Understanding Chlorine Vs Bromine
In most pools, there will be one of these halogens. Chlorine and bromine share several characteristics on the chemical level. Since they have an identical number of valence electrons, they behave similarly. Thus, you can use them in the same applications to produce substantially comparable results.
Chlorine:In most instances, chlorine is the pool sanitizer of choice. Once you add some of this, none of those bacteria can thrive.
Bromine:If you are sensitive to chlorine, then bromine might be an appropriate substitute. Sometimes, people develop rashes when swimming in chlorinated water. If you are in those truths, then try some of this. Typically, it will perform much better.
Run The Pump Like A Boss
Above-ground pools should have a pump and filter that helps circulate the water. Doing so helps push water through the filter, which collects organic matter and other unwanted guests in the filter and skimmer.
There are a few different pool pumps on the market, and they vary widely in price. Intex, makers of some of the best above-ground pools on the market, have their own line of Intex pool pumps for pools of every size.
The pump should be run each day according to the size and volume of your swimming pool. Pool makers typically recommend that you run the pump for 8-12 hours a day to ensure that water is circulating and being cleaned.
Tips For Maintaining An Above
As lovely as in-ground pools sound, they’re not always feasible to install in the backyard, whether it’s because of the cost, the space available, or the type of soil in the back. An above-ground pool, however, could be an option for enjoying the water during warmer months.
Above-ground swimming pools range from economical models to more luxurious styles. Many can be enjoyed throughout the year, and some use saltwater systems, which are popular with in-ground models. Above-ground pools also have options for solar heating systems and energy-efficient covers.
Contemporary models may have upgraded features that are usually seen in in-ground models, including advanced filtration systems and pumps to keep them clean. However, even above-ground pools that have built-in systems need a little hands-on work regularly to stay clean and in good working condition.
-
It’s tempting to put off above-ground pool maintenance, but you will pay for it later through water problems or pool liner issues, which are expensive to fix. To ensure that you’re taking proper care of the pool, follow a daily and weekly pool maintenance checklist.
Complete these tasks daily:
- Test the pH level to ensure it’s between 7.4 and 7.6.
- Test the chlorine level, which should be between 2.0 and 4.0 ppm.
- Check the water level, which should be around mid-skimmer.
- Empty the skimmer and pump baskets.
- Check filter pressure and pump operation.
- Skim the surface of the water.
You May Like: Filling Intex Pool
Above Ground Pool Tips And Maintenance
A few weeks ago we talked about above ground pool versus in-ground pools, so today well talk a little more specifically about caring for an above-ground unit.
For some more specific steps and explanations of methods, chemical levels, and other steps to clean your pool, check out this page and stay tuned to the Pool Daddy blog for tips and tricks and information about pools, hot tubs, Jacuzzis, and more. We can perform weekly pool maintenance at reasonable prices- even for above-ground systems!
Related Topics:
Get Your Water Checked Before You Go
Take a sample of your pool water to your local pool store and get it professionally checked.
Make sure when you get it checked that you correct any issues before you go. You want to make sure that your pH and alkalinity are properly balanced and your sanitizers levels are correct.
- pH: 7.4 to 7.6
- Alkalinity: 100 parts per million to 150 ppm, with 125 ppm being ideal
- Calcium Hardness: 175 ppm to 225 ppm, or 200 ppm to 275 ppm for concrete and plaster pools
- For Chlorine Pools: 1 ppm to 3 ppm
- For Bromine Pools: 3 ppm to 5 ppm
- For Biguanide Pools: 30 ppm to 50 ppm
- For Salt Water Pools: 0.5 ppm of chlorine
- For Mineral System Pools: 0.5 ppm of chlorine
Also, make sure your pool is clean and crystal clear before you leave.
Recommended Reading: How To Get Iron Out Of Pool Water
Saltwater Pools Need Special Components
Salt water can corrode anything in or around your pool that contains metal. If you have any existing pool with lights, handrails, ladders or diving board components made from galvanized steel, youll need to replace these components with ones that are rated for use in saltwater pools. This is especially true if you have a pool with an automatic cover. Youll need to make sure the parts on your pools cover will not corrode with salt water.
Keep An Eye On Things
Walk around your pool. This will allow you to notice any damage or leaks that occur. Noticing them early often means they are easier to fix. While you may not be aware of or notice any obvious problems, a trained pool professional might see what you missed. When you have a professional company come to your house regularly to service your pool, they are trained to look for things that you may not see. They can bring it to your attention so that it can be addressed quickly.
