If you have recently installed a saltwater pool, you need to know the importance of learning how to maintain a salt water pool. This will allow you to keep the pool water healthy and safe. Keep in mind that a poorly maintained pool will make swimmers sick.
This is the easiest pool type to maintain. Most pool owners go for this pool type over the normal chlorine swimming pool due to its simpler maintenance reputation. In addition, a salt water pool will be less expensive ultimately and good for your skin than a chlorine swimming pool.
Maintaining a Saltwater Pool
A clean saltwater pool is as simple as filtering the dirt out while also looking to make sure the level of water stays balanced. Most homeowners prefer these pool types since they do not generate a strong odor of chlorine. Additionally, the pools are ideal for people with allergies and are healthier for the skin.
Some homeowners choose to hire an expert to attend to their saltwater pool. Yes, it’s also easy to use these tips to maintain your backyard pool.
Ensure the Filter and Pump are Working Properly
It is easy to maintain a salt water pool when all the swimming pool parts work properly. So it is essential that you keep the skimmer, filter, and pump clean and functioning properly.
The parts work together to ensure you have clean pool water. As a result, make sure to check and clean these parts on a regular basis, as they can become clogged with debris over time. Low water levels will be a sign that one of these parts is not working. It is best to clean these items weekly to prevent buildup. Using a hose to spray water will do the job.
You should also ensure that you clean the generator cell of your pool every couple of months since it will get scaly from the buildup of salt. Use a plastic tool to scrape it off or use a high-pressure water hose to clean it. This will help with the proper circulation of salt throughout the pool.
Keep Dirt & Debris Out
Getting rid of dirt and debris is essential when it comes to saltwater pool maintenance. Salt water pool owners will want to skim the pool’s surface to ensure it stays clean.
You can use a mechanical cleaner or pool vacuum attachment. To do this, you should connect the vacuum right to the skimmer box for sucking dirt away. Or you can purchase a pressure cleaner or robot cleaner to get the job done.
It’s important that you clean your pool two to three times each week. A pool that doesn’t have a cover might require more clean-ups or take longer to clean. The reason is, it’s more prone to catching leaves and other debris. Additionally, you will want to clean up the lining of your backyard pool monthly and adhere to the right maintenance tips to help close the pool during the cold months.
Additionally, algae will make the pool have a dirty green color. It is best to use a special algae brush to get rid of it from the pool’s bottom and sides. You can also use an algaecide to prevent new algae growth.
It is also important that your friends and loved ones shower before they enter the pool. Remember also to wash the pool toys regularly. This will prevent the growth of mildew and help you have a cleaner pool.
Test Chlorine and pH Levels Consistently
You will want to check the level of your pool’s chlorine and pH. It is best to do this with a simple pool test kit.
Level of chlorine
It is best to maintain a 1 to 3 ppm chlorine level. If you reside in warmer conditions, the rays will evaporate more of your pool’s chlorine. So you should test chlorine levels, which need to be between 70 and 80 ppm.
Sometimes, it is best to add in freshwater, but this has to be done after draining some pool water. This helps to dilute the over-concentrated water. Or you can bring the stabilizer levels back up by adding cyanuric acid.
Levels of salt and calcium
Calcium will make sure that the pool water stays crystal clear. Do this monthly, and aim for 200 – 400 ppm. The level of salt water should probably be between 2700 – 4500 ppm. But this number will depend on the pool manufacturer’s specifications.
In addition, it is best to make sure there are no metal traces by testing the pool water. This will take place when adding fresh water in. Metals such as manganese, copper, and iron can cause rust issues for your backyard pool. Calcium buildup can also occur and is something salt water pool owners need to keep an eye on.
Level of pH
The level of pH in a pool has to be between 7.2 to 7.6 ppm. If the pH is not well-balanced, you can decrease the pH by adding muriatic acid.
The level of alkalinity helps ensure that the pH level stays balanced. It is best to check this level once each month. Make sure that the alkalinity level is between 80 to 120 ppm.
Shocking a Salt Water Pool When Necessary
Shocking is similar to deep cleaning the pool. It will help ensure the pool water looks fresh. This procedure is best done before you host a huge pool party or at the beginning of the summer season when the pool experiences a lot of action.
A solution of water and chlorine works best to shock a pool. Remember to use a brand of chlorine that’s safe to use in a salt water pool. You want to make sure that you’re using the correct amount of chlorine for the size of your pool.
You will have to wait eight hours to allow the chlorine to dissolve when shocking a salt water pool. This will mean no activities should take place inside the pool. You will also have to recheck the levels of your pool later on.
If you are experiencing a huge algae issue, you might want to shock the pool a couple of times. This will help eliminate the algae and improve your pool water’s appearance. Need help maintaining your salt water pool?
Hire the professionals The simplest way of keeping your salt water clear and swim-ready throughout the season is by establishing a frequent maintenance routine. Do you have any questions? Contact us today about how to effectively maintain your pool.
