A lot of people think they have a completely clear pool. But can you see a coin at the bottom of your pool? If you look at your pool at night with the light on and it looks hazy, then it’s not clear. Keeping your swimming pool clean and clear should be a top priority for any pool owner. Not only does a clean swimming pool look great, but it’s also important for your health. This article will discuss how to make your swimming pool clear and clean, following a simple schedule and using the right equipment.
How Do I Make My Swimming Pool Clear?
The most fundamental step in keeping your swimming pool clean is ensuring you’re running your pump enough so you circulate all the water in the pool through your filter 1 to 2 times per day. The filter removes debris from the water, but the water must go through the filter. Therefore, having enough pump run time is essential for achieving clear water.
Swimming Pool Cleaning Checklist
To maintain a clean swimming pool, you must have the right materials on hand. Here’s a checklist of items you should always have:
- Water Testing Kit: To maintain clean swimming pool water, the pH should be between 7.2 and 7.6, and the ideal chlorine level should be between 1.0 and 3.0 parts per million. Use the testing kit to measure these levels.
- pH Balancing Materials: If your swimming pool water pH is too high (alkaline), add more acid, like muriatic acid or sodium bisulfite, to bring it down. If your pH is too low, you can add an alkali like sodium carbonate.
- Salt or Chlorine: Keep an adequate supply of chlorine or salt for your pool’s sanitation system.
- Filter Maintenance Supplies: Ensure filters are well-maintained, as damaged elements can lead to poor filtration.
- Shock and Algaecide: Shocking the pool is a typical way to clean the pool water. You should follow the ideal schedule below. Algaecide comes in two varieties, one for green algae and one for yellow. Make sure you get the correct one.
Swimming Pool Cleaning Schedule
A cleaning schedule is crucial to keeping your swimming pool clean and clear. Here is a simple schedule to follow:
- Skim Once Or Twice A Day: Skim leaves, twigs, insects, and other debris from the pool as soon as possible to prevent them from dissolving in the water.
- Measure Chlorine And pH Levels Twice A Week: To prevent algae and other conditions from building up, measure chlorine and pH levels twice a week.
- Shock Or Super Chlorinate Once A Week: This step is critical for keeping your swimming pool water clear. Super chlorinating also disinfects the pool and keeps it free from bacteria and microbes.
- Backwash If Pressure Is Above Normal: If your filter pressure gauge shows 5 to 7 pounds per square inch above normal, it may be clogged and backwashed. A clean filter is crucial for keeping your swimming pool water clean. Check regularly and backwash as often as necessary.
- Run Your Filter And Check Every Other Day: Check every other day to ensure your swimming pool is clean and safe. The frequency depends on your filter types, such as DE, cartridge, or sand.
What If Your Pool Is Already Cloudy Or Green?
If your pool is cloudy or green, you must take action immediately. First, check your filter for any issues. Ensure there are no holes in the pleated polyester cartridge filter, that the grid on the DE filter is undamaged, and that the sand in your sand filter is not overdue for replacement. Perform necessary maintenance and consider upgrading your filtration system. You can upgrade to a DE filter, add a cyclonic pre-filter, or install a variable speed pump (VSP) for better filtration. Additionally, you can add an Ozone Generator to boost the sanitation capacity of the pool and clarify the water.
After addressing filtration issues, use a chemical flocculant (clarifier) to bind together fine particles, making it easier for the filter to catch and remove them. Shock the pool and add algaecide as needed to eliminate algae and bacteria.
- Check Your Filter: If the pressure gauge is showing above normal, it’s time for a backwash.
- Check the Skimmer and Pump Baskets: Ensure they are empty.
- Suck Out the Pool Water from the Main Drain: Make sure it runs through the filter.
- Shock the Pool and Add Algaecide: Depending on the type you have, use either green algae or yellow algae algaecide.
- Run the Filter and Check Every Other Day: Repeat the shocking and algaecide a few days in a row to get the water in your swimming pool clean and crystal clear. The frequency of this will depend on the kind of filter you have – DE, cartridge, or sand.
Saltwater Vs. Chlorine Pools?
Saltwater pools have become increasingly popular due to their lower maintenance requirements and fewer chemical additives. In addition, they use a saltwater generator to produce chlorine, which reduces the need for manual chlorine additions. If you’re considering switching to a saltwater pool, weigh the pros and cons, including the upfront installation cost and the ongoing cost to maintain. Then, see why pool owners choose saltwater over chlorine pools and decide if it’s right for you.
In conclusion
Maintaining a clean and clear swimming pool requires regular attention, proper filtration, and the right balance of chemicals. By following a cleaning schedule and considering upgrades like a saltwater system or an Ozone Generator, you can ensure that your swimming pool is clean and a beautiful and inviting space for you and your family to enjoy.
By adhering to the tips and strategies outlined in this article, you can have a sparkling clean swimming pool that looks and feels amazing. Not only will your pool look great, but it will also be a healthier environment for swimming, playing, and relaxing. So, invest the time and effort to maintain your clear swimming pool water properly, and you will reap the benefits of a stunning outdoor oasis.
