How To Avoid Swimming Pool Mistakes: 7 Common Errors And How You Can Fix Them
So you’ve decided to take the plunge and get a swimming pool. Congratulations! Owning a pool is a great way to beat the heat, entertain guests, and get some exercise. But before you can enjoy all that your new pool has to offer, there’s one important task that needs to be completed first: avoiding swimming pool mistakes.
There are a lot of things that can go wrong when you’re setting up or maintaining a swimming pool. From chemical errors to filtration problems, there are many potential pitfalls that can turn your dream pool into a nightmare. In this blog post, we’ll take a look at some of the most common swimming pool mistakes and how you can avoid them.
Allowing leaves and other debris to accumulate in the pool
One of the most common mistakes people make is allowing leaves and other debris to accumulate in their pools. Not only does this make your pool look less than inviting, but it can also lead to clogged filters and pumps, which can be costly to repair.
To avoid this, be sure to sweep your deck regularly and remove any debris that has blown into the pool. You should also invest in a good cover for your pool to keep leaves and other debris from getting in when you’re not using it.
Not maintaining proper pH levels
One of the most important aspects of pool care is maintaining the proper pH levels. The ideal pH level for swimming pools is between 7.2 and 7.8. If the pH level in your pool gets too high or too low, it can cause skin irritation, eye irritation, and damage to your pool’s filtration system.
To avoid this mistake, test the pH levels in your pool regularly and add chemicals as needed to keep the pH within the ideal range. Remember, it’s better to err on the side of caution when it comes to pH levels; if you’re not sure whether or not your pool’s pH levels are where they should be, it’s always best to consult with a professional.
Not cleaning your filter regularly
Your filter is one of the most important parts of your swimming pool; it’s responsible for keeping the water clean and clear by trapping dirt, debris, and other contaminants. But in order for your filter to do its job properly, it needs to be cleaned on a regular basis—typically once every two weeks. Failure to clean your filter can lead to cloudy water and clogged pipes, which can be difficult (and expensive) to fix.
To avoid this mistake, make sure to clean your filter according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Most filters will need to be backwashed (flushed in reverse) once every two weeks; this will remove any dirt or debris that has been trapped in the filter so that it can continue working properly.
Adding too much chlorine
Chlorine is an essential part of keeping your swimming pool clean and safe for use; it kills bacteria and other harmful microorganisms that could make swimmers sick. But while chlorine is necessary for keeping your pool clean, too much chlorine can actually do more harm than good. High levels of chlorine can cause skin irritation, red eyes, and respiratory problems—not exactly what you want when you’re trying to relax by the pool!
To avoid this mistake, test the chlorine levels in your pool regularly and only add as much as is needed to keep the levels within the ideal range (between 1-3 ppm). Also, be sure to use fresh chlorine tablets; old tablets may not dissolve properly and could cause high chlorine levels even if you don’t add very many at once.
Failing to provide adequate safety features around the pool area
One of the most common mistakes people make is failing to provide adequate safety features around their pool area. This can include things like not having a fence around the perimeter of the pool, not having a ladder or steps to get in and out of the pool, or not having proper lighting around the pool area. All of these things can create hazards that can lead to accidents.
To avoid this mistake, make sure you hire a reputable swimming pool compliance services to help you ensure that your pool area is up to code and compliant with all local safety regulations. This can include things like making sure that your fence is the correct height, that your ladder or steps are in good condition, and that your lighting meets all requirements. Swimming pool compliance services can also help you insure your swimming pool in case of an accident.
Not winterizing your pool properly
If you live in an area where it gets cold in the winter, another mistake you might make is not winterizing your pool properly. This can damage your equipment and cause expensive repairs down the road.
To avoid this mistake, make sure you drain all of the water from your pump, filter, and heater before winter arrives. You should also disconnect any hoses from your pool so that they don’t freeze and burst. Finally, cover your pool with a tarp or other type of cover so that leaves and other debris don’t fall into it during winter storms.
Failing to check the plumbing system
One of the most common swimming pool mistakes is not checking the plumbing system. This is especially important if you have an inground pool. Pools rely on a delicate balance of chemicals to stay clean and safe, and if the plumbing isn’t working properly, it can throw that balance off.
To avoid this problem, make sure to have your pool checked by plumbing experts at least once a year to spot any leaks or other issues that could cause problems down the line. By being proactive about pool maintenance, you can enjoy your pool all summer long without any worries.
Closing Thoughts
Swimming pool ownership comes with a lot of responsibility. In order to keep your swimming pool in top condition, avoid making these seven common mistakes. With just a little bit of knowledge and effort, you can keep your swimming pool clean, safe, and enjoyable for years to come. Do you have any other tips for avoiding swimming pool mistakes?