5 Essential Care Tips for New Pool Owners

If you’re a first-time pool owner – congratulations! Owning a pool introduces you and your family to fun times and new experiences in your own backyard. Even so, all the new tasks involved in maintaining your swimming pool can seem a little overwhelming, at first.

As we dive into swim season, here’s what you need to know to keep things sparkling, safe and stress-free.

In order to keep the water clean and safe for swimmers, pool maintenance is essential. Certain tasks should be done regularly, so add them to your calendar now!

Test water pH levels weekly, or more often after a heavy rain or big pool party. Balanced pH levels help your chlorine and other pool chemicals work effectively.

Keep track of your chlorine levels, too, and add more as necessary to keep the water sparkling clean. Depending on the heat and weather, pool experts recommend adding algaecide weekly to prevent algae growth.

Also, stock up on basic cleaning tools like a pool brush, skimmer net and pool vacuum to help keep the water sparkling.

If you have kids or pets, make pool safety a top priority. A fence, pool alarm and pool cover offer protection and peace of mind.

In addition, little swimmers should always wear pool safety vests. Pool floats, kickboards and other swim aids aren’t just for fun – they also help new swimmers feel more confident in the water. Caution kids never to swim alone and always assign at least one adult to keep watch when kids are around the pool.

As a pool owner, it’s also a smart idea to learn basic first aid and CPR. The American Red Cross offers classes across the U.S., including CPR/AED instruction and water safety certification.

Every pool is a little different, so take time to get familiar with yours. Read the manual and learn how things work – especially the filter, pump and heater. Knowing how to adjust the water level and backwash the filter will make regular upkeep much easier.

Believe it or not, weather plays a big role in pool care. Hot summer days can cause water to evaporate fast, meaning you’ll need to refill more often. In colder months, you’ll need to winterize your pool to protect the equipment from freezing temperatures.

It’s okay to ask for help if pool care starts to become a little too much. Pool professionals can provide regular maintenance, advice, repairs and equipment upgrades. Sometimes, calling in an expert is the best way to keep things running smoothly.

The rewards of pool ownership are worth the extra effort and attention. Regular maintenance, a focus on safety and a little know-how will ensure your first season goes swimmingly!