|
Adding an inground pool not only offers entertainment, exercise, and leisure to your backyard, but it increases the value of your home. In 2003, the National Association of Realtors reported that this addition adds around 8 percent to your home's value. Typically, maintenance schedules involve weekly and monthly responsibilities. Purchasing pool supplies and equipment from a specialty or home improvement store can help you sustain your maintenance schedule. Below are some instructions designed to help you take care of your new backyard treasure. In-Season Maintenance - Check your pH and chlorine levels at least twice a week. You should maintain a pH range of 7.4 to 7.6 and a chlorine level of 1.0 to 3.0 parts per million (ppm). Follow the directions according to your testing strips and add products to re-balance these levels, if necessary. - Weekly, empty the skimmer baskets, skim leaves and debris with a cleaning net, and use a vacuum cleaner to clean debris from the bottom. Give special attention to areas near the steps, ladders, and other equipment. - To eliminate waterline stains and keep your pool looking fresh, apply surface cleaner to the waterline on the walls. - Shock the pool water once a week. This involves adding a large dose of chlorine to eliminate algae and other contaminants. Be sure to read the instructions on your pool supplies to determine how much you should add. Additionally, avoid swimming for at least 24 hours after shocking. - During the summer months, run the filtration system as much as possible. The water is less likely to become polluted with dirt, bacteria, and body oils when it is continuously moving. Off-Season Maintenance - Prior to shutting down for the season, check for cracks, leaks, or any sign of damage that needs to be addressed. The harsh conditions of winter temperatures will only make this damage worse, so addressing the problems now will save you money in the future. - Test the chemical levels and adjust as needed. Use the same procedures and pool supplies utilized during in-season maintenance. - Remove ladders, diving boards, slides, ropes, and all other objects from the water and store safely. - Drain water from the pump, filter, heater, and all tubing. Any remaining water is likely to freeze during the winter, causing damage to these accessories. - Reduce the water level. If your walls are decorated with tiles, the level should remain below these tiles during the off-season. - Using a safety cover, secure your pool, ensuring there are no obvious tears, rips, or damage to the cover. Every few weeks, inspect the cover and replace if necessary. Pool Supplies Needed - Chemical testing strips - Net - Brush - Vacuum cleaner - Chemical shock - Chemical balancing agents Following these guidelines will promise that you have a clean and fun-filled summer! When considering pool supplies, Portland residents visit Sahara Pools. Learn more about them at http://www.saharapools.com/.
Related Articles -
pool, supplies, bridgewater, nj,
| 
