A round overflow pool is a beautiful addition to any backyard, offering not just a place to swim but also a stunning aesthetic feature. To keep your pool looking pristine and ensure it functions properly, regular maintenance is essential. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you maintain your round overflow pool, covering cleaning tips, chemical balance, and seasonal care.
Regular Cleaning Tips
- Skimming and Scrubbing
- Daily Skimming: Use a skimmer to remove leaves, debris, and insects from the pool’s surface. This prevents them from sinking to the bottom and becoming more difficult to clean.
- Weekly Scrubbing: Brush the walls and floor of the pool weekly to prevent algae buildup and remove any dirt. Focus on areas with poor circulation, such as steps and corners.
- Vacuuming
- Manual Vacuuming: Use a manual vacuum to clean the pool floor thoroughly. Move the vacuum slowly to avoid stirring up debris.
- Automatic Cleaners: Consider investing in an automatic pool cleaner, which can save you time and ensure consistent cleaning.
- Overflow Channel Maintenance
- Debris Removal: Regularly check and clean the overflow channels to ensure they are free from debris. Clogged channels can affect water circulation and the pool’s aesthetic appeal.
- Brushing and Rinsing: Brush the overflow channel walls and rinse them with a hose to remove any buildup of dirt or algae.
Chemical Balance
- Regular Testing
- Test Kits: Use a reliable pool test kit to check the chemical levels in your pool. Test for pH, chlorine, alkalinity, and calcium hardness at least twice a week.
- Digital Testers: For more accurate readings, consider using digital testers.
- Balancing Chemicals
- pH Levels: Maintain a pH level between 7.2 and 7.6. If the pH is too high, add a pH reducer. If it’s too low, use a pH increaser.
- Chlorine Levels: Keep chlorine levels between 1.0 and 3.0 ppm to effectively sanitise the water. Shock the pool periodically to eliminate chloramine buildup.
- Alkalinity: Maintain total alkalinity between 80 and 120 ppm to stabilise pH levels.
- Calcium Hardness: Ensure calcium hardness is between 200 and 400 ppm to prevent corrosion and scaling.
- Chemical Safety
- Proper Storage: Store pool chemicals in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and out of reach of children and pets.
- Safe Handling: Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and use appropriate safety gear, such as gloves and goggles, when handling chemicals.
Seasonal Care
- Spring Opening
- Remove Covers: If your pool has been covered during the winter, carefully remove the cover and clean it before storing.
- Inspect Equipment: Check all pool equipment, such as pumps, filters, and heaters, for any signs of damage or wear. Replace or repair as needed.
- Clean and Fill: Clean the pool thoroughly and refill it to the appropriate level. Reinstall ladders, handrails, and any other accessories.
- Summer Maintenance
- Regular Cleaning and Testing: Increase the frequency of cleaning and chemical testing during the swimming season to keep up with increased usage and higher temperatures.
- Monitor Water Level: Keep an eye on the water level and top up as necessary, especially during hot weather when evaporation is higher.
- Fall Closing
- Deep Clean: Give your pool a deep clean, including vacuuming and brushing all surfaces.
- Balance Chemicals: Ensure the water chemistry is balanced to protect the pool during the off-season.
- Winterise Equipment: Drain and store any equipment that can be damaged by freezing temperatures. Use a pool cover to keep debris out during the winter months.
Conclusion
Maintaining a round overflow pool requires regular attention to cleaning, chemical balance, and seasonal care. By following these tips, you can ensure your pool remains sparkling clean and inviting all year round. Remember, a well-maintained pool not only looks great but also provides a safe and enjoyable swimming environment for you and your family.