Just because your pool is saltwater, does not mean that it will be clear of debris or particles. Over time, minerals and chemicals can accumulate which become suspended on the surface of the water in tiny, irritating particles which can trigger an uncomfortable or potentially hazardous reaction in your pool’s bathers. Without regular deep cleanings, these particles will continue to breed and eventually cloud the water with an unsightly mess.
Even if your pool is crystal clear, it does not mean that it is without its issues. As with any living thing, regular cleanings and maintenance are vital to its continued well-being. Just because your pool is shiny and clean does not mean that it will stay that way forever. The same can be said of any home waterspout installation. While a sparkling pool certainly makes for an incredible view, maintaining its cleanliness is a continuous battle which requires a significant investment of time and effort.
If you are reading this, I assume you have either just installed or are in the process of installing a waterspout pool. Congratulations! You have worked hard to afford a pool which provides you and your family with hours of enjoyment every day. Just remember that while the results are certainly glorious, the process of getting there was not without its challenges. Let’s take a closer look at some of the issues you may face and the things you can do to keep your pool at its best for years to come.
Table of Contents
The Dirt And The Debris
Even when left untreated, water can accumulate particles of dirt and debris which become suspended in the water. Over time, these particles will accumulate and lodge themselves in your pool’s plumbing system or on the surface of the water itself. While you may find these solids to be inconsequential, the irritation and potential harm which they can cause to your bathers is not. Some of the more common substances which may be floating about in your pool include tobacco smoke, food remnants, sunscreen, and more.
Even those tiny specks of dust and debris which you can barely see are enough to rouse your bathers from their lazy summer slumbers and into action. Just one or two of these particles can irritate your skin or inflame your respiratory system. While you may be able to brush off these irritations for brief periods of time, they will add up and eventually lead to health issues. It is important to keep your pool clean at all times, regardless of whether it is visibly soiled or not.
Filtration System
Besides the visible dirt and debris, your pool will also contain substances which are too small to see with the naked eye but which are still capable of causing significant damage. Just like the debris which accumulates on the surface of the water, these smaller particles also become lodged in your pool’s plumbing system. Unlike the larger particles, these smaller particles are too small to strain or clog your pool’s filtration system. They simply slip through the pipes undetected and unwanted.
Even your pool’s filtration system can accumulate these damaging substances. Over time, constant use will wear down the rubber parts inside the plumbing which eventually leads to leaks and expensive repairs. Because of this, maintaining a pristine pool demands attention to detail and a constant effort to keep up with its cleaning.
Chemicals
Chemicals are frequently used to improve the water’s clarity as they reduce the amount of algae which tends to bloom in many waters. While there are many different chemicals which may be used to clear your pool, many of them are harmful to the environment and will eventually find their way into the water which you are trying to keep clean. Just like the other items discussed above, chemicals can also accumulate in your pool’s plumbing system or on the surface of the water. Some of the chemicals which are commonly used to enhance pool clarity include chlorine, bromine, and fluorine. Just because your pool is fluorine charged, does not mean that it is completely safe for your family to swim in. There are also some more harmful compounds, such as cyanide and arsenic, which are also used in some areas for pool maintenance. If you are unfamiliar, ask your pool store for help choosing the right chemicals for your pool environment.
Lighting
Your pool needs light in order to see what’s going on in it. However, too much light can also cause problems. Just like the other items discussed above, light is also a leading cause of algae growth in pools. While many types of algae are harmless, there are some which are problematic. For example, bright lighting will make it easier for algae to grow rapidly and bloom which can lead to an unsightly greenish tint to your pool’s water. If you want to keep your pool clean and green, keep the lighting at a minimum and only use what is necessary or required.
Water Temperature
Your pool needs to be at a certain temperature in order to be healthy and safe for use. Too warm of a water temperature will cause you more problems than it is worth and can even damage the structure of your pool. Just like with the dirt and debris which accumulate on the surface of the water, constant exposure to heat will cause your pool’s plumbing to rust and break down which can lead to major leaks and expense. Just keep the water between 76-78 degrees Fahrenheit by using an in-ground pool heater or an above ground pool heater. Do not use an open water dispenser as they keep the water at an unsafe temperature for long periods of time and due to their exposed design, they are more vulnerable to damage from weather extremes and frequent use.
Leaking
Just like with any other home appliance or fixture, constant use and exposure to water can cause it to wear out or break down. Over time, your pool’s plumbing will rust and break down which can lead to costly repairs or replacement. In addition to the wear and tear on the plumbing, constant use also causes the pool cover to become weak and deteriorate which can lead to leaks and wet floors or walls around the exterior of your home. This is why regular cleanings and checkups are so important – so that you can catch any potential problems before they become significant ones.
The above is a short rundown of the items you should know about before plunging into the wonderful world of swimming with your family. Even though your pool is an amazing addition to your home, it is still a working machine and like any other home appliance, it needs care and attention to keep operating at its best. Just remember to always use protective gear when working around water and try to keep an eye out for leaks which may appear out of nowhere. If you are interested in keeping your pool clean and healthy, take the time to learn about the various items which may accumulate in it over the years. Take a look at some of the more common causes of dirt and debris in water which you may encounter and discover ways to combat these problems. If you leave these things untreated, they will eventually cause significant trouble for your pool and its bathers so it is important to take good care of it!