As a proud owner of an above ground pool, you understand the importance of routine maintenance. Proper cleaning after draining your pool is crucial for ensuring that it stays crystal clear and primed for swimming season.
Knowing how to clean above ground pool after draining can be challenging, especially if you’re new to the task. But fear not! We’ve compiled some of the best tips from pool owners and professionals alike to help make the process seamless and stress-free.
“A clean pool is a happy pool.” -Unknown
In this guide, we’ll take you step by step through the process of cleaning your above ground pool post-draining. You’ll learn everything from how to scrub the walls effectively to keeping your filter in tip-top shape.
You’ll also discover some handy tricks like using baking soda as a natural way to remove stains and debris and preventing future algae growth with bleach or hydrogen peroxide. Plus, we’ll provide some helpful product recommendations for deep-cleaning your pool.
Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, our tips will give you a clear idea of what to do when it comes time to clean your pool. So grab your skimmer and let’s get started!
Table of Contents
Remove Debris and Dirt
Once you have drained your above ground pool, the very first step to cleaning it is removing any debris or dirt that may be present on the surface and at the bottom of the pool. A few ways to do this are:
Skim the Surface of the Pool
The easiest way to remove debris from the surface of your pool is by using a pool skimmer. This will help you take out sticks, leaves, and bugs easily. You can also use a leaf net for larger debris like twigs and branches. Do this as often as possible when you notice debris in your pool because if not removed soon enough, these items would decay in the pool leading to staining surfaces, promote algae growth or even attract pests.
Vacuum the Bottom of the Pool
A pool vacuum cleans effectually the bottom of your pool. Normally propelled by suction, it scrubs away debris while circulating water around the entire body, ensuring that all dirt, sand, and other grime is completely swept up and eliminated. It’s good to clean corners, crannies and stairs thoroughly with a brush before doing the main vacuuming to prevent any leftover dust and making sure no areas were missed during the regular routine of vacuuming. They come in three designs: manual-powered where operator directs the device around the pool, suction-side powered through filter pump used for pools with simple clean floors or automatic robots which operate without external input.
“It only takes modest amounts of sanitizer and filtration chemicals to maintain well the cleanliness of your swimming pool. But what we call “organic loading” – primarily dead skin cells and suntan oils – also gets into the mix, degrading clarity and sanitation.” -Paul Schulte, Ph.D., Emeritus Professor of Indiana University
When cleaning above ground pools, bear in mind that the pool maintenance will help make sure there is no need to drain and refill your pool too frequently. Besides saving a considerable amount of water, less frequent draining also helps protect your pool paddling material from additional wear and tear thereby prolonging its life span. It’s important always to clean them off debris build-up regularly for proper functioning.
Scrub the Pool Walls and Floor
Cleaning an above ground pool after draining can be a daunting task, but it is essential for maintaining clean water and preventing bacteria growth. One of the most crucial steps in cleaning your above ground pool is scrubbing its walls and floor.
Brush the Walls of the Pool
The first step in scrubbing the pool is to brush its walls using a nylon brush. This will help remove dirt, debris, and algae that may have accumulated on the walls during use. Make sure to use light pressure while brushing to avoid tearing the pool liner.
You should also pay close attention to the corners and seams where grime tends to build up quickly. For more effective cleaning, you can wrap a soft cloth around the brush and secure it with rubber bands. The cloth will help lift any stubborn stains from the walls, giving them a brand-new look.
“A dirty swimming pool is unhealthy and unappealing. It’s important to keep up with regular maintenance to ensure a safe and enjoyable swimming experience.” -Katy Beals
Scrub the Floor of the Pool
After finishing with the walls, it’s time to move onto the pool’s bottom surface. Like the walls, the floors must undergo scrubbing due to residual algae and dirt. Drain out all remaining water from the pool before beginning scrubbing because it allows easy access to both sides and helps clear away harmful bacteria which may be trapped within the creases.
Start by sweeping the pool’s debris into one spot and remove it manually with a scoop net. Once the floor is free of large particles, carefully scrub it down using the same nylon brush as before. Work your way through the entire area gently, making sure you reach every nook and cranny.
Clean Hard to Reach Areas
After cleaning the walls and floor, you should focus on areas that are difficult to reach. These may include behind ladders or underneath steps. You can use a smaller brush or even a toothbrush for these tiny spaces. Be sure not to miss any area as small sections can accumulate significant dirt and debris over time.
