08/07/2025
Back to school! Dont foeget about your pool!
There is still lots of swimming days to enjoy!
We sample pool water and help keep your pool clean and clear!
August pool maintenance tips:
August, being peak summer, presents unique challenges and tips for pool owners.
1. Combatting evaporation and heat-related issues
Maintain water levels: Evaporation is a significant concern during hot August days. Regularly check your water level and replenish it as needed to keep it at least halfway up the skimmer opening, ensuring proper filtration and preventing pump damage.
Prevent mineral buildup: Evaporation can also lead to increased mineral concentration, particularly calcium, causing scaling on pool surfaces and equipment. Use a solar blanket or liquid solar cover to minimize evaporation and consider a sequestering agent to prevent scaling.
2. Maintaining water clarity and sanitation
Daily skimming: Summer means increased debris from wind, rain, and swimmers. Skim the pool surface daily to remove leaves, insects, and other debris before they sink and affect water chemistry.
Regular brushing and vacuuming: Brush the pool walls and floor to prevent algae growth and vacuum regularly to remove settled debris, ensuring a pristine pool environment.
Test and balance water chemistry frequently: The heat and increased use put a strain on your sanitizer and can quickly throw off your pool's chemical balance. Test your water at least twice a week for pH, alkalinity, chlorine, and other levels using a reliable test kit or by bringing a sample to a Aquworks, for a complete analysis.
Shock the pool: Shock your pool every 1-2 weeks or after heavy use, especially if the water temperature is consistently above 85 degrees. This helps maintain chlorine levels and eliminate contaminants introduced by swimmers and environmental factors.
Consider using algaecide: Algae thrives in warm water, so using algaecide as part of your routine can help prevent unsightly blooms.
3. Maintaining pool equipment
Clean and maintain the filter system: Higher temperatures and increased usage mean your pool filter is working harder. Check the filter pressure regularly and backwash or clean it as needed (when the pressure rises 8-10 PSI above normal). Cartridge filters should be deep cleaned one or two times per year, while DE filters should be cleaned at least once per month.
Inspect and repair equipment: The extreme summer heat can damage your pool equipment. Regularly check the pump, filter, and other components for signs of wear and tear, and address any issues promptly to prevent further damage and costly.
Enjoy the rest of the swimming season!
