Cleaning your swimming pool can be a daunting task, but with the right tools and techniques, you can do it yourself and save money on professional cleaning services. Here are some steps on how to DIY clean your swimming pool:
And if DIY cleaning is just not something you want to stress with, find a professional. One company that does pool cleaning in Tempe suggests calling 3-5 different providers in the area and having them come quote you. Quality companies can provide an example checklist of everything they do for their weekly or monthly charge. Don’t be afraid to drop a bad company quickly if you think they’re not performing how you want.
Step 1: Test the water chemistry: Before you start cleaning your pool, it’s important to test the water chemistry to ensure that the pH level and chlorine level are within the safe range. This can be done using test strips or a digital pool water tester. If the pH level or chlorine level is too high or too low, you will need to adjust it before proceeding with the cleaning.
Step 2: Skim the surface of the water: Use a pool skimmer or a leaf skimmer to remove any debris, such as leaves, twigs, and insects that have accumulated on the surface of the water. This will help to keep the water clean and clear, and prevent clogs in the skimmers and filters.
Step 3: Vacuum the pool: Use a pool vacuum to remove dirt and debris that has accumulated on the bottom of the pool. A manual pool vacuum works by attaching a hose to the vacuum head and using a pole to guide it around the pool. An automatic pool cleaner or robotic pool cleaner is an alternative that can do the job for you. Make sure to vacuum the entire pool, including the corners and steps.
Step 4: Brush the pool: Use a pool brush to scrub the walls, floor, and steps of the pool. This will help to remove any dirt and algae that may have accumulated on the surfaces. Be sure to use a brush with stiff bristles for concrete pools and a softer brush for vinyl or fiberglass pools.
Step 5: Clean the filters: Clean the filters to remove any dirt and debris that may have accumulated. This is important to keep the water circulating properly and to prevent clogs in the filters. To clean the filters, you can use a filter cleaning solution, or you can use a hose to flush them out. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning the filters.
Step 6: Shock the pool: Once you have completed the cleaning, it’s a good idea to shock the pool with chlorine. This will help to kill any bacteria and algae that may have accumulated during the cleaning process. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the amount of chlorine to use and the recommended waiting period before swimming in the pool.
In conclusion, cleaning your swimming pool can be a daunting task, but with the right tools and techniques, you can do it yourself and save money on professional cleaning services. By regularly testing the water chemistry, skimming the surface, vacuuming the pool, brushing the pool, cleaning the filters and shocking the pool, you can keep your pool clean and safe for swimming. It is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for each step and to use the appropriate tools and chemicals for your pool type. If you are unsure about how to properly maintain your pool, it’s best to consult a professional pool technician for advice.
