Getting a pool can be an exciting endeavor! However, it also requires getting the right supplies and equipment to keep your pool clean, safe, and enjoyable. When setting up a new pool, there are a few essential items you’ll need to purchase. In this article, we’ll go over the key equipment, chemicals, accessories, and furnishings to think about when outfitting your new backyard oasis. Having the proper gear and maintenance products will ensure you get the most out of your investment.
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Water Testing and Treatment Supplies
One of the most important categories of pool products to buy is water testing and treatment supplies. Keeping your pool water balanced and sanitized is crucial for safety and maximizing the life of your pool. Here are some must-have water care items:
Test Kits
Test kits allow you to monitor the chemical levels in your pool water. At minimum, you’ll need kits to test pH, alkalinity, calcium hardness, and chlorine or bromine levels. Testing 1-2 times per week enables you to spot and correct any imbalances before they become problematic. Choose reputable kits with easy-to-read tests for accuracy.
pH Increaser and Reducer
These chemicals adjust the pH in your water. Proper pH helps sanitize your pool efficiently and prevents damage to equipment. Aim for a pH of 7.4-7.6. Use increaser (e.g. soda ash) if the pH is too low and reducer (e.g. muriatic acid) if it’s too high.
Alkalinity Increaser
Alkalinity buffers pH changes in water. Ideal alkalinity is 80-120 ppm. Baking soda can raise alkalinity levels if they are too low. This provides stability for optimal pH.
Calcium Hardness Increaser
Having adequate calcium hardness helps prevent pool corrosion and staining. Shoot for 150-400 ppm, depending on your pool finish. Calcium chloride is commonly used to boost hardness.
Chlorine or Bromine
These sanitizers kill bacteria and algae, helping keep water clean. Use stabilized chlorine or bromine tablets in a floating dispenser. Shocking the water weekly with an extra dose of chlorine or bromine helps maintain sanitation.
Algaecide
Algaecides provide an added prevention against algae growth. Use per product instructions, typically monthly. Copper-based algaecides work well for most home pools.
Clarifier and Flocculant
Clarifiers group together microscopic debris in water for better filtration. Flocculants make particles heavier so they can settle on the bottom for vacuuming. Using these chemicals periodically helps keep water clear.
Pool Equipment
The right pool equipment makes maintenance easier while optimizing functionality. Here are some key pieces of equipment to have on hand:
Skimmer and Pump
Skimmers suck in leaves, bugs, and debris from the water’s surface. Pumps then circulate water through the filter system. Opt for an appropriately sized pump and energy efficient models.
Filter
Filters remove particles and waste from pool water. Sand, cartridge and DE (diatomaceous earth) filters are common choices. Clean or replace filters per manufacturer recommendations.
Automatic Pool Cleaner
Cleaners like pressure-side, suction-side and robotic models sweep, scrub and vacuum the pool for you. This saves a lot of work plus improves circulation and filtration.
Leaf Rake and Skimmer Net
Use a leaf rake to remove leaves and large debris from the pool’s surface. Fine mesh skimmer nets allow you to pick out bugs, leaves and other particles clogging the skimmers.
Telescopic Pole
This allows you to easily attach brushes, vacuum heads and skimmer nets to clean all areas of the pool from the safety of the deck. Choose a pole long enough to reach the center from the deck.
Pool Brush
Scrub surfaces weekly with a stiff bristled brush to remove algae and debris that automatic cleaners may miss. Use a nylon brush for vinyl and fiberglass pools.
Vacuum Head
Vacuum heads attach to telescopic poles to suction up dirt and leaves from floor surfaces. Maintain good circulation by vacuuming regularly.
Safety Equipment
Safety should be the number one priority when enjoying your pool. Be sure to purchase these essential security items:
Fence
Install a fence with a self-closing, self-latching gate that completely surrounds and isolates the pool. This prevents access when unsupervised.
Pool Cover
A motorized cover or safety cover helps prevent accidental falls when the pool is not in use. Automatically activated models offer added convenience.
Skimmer and Drain Covers
These covers prevent hair and limb entrapments. Suction from drains and skimmers should meet regulated safety standards.
Life Ring and Shepherd’s Hook
A life ring allows easier rescue in an emergency by providing flotation. A shepherd’s hook enables you to hook someone in trouble and pull them to safety.
First Aid Kit
A waterproof first aid kit stored poolside contains essentials to treat injuries, including bandages and antiseptic. This allows you to administer immediate care as needed.
Cleaning Tools and Supplies
Maintaining a sparkling clean pool requires having the right cleaning tools and supplies on hand. Here are some must-haves:
Telescopic Pole Cleaning Tools
As mentioned earlier, a telescopic pole allows you to attach cleaning attachments to reach all parts of the pool. Helpful attachments include surface skimmers, vacuum heads, scrub brushes and leaf rakes.
Pool-Safe Vacuum
Using a portable wet/dry vac designed for pool use makes vacuuming debris from pool surfaces simpler and more convenient.
Leaf Skimmer
A leaf skimmer is a small net on a pole that allows you to scoop up floating leaves quickly without getting into the pool. This simplifies leaf removal.
Pool Brush
Use a sturdy pool brush weekly to loosen debris and algae on all pool surfaces. Bristled brushes work best.
Tile Cleaning Brush
For pools with tile, use a tile brush to scrub away buildup on tile lines without damaging the grout. These smaller brushes allow you to target tile surfaces.
