What Kind of Maintenance Does a New Pool Require?
Installing a new swimming pool in your backyard is exciting. It brings the promise of fun, relaxation, and a perfect way to cool off during hot days. Yet, having a pool includes some responsibilities in addition to all the fun.
Knowing what kind of upkeep your pool needs, particularly during the initial few months, is crucial to keeping it in excellent condition.
From regular cleaning to water balancing and occasional pool equipment repair, here’s a quick and easy guide to maintaining a new pool and what kind of maintenance it requires.
1. Regular Cleaning Is a Must
Debris such as dirt, insects, and leaves can collect in the water quickly. In addition to being unsightly, this can clog your system and lower the quality of your water.
Especially in the peak season, many new pool owners choose to hire a swimming pool cleaning service to take care of this task. It's a fantastic way to maintain the cleanliness of your pool without taking up any of your free time.
You’ll want to:
Skim the surface daily
Vacuum the pool floor weekly
Brush the pool walls and tiles to prevent algae buildup
2. Balance the Water Chemistry
The water in a pool must be adjusted correctly. When chemicals are not present, the water can irritate eyes and skin, produce algae growth, or even harm pool equipment and liners. Using pool testing strips or kits, you should test your water at least twice a week.
To help maintain the proper balance, you can always ask your neighborhood swimming pool cleaning service for advice if you're not sure how to handle chemicals.
Key things to check:
pH levels (ideal is 7.2–7.6)
Chlorine levels (helps kill bacteria)
Alkalinity and calcium hardness
3. Pool Filter Maintenance
A major factor in maintaining safe and clean water is your pool filter. It captures tiny particles, oils, and debris that skimming is unable to capture.
Poor circulation, murky water, and even damage to other components of your pool system can result from neglecting pool filter maintenance. Simple yet necessary, routine cleaning and inspections keep everything in good operating order.
Depending on whether you have diatomaceous earth, sand, or cartridge filters, you'll need to:
Rinse or replace cartridges regularly
Backwash sand and DE filters every few weeks
Deep-clean the filter system a few times a year
4. Check and Maintain Pool Equipment
Your pool's pump, heater, lights, and chlorinator are all part of a system that keeps things running. Over time, parts may wear out, break, or need adjustment.
If you notice anything strange like low water pressure, unusual sounds, or equipment not turning on it’s time to consider pool equipment repair. A professional can diagnose the issue and fix it before it turns into a bigger problem.
Here’s what to keep an eye on:
Make sure the pump is running smoothly and without noise
Check the heater for proper function, especially before cold weather
Inspect hoses and seals for leaks
Keep your automatic pool cleaner in good shape
5. Maintain Proper Water Level
Splashing or backwashing the filter can cause some of the water to leave the filter naturally. However, low water levels can lead to major problems, including the pump sucking in air rather than water.
The water level should be maintained approximately halfway up the skimmer opening. When necessary, especially in hot and windy conditions, top it up. You may have a leak that has to be fixed if the water level is falling rapidly.
6. Inspect Pool Surfaces and Tile
Over time, the concrete, fiberglass, or vinyl surface of your pool may exhibit wear. Tile damage, discoloration, and cracks should be repaired as soon as possible to avoid more serious issues.
Visual checkups every week help in identifying problems early. Additionally, brushing the walls keeps the surface smooth and helps get rid of grime. Maintaining the chemical balance can also help the pool surface last longer.
7. Use a Pool Cover
Using a pool cover can save you time and effort, even though it might not seem like upkeep. A good cover helps retain heat, minimizes evaporation, and keeps dirt out. If you don't use your pool every day, it's quite beneficial.
There are various kinds of coverings, including automatic, safety, and solar covers. When the pool isn't being used, pick the one that best suits your needs and use it regularly.
8. Schedule Seasonal Deep Cleaning
Even with regular care, your pool will benefit from a seasonal deep clean. Hiring a professional swimming pool cleaning service for seasonal cleaning can give you peace of mind and ensure everything is ready for summer fun. This includes:
Shocking the pool (adding a large dose of chlorine)
Cleaning all filters and equipment
Scrubbing tiles and steps thoroughly
Adjusting chemicals for weather changes
9. Keep an Eye on Pool Equipment Repair Needs
The equipment in your pool may deteriorate with time. Lights may flicker, heaters may cease warming, or pumps may lose electricity. If you see any problems, you should take quick action. Damage or more costly issues could result from putting off pool equipment maintenance.
Make it a habit to inspect the equipment once a week. Bring in a technician if something doesn't seem or sound correct. Your pool will continue to operate securely and effectively with immediate maintenance.
10. Set a Weekly and Monthly Maintenance Schedule
It’s easy to forget pool tasks when life gets busy. Setting a simple maintenance schedule helps you stay on track.
Weekly tasks:
Skim and vacuum
Test and balance water
Empty skimmer and pump baskets
Check equipment function
Monthly tasks:
Clean the pool filter
Inspect all pool surfaces
Check for leaks or damage
Review equipment settings and timers
Conclusion
A new pool can provide years of enjoyment with the right maintenance, but it is an expensive investment. Every step, from routine pool filter maintenance to daily cleaning to the occasional pool equipment repair, contributes to protecting your pool and ensures that everyone may enjoy it safely.
If you're ever unsure about what will be best, don’t hesitate to hire a professional. At True Light Pools, we take care of the labor-intensive tasks, offer knowledgeable guidance, and make sure your pool remains in excellent shape throughout the year.
Your backyard pool will always be ready for a splash with a little routine maintenance!