To ensure your pool stays looking new and clean, it’s recommended to thoroughly scrub every inch of the pool once a month. It is also advised to scrub down the pool’s sides and surface more often if you have had an increased number of swimmers due to parties and family gatherings. Always rinse generously with water after each scrubbing section before starting another part, this will remove any remaining soap residue from the cleaning solution used prior.
“A swimming pool requires maintenance to keep up its appearance, health benefits, and ambiance. Without proper care, those factors deteriorate quickly.” -Mark GarciaIn conclusion, knowing how to clean an above ground pool after draining is essential in keeping your pool safe, hygienic, and visually impressive. By following the cleaning routine outlined above, you’ll be well equipped to take care of your pool and protect its longevity. Remember always to properly maintain your equipment, chemicals and skimming supplies to guarantee optimal results.
Use Pool Cleaners and Chemicals
Cleaning your above ground pool after draining is an essential task to maintain its cleanliness and longevity. Before refilling the pool, proper cleaning should be done using pool cleaners and chemicals that can help clear out any dirt or debris left behind.
Add Chlorine or Other Sanitizers
The first step in cleaning your above ground pool is to add chlorine or other sanitizers, which will prevent the growth of bacteria and algae. There are different types of sanitizers available in the market such as tablets, granules, and liquid forms. It is important to follow all instructions on how much sanitizer to use based on the size of your pool so you don’t overdo it and cause skin irritation or damage equipment.
Use Algaecides or Clarifiers
If there’s still some residual gunk floating around, then consider using algaecides or clarifiers. Algaecides target pesky algae and stop it from growing in the pool while clarifiers help enhance the performance of the filter system by collecting small particles and turning them into bigger ones that can easily get caught in the filter. Both products work wonders if applied correctly.
Use Automatic Pool Cleaners
For a more efficient and effective way of keeping your pool clean, automatic pool cleaners are the way to go. These machines come equipped with features such as scrubbers, brushes and suction pumps that collect large amounts of debris as they move around the bottom or walls of the pool. Depending on the type of cleaner being used, the job may require minimal manual labor outside of plugging the device in and let it do its job.
Maintaining the cleanliness of your above ground pool isn’t rocket science but requires knowledge and consistency. Using a combination of pool cleaners and chemicals can help make the tedious task of cleaning much easier while prolonging its lifespan. Don’t skimp on the regular maintenance because when it comes to pools, prevention is always better than cure.
Rinse and Refill the Pool
Draining your above ground pool is necessary for its maintenance. But, cleaning it after draining can be a daunting task. A few simple steps can make this job easier, leaving you with a sparkling clean pool to enjoy.
Rinse the Pool with a Hose
The first step in cleaning your above ground pool after draining is to remove all debris on the bottom followed by rinsing the entire inside of the pool with a high-pressure hose. This will ensure that everything that was not removed manually during initial draining is washed away. Use a multi-purpose cleaner or bleach to scrub any stubborn stains, cobwebs, or dirt buildup around light fixtures. Rinse again until all traces are gone.
“Always rinse off your pool with water after every use to minimize staining.” -Pete Alewine Pools
Refill the Pool with Fresh Water
After rinsing and removing all the grime, fill up the pool with fresh water right until the recommended level (as indicated in your user manual). As the water starts filling, adjust the liner at the corners if needed as well as any creases along the sides of the wall so that they fit tightly together before tightening the joint bolts to avoid leaks. Afterward, turn the water off before proceeding to the next step.
“Using fresh, filtered water is essential for keeping the chemistry in balance. The purer the water you put into your pool, the less chance there is of physical problems later.” -Cody Pools
Balance the Water’s pH Levels
The quality of the water determines how effective pools’ chemicals work. You should always test your pool water prior to adding chemicals. Testing ensures you know its current chemical levels so you can use the products that will help maintain a clean and healthy pool. Aim for balanced pH levels between 7.2 to 7.8, with an alkalinity of around 120 ppm.
Carefully follow all instructions when testing your water and adding chemicals. For example, it’s recommended to add chlorine at night as sunlight reduces its effectiveness. To raise pH, add sodium bicarbonate or carbon dioxide; reduce it by adding acid or another type of chemical prescribed specifically for this purpose.
“Maintain minerals in your pool such as copper, iron, manganese etc., because they are integral to balancing crucial elements like alkalinity and stabilizing agents.” -At Your Door Pool Service
Test the Water’s Chemical Levels
Last but not least, you should double-check the chemistry in your pool after approximately one hour once all added chemicals have had time to circulate fully through the filter system. Use test strips again to verify if you need to make any additional adjustments before using your pool. These steps may seem intimidating, but they are paramount to keep your above ground pool in sparkling condition year-round.
