Above Ground Swimming Pool Maintenance

Those who do not want to spend time and money digging up the yard to install a swimming pool, opt for above ground swimming pools. Above ground pools are installed above ground level and come in three shapes: oval, rectangular and circular. Compared to the other types of swimming pools, these above ground swimming pools are cheaper to install. However, one cannot escape from essential swimming pool maintenance. Regular and proper pool cleaning is vital for the pool to remain in good condition for the years to come. Moreover, improper maintenance can cause the pool to become a breeding ground for all kinds of disease-causing organisms.

Above Ground Pool: Water Maintenance

Whether one is using the pool for swimming or not, it is a must to carry out above ground pool maintenance right through the year. Thus, with the fun of swimming in your own pool, comes the responsibility of taking care of it, even when you don't feel like it.

pH Level
pH of the swimming pool water has to be tested twice a week. The pH of the water should be maintained at around 7.2 - 7.6, because at this pH level, chlorine is most effective. Moreover, incorrect pH levels can conduce to damage of the above ground pool liners and equipment.

Chlorine Level
Chlorinating the pool twice a week is essential for sanitizing the pool. You can purchase chlorine tablets, granules or solution and add it to the pool. Any form will do because all act similarly. Chlorinating the pool water ensures elimination and prevention of disease-causing organisms, from dwelling and multiplying in the pool water. This protects swimmers from contracting diseases and infections from the pool after swimming.

Clearing Debris
During the course of the day various insects, leaves and other debris settle on the surface of the pool water. It is important to clear away the debris before it sinks to the bottom of the pool. With the help of a leaf skimmer, one can get rid of the floating debris and keep the pool clean. To help maintain the pool, one can make use of swimming pool safety covers, which will help keep debris from entering the water and dirtying it. This should also be done twice a week.

Shock Treatment
Shock treatment is another important aspect of above ground swimming pool maintenance. When we chlorinate the pool what we are trying to do is provide free chlorine to sanitize the swimming pool. However, chlorine does not remain in free form and converts into the combined form, which is what cause skin and eye irritation to swimmers. Shock treatment helps convert this combined chlorine back to free chlorine and also helps destroy germs and microbes. Shock treatment packages are available at pool stores. The pool must be shocked once a week.

Calcium Level
Another aspect is checking the calcium hardness of the water once a month. This is important because water, high in calcium content can result in scale formation, while water, too low in calcium makes the water corrosive. However, this test cannot be done by you at home. You need to take the pool water sample to the local pool store and get this test done.

The above mentioned guidelines are just an overview of pool maintenance. Keeping these tips in mind, you can ensure your pool remains clean and safe to swim in. In case you encounter swimming pool problems that you do not understand, it is best to contact professionals who can carry out above ground pool repairs. All the best!