Hot, sunny weather is ideal for using your pool; however, it is not always ideal for keeping your pool clean and clear. Algae thrives in warm water and can quickly appear during hot summer days. Cloudy water is also likely to appear, especially after pool parties. We have some advice on how you can keep your water looking its best at the height of Summer.
Frequently check chlorine level:
While the general rule of thumb is to plan on shocking your pool once a week, factors like the weather, water temperature, and how often the pool is being used determine how quickly the chlorine will be used up. Even in perfectly balanced pools, chlorine will be used up faster on extremely hot, sunny days. This means that you may need to use more chlorine tablets and shock than you typically do. Test your pool with test strips to check the chlorine level every few days or bring your water into any of our store locations for a FREE computerized water test.
Add Algicide Weekly:
Many people believe that adding algicide weekly is optional. Especially if they do not typically have algae issues. During extreme heat, algicide becomes even more important. Along with chlorine, algicide is another line of defense in keeping your pool water clear. If your chlorine level goes down to zero on a hot, sunny day, your algicide is there to help protect you from a sudden algae bloom. However, if your chlorine drops to zero and you do not add a maintenance dose of algicide weekly, you are more likely to wake up to a green, algae filled pool the next day.
Point Your Jets Downward
By mid to late summer, it is not uncommon to find algae creeping up in the corners and creases of your pool liner, even if the rest of your pool is sparkling and clean. This is caused by “dead spots”; areas where water is not able to circulate properly, even with the pump and filter running. A great way to prevent this is to turn your jets downward at a 45-degree angle toward the bottom of the pool, instead of pointing them toward the surface of the water. This allows the pool water to circulate better in those corners and crevasses and prevent the dead spots where algae loves to grow.
Contact Us
We are here to help you keep your pool clean and clear for your summer fun. We always offer FREE computerized water tests in all our stores. We also have pool maintenance packages available through our Prestige Pool Maintenance Program if you would rather leave the work to us! Contact us today for any of your pool & spa needs.
