Nothing beats a dip in the pool on a hot summer day. Well, maybe a dip in the sea – minus the sharks! We live in Florida, where the beach is a short drive away. But with the shark attack trends, I think I’ll stick to the pool.
Which brings me to the topic at hand: swimming pool maintenance.
Four years ago, we built a Craftsman-style house on a partly wooded lot. It’s a quiet and shady spot, where grey squirrels and rabbits and wild turkeys play. No swimming pool maintenance needed.
But we love swimming pools. Our last home in an apartment community had a sparkling pool and waterfall curtain. It was lovely oasis – a refreshing escape from the Florida heat – and the maintenance team provided excellent pool care.
Is YOUR swimming pool ready for summer? Or, are you new to pool care and looking for a little guidance? You’re at the right place! Today, we’ll touch on five swimming pool maintenance tips to get your pool in tip-top shape.
Let’s dive in!
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Is Your Pool Ready for Summer?
If you own a house, you might have your own backyard swimming pool – especially if you live in the American Sun Belt. Many of our Florida neighbors have one, complete with a pool cage and screened-in lanai.
I read somewhere that nine million American backyards have swimming pools. Indeed, pools are a “necessary luxury” in many parts of the country. But they do need special care to stay clean, safe, and attractive.
‘Cause, who likes dirty green algae water?!
If you have swimming pool – or you’re charged with caring for one – see the following tips. Five ways to make your pool clean, safe, and ready for summer. Then kick back, relax, and enjoy the water.
Swimming Pool Maintenance Tips
BioGuard is a leading supplier of pool care products. Bob Vila is a home improvement expert. They love swimming pools as much as you do, and they have some pool upkeep tips to share.
Here are five swimming pool maintenance tips to consider for your backyard pool. Make them part of your pool care routine – and make way for summer fun.
1. Make Some Waves
Circulation is essential for a clean, safe, swim ready pool. The water movement disturbs the growth of algae, bacteria, and other microscopic matter. It helps your pool filter capture dry leaves, dead bugs, and other debris.
Circulation also distributes your swimming pool sanitizer for greatest effect. So go make some waves! Pool care experts recommend circulating your pool water for at least 10 hours during the day.
2. Clean the Filter
Filtration is also important for a clean, safe pool. Your swimming pool filter removes the leaves, bugs, and microscopic matter mentioned above.
Backwash the filter every now and then to remove trapped debris. And make sure you clean it with the appropriate chemicals every three months.
3. Scrub the Walls
Some swimming pools have little circulation, so they need cleaning on a regular basis. Use a swimming pool brush to scrub your pool walls to remove dirt, algae, and other debris.
Pool maintenance experts recommend you brush and vacuum the sides of your pool once a week. Do this even if you use an automatic cleaner or hire a weekly pool care service.
4. Test the Water
Swimming pools have certain characteristics that need regular testing and adjusting. Things like pH balance, sanitizer levels, alkalinity, and calcium hardness.
Use a swimming pool test kit on your pool water at least twice a week. And make sure to get a complete water analysis every four to six weeks during the summer months.
5. Check the Chemistry
Chemistry is important – in your personal relationships, as well as your backyard pool. Swimming pool chemicals work together to keep the water clear, clean, and comfortable.
Amazon sells pool care products to keep your pool in top shape – throughout the summer or through the year. In Florida, the water is usually warm enough for swimming between April and October.
Pool Maintenance Made Easy
Swimming pool maintenance is an important, if tedious, part of pool ownership. The tips above can help you get your backyard pool ready for summer. But they’re only a starting point.
If you’re a first-time pool owner or beginner, you may not know how to clean a swimming pool. You need a step-by-step guide to maintain it the right way, with confidence and ease.
For a long-term guide to pool care, check out Pool Maintenance Made Easy, by John Brace. It has a 4.5-star rating on Amazon. Based on the reviews, it’s an excellent resource for first-time and seasoned pool owners alike.
Conclusion
Swimming is an excellent way to stay fit, healthy, and cool this summer. These five tips can help make YOUR swimming pool clean, safe, and ready for summer fun. Do you have a tip that’s not found in this post? Tell us about it in the comments.
Now, grab your swimsuit and sunscreen. It’s time to make a splash! ◻️
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Now It’s Your Turn
Thank you for reading my post. Now it’s YOUR turn to chime in. Where do you normally go swimming – the beach, the lake, a community pool, or your own backyard? If you own a pool, what is your best swimming pool maintenance tip?
Let’s fill the comments with friendly conversation. Scroll down to leave a reply, ask a question, or just say hello. And if you liked this post, please give it a share.
Blessings, Annette
📋 NOTE – You are reading “5 Ways to Make Your Pool Swim Ready and Safe for Summer.” First published in May 2022, it was updated in May 2023.
Sources and Further Reading
Sometimes it’s interesting to explore a topic in more depth. Here are some resources that support the content in this post — and where you can get more information.
