the waterline, pool test strips for quick chemical checks, skimmer baskets to collect debris, and pool poles for accessories like thermometers, lights, and baskets.
Safety Equipment
Pool safety equipment saves lives and prevents accidents. Some essential safety items for new pool owners include:
Pool Alarms
Pool alarms sound when someone enters the water, alerting you in case of accidental falls or unauthorized swimming. Get alarms for doors leading to the pool area.
Pool Fences
Install proper fencing with self-closing, self-latching gates to prevent unsupervised pool access. Check local building codes for fencing requirements.
Life Ring
Throwable life rings allow flotation during emergencies and rescue efforts. Include an attached rope and store rings around the pool deck.
Pool Signage
Post “No Diving” signs, pool depth markers, and CPR instructions around the pool. Signage promotes safety awareness.
First Aid Kits
Keep a well-stocked first aid kit poolside for cuts, scrapes, and other minor injuries. Also have emergency contact info clearly posted.
Non-Slip Surfaces
Apply non-slip coatings on your pool steps, ladders, and floor. This prevents dangerous slips and falls. Look for non-slip steps.
Floatation Devices
Have life jackets, inner tubes, noodles, and other floatation devices readily available. Weak swimmers should use them for added safety.
Special Considerations by Pool Type
Depending on the type of pool you have, there may be some additional special considerations for maintenance and safety:
In-Ground Pools
– Install drains properly to prevent entrapment hazards
– Backwash filtration system regularly
– Maintain adequate underground drainage
– Check for leaks in underwater lighting fixtures
Above-Ground Pools
– Add a ladder or stairs for safe entry and exit
– Use soft-sided liners instead of hard materials for safety
– Check that all bolts and structural components are tightened
– Watch for corrosion especially on metal-framed pools
Fiberglass Pools
– Use a gelcoat sealant annually to protect the smooth fiberglass surface
– Avoid aggressive brushes or abrasive cleaners
– Check for cracks in the fiberglass regularly
– Keep water chemistry balanced to prevent etching
Vinyl Liner Pools
– Watch for liner tears and punctures, repair immediately if found
– Replace liner every 5-8 years as needed
– Use vacuum heads and brushes made for vinyl
– Keep sharp edges away that could damage liner
Saltwater Pools
– Maintain proper salt and water balance for the generator
– Reverse polarity of electrodes regularly to prevent scaling
– Add salt as needed, usually 2000 to 4000 ppm
– Clean the electrolytic generator cell yearly
Helpful Maintenance Schedule
Here is a helpful weekly maintenance schedule for first time pool owners:
| Task | Frequency |
|---|---|
| Test/adjust chlorine level | 2-3 times per week |
| Test/adjust pH | Once per week |
| Shock pool with chlorine or non-chlorine shock | Once per week |
| Check cyanuric acid level and add if needed | Once per month |
| Brush pool walls and floor | 2-3 times per week |
| Skim debris from surface | Daily |
| Empty skimmer and pump baskets | 2-3 times per week |
| Vacuum pool thoroughly with vacuum | Once per week |
| Clean and backwash filter | According to manufacturer instructions |
| Add algaecide | According to product instructions |
Conclusion
Owning a pool comes with responsibilities, but taking the time to properly sanitize, maintain, and care for your pool will pay off with many years of enjoyment and fun family memories. Invest in essential pool chemicals, tools, and safety equipment. Establish a routine maintenance schedule. And don’t forget to take time to relax poolside and have fun too! With the right supplies and habits for your type of pool, you’ll be on your way to hassle-free pool ownership.