Summers are busy, and in south Louisiana, seemingly unending. But as hectic as summer schedules can be, they typically pale in comparison to the approaching fall and holiday seasons. It is during this time of the year that performing maintenance on your pool is very important. While it was likely near the top of your mind as you enjoyed it all summer, it’s easy for this routine to fall to the back burner as school, football games, and other new plans start to pile up. Here are a few tips for maintaining your pool as summer comes to an end, and to make sure that everything is ready to go come next spring.

Understand What Chemicals Your Pool Needs

An undermaintained and untreated pool will not only become an eyesore, it can also be dangerous. The good news is that treating your pool’s water doesn’t require a chemistry degree. With testing strips it’s simple to check the water’s pH levels and adjust accordingly. The optimum pH level for pool water is 7.4. Chlorine levels should be 1 -3 ppm.

Quick, Daily Pool Cleaning Tips

While there is a time commitment to owning and maintaining a pool, it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Taking a few minutes each day to clean and around the pool can prevent problems and bigger chores later on. Skimming the top of the pool to remove leaves, bugs, and other debris can prevent staining the walls and floors of the pool. Emptying the strainer baskets is also a quick, easy way to keep the water clear.

Let Your Pool’s Vacuum Do the Heavy Lifting

Your pool’s vacuum can be a big help as times get busier. It is especially helpful for collecting debris on the bottom of the pool. Depending on the type of material your pool is made from, lingering debris can stain and damage it. Automatic robot cleaners can be set on a schedule and run to consistently keep your pool clean, keeping your water and your schedule clear.

Take Care of the Landscaping Around Your Pool

Many of the chores listed above are a result of debris that can and will end up in your pool. A good way to mitigate much of that is to maintain the landscaping around your pool. By trimming trees and branches, raking leaves, bagging the grass when you mow, and keeping rocks and mulch in flower beds, you’ll be able to spend less time skimming and more time swimming.

Clean Your Pool Filter

Keeping your pool filter will keep your water clean and healthy. Depending on your pool you either have a sand, cartridge, or diatomaceous earth (DE) filter. The required maintenance on each varies, but all required periodic cleaning. A dirty filter won’t capture and collect any debris, resulting in murky or discolored water.