Photo Sources
Reference Sources
- BioGuard: The Trusted Pool Care Experts
- Bob Vila: Tried, True, Trustworthy Home Advice
- Florida Museum | University of Florida
My swimming pool’s tiles are already cracked, and that is why I’ve decided to look for an experienced repair service. I also agree that it’s best to clean the pool’s filter and remove the leaves in it. Thank you for sharing the importance of using the correct type of cleaning products/chemicals.
You’re welcome, Rachel. Thank you for stopping by and leaving a comment here. I so appreciate it. Have a great summer!
It really stood out to me when you mentioned that it is a good idea to keep the walls of a swimming pool free of things like algae and dirt. I would imagine that having a good pump would be the best way to keep algae from growing in your pool. If you are wanting to own a swimming pool, it seems like it would be a good idea to make sure that you pick the best water pump.
Hi, Henry. Thank you for your comment. I read somewhere that “the pump” is “the heart” of a swimming pool. It makes sense! Thank you for pointing out this vital swimming pool hardware. Maybe I’ll publish a companion post about pool equipment. Enjoy the summer!
I like the tip that you gave that a pool cage could help you protect your pool from any circumstances. My cousin told me the other day that he was planning to have maintenance for their swimming pool next week to prevent algae growth, and he asked if I had any idea what would be the best option to consider. I love this instructive article, I’ll tell him that it will be much better if he consults a trusted pool service as they can also provide preventative measures.
Thank you, John. I’m glad you liked my swimming pool maintenance post. Your comment is appreciated, especially coming from a pool care pro. Have a great summer!
Great tip about making sure that you are constantly cleaning your pool. I noticed that bits of our fence are drifting into the pool itself. I’ll have to hire someone to install a new fence.
Hi, Tex. Thanks for the read and comment.
Thanks so much for the list of things on a pool that need upkeep. My parents put in a pool a few years ago and they want to have it cleaned and maintenanced before the next swimming season. We’ve been looking into hiring a professional to ensure everything that needs to be done is done right. This list will help us know what to point out when explaining the job.
You’re welcome, Jessie. I’m glad my list can be of help when you’re ready for the pool cleaning and maintenance. Thanks for stopping by!
Thank you for sharing! If you have a saltwater pool, another thing you need to clean your salt cells periodically. If there are many impurities like phosphates, nitrates, ammonia, and metals in your water, you may want to do this more often. Otherwise, salt cells will be used up very quickly.
As for the cleaning process, it’s pretty simple and involves taking 5-10 minutes to soak the cell in a weak acid or vinegar solution that will dissolve the build-up.
Thank you for this additional information. I’m sure it will be helpful to owners of saltwater pools.
It’s great that you explained that swimming pool maintenance is an important part of owning one. With that in mind, I would think that it would be a good idea to hire a contractor that can handle the monthly maintenance for you. If you have someone doing the monthly pool maintenance for you, you won’t have to worry about if the water will be safe to swim in or not.
That’s sensible, Thomas. With help from a professional, there are fewer safety worries and more summer fun!
Hi Annette. Thanks for putting this article together. I’ve been battling algae on my pool walls for a while but know what to do now to get rid of them. You’re a life saver!
You’re welcome, Megan. Thanks for stopping by!
Thanks for the great information about pool maintenance. I’l be adding your tips and hacks to my algae battling recipe.
You’re welcome, Stella. Glad to help.
I agreed when you stated that the growth of algae can be disturbed through water waves. My friend told me that their property needs pool resurfacing. I should advise him to hire a contractor with vast experience in pool resurfacing.
Hi, Victoria. Thank you for your input on swimming pool maintenance. Happy New Year!
Thanks for explaining how looking after your swimming pool frees it from unwanted contaminants and allergens that may affect anyone inside it. My colleague is thinking about building a pool on his property. I should share this information with him and recommend that he find a pool maintenance expert that can help.
You’re welcome, Zachary. I’m happy to be of help.
Thank you for pointing out that circulation is crucial for a pool that is clear, secure, and swimmable. The summer will arrive soon, and I want to make sure that my pool is in good shape. I will call the pool maintenance team to check on the water circulation.
You’re welcome, Iris. Thanks for the read and comment.
I love that you talked that one of the most important ownership responsibilities is to provide proper maintenance. My brother mentioned the other night that he was planning to have a swimming pool remodeling project to make the most out of our residential space and for the children to enjoy our family gatherings. He asked if I had any idea what would be the best remodeling option to consider. Thanks to this helpful article, I’ll tell him that it will be much better if we consult a trusted pool service as they can provide more information about the planning and design of the pool.
Thank you, Steve. I’m glad my article was helpful.
Over this article you will get to know in detail about “5 Ways to Make Your Pool Swim-Ready and Safe for Summer.” Things to consider include many options listed on this page. It’s a very useful article and would suggest others, too. I am sure many people will come to read this in future.
A warm thank-you to Precision Pools and Willy Jones. Your kind comment is much appreciated!
Your post on swimming pool maintenance was very informative! I appreciated the step-by-step instructions and the helpful tips you provided for each stage of the pool cleaning process. I especially liked the advice on using natural pool cleaners and avoiding harsh chemicals that can harm the environment. Your post has inspired me to take a more eco-friendly approach to pool maintenance. Thank you for sharing your expertise!
