Help with Cleaning Swimming Pools

Cleaning your pool keeps it a healthy color.

Cleaning your swimming pool ensures the pool will last longer and keeps it inviting for swimmers. Most home-supply stores or pool-supply stores sell everything you need to clean your swimming pool.

Tools

To clean a swimming pool, you need a pool skimmer, vacuum, brush for the walls and floor, algae brush, tile brush, and a water chemistry test kit.

Cleaning

Run the skimmer across the surface of the swimming pool, removing any leaves or debris. Remove debris caught in the basket. Vacuum the pool, slowly moving the vacuum across the bottom of the swimming pool and the sides to pick up any dirt or debris. Finish by scrubbing the tiles, walls, and floors with the appropriate brushes.

Testing

Dip the test kit into the water until the plastic vials are full. Add the chemical drops included with the test kit and shake gently. Compare colors with the kit's chart to determine whether the water chemistry is correct.

Time Frame

Skim the pool at least once a week, and more often if you have overhanging trees or plants. Scrub the walls and floors weekly. Vacuum once a week. Test pool chemistry at least weekly.

References

• Home Tips: How to Clean Your Swimming Pool
• Pool Wizard: Pool water testing
• Pool Vacuum Guide: How To Use Your Manual Pool Vacuum