A swimming pool is a lovely addition to any outdoor space. However, to ensure that your swimming pool continues to be a safe and fun place for your family and friends, you will need to practice daily maintenance during the swimming season. The good news is that a daily routine to keep your pool up and running doesn't have to take a lot of time. A few minutes a day is all that is needed to keep your swimming hole in top condition. This article will provide the musts for swimming pool maintenance that will keep your pool going strong all season long.

The Filter

Swimming pool filters should run for as long as possible each day. While 24 hours is the best amount of time, not everyone wants to keep their filters running constantly. In this situation, a minimum of eight to 10 hours daily will suffice. However, make sure the running time is during daylight hours when you are most likely to use the pool. Filters also need to be changed regularly and O-rings checked to ensure they are free from cracks or damage and continue to operate as they are supposed to.

Skimmer Baskets

Skimmer baskets also need to be cleaned out regularly, since they have a tendency to collect leaves and other debris. Check them daily for a quick cleaning, and replace them periodically as needed.

Chlorine

Chlorine is used to sanitize pool water, although bromine can also be used for this purpose. The advantage to choosing bromine is that it does not irritate sensitive skin and it does not have the strong odor of chlorine. The biggest disadvantage is cost, since bromine costs quite a bit more than chlorine. Chlorine can be added daily through slow release tablets or chlorine floater. While the floater may only need to be refilled weekly, it should be checked more often, especially during the busiest part of the swimming season.

Every two weeks, the pool water must be "shocked", which involves a process of cleaning out the pool water completely and re-chlorinating it. This removes leftover contamination from suntan lotions, skin cells or urine so the water is clean once again. When pool water becomes cloudy or begins to emit a strong smell, it may need a "shock" treatment to clean out the water thoroughly.

Water

The water in swimming pools should be tested regularly to ensure its cleanliness and safety. The best way to do this is to take a sample of your pool water to a pool dealership for testing every month. By checking your water on a regular basis, you may be able to identify problems early enough to correct them easily. You also ensure that pool water remains free of bacteria and chemicals that could be harmful to your family.

Regular pool maintenance ensures that your swimming pool continues to be a safe and fun haven for your family and guests. By following these simple tips, you can rest assured that your pool will continue to work at peak efficiency throughout the entire swimming season.