I’ve been away for a few days, so I just saw your comment. Thank you for your kind words. I’m glad my post inspired you.
It really helped when you said that the filters of the pool have to be clean to keep the pool safe by removing bugs, leaves, and any microscopic matter. I will hire pool services to check on my property, because it hasn’t been used ever since we moved here last November. We definitely want to use it this summer and even invite neighbors and relatives over.
Hello, Mia. I’m glad my tips were helpful. Take care of that swimming pool, and have a beautiful spring and summer!
When it comes to keeping your pool in tip-top shape, look no further than this post from Savoring Home. The cleaning and upkeep of equipment, as well as the chemistry and filtration of water, are all discussed in the piece. The article is well-written and full of helpful information for pool owners who care about keeping their water clean and safe for swimming.
Hello, Doug. Thank you for commenting. I appreciate your kind remarks.
Wonderful information about the care of swimming pools! For the sake of swimmers’ wellbeing and safety, it is crucial that we keep our pools tidy and in good repair at all times. The advice presented in this piece is useful and straightforward. It is encouraging that the article also highlights the value of eco-friendly pool maintenance solutions. Please keep these insights coming; they are quite helpful.
Thank you for stopping by. I appreciate your comment.
You will get clear details from the “5 Ways to Make Your Pool Swim-Ready and Safe for Summer.” I really loved it and thank you very much for sharing this with us. You have a great visualization and you have presented this content in a really good manner.
Thank you. I’m glad you liked my post!
What a fantastic resource for anyone looking to prepare their pool for summer fun while keeping it safe and clean. Thank you for sharing this!
Thank you, Princess Joy. You’re very kind. I hope you have a fun summer!
Great tips for pool owners to get their pool ready for summer! Ensuring safety measures and keeping up with maintenance can make all the difference in having a fun and enjoyable swimming season.
Thank you, GR Landscape. I’m glad you liked the post!
Great tips! Ensuring pool safety is crucial, and these suggestions are spot on. Clearing debris, maintaining proper chemical balance, inspecting equipment, setting up pool fences, and educating guests about safety rules are all vital steps to make your pool swim-ready and safe for a fantastic summer season. Cheers to a fun and secure time by the pool!
Thank you. Enjoy the summer!
Some way or another I kept my head above water. I depended on the discipline, character, and strength that I had begun to create as that young lady in her most memorable pool.
Thanks for your comment, Enrique. I hope you enjoyed the post.
Great tips Annette! Found this blog to be really insightful. Thanks for sharing.
You’re welcome, Shreya. I’m glad you liked the post!
Great tips for getting the pool swim ready and safe for summer! Regular maintenance is crucial, and I couldn’t agree more with your suggestion to clean and balance the pool water. It’s essential to maintain the proper chemical levels to ensure a safe and healthy swimming environment. Additionally, the tip about inspecting and repairing any damaged pool equipment is often overlooked but so important. Safety should always be a top priority, and addressing any potential hazards promptly is key. Thanks for sharing these valuable tips!
Thank you, Glenn. I’m glad you found these swimming pool maintenance tips to be valuable and useful. Happy Summer!
I appreciate you mentioning that once per week, brushing and vacuuming the pool’s sides is advised by pool maintenance professionals. My sister complains about how filthy her pool is. I’ll advise her to get the pool’s equipment serviced so that it may be cleaned and vacuumed once a week.
You’re welcome, Iris. Have a great summer!
I particularly appreciate your emphasis on regular maintenance routines. It’s true that consistent care can prevent bigger problems down the line, not to mention keep the water crystal clear and inviting. Your tips on cleaning the pool filter and skimming the surface regularly are reminders that every pool owner should take to heart.
Thanks for your comment, Justin. I’m glad you stopped by.
Just read this article and I can say these are awesome great tips on how to take care of your Nashville Pool Safety Fence. I will be using these tips for my own clients so their Nashville Pool Safety Fence in Nashville, TN, goes smoothly!
Thank you. I appreciate the read and comment.
Next weekend, we’re moving to another house with a swimming pool, and we’d like to learn more about its maintenance requirements. We’re relieved to know that we’d test the pool’s water to see if it needs adjustments. My wife and I will meet with pool cleaners soon to ask about their services and a pool test.
Hello, Eli. Congratulations on your new home, and thank you for reading my post. 🙂
Thanks for the reminder that filter maintenance is also essential to look into when planning to take care of a pool. I want to find a good swimming pool maintenance contractor soon because I’m thinking about getting a new pump soon. Being able to get proper maintenance for that will help a lot in preventing algae from forming on the water’s surface.
You’re welcome, Alice. Thanks for stopping by.
Watched your Pool Maintenance for Beginners video. Very good video. Do you have a video explaining the different valves and what they do? I don’t know what all the valves do and what should be turned on/off or what they do exactly.
Hi, Gina Lee. There are no videos here (you must be referencing a different website) – but I hope you read my post and found some useful tips on swimming pool maintenance. Thank you for stopping by and taking the time to comment.