“Before anything else, always ensure that all the necessary equipment is on hand: The right-sized hose, scrub brush, test kit chemistries, algaecide, shock treatment — everything that’s needed to get the job done right.” -BestLifeOnline
Maintain Your Pool Cleanliness with Regular Cleaning
Keeping your above ground pool clean is an essential part of its maintenance. After draining the water from the pool, it is important to clean it properly before refilling it with fresh water. Here are some tips on how to clean above ground pool after draining:
Skim the Pool Daily
One of the easiest ways to keep your pool clean is by skimming it daily. Use a net skimmer to remove debris such as leaves, twigs and insects from the surface of the water. This not only helps to maintain the aesthetics of the pool but also ensures that the pool filter does not become clogged with large particles.
You can also invest in an automatic pool cleaner that will move around the pool and suck up any debris into its filter bag or basket. This eliminates the need for you to manually skim the pool every day.
Brush and Scrub the Pool Weekly
In addition to skimming the pool, it is important to brush and scrub the walls and floor of the pool once a week. This removes algae, dirt and other buildup that may have accumulated over time.
Use a nylon bristle brush or a pool vacuum to scrub the walls and floor of the pool. Make sure you pay attention to hard-to-reach areas such as corners and under ladders. You can also use a pumice stone to remove stubborn stains from the pool walls.
If you notice any cracks or chips on the pool walls or floor, make sure you repair them immediately. These can serve as breeding grounds for bacteria and algae if left unchecked.
Your pool’s filter system should be cleaned regularly as well. It is recommended that you backwash your sand or D.E. filter every 4-6 weeks and replace your filter cartridge at least once a year.
When it comes to chemical maintenance, make sure you follow the manufacturer’s instructions when adding chemicals such as chlorine or pH balancers to the pool water. Adding too much of any chemical can have adverse effects on the quality of the water and create an environment that is hostile to swimmers.
Keeping your pool clean isn’t just about aesthetics – it’s about ensuring a safe swimming environment for you and your family.
Cleaning your above ground pool after draining may seem like a daunting task but by following these simple tips, you can ensure that your pool stays clean and healthy throughout its life. Remember to skim the pool daily and brush and scrub it weekly while also maintaining the filter system and using chemicals responsibly.
By putting in the effort to keep your pool clean, you will be rewarded with crystal clear water and a refreshing swimming experience every time!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the steps to clean the walls of an above ground pool?
The first step to clean the walls of an above ground pool is to remove any debris or leaves on the surface. Next, use a pool brush to scrub the walls and floor of the pool. Then, drain the pool and rinse it with a garden hose. Use a pool cleaner and a chlorine shock treatment to remove any remaining dirt and bacteria. Finally, refill the pool with fresh water and balance the chemicals.
How do you remove stubborn stains from the pool liner?
To remove stubborn stains from the pool liner, use a vinyl liner cleaner and follow the manufacturer’s instructions. You can also use a combination of baking soda and water to create a paste and apply it to the stained area. Let it sit for a few hours, then scrub with a soft brush and rinse with water. Avoid using abrasive materials or harsh chemicals, as they can damage the liner.
What is the best way to clean the pool filter?
The best way to clean the pool filter depends on the type of filter you have. For a sand filter, backwash the filter and rinse with water. For a cartridge filter, remove the cartridge and rinse it with a hose. For a DE filter, backwash and rinse, then add DE powder to the skimmer basket. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and clean the filter regularly to ensure proper filtration.
How often should you clean the pool ladder and steps?
You should clean the pool ladder and steps at least once a week to prevent the buildup of dirt and bacteria. Use a pool brush or a soft sponge to scrub the surfaces, and rinse with water. If you notice any stains or discoloration, use a vinyl liner cleaner to remove them. Regular cleaning will also help prevent slips and falls on the ladder or steps.
How do you get rid of algae and prevent it from returning?
To get rid of algae, use an algaecide and follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Brush the affected areas and shock the pool with chlorine. Run the filter for at least 24 hours and then vacuum the pool. To prevent algae from returning, maintain proper chemical levels and pH balance, clean the pool regularly, and use a pool cover when the pool is not in use.
What are some tips for maintaining a clean above ground pool?
To maintain a clean above ground pool, clean the pool regularly, balance the chemicals, and check the pH levels frequently. Use a pool cover when the pool is not in use to keep debris out. Remove any leaves or debris from the surface of the pool daily. Backwash the filter regularly and clean the skimmer basket. Finally, shock the pool with chlorine regularly to kill any bacteria or algae that may be present.