Pools are best enjoyed when they are clean and well-maintained. Even with the best chemical treatments, swimming pools could become unsanitary and unappealing without proper maintenance. Dolphin Pools, maker of high-quality swimming pools, recommends that pool owners should always keep their pools clean and regularly maintained. They advise against using household products for pool upkeep because quite simply, these do not work well. For proper pool maintenance, there are specific tools that are right for the job.
Basic Equipment
The basic swimming pool equipment are the most essential tools needed for the maintenance of your swimming pool. These tools make the job easier, faster, and safer. They only need to be purchased once and only replaced when they are damaged or no longer work.
1. Telescopic Pole
A telescopic pole is a pool cleaning tool that has an extendable handle, making it possible to reach areas that are too deep in the water or too far for your arms to touch. The most common use for a telescopic pole is for skimming, wherein debris and dirt floating on or near the surface of the water can be removed. A telescopic pool is also very useful for vacuuming and for brushing. Look for a pole that has the right length, stability, and weight, and make sure it has a locking mechanism to prevent it from slipping off. It is also a good idea to look for a pole that is compatible to other pool cleaning tools and equipment so they can be used together.
2. Skimmer Net
A skimmer net can be attached to a telescopic pole to remove any debris in the pool. Of course, the pool filter will do most of the job but it is best not to overwork it so it will last longer. Skimming debris out of the water with a net is an effective way to keep the water clean.
3. Vacuum Equipment
The vacuum equipment for your pool may consist of a vacuum head and a hose. For more convenient pool cleaning, look for a vacuum head that is compatible with your telescopic pole. The head can then be attached to the pole for cleaning jobs. Check the type of vacuum to purchase based on the type of pool surface you have. A brush-type vacuum, for example, are best used for fiberglass pools while a wheeled vacuum can work for concrete pools.
4. Leaf Trap
A leaf trap is more of an accessory but if your pool is located in an area near trees or plants, consider getting one to attach to the vacuum. A skimmer net can do the job but if you want a more hands-free option, use this tool instead.
5. Brush
Pool brushes are available in different sizes and shapes. Look for brushes that are compatible with your pool based on its shape and design. For a more thorough pool cleaning, get a large or standard brush, a smaller one to remove stubborn dirt in tight areas, and another brush to get rid of algae.
Tools for Swimming Pool Water Maintenance
These are the consumable type of tools for swimming pool maintenance, which means you will have to purchase them when you run out.
1. Chemicals for Cleaning
Swimming pool water will become dirty over time due to use and exposure to the elements. As a result, pool water will become host to a number of microorganisms such as bacteria. Some of the most important chemicals you will need to prevent the growth of microorganisms is chlorine. Chlorine kills many different types of pathogens in the water, often on contact and is relied upon to keep the water in your pool safe.
Another type of chemical to consider is an algaecide. This is especially important for pools that have to contend with algae growth. An algaecide will keep pool water free from slippery and slightly smelly algae. Note that algae will grow in your pool over time. At some point, you will have to either replace the water or treat it with an effective algaecide especially formulated for pools.
2. Oxidizer
An oxidizer is usually a follow-up treatment to a sanitizer such as chlorine. It can be applied every few weeks or so to take care of microorganisms such as bacteria and algae. Oxidizers work by adding more oxygen atoms in the pool water or reducing electrons in a contaminant. The contaminant then becomes weaker and more soluble, so even if it remains in the pool, it will be rendered harmless.
3. Water Balancer
A water balancer is a type of chemical that maintains the water in the pool at the proper pH level. Water balancers come in different types. These include pH increasers, pH reducers, chlorine neutralizers, and calcium hardness increasers, to name a few.
4. Water Testing Kit
If you want a more accurate means to determine the quality of your pool water, invest in a water testing kit. These kits will provide accurate readings of the pool water to show whether it is still clean, tolerable, needs treatment, or replacement. Kits usually come with a number of procedure steps but once you get the hang of it, they are extremely useful.
If you prefer an easier way to test pool water, consider water testing strips. You can simply collect some water in a test container, dip the strip in, and wait for the chemicals in the strip to react. The strip will change color as a result. Water testing strips come with a color chart with which to compare your pool water results so you can see if your pool water is safe.