Recommended Reading: Can The Fire Department Fill Your Pool
A Beginners Guide To Above Ground Pool Maintenance
With an average April high of 80 degrees in Austin, Texas, its about time to get back in the pool!
Whether youre installing an above ground pool in your yard for the first time or taking off the cover after a long winter, its important to understand above ground pool maintenance.
While there may be a bit of a learning curve at first, once you know how to take care of your above ground pool, itll become second nature!
Read on for our beginners guide on how to maintain an above ground pool.
Other Pool Maintenance Items
Skimmer Basket
Make sure you clean the skimmer basket. When it fills up, the pump slows down and doesnt work as well. We have to clean ours daily, but we swim daily, so its easy.
Filter
Our current pump doesnt have a filter, but our last pump did. It needs to be removed and rinsed at least once a week, but probably twice would be better. Have multiple filters so that you can rinse them thoroughly.
I noticed that the filters clogged up a lot more when we wore sunscreen.
Backwash on the Pump
We have a sand filter, so it works pretty well. If the water flow slows down or if the water gets cloudy, we just set the pump to backwash, which pushes the dirty water out. Let it run until the water runs clear
The backwash function is also the way to reset your pump if your pressure drops to 0. Let it run for about 10 seconds. Then turn it back to normal.
Note: Dont walk away during this process, or you might forget and lose half your pool water Not that that has ever happened to us
Pump
Keep your pump running, even while not in use. It keeps your pool clean. And it doesnt cost that much to run.
Weve had a few different pools and pumps and a good pump makes the biggest difference in pool maintenance. Buy the best that you can afford! It will save you time and money in the long run.
Read Also: Fixing Concrete Around Pool
Here Are 10 Above Ground Pool Maintenance Tips To Help Keep Everything In Good Shape
Above ground pools are less expensive, easier-to-install alternatives to in-ground pools. And if that werent enough, theyre also usually easier to maintain. There are a few things youll want to do to keep your above ground pool in good working condition. Here are 10 key tips for above ground pool maintenance.
On This Page
Get A Pool Pump Timer
Hopefully, your pump already has a timer. If not, I would invest in one. They are a crucial part of proper pool care.
Set the timer to run the pool at least 8 to 12 hours a day. If you can split up the times, great! If not, it wont be a problem for it to run 24 hours a day. Running your pump and filter is very important to keep your pool clear and its better to leave a timer in charge rather than a human.
Also Check: Will Pool Water Kill Lice
Is It Easy To Maintain Above Ground Pool
Above ground pools are less expensive, easier-to-install alternatives to in-ground pools. And if that weren’t enough, they’re also usually easier to maintain. There are a few things you’ll want to do to keep your above ground pool in good working condition. Here are 10 key tips for above ground pool maintenance.
Create A Pool Maintenance Schedule
The implementation of a pool maintenance schedule will help you keep your pool as clean as it should be. Adhering to your schedule can also help avoid larger maintenance costs in the future. There are three pool maintenance schedules you can create a before each use schedule, a weekly schedule, and a monthly schedule. Based on the maintenance tasks you learned about previously, here we discuss each schedule and list the maintenance tasks that should be included.
Recommended Reading: Landscaping Around Pool Equipment
How Does A Saltwater Pool Work
When people hear about a saltwater pool, they often assume that salt water is used in place of chlorinated water. Chlorine kills bacteria, algae, viruses and other microorganisms so it is safe to swim. However, both traditional pools and saltwater pools use chlorine to keep germs at bay.
With a traditional pool, youll need to add chlorine via chlorine tablets, chlorine granules or shock solution.
A saltwater pool makes its own chlorine. Saltwater pools have what is called a salt generator or salt cell. The salt generator uses electrolysis to convert table salt into chlorine.
Pool water flows through the plumbing and filtration system to the cell. Inside, metallic grids use a low-voltage current to create a reaction that converts the salt into pure chlorine. The chlorine then reacts with the water to form hypochlorous acid chlorinated water. The freshly chlorinated water is dispersed evenly throughout the pool through the return jets.
Test The Pool Water Regularly
The number one issue pool owners face is cloudy water. Nothing is more infuriating than pulling the cover off the pool to see water that has turned milky or green.
Fortunately, you can avoid 99% of the problems that come with pool water by simply testing.
At least twice a week check for chlorine and pH levels.
Testing is straightforward and can be done with one of the many pool test kits on the market, including liquid pool tests, test strips for pools, and the priciest of the bunch, digital pool testers.
Testing the pool water takes a couple of minutes and should be done 2-3 times per week, making sure that the chlorine and pH levels are within target ranges.
