5 Ways To Keep Your Swimming Pool Clean

A swimming pool is only fun when it is clean. Keeping the water crystal clear for a long period of time is actually possible as long as you perform regular maintenance of your pool. To keep it clean, clear, and inviting (not to mention safe to swim in), use these tips to keep your swimming pool in top condition.

Skim the water.

If your swimming pool is in an open area, it will likely catch debris such as leaves, twigs, insects, and the occasional amphibian. The pool filter will get rid of small particles but bigger organic matter has to be skimmed off the surface of the water. Do this once a day or every other day, depending on the amount of debris present.

Never underestimate the importance of chlorine.

Chlorine is added to pool water to kill microorganisms such as bacteria and viruses. Certain microorganisms, including E. coli and salmonella, can cause health issues to swimmers, especially if these germs are ingested with the swimming pool water. Unclean pool water can lead to skin rashes, allergies, ear infections, athlete’s foot, and even diarrhea. Chlorine disinfects the pool and helps keep the water clear.

Test the water.

Balance is key when it comes to keeping your swimming pool clean. Get a water testing kit to measure the pH level of the water. This kit will show you if the water is on the wrong side of acidity or alkalinity (basic). In general, the ideal pH level of pool water should be about 7.2 to 7.6, which is closest to neutral. If the pH level is lower, the water becomes acidic. This causes the stinging sensation felt in the eyes and nose when swimming, and leads to brittle hair and dry, itchy skin. If the pH level is higher, it will neutralize the sanitizing effects of chlorine.

Keep the filter clean.

Pay close attention to the swimming pool filter. It physically removes debris and dirt from the water to keep it clean. The filter is cleaned through a process known as backwashing. Basically, it allows pool water to flow back through the filtration system, which cleans the filter. Watch the condition of the water. You will know you need to perform backwashing once the water becomes cloudy.

Use a robotic pool cleaner.

A robotic pool cleaner cleans your swimming pool automatically. Basically, it vacuums debris from the water and the ones from http://roboticpoolcleaners.com.au/ can even remove algae and dirt from swimming pool floors, walls, and steps. You only have to turn on the cleaner and it will do the job for you.