Owning a swimming pool is often seen as the ultimate luxury for households in the UK – and especially so when in the midst of an unprecedentedly warm summer. As much as we try and make do with inflatable paddling pools, there’s no substitute for the real thing.
But many are turned off by the prospect of the thought of pool maintenance. By and large, pool maintenance is a simple thing; here are some common questions about pool maintenance, and their answers.
Why is the Pool Water Cloudy?
Cloudy pool water usually means that there are contaminants present, but can sometimes be a result of a simple chemical imbalance. Indeed, the act of ‘shocking’ your pool – meaning the introduction of chemicals to balance your water’s free chlorine levels – can result in briefly cloudy water.
If the cause is based on contamination, there is a possibility that your pool filter is not working as it should be. More likely, though, is that external contaminants have made their way in. If you do not cover your pool, all sorts of debris can land in your water, and encourage algal growth.
Firstly, it is advised that you test the water using pool testing strips. This can give you a clear idea of its chemical balance, and a clearer idea of what your next steps should be. For example, if your free chlorine levels are low, you may need to shock the pool with pool chlorine granules.
If this doesn’t do the trick, look next to your pump. Is it operational, or is it malfunctioning? Is the filter clogged? There is also the chance that you are not leaving the pump on for long enough.
How Often Do I Need to Shock My Pool?
Keeping a regular pool water maintenance plan can serve as a potent preventative measure, and keep your water free of contamination for longer. Shocking your pool is a key part of the process, ensuring a chemical balance is kept and mitigating the growth of any bacteria.
You should endeavour to shock your pool water once a week where possible, in order to make your life easier in the long run. It is also possible to shock the water simply when it seems like it needs to be shocked, but this can tax your pump much more.
Do I Need a Professional to Clean My Pool?
The short answer is: no, you do not need a professional to clean and maintain your pool on your behalf. However, if you can afford for a professional to do so, then it is well worth considering! Pool water maintenance is simple enough if sometimes a little time-consuming – but all the more time-consuming is the act of cleaning the pool proper.
If you have the funds to hire a professional on a semi-regular basis, they can use their expertise to better clean your pool and pool environment. In all, this can lower the risk of significant contamination, and also ensure your pool hardware is well-maintained and less likely to break.