Recommended Reading: What Should The Cyanuric Acid Level Be In My Pool
A Pool Cleaning Schedule
If it has proper circulation, youve already made cleaning your pool much easier. But youll still need to apply some good old-fashioned elbow grease. The basic tools youll need are:
Both Mother Nature and the folks using your pool bring all sorts of wild and wacky things into your pool, from leaves, mold, and the odd duck or frog to residues from shampoos, perfumes, and hair products. Add in the risks of bacterial contamination, and cleaning your pool becomes an absolutely essential part of safe swimming.
Skim, brush, and vacuum your pool weekly, at a minimum. This will keep debris out of your water, and your walls sparkling clean. Baking soda paste works particularly well as a basic scouring cleaner that wont damage delicate tile or a vinyl liner when you brush.
An automatic pool cleaner can significantly cut your pool cleaning time. It wont eliminate the need for regular skimming and brushing, but itll make both tasks easier, freeing you up to spend time enjoying your pool instead of cleaning it.
You can also make your cleaning life easier with a few unorthodox additions to your pool. Toss a few tennis balls into your skimmer basket, or even right into the pool, and theyll absorb surface oils left behind by suntan lotion, cosmetics, etc. You can also wrap your skimmer baskets with pantyhose to create an extra-fine filter thatll catch more contaminants than a skimmer alone.
How To Maintain Your Above Ground Pool
Whether youve got an inexpensive or high-end above ground swimming pool, regular maintenance and cleaning is key to ensuring your pool will last as long as it can.
Maintaining your above ground pool comes down to 3 simple components:
- Filtering.
- Cleaning.
- Chemical balance.
Most above ground pool sets will already come with everything you need to get into the habit of regular maintenance and cleaning.
The simplest way to make sure your pools water stays clean and safe and that its liner and equipment last as long as possible is to perform both daily and weekly maintenance and cleaning routines. Check out the CDCs maintenance recommendations for public swimming pools.
Don’t Miss: How To Heat An Above Ground Pool Cheap
Take Down Your Accessories
These little parts might be easy to overlook, but theyll take a hit this winter if left in the elements. Remove any pool ladders, rails, and other accessories you have installed in your pool. This is also a great opportunity to give them a good rub down, then let them dry.
Do you have a saltwater pool? Now is the time to remove your salt water chlorine generator, drain it, and store it. Plus, you can turn off all power and gas to your system, since you wont be needing them. I have two pieces of good news for you: youre about to love the bills that come in, and youre done!
The next part of closing your pool involves using a winter cover, which is at risk of collapsing under rain and debris this winterbut that can be prevented with a cover pump that works on its own. Keep your cover light and secure with the BLACK+DECKER 800 GPH Automatic Pool Cover Pump, which detects up to a quarter inch of rain and works fast.
Donât Miss: Mandalay Bay Pool Access Non Guests
Are Saltwater Pools Less Maintenance
Many people are interested in saltwater pools because they seem like less maintenance. While its true you wont need to add chlorine to your pool, saltwater pools still require some maintenance.
Youll need to add salt to your pool when you open your pool at the beginning of the season and possibly once or twice throughout the summer.
Both types of pools require that you test the water regularly to regulate the pH and chlorine levels. Its especially important to keep your water chemistry right. Too much chlorine or off-balance pH is hard on your pools components and surface. Too little chlorine and your pool water is not properly disinfected.
Youll need to inspect your pools salt generator monthly. Its also a good idea to rinse your deck, patio furniture and pool components with fresh water weekly.
Also Check: Liquid Pool Heater
What Chemicals Do You Need For An Above Ground Pool
Things you’ll be testing for include chlorine, PH, total alkalinity, Cyanuric acid , and calcium hardness. The levels need to be properly balanced for safe and clean water before swimming in it. The free chlorine level should be between 2.0 and 4.0 ppm. The PH level should be between 7.2 and 7.8.
Clean Your Pool Filter
There will be times where you will need to clean your pool filter. This filter cleaning is also known as backwashing your filter. Because the filter is used to remove small debris and substances from circulating in your pool, an excess of these substances in your pool could mean your filter is full. You can check the pressure gauge of your filter to see if you need to clean the filter. Use the numbers and advice from your filters instructions to determine whether or not you need to clean your filter.
Some filter systems have backwashing modes that can handle cleaning in the push of a button, but many filters will require you to empty or replace the filter to be able to continue using it effectively. A dirty or full filter system could turn into the equivalent of not having one at all, so make sure it is clean at all times before you use your pool.
Don’t Miss: Venetian Hotel Pool Hours