Algaecide
An algaecide added regularly (follow product directions) provides extra insurance against algae growth in addition to your regular sanitizers. Copper algaecides work well for pools.
Stain Remover
Stain removers help dissolve stubborn stains on surfaces that regular brushing fails to remove. Apply as directed on stained areas, let sit, then scrub off.
pH Test Strips
Test strips offer a quick way to check pH and chlorine levels when tending to your pool. Adding them to your poolside supplies makes monitoring water simple.
Convenience and Entertainment Accessories
The following accessories help you get the most enjoyment out of your pool:
Solar Pool Cover
A solar cover helps retain heat, saving energy and extending your swimming season. It also reduces evaporation and chemical consumption.
Pool Thermometer
A pool thermometer lets you easily check the temperature before hopping in. Floating models allow convenient in-pool reading.
Underwater Lights
LED lights illuminate the pool with a color glow for night swimming. Choose energy efficient lighting. Install with a GFCI circuit for safety.
Diving Board
A diving board provides fun entertainment for pools of adequate depth. Check local codes for installation requirements.
Basketball Hoop
Install a floating basketball hoop for family-friendly competition and exercise. Stabilized hoops prevent tipping when playing.
Pool Speakers
Bluetooth speakers add ambiance and let you enjoy music while lounging poolside. Waterproof marine models withstand the elements.
Pool Bar
An outdoor pool bar provides convenient beverage storage and prep space. Look for weatherproof models with drainage.
Pool Floats
Colorful pool floats add fun and relaxation. Stock up on floats and rafts for leisurely lounging days.
Pool Furniture
The right outdoor furniture lets you relax in comfort around your pool. Some essentials include:
Lounge Chairs
Lounge chairs with cushioning or padded straps provide comfort whether sunbathing or reading a book. Adjustable models allow custom reclining.
Seating Sets
Group seating like loveseats, sofas and chairs arranged in conversation sets fosters socialization. Dining sets allow meals poolside.
Tables
Side tables, bar tables and dining tables give a place to set down drinks and plates when entertaining or snacking.
Umbrellas
Umbrellas provide shade on hot days. Free standing bases allow flexibility in positioning. Choose your desired coverage.
Patio Heater
A gas or electric heater extends time enjoying the pool into cooler nights and seasons by keeping you comfortably warm.
| Pool Item Category | Essential Purchases |
|---|---|
| Water Testing and Treatment Supplies | Test kits for pH, chlorine, alkalinity, and hardness levels; pH and alkalinity adjusters; chlorine or bromine sanitizers; clarifiers and flocculants; algaecide |
| Pool Equipment | Skimmer, pump, filter, automatic cleaner, leaf rake, skimmer net, telescopic pole, pool brush, vacuum head |
| Safety Equipment | Fence with self-latching gate, pool cover, skimmer and drain covers, life ring, shepherd’s hook, first aid kit |
| Cleaning Tools and Supplies | Telescopic pole attachments, portable wet/dry vacuum, leaf skimmer, brushes, algaecide, stain remover, test strips |
| Convenience and Entertainment Accessories | Solar cover, thermometer, underwater lights, diving board, basketball hoop, speakers, pool bar, floats |
| Pool Furniture | Lounge chairs, seating sets, tables, umbrellas, patio heater |
Maintenance Schedule
In addition to having the right gear, following a regular maintenance schedule is key to pool upkeep. Here are suggested weekly, monthly and seasonal tasks:
Weekly
– Test and adjust pH and sanitizer levels
– Shock treat water to maintain sanitization
– Skim surface debris and clean skimmer and pump baskets
– Brush pool walls and floor
– Empty lint and skimmer baskets
– Check equipment operation
Monthly
– Deep clean filter
– Use clarifier and flocculant treatments
– Check water balance levels
– Inspect equipment for leaks or issues
– Clean tile grout lines
– Drain and clean skimmers
Seasonally
– Inspect electrical systems
– Drain and clean pool and equipment
– Lubricate pumps and motors
– Replace filter media if needed
– Acid wash pool if needed
– Cover pool when not in use
Following this routine maintenance schedule helps keep your pool sparkling all season!
Opening and Closing Your Pool
Properly opening and closing your pool at the start and end of swimming season is also crucial. Here are key steps when opening:
– Uncover pool, clean off cover
– Reinstall ladders, diving boards, handrails
– Reassemble filter system with fresh media
– Attach all hoses and fittings
– Turn on electrical power and fill pool
– Turn on pump and check for leaks
– Balance chemicals and shock treat water
– Turn on heater and adjust to desired temperature
To close your pool:
– Add winterizing chemicals as needed
– Lower water level below skimmer openings
– Flush water from equipment with antifreeze
– Disconnect and store hoses and ladders
– Seal all openings with plugs
– Cover pool securely and tightly
– Turn off electrical breakers
– Drain pump housing
– Lubricate seals
Properly winterizing your pool prevents freeze damage and makes spring opening easier.
Conclusion
Investing in a pool requires getting all the right supplies to maximize enjoyment and minimize maintenance. Testing and treating your water regularly, cleaning often, and maintaining proper chemical levels is key. Having quality cleaning tools, safety gear, convenient accessories, and weatherproof furniture allows you to get the most use and pleasure out of your pool. Follow this comprehensive guide when procuring necessities for your new backyard oasis. With the proper gear and care, you’ll be on your way to many happy years of pool memories!