Last Updated on December 3, 2024 by Tanya Janse van Rensburg
A swimming pool is an excellent addition to any home, providing a relaxing oasis for family and friends.
However, owning a pool requires regular maintenance to keep it clean, safe, and functioning correctly.
Pool maintenance for beginners can patriotically be frustrating and time-consuming.
While hiring a professional pool cleaner can be costly, you can use several DIY hacks to maintain your swimming pool.
Skimming the surface of your pool with a net helps remove leaves, debris, and bugs that can clog your pool’s filter.
Brushing the walls of your pool with a pool brush can help prevent algae growth and improve circulation. Aim to skim and brush your pool at least once a week to keep it looking clean and inviting.
Maintaining the correct chemical balance in your pool is crucial for ensuring the safety of swimmers and preventing algae growth.
Regularly test your pool’s pH, chlorine, and alkalinity levels using a pool test kit. Adjust the chemicals as needed to maintain the ideal balance for your pool.
Aim to test your pool’s chemical balance at least once a week or more frequently if you notice any water clarity or door changes.
Swimming pools can become oily from sunscreen, lotions, and other oils from swimmers’ skin.
These oils can create a film on the surface of your pool that is difficult to remove.
Tossing a tennis ball into the pool is a simple DIY hack for absorbing these oils.
The fibers on the tennis ball will absorb the oils and remove the film from the water’s surface.
Shocking your pool is adding a large dose of chlorine to the water to kill bacteria and algae.
Aim to shock your pool at least once a month or more frequently if you notice any water clarity or odor changes.
Follow the instructions on the shock treatment product you’re using, and wait the recommended time before swimming in the pool.
The pool’s filter removes debris and contaminants from the water.
A dirty filter can reduce your pool’s efficiency and create a breeding ground for bacteria and algae.
Clean your filter at least once a month or more frequently if you notice a decrease in water flow. Follow the instructions for your filter type, and be sure to backwash or replace your filter regularly.
Using a pool cover when your pool is not in use can help reduce evaporation, keep debris out of the pool, and prevent algae growth.
A pool cover can also help reduce heating costs by trapping heat in the water.
Choose a pool cover that’s the right size and shape, and secure it properly to prevent accidents.
For added safety and peace of mind, consider installing pool fences.
This flexible safety barrier can be adjusted or removed as needed, ensuring the pool area is secure when not in use, especially for families with young children or pets.
Maintaining the proper water level in your pool is essential for optimal performance.
A water level that’s too low can damage your pool’s pump and filter, while a water level that’s too high can cause flooding and damage to the surrounding areas.
Monitor your pool’s water level regularly and adjust it using a garden hose.
Maintaining your swimming pool doesn’t have to be expensive or time-consuming. Implementing these DIY hacks lets you keep your pool clean, safe, and functioning correctly without breaking the bank.
Skim the surface and brush the walls, check the chemical balance, use a tennis ball to absorb oil, shock your pool regularly, clean the filter regularly, use a pool cover, and maintain the proper water level to keep your pool in top condition.
With little effort and attention, your pool can provide you and your family with years of enjoyment.