Giving Your Swimming Pool a Spring Clean
As the weather starts to brighten and the temperature gets warmer, there’s no better time than now to give your pool a spring clean to prepare it for regular use during the spring and summer seasons. A small amount of work can go a long way to making your pool clean and usable for your family and visitors alike, so simply follow these handy tips to prepare your pool for a stress-free spring/summer opening.
If you have had a winter cover on your pool during the colder months, now is a good time to take it off the pool, carefully check to see if any repairs are needed or if any pegs have disappeared, hose it down and when it’s dry, pack it away and store in its purpose-made bag where gnawing rodents can’t reach it. H2o Swimming Pools can arrange winter debris repairs or supply replacement storage bags during the summer months
Unless your pump has been operating over the winter, your pool water is probably looking less than inviting. We recommend liquid chlorine poured carefully around the pool to help start it clearing.
Check filters regularly
Depending on the condition of the water, your filter will usually need extra thorough backwashing for the first couple of weeks as the water starts circulating and the accumulated dust and debris goes through the system. Be guided by your pressure gauge.
Having turned off the filter pump over the winter while your pool was closed down, the spring is the perfect time for you to reconnect the system and check that it is still working sufficiently when opening it up again.
If you have a sand filter, you may like to consider having it cleaned with a specialist product. If you have a cartridge filter, then we recommend buying replacement cartridges and cartridge cleaning solution for the new swimming season.
Use of chemicals to sanitise the water
The correct use of chemicals will sanitise the water and ensure chemical efficiency, helping to kill bacteria and prevent algae from forming. If you are unsure about which type of chemical is most suitable for your swimming pool, make sure you contact a professional who can suggest the best solution.
Here at H2o Swimming Pools, we offer a comprehensive range of swimming pool chemicals to all customers looking to clean their own pool themselves; from our base near Gatwick, we cover Surrey, Kent, Sussex and London. We are on hand to guide you on the most appropriate sanitiser and disinfectant solutions for your pool, offering specialist chemical treatments which are ideal for when the time comes to open up your pool for the summer.
Adjusting the chemical balance during April showers
The acidity of rainwater means that it can affect the pH level of your pool, causing it to lower. As such, you may need to raise the pH of your pool, depending on its current level and how much rainfall there has been. Generally, a small amount of rainfall should mean that the chemicals in the pool can become balanced again on their own, but do remember that it’s important to maintain the pH between 7.2 and 7.6 so that chlorine is effective and to avoid aggressive or scale forming water.
Apply covers when not in use
When the water has cleared, do place your solar cover over the pool to help maintain heat and reduce evaporation. However, keep the cover off the pool after you have shock-treated the water.
An automatic safety cover will keep heat in and keep debris out, and can provide peace of mind if you have small children or pets.
Clean area around pool
In addition to cleaning the pool water for hygiene purposes, removing any dirt or stains from the coping stones and surround paving can transform the look of your pool, inviting you and your family to jump right in! Ask about our jet washing service to find out how we can thoroughly clean the area around your pool. Don’t forget too, to trim trees and shrubs back to reduce the amount of leaves and other debris that might get blown into the pool later on. You might want to do this while your winter cover is still on the pool.
At H2o, we can arrange a bespoke cleaning schedule to suit your requirements, performing full valeting and a deep chemical clean of your pool. Not only that, if you require emergency assistance for any part of your pool which you suspect might need repairing – from the heating system to the filters – we are always on hand to ensure it’s back up and running in next to no time.
Boiler servicing
When the pool water has cleared and you’re ready to turn the heating on, don’t forget that gas and oil boilers should have an annual service which H2o can do for you.
Regular maintenance from a professional
When it comes to swimming pools, regularly scheduled maintenance by an expert will ensure the pool is opened correctly and safely, and that the appropriate aftercare is taken. Not only that, routine inspections could highlight problems with your pool so they can be quickly rectified before escalating into major problems, possibly saving you a hefty cost.
Whether you require a scheduled maintenance programme, new swimming pool cover or deep chemical clean, here at H2o Swimming Pools we are always on hand to help. Operating across the South East of England, we promise high quality services and products for a competitive price, ensuring your pool is properly looked after, both during and out of use. To find out more, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our experienced team today.